Heating Oil News

NORA Reauthorization Bill Introduced

May 15, 2011 LEGISLATION INTRODUCED TO PROMOTE OILHEAT EFFICIENCY, TECHNICAL TRAINING, RESEARCH AND EDUCATION

New bipartisan legislation to renew the National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) has been introduced in the United States Congress. The legislation was introduced as H.R.1756 in the House of Representatives by Reps. Bass (R-NH), Welch (D-VT), Pallone (D-NJ) and Lance (R-NJ). It was introduced in the United States Senate as S.949 by Senators Shaheen (D-NH), Reed (D-RI), Snowe (R-ME), Sanders (I-VT) and Burr (R-NC).

If passed, this legislation would:

• Renew funding for programs to educate consumers on: the benefits of oilheat, important service and safety practices, useful tips to increase energy efficiency and conserve fuel, the latest in oilheat technology and renewable alternatives, and countering common oilheat myths;
• Redirect more funds for research, development and deployment of new ultra-efficient Oilheating technologies, biofuel-blended product and the integration of solar technology as a compliment to existing heating and water heating equipment;
• Strengthen the national oilheat certification program for both new and existing technicians and home energy conservation professionals; and
• Renew NORA through most of the decade.