Conservative Energy Network and CRES Hold 70+ Lawmaker Meetings to Advocate for Market-Based Approach to Clean Energy Policy

Contact: Joanna Lewis – jlewis@conservativeenergynetwork.org
June 6, 2023 – WASHINGTON – This week, the Conservative Energy Network (CEN) and Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions (CRES) are convening nearly 50 clean energy advocates, business leaders, and state officials from 19 states for the fifth annual fly-in event co-hosted by CEN and CRES. Attendees will participate in meetings with more than 70 Congressional offices to educate members and staff on clean energy issues at the state and national levels.

The annual fly-in will highlight local conservative action and support for America’s growing clean energy economy. Particular focus will be paid to the areas of permitting reform, America’s critical minerals supply, and hydrogen infrastructure. Attendees will also share updates on local clean energy issues important to their state.

“CRES is proud to again partner with CEN to bring state and local leaders to meet with their Congressional representatives in Washington to advocate for a commonsense legislation that increases American energy production, reduces global emissions and strengthens the U.S. economy,” said CRES President Heather Reams. “The fly-in is unique as nearly 50 leaders from 19 states have over 70 meetings scheduled with Republican offices to deliver a single message: expanding clean energy is good policy and good politics. The sentiment in Washington is that Republicans don’t support clean energy. That cannot be further from the truth as evidenced by the dozens of local and state leaders for this timely fly-in.”

“Energy security is national security,” said John Szoka, CEO of CEN. “And energy security begins and ends with American energy independence. Our energy future must include a diverse portfolio that includes cleaner, more efficient energy that is made in America. Commonsense energy policy that removes unnecessary regulatory barriers and allows market demands to drive the adoption of alternative energy sources will provide consumers with the most affordable and reliable electricity available. CEN believes conservative leaders must take an active role in shaping an energy future that embraces new technology, grows the American economy, inspires innovation, and protects our national security. That is why we are bringing together state and local conservative leaders from across the country to educate members of Congress on the importance of market-based clean energy policy solutions.”

States represented in this year’s fly-in include Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

Recent CEN polling found 81% of all voters support the government taking action to accelerate the development and use of clean energy in the United States.

Recent CRES polling found 83% of Republicans and Independents nationwide support an “all of the above” energy approach, which includes sources such as nuclear and natural gas as well as renewable energy so