(Oregon Gov.) Kulongoski proposes $30 million for green energy

[jpak]

http://www.oregonlive.com/newsflash/regional/index.ssf?/base/news-17/116796597356670.xml&storylist=orlocal

SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski's eyes light up when he starts talking about the benefits that windmills, solar panels and biofuels could bring his state.

Though the $30 million Kulongoski allotted in his two-year budget proposal for green energy is dwarfed by the billions he wants to spend on education and health care, the governor thinks it's the first step in freeing the country from its dependence on fossil fuels.

"I think Oregon can be...this national crucible for the development of this industry," the governor said this week in an interview with The Associated Press. "The state government can be a model for the private sector."

To that end, his budget includes $5.2 million for the nation's first in-water wave generation and demonstration research facility, $2 million to the state's energy department to place solar panels on top of schools and $10 million to foster geothermal projects at Oregon universities. Another chunk of money, $3.7 million, would provide tax breaks for businesses that use and make products that consume biofuel.

<more>

[classof56]

1. Good for Ted!

This is just one of the many reasons I supported, campaigned and of course voted for him. Let's hope our newly elected Democratic majority in the legislature supports him, too, not only for energy independence but education and health caring spending as well. My grandkids are counting on it!