Highlights opposition to Akaka�s support of drilling ANWR
Thielen�s candidacy offers Republicans the opportunity to gain traction on several key issues. Thielen is a staunch supporter of environmental protection, and it is from this vantage point that she can point out holes in Akaka�s record--
most notably his vote favoring oil drilling in the Arctic refuge of Alaska. Additionally, she�s become a vocal champion of alternative energy development, taking a particular interest in the prospects for wave energy.
Source: Honolulu Advertiser
, Sep 27, 2006
We�re missing the wave on ocean energy replacing oil
Hawai�i remains addicted to oil. Our Islands are blessed with the most abundant ocean energy sources in the US. Yet other than a single buoy pilot project on the Windward side, we simply haven�t caught those waves.
Once wave energy technology is
established in Hawaiian waters, the price per kilowatt hour for this renewable energy will be lower than Hawaiian Electric Co.�s oil-dependent current rate. The volatility of the global oil market and HECO�s delay in tapping renewable energy sources are
the key factors in our skyrocketing energy costs. [They delay because] the utilities pass on 100% of increased oil costs to the consumers.
At least four wave energy companies have shown an interest in Hawai�i. But HECO has chosen a �wait and see�
attitude. We are in a position to become the industry hub for wave energy technologies. This creates well-paying technical jobs, a new economic sector and enables us to export our technical knowledge. Quite simply, we can�t afford to miss this wave!
Bill Number: HB 3115 - A bill for an act relating to the petroleum industry. Cynthia Thielen voted YES. Bill Passed House 50-0-1; passed Senate 22-3-0. Establishes: (1) petroleum industry monitoring, analysis, and reporting special fund;
(2) petroleum industry information reporting system; and (3) unfair practices by petroleum industry. Suspends enforcement of gasoline price limit program by PUC.
Source: Hawaii State Legislature voting records
, Mar 7, 2006