Murkowski: At what point did we decide cap-and-trade was the most effective way to address climate change?

In this week’s National Journal Energy Experts Blog, Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) asks whether or not cap-and-trade is the most effective way to address climate change.

The Senator recognizes that thus far, cap-and-trade has been the tool of choice by policymakers seeking to reduce GHG emissions. Both the Waxman-Markey and Kerry-Boxer bills use cap-and-trade as the prime mechanism for reducing emissions.

However, this policy does not ensure a reduction of emissions worldwide, does not optimally incentivize clean energy technology and yet is certain to incur a cost on the economy.

The Industrial Energy Consumers of America has urged Congress to address GHG emission reductions without using cap and trade policy. View our letter to congress

We believe that there is still progress to be made in the way of energy efficiency:

Energy efficiency should be allowed to compete head to head with renewable energy

Irene Kowalczyk, MWV, Testifies Before Senate Subcommittee on Energy on Barriers To Greater Use of Energy Efficient Combined Heat and Power
“Increasing CHP from 9 to 20 percent of US supply avoids 60 percent of US CO2 emissions growth.”

And, that there are more creative mechanisms for reducing emissions.

More info. IECA-us.com

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