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Obama Ignored Failing Power System in Convention Speech


Candidate Again Neglected to Emphasize the Real Solution to the Energy Crisis — Grid Modernization

For Immediate Release:
August 29, 2008

 

Contact:
Crystal Borde
202-331-4323
cborde@vancomm.com

***INTERVIEW ALERT***

Obama Ignored Failing Power System in Convention Speech
Candidate again neglected to emphasize the real solution to the energy crisis — grid modernization

In Denver last night, Senator Barack Obama talked about energy as a problem, but did not address a viable solution — modernizing the electric grid. According to Kurt Yeager, energy expert and executive director of the Galvin Electricity Initiative, America’s real energy problem is its dependency on an unreliable, inefficient, “ticking time bomb” power system. Like the country’s dependency on foreign oil, 21st century Americans are slaves to the whims and weaknesses of an obsolete, 1950s-era power system. Modernizing the grid with smart technology can lower energy costs, achieve energy independence and address climate change.

The Galvin Electricity Initiative, launched by former Motorola chief Robert W. Galvin, has brought together the Nation’s leading electricity experts to reconstruct our electric power system into one that is more affordable, reliable and fuel-efficient. The Initiative has created innovative business and technological blueprints for the ultimate smart grid — a Perfect Power System that meets the needs of 21st century consumers and provides reliable, secure electricity regardless of nature’s wrath or security threats.

For more information, visit www.galvinpower.org/socket.

WHO: Kurt Yeager, executive director of the Galvin Electricity Initiative, president emeritus of the Electric Power Research Institute, chair of the World Energy Council Study on Energy and Climate Change and co-author with Bob Galvin of the new book, Perfect Power.

Mr. Yeager is available to discuss the presidential candidates’ positions on the challenges facing America’s current electric power system and how electricity grid infrastructure improvements will provide consumers with cleaner, more reliable power.

WHY: “If Obama’s energy goals are to be more than just campaign rhetoric, the essential foundation needs to be a transformed, modern smart grid — from power generation to end-use,” says Yeager. “Electricity and the innovations it makes possible are the key to a sustainable energy, economic and environmental future. Transforming the grid is essential and will provide Americans with electricity choices that are smarter and cleaner. Obama must prioritize grid modernization and help states remove the policy and technical barriers that impede it.”

WHEN: Interviews are available by request. Please contact Crystal Borde at 202-331-4323 or cborde@vancomm.com

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