Obama's Budget Will Power a Brighter, Cleaner Energy Future for America

WASHINGTON (March 23, 2009) -- President Obama today called for America to move forward with clean energy through investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency. The president's Federal budget outline invests $150 billion in clean energy and efficiency over 10 years, which will create jobs, reduce America’s dependence on oil, and prevent the worst consequences of global warming.

Following is a statement from Dan Lashof, Director of the Climate Center at the Natural Resources Defense Council:

“President Obama again demonstrated his commitment to America’s clean energy future. Our greatest challenges can be turned into our greatest opportunities by transforming our energy and our workforce so we can meet the needs of the 21st century. President Obama understands that we need to create a new generation of green workers that draws on America’s innovative spirit.

“By following this vision, we can become the world’s leader in renewable energy instead of the biggest importer of oil. We can create new jobs at home instead of relying on others. We can put people to work to prevent the worst impacts of global warming instead of letting climate change take its course. If the choice is a new way forward or the status quo, the choice is clear.

“At this critical moment in our nation’s history, we need a budget that drives our economic growth, protects our planet, and puts us on a path to a clean energy future.”