Hoyer Applauds Obama Announcement of Federal Nuclear Loan Program

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (Md) released the following statement today after President Obama announced the commencement of a federal loan guarantee program to help finance the development of new nuclear power reactors.  Hoyer has worked to boost incentives to strengthen America's nuclear capacity and to ensure that a federal program of financial support is available to assist in the development of a new third reactor at Calvert Cliffs nuclear facility in Maryland. The announcement was made at the IBEW Local 26 Headquarters in Lanham, MD located in (or right outside) Hoyer's congressional district:

"I commend President Obama's commitment to the development of nuclear energy as a clean and safe energy alternative and today's announcement of a federally-backed project to build the nation's first nuclear facility in almost 30 years. Enhancing America's nuclear capacity is a critical component of our strategy to develop clean alternative energies that create jobs and reduce our dependence on foreign oil.  Through this action and our continued work to pass a clean energy and jobs bill, we can address our nation's energy challenges, create quality jobs and ensure America's leadership in meeting the global demand for clean energy technologies."

"I was also encouraged by the President's words of support for clean energy projects in Maryland, which includes building a third rector at the Calvert Cliffs facility in Maryland.  I have spoken with Energy Secretary Chu and other Administration officials to express my strong support for this project and to ensure that they are working aggressively on Constellation Energy's application for loan guarantees.  With a solid operational history and support from the local community and government, I believe that the Calvert Cliffs III project is a strong candidate for expanding our nation's nuclear capacity, providing Maryland with reliable electric power and creating good-paying jobs."

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