The issue
Should Congress enact a comprehensive national energy policy?
Why it's important
The United States' economic growth during the past few years has surpassed the nation's
ability to develop and deliver energy supplies needed to sustain growth under the
current energy policy. The need for a comprehensive policy to generate a greater
supply and promote conservation is crucial. The roofing industry depends on oil
to manufacture most roofing materials and is sensitive to price fluctuations caused
by supply shortages. NRCA supports President Bush's proposals to promote oil exploration.
NRCA also advocates the president's proposals to promote energy efficiency. The
roofing industry can be instrumental in conservation with energy-efficient roofing
materials.
On Aug. 1, the Securing America's Future Energy (SAFE) Act of 2001 (HR 4), a comprehensive
national energy policy that embodies the president's proposals, passed the House
by a wide margin. Conservation provisions promoting energy-efficient roofing materials
are included in HR 4.
Key roofing provisions in HR4:
- Direct the Department of Energy (DOE) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
to extend the federal Energy Star label to "cool roofing." When determining whether
the Energy Star label should be extended to roofing products, DOE and EPA shall
work with the industry to determine the appropriate solar-reflective index of roofing
products.
- Provide a tax credit not to exceed $2,000 for homeowners who make energy-efficient
improvements to existing homes, including metal roof systems with coatings designed
to reduce heat gain.
- Provide a tax credit not to exceed $2,000 per dwelling for contractors building
new energy-efficient homes that include building envelope components on metal roofs.
- Establish a DOE grant program for local governments administered by the states for
a "High Performance Public Buildings Program" for the construction or renovation
of buildings that maximize energy efficiency.
- Enhance tax deductions of commercial building owners for energy-efficient commercial
building property that may apply to roofing.
NRCA's position
NRCA is on the steering committee of the Alliance for Energy and Economic Growth,
which supports a comprehensive national energy policy, such as HR 4. As the Senate
takes up its version of energy legislation, NRCA will continue to promote a comprehensive
approach, as well as provisions affecting the roofing industry.
The other side
Opponents fear some components of a national energy policy, such as HR 4, will jeopardize
the environment.
(August 2001)