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Chu Vows to Boost Energy Efficiency

By Harry Kimball,  Newser Staff

Posted Jan 13, 2009 5:34 PM CST
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(Newser) – Energy Secretary-designate Steven Chu told a Senate panel today that he would pursue an expansion of nuclear and clean coal power if confirmed, Politico reports. Chu had been criticized for calling coal “my worst nightmare.” Barack Obama has also been vague about his nuclear energy policy. But while accepting the need to pursue all domestic energy options, Chu stressed that efficiency was the best route in the short term.

“We will work very hard to bring up technologies as quickly as possible,” Chu said at the confirmation hearing before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. “But I do think the best thing we can do is work on energy efficiency. That remains lowest-hanging fruit at this time.”

Steven Chu shakes hands with Sen. Richard Burr, R-N.C., as Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D., second from left, and Sen. Jeff Bingaman, D-N.M., right, look on.
Steven Chu shakes hands with Sen. Richard Burr, R-N.C., as Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D., second from left, and Sen. Jeff Bingaman, D-N.M., right, look on.   (AP Photo)
Energy Secretary-designate Steven Chu testifies on Capitol Hill.
Energy Secretary-designate Steven Chu testifies on Capitol Hill.   (AP Photo)
Chu testifies on Capitol Hill.
Chu testifies on Capitol Hill.   (AP Photo)
President-elect Barack Obama listens as Energy Secretary nominee Steven Chu addresses the media.
President-elect Barack Obama listens as Energy Secretary nominee Steven Chu addresses the media.   (AP Photo)
Chu arrives for the hearing.
Chu arrives for the hearing.   (AP Photo)
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On Chu's earlier statments, which got him in hot water
Wall Street Journal

Hearing was mostly gentle
Los Angeles Times

Chu backed off on European-style gas prices
New York Times

 
Barack Obama • nuclear power • Senate • confirmation hearings • Department of Energy • clean coal • President Obama • energy secretary • Energy and Natural Resources Committee. • Steven Chu

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