U.S. Energy Goal: Reduce foreign oil, expand domestic biofuels

During a press conference from Georgetown University on Wednesday morning, President Barack Obama laid out his administration’s “Energy Security” blueprint moving forward. The plan detailed having 80% of our energy be clean energy by the year 2035 which included biomass, wind, solar, natural gas, hydropower, hybrids and also biofuels.

“We will aim to cut our imported oil by 1/3 by the year 2025,” said Obama. “We will keep on being a victim to shifts in the oil market until we get serious about a long-term policy for secure, affordable energy.”

Some of the most effective opportunities to build our energy security can be found in our own backyard.

“Corn ethanol is already working to make a significant contribution to reducing our foreign-oil dependence,” a senior White House official said.

Senators from both sides of the aisle agree with the President’s view on the importance of domestic energy security.

“The strength of our nation is tied to the strength of our energy economy,” stated Senator Amy Klobuchar.

“I think our country is committed to a broad-based energy policy for national security and economic security and energy independence,” said Senator Chuck Grassley.

In order to expand our energy independence, additional blender pump infrastructure will be needed to make home-grown fuels like ethanol more accessible to the American consumer.

“One of the biggest problems we have with alternative energy is not just producing the energy, but also distributing it. We need to be investing in fueling stations…and consumers need to make sure that they are creating a demand by purchasing flex-fuel and hybrid vehicles,” said Obama.

The President also said that his administration will help break ground on four advanced biofuel refineries within the next two years with the capabilities of producing at least 20 million gallons per year.

“We are encouraged by President Obama’s recognition of the important role domestic biofuels must play in America’s energy future. When it comes to replacing imported oil, no other energy technology can match ethanol today,” said Bob Dineen, CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association.