One of the key platforms during your campaign last year was to develop clean alternative energy.
We must. The world is on the verge of the most significant economic transformation since the Industrial Revolution. Millions of new jobs will be created in alternative energy, energy efficiency, and environmental remediation. These jobs will go to the first nations to invest seriously in clean energy.

And the U.S. needs to be at the forefront.
Exactly. As I look at the future, how will the United States remain competitive? Where will we get our energy? How do we get our energy? The U.S. has to be a leader in these areas. Think of the millions of jobs that can be created, green collar jobs that can lead to our energy independence.

Give us examples.
I agree with T. Boone Pickens that our energy future should not pinned to finite oil reserves but by encouraging renewable energies and other new technologies through incentives and other programs. Jeanne Shaheen wants to smartly increase domestic production of oil in a way that benefits American families and small businesses.

What about New Hampshire? When I think of your state, timber is what comes to mind.
You’re right. New Hampshire is the second most heavily forested state in the country. When I was governor we did a good job of working with loggers and timber owners to manage those resources profitably while still protecting the environment. We have abundant timber resources and an entrepreneurial spirit second to none.

For instance.
There’s a lot of entrepreneurial activity going on in New Hampshire, companies that are producing biodiesel fuels, cellulosic ethanol, and solar panels. Take a look at New England Wood Pellet. It’s the largest manufacturer of this clean renewable fuel in New England. These pellets are clean burning. They reduce waste. Most importantly, they reduce our dependency on foreign oil.

Our goal should be to make New Hampshire the alternative energy capital of New England, and that’s what Jeanne Shaheen will be fighting for in the United States Senate.

INTERVIEW CONDUCTED, CONDENSED, AND EDITED BY ERIC O’KEEFE