Cadem Resolution: Opposing Coal Liquefaction

Resolution Number SAC07.17

WHEREAS, the Environmental Protection Agency has determined that even should carbon sequestration technology not currently in existence be developed for fuel production by coal liquefaction, conversion to fuel derived from liquid coal would still increase the emissions of greenhouse gases that contribute to global climate change; and

WHEREAS, a recent study by MIT concluded that building coal-to-liquid fuel plants would be expensive and inefficient, with each plant costing nearly four times as much as would an oil refinery with equivalent capacity; and

WHEREAS, certain methods of coal production, such as mountaintop removal, cause severe environmental damage and blighted landscapes;

BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, that the California Democratic Party opposes taxpayer subsidies for the construction of coal-to-liquid fuel plants; government guarantees of minimum purchase of coal-derived liquid fuel; as well as any minimum price guarantees or purchase requirements for liquid fuel derived from coal.

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Adopted by the Executive Board
Of the California Democratic Party
At Its Executive Board Meeting
Radisson Hotel, Sacramento
July 15, 2007