Votes for New Mexico's Clean Energy Innovation
 
Washington, DC (March 7, 2012) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted in favor of H.R. 2842, The Bureau of Reclamation Small Conduit Hydropower Development and Rural Jobs Act of 2011.   The legislation passed the House of Representatives today.
 
“H.R. 2482 streamlines the regulatory process, making it possible for the development of cheaper clean energy sources,” said Pearce. “I am a proponent for developing all types of American energy especially when it means lower energy costs and jobs for New Mexico families. Today's legislation is a credit to the innovations and forward thinking of locals right here in southern New Mexico. Currently, in the Elephant Butte Irrigation District (EBID) service areas, notably in Las Cruces, those seeking to develop hydropower have been met with excessive regulatory costs and government red tape, stalling job creation and development. H.R. 2482 will give these areas access to the power privilege leases that will generate hydropower in canals.”
 
H.R. 2842 has been endorsed by the Family Farm Alliance, the American Public Power Association, and the National Water Resources Association and has received bipartisan support. The legislation is expected to generate approximately $5 million in federal revenue in ten years, according to Congressional Budget Office estimates and offers leases to irrigation districts for hydropower. The legislation now awaits consideration by the Senate.
 
According to Gary Esslinger, Elephant Butte Irrigation District Treasurer-Manager, “H.R. 2842 is a giant step in the right direction for the development of low head power development for canals and pipelines where these water resources can be harnessed with a limited environmental impact. It is a dream come true for me to see the possibilities of developing this type of green energy for areas in rural America that can also benefit irrigation districts and the farming operations across this country. I hope to see progress on this legislation, as well as H.R. 795 as both significantly help EBID.”