FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Audrey Casey
American Public Gas Association
Cell: 757-292-5792
Email: acasey@apga.org
APGA Applauds Subcommittee Hearing Examining Detrimental Impact of Recent Policies on Consumer Choice & Energy Affordability
Washington, DC (May 23, 2024) – The American Public Gas Association (APGA), representing more than 730 local, municipally owned natural gas systems in 38 states, issued the following statement applauding the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy, Climate and Grid Security for exploring energy policies that, if implemented, could negatively impact all community-owned gas utility customers.
“APGA commends the members of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy, Climate and Grid Security for convening a hearing to investigate the consumer impact of pro-electrification policies at the local, state and federal level. APGA and our members recognize the importance of advancing energy efficiency and environmental stewardship, but policymakers must take a balanced approach that does not compromise energy affordability and choice.
Despite natural gas being an affordable energy source for millions of Americans, states and localities are adopting misguided building codes and explicit bans on natural gas hookups that could raise costs for consumers. At the federal level, the Department of Energy’s proposed appliance efficiency standards limit consumer choice — disproportionally harming low- and middle-income families, who value gas-fired appliances for their affordability. American taxpayers ultimately pay the government’s utility bill, so they will also be hurt by newly proposed electrification requirements for new or majorly renovated federal buildings.
As Mike Casper, President and CEO of JCE Co-op, noted in his remarks, “Americans deserve the right to choose the appliances they want… the natural gas used to fuel them is expected to reach its lowest price since 1977 next year, after adjusting for inflation.” Community-owned utilities deliver natural gas, which is nearly three times more efficient when used directly in the home compared to grid-delivered electricity. The restrictive policies discussed during the hearing hinder consumer choice while forcing higher energy costs.
APGA appreciates the opportunity to advocate for balanced energy policies that ensure efficiency without compromising affordability and choice. APGA members’ infrastructure and skilled workforce provide policymakers with solutions to achieve environmental goals while preserving consumer choice and energy affordability.”
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APGA is the national association of municipally and publicly-owned local distribution systems. There are about 1,000 public gas systems serving more than 6 million customers. These public gas utilities are not-for-profit retail distribution entities that are owned by, and accountable to, the citizens they serve. They include municipal gas distribution systems, public utility districts, county districts, and other public agencies that have natural gas distribution facilities.