July 2007

Dear Seniors:

This year, as in the past, when air conditioning and gas prices rise, we look for actions that will provide some relief. Like many of you, I believe we must work to implement a sensible and strategic energy policy. We can now see the beginnings of efforts to actually address some of the policy issues as well as some of the regulatory matters that need attention. I would like to take this opportunity to share information on some of the initiatives I've been working on and to pass along a few tips to hopefully help you become more energy efficient and potentially save money.

In Congress, I've joined a number of colleagues in working to craft a comprehensive energy policy that favors the consumer and the environment. To that end, I am fighting to pass legislation that requires our cars and trucks to get better gas mileage and that reduces our dependence on foreign oil. There are always a number of members from fossil fuel-producing states and others who just oppose government regulation working to defeat such crucial changes. There is hope, however, that, this year, those recognizing and pushing for action will prevail.

In fact, earlier this year, legislation that repealed an estimated $14 billion in subsidies for the profitable oil and gas companies and redirected such funds to invest in clean, renewable energy and energy efficiency did pass the House of Representatives. Ending environmentally hazardous energy practices and adopting alternative forms of energy is both necessary and fully within our nation’s grasp. We have on the agenda other proposals designed to stop company price gouging and end uncontrolled speculation that is driving up prices, and we are working to forge a majority for action on them.

Addressing our significant energy challenges requires the determination of Congress, but you can play a critical role as well. For instance, we all know how important - but how expensive - air conditioning is during the summer months. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, following some simple guidelines can help alleviate the costs. For example, it is advised that if you use air-conditioning, set your thermostat as high as comfortably possible in the summer. This will lessen the difference between the indoor temperature of your home and the outdoor temperature, lowering your overall cooling bill.

Furthermore, with summer being the season when cars are used more frequently, and with prices at the pump continuing to climb, there are certain small changes you can make to your driving routine that can save you money. For instance, as we remind drivers every year at this time, you can lighten your load by clearing your car of extra weight, keeping current with car maintenance and properly inflating and aligning tires to improve gas mileage by an estimated 3%.

For more information, feel free to visit the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy website at http://www1.eere.energy.gov/consumer/tips/index.html. For further updates on how I am working to change our energy policy and for ways you can play an important part, please call Cheryl Gresek in my Peabody office at 1-978-531-1669.

Sincerely,

John Tierney
Member of Congress