President Obama Sets Clean Energy Goals in State of the Union Address

   Last night, President Obama addressed the nation in The State of the Union. Most of this speech focused on the economy but there were numerous focus points on the future of clean energy in our nation. President Obama compared the research of clean energy to that of the space race stating,

"This is our generation’s Sputnik moment. Two years ago, I said that we needed to reach a level of research and development we haven’t seen since the height of the Space Race. In a few weeks, I will be sending a budget to Congress that helps us meet that goal.  We’ll invest in biomedical research, information technology, and especially clean energy technology – an investment that will strengthen our security, protect our planet, and create countless new jobs for our people."

The President also set a lofty goal for the United States, encouraging the nation to be using 80% clean energy for electricity by the year 2035. This, President Obama encourages, will increase jobs in clean energy. President Obama stated, 

"Now, clean energy breakthroughs will only translate into clean energy jobs if businesses know there will be a market for what they’re selling. So tonight, I challenge you to join me in setting a new goal: by 2035, 80% of America’s electricity will come from clean energy sources. Some folks want wind and solar. Others want nuclear, clean coal, and natural gas. To meet this goal, we will need them all – and I urge Democrats and Republicans to work together to make it happen."

 What are your thoughts on the President's statements and goals set for our nation? Watch the State of the Union here. Then give your opinions in the comments below! 

For other thoughts and opinions on the President's stance on clean energy during the State of the Union check out these posts: Gigaom.com, Politico.com, The Guardian, and Huffington Post. Please feel free to include additional resources in the comment section.