By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – Missouri Gov. Matt Blunt on Tuesday created a task force that will look for ways Missouri can use less fossil fuels.
The nine-member committee will be responsible for finding ways the state can promote renewable resources and help Missourians who need help paying their heating bills.
The governor says high fuel prices are forcing the state to look at alternative energy sources.
Other tasks for the panel will be to find ways to encourage Missouri utilities to develop and operate electric power generation resources that will result in low-cost electricity for the future.
The head of the state's Public Service Commission (currently Jeff Davis) will chair the task force. Other members will include leaders of the state House and Senate, the Lieutenant Governor, the state's public counsel, a representative from the Departments of Agriculture and Natural Resources, and a member from the House and Senate energy committees.
No formal date has been set for the panel to begin meeting, but their report is due by Aug. 31, 2006.