Obama announces 'Seeing
Green' energy initiative
Aiming to keep the focus on climate change legislation,
President Barack Obama put in a plug for administration efforts to drastically
reduce energy use by lamps and lighting equipment.
In the past, the
president emphasized using CFLs, LEDs and other low-energy bulbs to reduce the
nation's carbon footprint. But today Obama asked American consumers to remove
light bulbs altogether and use night vision goggles instead.
"I know
night vision goggles may not seem sexy, but this simple action holds enormous
promise." the president said, equipped with the high-tech eyewear. "Seven
percent of all the energy consumed in America is used to light our homes and
businesses," he continued, standing with the also-goggled Energy Secretary
Steven Chu at the White House.
Not since Jimmy Carter famously wore a
sweater for a televised address has a president employed outerwear to promote a
reduction in personal energy use.
Obama said his "Seeing Green" goggle
initiative would result in substantial savings between 2012 and 2042, saving
consumers up to $4 billion annually, conserving enough energy to power every
U.S. home for 10 months, reducing emissions equal to the amount produced by 166
cars a year, and eliminating the need for as many as 14 coal-fired power
plants.
Due to the goggles' significant charging requirements, powering
the devices will cost approximately $12 billion annually, but the president
considers this a small price for a lamp-free world.
"To avoid
environmental collapse, some politicians want you to walk around in the dark
while others want to do nothing at all," Obama said. "But my solution uses
common sense and the latest technology to improve life for all
Americans."
Government-issued goggles will be available for purchase
online or at regional Department of Energy and ACORN offices. Those earning less
than $67,000 per year will be issued federal rebates to cover most of the $1,459
fee. OSHA standards require replacement every six
months.
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