Charleston Leader

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, has written the preface for the Orrin G. Hatch Foundation's 2023 Policy Review titled, "Conservative Solutions to Climate Change." In her introduction, Capito emphasizes that America's climate policy does not have to be in conflict with energy and economic security, and that there are effective ways to reduce carbon emissions without sacrificing jobs and energy security.

Capito highlights the importance of giving the private sector the flexibility and time to innovate, using the example of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, in the United States. She points out that from 2005 to 2022, natural gas production doubled, thanks to industry innovations in developing shale resources. At the same time, American greenhouse gas emissions dropped by 15 percent. Capito argues that this demonstrates how what is good for energy security can also be good for the climate.

Contrasting conservative and progressive approaches, Capito criticizes the inflexible, top-down mandates favored by progressives. She mentions the Obama administration's regulations that threatened the electric grid and the Biden administration's agenda that aims to close down baseload power plants and penalize employers who do not comply with a radical climate agenda. Capito asserts that conservatives believe economic opportunity and private sector innovation, rather than government mandates, are the key to driving an energy transition that benefits American workers and families.

Capito expresses her confidence in American innovation to lead the way in reducing emissions and addressing climate change. She emphasizes the need for a favorable regulatory climate for emerging technologies like carbon capture, hydrogen, and nuclear energy. Capito calls for reforms to overbearing government regulations and the broken permitting system to prevent job creators and economic opportunities from going to other countries.

Capito highlights the importance of favorable regulations for advanced nuclear energy technologies. She points out that nuclear energy is the only zero-emission baseload power source available and that the United States should assert its leadership in developing advanced reactors. Capito has authored legislation to establish a favorable regulatory environment for the next generation of advanced reactors and emphasizes the need for timely approval of projects in the pipeline.

Capito concludes by stating that conservatives support reducing emissions and addressing climate change. She highlights the United States' record in reducing emissions over the past 20 years and emphasizes the importance of speaking out in favor of commonsense environmental solutions that provide flexibility and time for industries to develop. Capito expresses her confidence that conservative climate solutions will prevail and benefit both the United States and the planet.

The Orrin G. Hatch Foundation's 2023 Policy Review, which includes Capito's preface and essays from other lawmakers and leaders, can be accessed for further reading.