I am a huge supporter of renewable energy projects because they will help keep Nevada at the forefront of energy development and will help America move closer to energy independence.  Nevada and the nation have grown tremendously strong over the last century, fueled by our dependence on once plentiful and cheap fossil-fuel. But, now is the time for a transformation of our energy policy.

The President has recently announced new support for certain renewable energy research.  This is a step in the right direction, but it does not go far enough. I am especially concerned that his budget eliminates funding for geothermal research and energy efficiency programs.  We need to quickly adopt a new approach to energy that is more sustainable for the future of our economy, the environment, our national security, and our children.

Over the last few years, Nevada has seen energy prices soar for gasoline, diesel fuel, electricity, and natural gas. These high prices are hurting families, businesses, and tourism.

If we can find a way to harness other energy sources—like the sun and the wind—we will be able to produce power cheaply and never face shortages. Nevada can provide great access for solar power, wind power, and especially geothermal power. In fact, Nevada is the Saudi Arabia of geothermal power.

As usual, Nevada is leading the way in the national effort to become energy independent. On February 11 of this year, in Boulder City, construction began on a 64-megawatt solar thermal power plant. The new plant is scheduled to open by 2007, and will provide clean and green power secure from price fluctuations.

There are also plans underway to build an 18-megawatt solar photovoltaic plant south of Boulder City that could power 36,000 homes.

These are just a few of many renewable projects we are working on around the state.

I have made it one of my highest priorities to get funding for projects that tap these resources, and to promote sensible tax policies that make renewable electricity competitive.

I hope projects like this become commonplace soon. Someday, our children will look back and say that Nevada helped spark an energy revolution that changed America.