Energy conservation is an important element of energy policy. Energy conservation reduces the energy consumption and energy demand per capita, and thus offsets the growth in energy supply needed to keep up with population growth. This reduces the rise in energy costs, and can reduce the need for new power plants, and energy imports. The reduced energy demand can provide more flexibility in choosing the most preferred methods of energy production.

By reducing emissions, energy conservation is an important part of lessening climate change. Energy conservation facilitates the replacement of non-renewable resources with renewable energy. Energy conservation is often the most economical solution to energy shortages, and is a more environmentally benign alternative to increased energy production.

Through improved mobility, safety, economic opportunity and environmental quality..... benefits every segment of American society -- individuals, families, businesses, industries and communities -- and supports important national goals and policies. Investment in our... transportation system also benefits the efficiency and effectiveness of our entire surface transportation system. Since the enactment of ISTEA in 1991, federal law has recognized the intermodal nature of our surface transportation system. No one mode can solve all of our problems.

The benefits of.... are diverse, but I want to highlight three categories of benefits that demonstrate why investment.... is a strategic means to improve our surface transportation system:

• Congestion Relief

• Energy and Fuel Savings

• Mobility for an Aging Society