WASHINGTON, DC -- Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham today praised the House of Representatives for passing comprehensive energy legislation, which includes key provisions authorizing the Administration's hydrogen fuel and infrastructure initiative. Abraham released the following statement:

"We are closer to energy independence day. This bill will help free us from the effects of harmful emissions, lessen our dependence on foreign oil, and authorize our innovative hydrogen initiative.

"I'm especially pleased that the Congress endorsed the President's hydrogen program targeted to dramatically reduce our dependency on foreign sources of energy in the future. We believe that the hydrogen economy is our future. For the United States, the FreedomCAR and Hydrogen Fuel programs will mean surmounting the twin challenges of dependence on foreign oil and harmful emissions of pollutants and greenhouse gases. For the world, the programs mean that whole new industries will be nurtured - industries extending beyond automobiles.

"This legislation will improve the Nation's energy and economic security. It will help create jobs and benefit consumers while enhancing environment protection, increasing conservation and improving energy efficiency by expanding the use of new technologies and renewable energy sources.

"Committee Chairmen (Billy) Tauzin, (Joe) Barton and others members of the House Leadership team are to be commended for moving energy legislation early this year.

"They have provided an early kick-start to ensuring Congress passes a comprehensive energy bill. We look forward to working with the Senate on its version of energy legislation and passing an energy bill on to President Bush for his signature."