Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)
WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) today introduced the State Industrial Competitiveness Act, legislation that strengthens and enhances the competitiveness of U.S. manufacturing, all while cutting emissions by providing manufacturers with needed resources and technical support to increase their overall efficiency.
Tonko’s bill draws from New York State’s successful Flexible Technical Assistance “Flex-tech” program and is intended to complement and expand upon the work of existing programs, such as DOE’s Industrial Assessment Centers. The legislation also requires that State Energy Agencies coordinate with existing programs that provide assistance to manufacturers.
“Supporting our domestic manufacturers serves our workers, industries, communities, and economy,” Congressman Tonko said. “I’m leading this legislation to deliver that strong support and bring cost-saving opportunities to our domestic manufacturers while addressing the challenges associated with our growing electricity demand. These vital investments will also play a significant role in increasing American competitiveness. I urge my colleagues to join me in advancing this legislation that secures good-paying jobs while reducing emissions and moving us on the path towards a cleaner future.”
David Terry, the President of the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO), stated, “As we push to expand domestic manufacturing, we need to do all we can to help these businesses lower costs and increase competitiveness through energy efficiency technologies that optimize energy use.” Mr. Terry added, “Nearly every state is experiencing substantial increases in electricity demand, which requires actions on both the electricity demand and supply sides to keep costs down. This legislation is a significant way to help move the nation’s expansion of manufacturing forward as rapidly as possible.”
Jennifer Layke, executive director of the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, said: “Small and medium-sized manufacturers are the backbone of America’s economy—but rising energy costs threaten their competitiveness. It’s time to invest in proven solutions that lower costs and boost productivity. With a program to support manufacturers around the country in identifying and adopting energy-saving strategies, we can help them save money, create jobs, and build a stronger, more efficient industrial base.”
Tonko’s legislation enables States and Indian Tribes to establish a Flex-Tech Energy Program that would provide grants to U.S. manufacturers to conduct energy studies and implement recommendations from those studies.
Bill text can be found HERE.