Office of the Secretary

For Immediate Release: July 11, 2001

Contact: Mark Pfeifle (202) 208-6416

Secretary Norton to Host Renewable Energy Summit this Fall
"Renewable energy is important for energy stability and a healthy environment," says Norton

(WASHINGTON) - Interior Secretary Gale Norton announced today that the Department of the Interior will host a summit aimed at expanding renewable energy production on public lands.

"To further the priorities of Congress and the President, I'll bring state and local officials together with industry leaders and other citizens for a renewable energy summit this fall," said Norton. "The historic summit will focus on maximizing wind, solar and geothermal energy production on public lands."

"Enhancing production of renewable energy is important for energy stability and a healthy environment. For example, with low emission levels and availability in public lands in the West, geothermal energy provides an excellent opportunity to reduce our dependency on foreign oil.

"Thanks to American ingenuity and cutting-edge technology, 47 percent of geothermal energy is produced on public lands. With cooperation and partnerships, our geothermal production can increase. The Department will begin to work immediately with renewable energy leaders and government officials to finalize a date and a place to hold this important summit.

"President Bush's energy policy will keep our economy moving forward with good jobs and protect our environment. Working with Congress, the Bush Administration is committed to finding workable solutions that improve our national energy problem. American ingenuity has never let us down in the past, and by acting wisely today, it will help us provide for future generations," concluded Norton.

Norton announced the summit this morning at a press conference on Capitol Hill. Norton also announced the Bush Administration's support for HR 2436, the Energy Security Act.

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