February 26, 2009
Contact:
Virginia Cramer, 804-225-9113 x 102
Pelosi, Reid Say No to Coal at U.S. Capitol
Speaker Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid today requested that the Capitol Power Plant stop burning coal and instead switch to clean burning natural gas. As the only facility in Washington D.C. still burning coal, the plant is a symbol of our country’s dependence on dirty energy. Their request comes just one day after, the Sierra Club, along with its allies Friends of the Earth and Earthjustice, sent a letter to Congressional leaders on Wednesday, including Speaker Pelosi and Majority Leader Reid, requesting their support to end coal burning in the District.
In response Bruce Nilles, Director of the Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal Campaign issued the following statement.
"Under the strong leadership of Senator Reid and Speaker Pelosi, the U.S. Capitol has already made great strides in improving efficiency, increasing recycling and reducing water use. Ending coal use at the Capitol Power Plant is the next significant step, a tangible demonstration of our country’s dedication to a clean energy future.
"Stopping the use of coal at the Capitol Power Plant will help local residents breathe easier, but the positive impacts will stretch far beyond the District. Bold measures are needed right now to reduce global warming emissions and we look forward to continuing to work with Congress and the new Administration to send a clear signal to cities and states across the country that after eight long years, America is serious about clean energy and green jobs.
"Today’s request sets a positive tone as ten thousand young Americans descend on D.C. this weekend to rally for clean energy as part of Power Shift 2009."
###