[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 190 (Friday, December 20, 2024)]
[Senate]
[Page S7318]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND ENERGY STUDY INSTITUTE

  Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate the 
Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) on its 40th 
anniversary.
  Since its founding four decades ago by members of Congress from both 
sides of the aisle, EESI has steadfastly pursued its vision of a 
sustainable, resilient, and equitable world--a vision I share. EESI's 
work is a reminder that there is considerable common ground if we work 
together to find it. For the sake of our planet, our economy, our 
health, and our children's future, I hope we have the strength to do 
just that.
  EESI plays a key role as it informs Congress of developments in the 
energy, environmental, and climate space. Every year, EESI convenes 
dozens of congressional briefings, publishes white papers, releases 
newsletters, and hosts a podcast. All of this science-based, 
nonpartisan information--clearly explained and synthesized--helps us 
develop good policy.
  EESI has also been one of the driving forces behind the annual 
Congressional Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency EXPO and Policy 
Forum. I have the privilege of serving as a deputy cochair of the 
Senate Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Caucus, which showcases, 
on a bipartisan basis, the many benefits of clean energy and helps 
cohost the EXPO. I am very proud to have participated in almost every 
EXPO since 2003. At these EXPOs, clean energy leaders convene and share 
what their organizations are doing to advance renewable energy and 
energy efficiency. They describe how clean energy and energy efficiency 
are creating good-paying jobs in their communities, expanding economic 
development in rural areas, helping families and businesses become more 
resilient to extreme weather and climate impacts, contributing to 
national security, and ensuring that all communities have access to 
clean air and water.
  I would also like to take this opportunity to recognize the many 
accomplishments of former Representative Richard L. ``Dick'' Ottinger. 
He cofounded the Environmental and Energy Study Conference when he 
represented New York in Congress in the 1970s. Under Mr. Ottinger's 
leadership, the conference later evolved into the independent nonprofit 
we are celebrating today, EESI.
  We are in the middle of a decisive decade for climate action. What we 
choose to do now--or fatefully, choose not to do--will affect future 
generations in profound ways. As we seek bipartisan agreement to 
achieve our climate goals, I know we can count on EESI and its 
remarkable resources to help guide the way.
  Congratulations again to EESI and its 40 years of advancing climate 
solutions on Capitol Hill. I look forward to working with EESI for many 
years to come as we strive together to achieve a sustainable, 
resilient, and equitable world.

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