Number: RL33564
Title: Alternative Fuels and Advanced Technology Vehicles: Issues in Congress
Authors: Brent D. Yacobucci, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: In the 110th Congress, alternative fuels and advanced technology vehicles have received a good deal of attention, especially in discussions over U.S. energy security. In his January 24, 2007, State of the Union Address, President Bush called for the increased use of renewable and alternative motor fuels to 35 billion gallons annually by 2017. U.S. consumption was roughly five billion gallons in 2006. Therefore, such an initiative would mean a seven-fold increase in the use of these fuels over 11 years. On December 19, 2007, President Bush signed the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA, P.L. 110-140). EISA requires an increase in renewable fuel consumption to 9.0 billion gallons in 2008 and 36 billion gallons in 2022. Further within the 36-billion-gallon requirement, by 2022 the new law mandates the use of 21 billion gallons of "advanced biofuels," defined as fuel derived from renewable biomass other than corn starch, with 50% lower lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions compared to petroleum fuels.
Pages: 14
Date: February 1, 2008