Senator Christopher Dodd Calls for Renewable Energy Expansion

Democratic presidential candidate and Connecticut senator Chris Dodd has called for a major expansion of renewable energy systems, while praising the state of Iowa for its efforts to develop energy sources such as wind power. He went on to specify some measures he would take to benefit renewable energy, if he were to be elected president.

According to a statement issued by the Dodd For President campaign on Thursday, Senator Dodd referred to the new wind tower manufacturer in Keokuk, Iowa as "very positive news" for the area's economy, pointing out remarks by the state's governor about Iowa's "tremendous potential" to become a leader in efforts to develop renewable energy.

However, Senator Dodd stated that such goals could not be achieved entirely by an individual state, claiming that it is necessary for the federal government to sufficiently assist states and localities in developing this industry. He indicated that as president, he would be willing to invest fifty billion dollars per year in the research, marketing, and development of renewable energy.

He also stated that revenue for such funding could be made available by making it more expensive to use "dirty energy", presumably referring to taxes on businesses which generate and/or use energy created with pollution generating methods. Additionally, he would make it easier for small farms and ranches to gain loans so that they can become involved in wind power projects.

In addition to wind, some forms of energy which are considered to be renewable include hydroelectric, solar, and biodiesel. According to the U.S. Department of Energy's web site, the larger size wind turbines offer greater cost-effectiveness and efficiency. It also indicates that more and more wind farms have appeared in the midwestern U.S. recently, with land owners receiving lease payments in exchange for allowing the turbines on their properties.