From: Nigel.Allen@bbs.oit.unc.edu (Nigel Allen)
Subject: National Energy Policy Act: National Rural Electric Cooperative Association
Organization: NDA
Date: Thu, 8 Oct 1992 23:23:36 GMT


Here is a press release from the National Rural Electric Cooperative
Association.

 National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Comments on
Passage of National Energy Policy Act
 To: National Desk, Energy Writer
 Contact: Eleanor Miller of the National Rural Electric Cooperative
          Association, 202-857-9538

   WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 -- Following is the statement of Bob 
Bergland, executive vice president, National Rural Electric
Cooperative Association (NRECA) on passage of H.R. 776,
the "Comprehensive National Energy Policy Act":

   We congratulate the Congress for their resolve in hammering out
comprehensive energy legislation.  Their hard work and leadership
have done much to encourage energy independence and energy
efficiency.  We also thank the Department of Energy for initiating
the development of a national energy strategy, which helped pave the
way to passage of this critical legislation.
   After being buffeted by the energy crises of the 1970s and 1980s,
lulled to sleep by falling oil prices, and then painfully awakened by
Saddam Hussein, we now have an energy policy that, if properly
implemented, makes sense for the U.S. economy.
   This landmark legislation can help wean the U.S. from its
dependence on foreign oil and reverse the drift in energy policy that
has plagued us for more than a decade.  Our nation has new
opportunity to bolster domestic energy production from an array of
fuels, promote renewable energy resources, and bring about some
needed changes in the electric utility industry.
   The bill opens the door for increased competition in the electric
utility industry, which will be enhanced by the transmission access
provisions.  Although the transmission provisions are not as far
reaching as they might have been, a more competitive, less
monopolistic industry will help us generate and deliver power
economically and reliably.
   One of the biggest challenges facing the country is protecting the
environment while satisfying the nation's energy needs.  This new law
can help us do that.  Promoting development and production of
electric vehicles, for example, is one way we can reduce our
dependence on imported fuels through the wider and wiser use of
electricity.
   Of particular importance to consumer-owned electric cooperatives
are steps to encourage residential, as well as commercial, energy
efficiency.  We applaud the decision not to tax utility rebates on
energy-efficient equipment and appliances.
   We also thank the Congress for recognizing the need for more
research on the effects of electric and magnetic fields (EMF).  The
bill calls for a new federal commitment to a public-private research
partnership that will include public involvement and a public
information program.  These efforts will greatly enhance existing
research.
 -30-

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