PALCV: Philadelphia Mayoral Candidates to Share Their Visions for City's Energy

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 22, 2007

CONTACT:
Jerry Silberman (215) 219-5158
Michael Fedor, (717) 350-8409

Philadelphia Mayoral Candidates to Share Their Visions for City's Energy
Future


Philadelphia, PA - This Friday, several grassroots organizations are coming
together to sponsor a chance for Philadelphia citizens to ask questions of
the major candidates for Mayor of Philadelphia.

"We're hoping to see a diverse crowd Friday night," said Michael Fedor,
executive director of the PA League of Conservation Voters, a cosponsor of
the event.  "This forum will give the candidates the chance to hear from
real citizens and the very real challenges they face around energy and
transportation."

"Energy policy is the sleeper issue in this campaign, and may well have a
larger impact on the city's economy than any other issue in the next four
years" stated Liz Robinson, Executive Director of the Energy Coordinating
Agency.  ECA is a primary provider of weatherization services for low-income
Philadelphians and one of the forum's primary sponsors.

The City energy bill has increased from $40 to $100 million in the last
eight years, while homeowners have seen similar increases, leading to a
growing number of utility shut-offs, house fires, and abandonments.

"Upgrading existing housing stock in Philadelphia can save millions of
dollars for citizens and create jobs, while conserving energy in city
buildings and schools can free additional millions for more necessary
services," Robinson added.

Reducing energy use, especially in buildings is also critical for
Philadelphia to meet commitments the city government has already undertaken
to reduce green house gasses and global warming.

"Efficient safe transportation options are not only key to a viable city,
but are the second front in our effort to reduce global warming," said Peter
Javsicas, Director of PenTrans.  "We want to know what the next mayor will
do to insure better transit and more options for mobility for
Philadelphians."

The event is open to the media and public.  It will take place at Friends
Center, 1501 Cherry Street.  The Center is currently under a major
renovation to make it climate-neutral.  It is sponsored by nearly 30
environmental, conservation, and community organizations.

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The Pennsylvania League of Conservation Voters is the political arm of the
Pennsylvania environmental community. PALCV is a non-profit with a mission
to educate Pennsylvania voters about the environmental records and positions
of elected officials and to help elect pro-environment candidates to office.
Visit the web site at www.votecleanpa.org to learn more.

Pennsylvania League of Conservation Voters (PALCV)
300 N. 2nd St, Ste. 610
Harrisburg, PA  17101
Ph. 717-234-2651 / Fax. 717-234-5925