American Businesses for Clean Energy recently cited significant new momentum in the growth of the group, which is nearing 2,500 members. ABCE is comprised of a diverse group of businesses that support Congressional action to pass clean energy and climate legislation that will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

The strong grassroots network of ABCE is a counterpart to such major-company efforts as:  U.S. Climate Action Partnership, an alliance of scores of major businesses and nonprofit groups; Ceres’ Business for Innovative Climate and Energy Policy, which includes 16 consumer-oriented companies advocating for climate and clean energy policies; and the 150-company We Can Lead campaign, which is sponsored by the Clean Economy Network and BICEP.

Christopher Van Atten, spokesperson, American Businesses for Clean Energy, said: "ABCE is the gathering place for businesses united behind the goal of advancing comprehensive clean energy legislation that will create jobs and unleash innovation, while cutting greenhouse gas emissions.  This is a truly diverse group that is like a mirror held up to face of America, with everything from large companies in the energy, entertainment, consumer sectors to small ‘mom and pop’ businesses including travel agencies, local bars and restaurants.”

Kevin Parker, Global Head of Asset Management for Deutsche Asset Management, said:  “We have long argued that government action on climate change is not only good for business; it’s essential for business. America is already falling behind other countries in the race for the new industrial revolution – the clean energy revolution – because without a transparent, long-term and certain system of regulation there will always be insufficient investment. Effective legislation can open the floodgates to investment in clean energy that will create jobs and build entire new industries. Sooner rather than later, every business in America will face the problem of coping with climate change. They are beginning to realize the urgency and they are also aware that any intelligent response must include decisive government action.”

ABCE said that it now has members in 41 states. For a full list of ABCE members, go to http:///www.americanbusinessesforcleanenergy.org