Gov. Doyle: Announces New State and Regional Efforts on Energy Independence, Global Warming

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http://www.wispolitics.com/index.iml?Article=92806

MADISON, LA CROSSE - Governor Jim Doyle today announced the next steps in Wisconsin's effort to become the nation's leader in energy independence and fight global warming. The initiatives are part of the Governor plan to achieve the goal of "25 by 25" - getting 25 percent of our electricity and 25 percent of our transportation fuels from renewable sources by 2025.

"With our vast agricultural and forestry resources, our strong research institutions, and our strong manufacturing base, I want the Midwest to become the Saudi Arabia of renewable energy - with Wisconsin at the forefront," Governor Doyle said. "The fact is, if an oilfield in Iran has to compete against a farmfield in Wisconsin, that's a very good thing for the environment, for our economy, and for the world."

Last year, Governor Doyle launched Wisconsin's "Declaration of Energy Independence," setting three broad goals for the state:
To generate 25 percent of our electricity and 25 percent of our transportation fuel from renewable fuels by 2025.
To capture 10 percent of the market share for the production of renewable energy sources by 2030, helping America kick its addiction to foreign fossil fuels and bringing tens of thousands of new jobs to our citizens. Achieving this goal would bring $13.5 billion annually to Wisconsin's economy by 2030.
To become a national leader in groundbreaking research that will make alternative energies more affordable and available to all - and to turn those discoveries into new, high paying jobs right here in Wisconsin.

Office of Energy Independence

Governor Doyle today signed an Executive Order creating the new Office of Energy Independence to advance the Governor's vision on energy policy and promote the state's bioindustry. The office will serve as a single-point of contact for citizens, businesses, local units of government and non-governmental organizations pursuing bio development, energy efficiency and energy independence. The office will also identify federal funding opportunities and serve as the State Energy Office, working to maintain federal designation and funding.

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