Wednesday, Oct 5 2011 3:21PM
The Obama administration proposed new power line projects to create jobs and provide communities with renewable energy sources.
Seven electric transmission line projects in 12 states - most of which are in the western U.S. - have been proposed by President Barack Obama and his administration in an effort to modernize the nation and create thousands of jobs.
The White House's proposal would add roughly 2,500 miles of power lines in states including Colorado, Arizona, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah and Wyoming. Nearly 10,000 jobs would be created should the projects be approved.
"Building responsibly sited power lines to access world-class renewable resources can put thousands of Americans to work, bring cost-effective clean power to people who need it, and help some of the rural counties in the West hardest hit by the economic downturn," said Pam Eaton, deputy vice president for public lands at The Wilderness Society.
Energy Secretary Steven Chu and Interior Secretary Ken Salazar both stated the power line additions would lead to the creation of employment opportunities for thousands of Americans.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture continues to provide funding for renewable energy projects such as the power line plans. More than 500 agricultural producers and rural small businesses received funding from the agency in September to implement renewable energy in their industries.
For further reference, check out these sources:
The Associated Press,
U.S. Department of the Interior