call your congressman!

Tomorrow the House will be debating some important energy legislation. Possibly most important is H.R. 3221, especially amendment #96, which calls for a national renewable portfolio standard (RPS). Currently, many states have renewable energy standards in place, but the (sometimes incompatible) differences between states makes it difficult for utility companies to develop renewable energy, especially since many utility companies provide energy to more than one state. A national renewable energy standard would ensure that all electricity in the country comes partly from renewable sources: 20% from renewable sources by 2020.

The Oil Drum has a great thread on this legislation here, and The Grist has a very informative (though lengthy) summary here. If you think these issues are important, take a moment today to call your congressman. The Capitol Hill Switchboard is 202.225.3121; if you don't know your congressman's name, tell them your zip code and they can connect you. Tell them to vote yes on a national renewable energy standard.