Jeff Bingaman United States Senator from New Mexico

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman today chaired a hearing of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee to discuss the best ways to reduce the demand for gasoline in the United States. 

Witnesses at today's hearing offered a variety of suggestions, ranging from tax incentives to help Americans purchase more fuel efficient vehicles to advancing battery technology to enable quicker electrification of transportation systems.

"High fuel prices are harming our economy and causing serious problems for many consumers. Some believe that the only way we can reduce the price of gasoline is by more supply through additional drilling.  But there are a number of ways consumers can reduce their demand for gasoline and save money for other necessary expenses," Bingaman said.  "And I'm glad some of those ideas are being discussed."

Witnesses included Steven Chalk, the Department of Energy's deputy assistant secretary for renewable energy and John Laitner, director of economic analysis at the American Council for Energy-Efficient Economy. 

Testimony given by the witnesses and an audio of the hearing can be accessed by clicking here.