On Energy, Conservatives Have Ideas

This week, Capitol Hill’s attention has been focused on debates over two important energy issues: the approval of the Keystone XL pipeline, favored by most in the conservative movement, and the Shaheen-Portman Senate energy efficiency bill, which Heritage Action has key voted “No.” Both issues have been percolating in Washington for years, so it’s no surprise they’re receiving so much attention now.

That said, because these two issues have so dominated energy news in recent days, it’s easy to lose sight of the broader array of energy policies under consideration in Washington. That’s unfortunate, as Republicans have distinguished themselves of late on energy policy, developing innovative solutions that promise to create and secure jobs while reducing everyday costs for all Americans – but only if they are given a chance by President Obama.

Four of these bills are especially impressive, and serve as a stark contrast to the comprehensive energy bills passed by Congress in 2006 and 2007.
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