House Republican Press Release

November 7, 2008

Press Office: 860-240-8700

REP. STRIPP: STATE NEEDS LONG TERM ENERGY POLICY

Connecticut to Focus on Encouraging ‘Green Collar’ Jobs

Hartford- State Rep. John Stripp of Weston participated in an ‘Energize CT’ panel October 29^th with the Speaker of the House and other leaders from the legislature’s Energy, Commerce and Finance committees which heard presentations on both traditional and alternative energy sources including fuel cells, solar energy, biofuels, and nuclear power as well as conservation and ‘green collar’ job creators.

“If we really want to reduce Connecticut’s dependence on foreign oil, there has to be a proactive, coordinated effort that encourages alternative energy sources and conservation in a way that stimulates job growth in emerging ‘green collar’ industries,” said Rep. Stripp who also represents Easton, Redding and Weston.

Connecticut is well positioned to implement an effective energy policy, noting that the non-profit American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy ranks Connecticut third among all states, behind only California and Oregon, in promoting energy independence and investment in cost-effective energy efficiencies. 

“Connecticut is ranked among the top three states in the country for effectiveness of our energy efficiency programs,” said Rep. Stripp. “In order for these programs to continue to grow and succeed, a trained, qualified workforce is a must.”

Connecticut is already one of the nation’s largest hub for companies that produce fuel cells, supporting an estimated 2100 related jobs. Last session, John Stripp voted for legislation to promote fuel cell industry in Connecticut by supporting the buying of hydrogen-electric hybrid buses and convert Bradley International Airport to the world's first airport to run on fuel cells.

“The enhancement of ‘green energy’ research and development, as well as the growth of ‘green energy’ manufacturing represent major pieces of Connecticut’s economic future, and the next few years will be crucial to determine just how big that piece can grow,” added Stripp, the head republican on the Commerce committee.

Stripp believes ‘green collar’ jobs can become a bigger part of Connecticut’s economy as development of alternative energies and efficiency efforts continue to grow. Connecticut's public education systems, including; the CT Technical High Schools, CT Community Colleges, the CT State Universities, and UConn, are gearing up to transition the workforce to compete for our share of these ‘green collar’ Jobs."