Google unveiled an aggressive $4 trillion energy plan to significantly wean the U.S. off fossil fuels by 2030.
Through it philanthropic arm, the company has poured millions into a pursuit of renewable energy technologies. Its plan, "Clean Energy 2030," includes green building codes, a push toward electric cars and energy efficiency, a carbon tax, renewable energy tax credits and reducing vehicle-related fossil fuel use nearly 40 percent over the next 22 years.
"Right now we have a real opportunity to transform our economy from one running on fossil fuels to one largely based on clean energy," Jeffrey Greenblatt, Google's climate and energy technology manager, wrote on the company's blog. "Technologies and know-how to accomplish this are either available today or are under development. We can build whole new industries and create millions of new jobs."
Meanwhile, Institute for 21st Century Energy, an affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, also unveiled its own energy blueprint last week. "Blueprint for Securing America's Energy Future" offers 75 policy recommendations based on an all-of-the-above strategy that includes more nuclear and clean coal power generation, increased domestic oil production, a Clean Energy Bank to underwrite new technology development and energy efficiency.
"With more than 75 policy recommendations, the blueprint is a thorough and compelling framework for the next president and Congress to adopt as a balanced and comprehensive energy strategy," General James Jones, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber Institute for 21st Century Energy, wrote last week on the organization's blog. "The blueprint also serves as a bridge to an energy transition plan that the Institute will introduce to the next president and Congress in the coming months as a foundation for a comprehensive, new energy strategy for our nation."