House approves six energy bills

The House recently approved six energy bills from the Energy and Commerce Committee, covering energy efficient measures in federal buildings, hydroelectric projects and amendments to the Federal Power Act.

“These bills will reduce regulatory burdens and protect ratepayers while creating job opportunities and utilizing American-made energy,” U.S. Rep. Ed Whitfield (R-KY), who chairs the Energy and Power Subcommittee, said.

The approved bills include three measures to extend the deadlines of hydroelectric projects, including H.R. 2080 on the Clark Canyon Dam, H.R. 4411 on the Gathright Dam and H.R. 4412 on the Flannagan Dam. Two bills seek to amend the Federal Power Act: H.R. 4427, which seeks to include a minimum threshold of $10 million for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to have jurisdiction over facility acquisitions, and H.R. 2984 that would permit for rehearing of orders that affect rates. The final bill approved, H.R. 1268, would require federal data centers to use energy efficient and energy saving technologies.

“This week, we look to continue our efforts to create jobs, say yes to energy, and protect small businesses from burdensome red tape,” U.S. Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI), chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, said. “Many of these bipartisan bills will have a direct impact benefitting local communities, building upon our proud record of success.”