FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 26, 2021

Contact:
Josh Valentine, SWEEP
jvalentine@swenergy.org | 303-304-7613

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[BOULDER, CO] – Today, the Southwest Energy Efficiency Projest (SWEEP) joined more than 150 organizations to release a letter urging President Biden and Congressional leaders to pass economic recovery legislation that includes a 100% by 2035 federal Clean Electricity Standard (CES), with an interim goal of 80% clean power and carbon pollution reductions by 2030. And to advance that legislation through the budget reconciliation process if necessary.

The letter’s signatories represent a wide array of interests within the climate movement ranging from national environmental organizations, environmental justice advocates, faith-based groups, outdoor conservation organizations, clean energy campaigners, and more — coming together to call for swift action to pass a federal CES.

Read the full letter here.

“SWEEP is proud to join the chorus of voices across the country calling for a national Clean Electricity Standard to reduce climate and air pollution, create millions of green jobs, and lower utility bills. A robust standard is integral to achieving a clean, efficient, equitable, and climate-friendly future for all.” said Executive Director Elise Jones.

Clean Electricity Standards are a proven, popular, and practical policy that will transform the power sector to clean electricity, and could ultimately drive a 70-80% reduction of economy-wide greenhouse gas pollution in the United States, while eliminating deadly air pollution, reducing utility bills for consumers, and creating millions of jobs. More than 30 states and U.S. territories have already implemented clean or renewable electricity standards and two-thirds of American voters support 100% clean electricity by 2035.

Today’s letter follows a wave of growing momentum in favor of a federal CES. In the last few weeks alone, President Biden included a 100% by 2035 CES in his American Jobs Plan. And Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm confirmed that the administration is considering passing the standard using budget reconciliation. Now, leading groups across the climate movement are using their voice to demand action from the administration and Congress for a federal CES without delay.