Newswise — ASME has asked the U.S. Congress to direct funds to programs that will enable the United States to grow the national energy infrastructure to meet the rising demand for transportation fuels and electricity.
An ASME position statement urges members of the Senate and House Appropriations Committees to increase funds for technology development and innovation as well as to train workers in "green collar" jobs. The Administration already has enacted the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007; however several key provisions of the act, including the appropriation of funds, remain unresolved.
Echoing the public sentiment to wean the United States from dependence on foreign energy supplies, the ASME position statement references the need to displace traditional sources of energy, while updating the national energy infrastructure.
In addition to the large capital expenditures required to design, build, operate and maintain new energy systems, says the ASME position statement, funds also are needed to train and employ workers to produce green power.
"The evolution of new 'green collar' jobs"¦could catalyze a new generation of engineers and scientists in our nation," says the position statement.
The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, American Institute of Chemical Engineers, and American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers have collaborated with ASME on the outreach effort.
Founded in 1880 as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, ASME is a not-for-profit professional organization promoting the art, science and practice of mechanical and multidisciplinary engineering and allied sciences. ASME develops codes and standards that enhance public safety, and provides lifelong learning and technical exchange opportunities benefiting the engineering and technology community.
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