A new national energy plan designed to support the development of green technologies has been signed by US President George Bush.

Describing green technologies as "vital" to the US economy, the president has given his backing to the strategy – the first national energy plan in the US in over ten years – which is intended to promote investment in energy conservation and energy efficiency.

The bill calls for expanded research into hydrogen technologies, and tax credits will be given to consumers who buy more fuel-efficient cars.

One factor influencing the bill is what the current administration sees as the need to reduce the US' dependence on foreign energy sources, in particular oil.

Domestic production and an increase in green alternative, such as the development of fuel cell technology, are therefore key components of the new bill.

American consumers will now be able to get tax benefits for making energy efficiency improvements to their homes.

Government agencies are also to lead by example when it comes to energy efficiency, with what are described as "aggressive" new goals set for federal bodies.


Ÿ DeHavilland Information Services plc