Overhaul Of Energy Policy Called Overdue; Reid Worries About 60-vote Hurdle In Senate

摘要

A panel that included Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) and former President Clinton on Feb. 23 said the time is now for a rapid overhaul of U.S. energy policies to spur the growth of renewable energy, modernize the electricity grid, and combat climate change.rnRevamping U.S. energy policy "is not anything that affects Democrats more than Republicans or vice-versa," Reid told those attending the National Clean Energy Project conference, held by the Center for American Progress Action Fund.rnBut the majority leader warned that passage of such legislation will be highly contentious in the Senate, where supporters need 60 votes to cut off debate and clear bills for eventual passage.rnThe recent increase in support for clean energy "is inspirational," Reid said. "But I always think about the 60 votes." Policymakers are still "very tepid" about proposals such as a "smart" electricity grid to accommodate increased wind- and solar-generated power, Reid said, because they fear a new era of expanded federal government programs.