After House approval on Aug. 4 of a sweeping energy package, the next step will be reconciling it with the bill the Senate passed in June. Both bills emphasize energy efficiency and promote renewable sources. But other key differences may mean a contentious House–Senate conference after the August break. Andrew Goldberg, the American Institute of Architects' senior director for federal affairs, says, "It's going to be tough. There are a lot of issues that need to be worked out."
Environmental groups hail the House bill as an important step toward a "greener" future. But Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman says the bill will increase U.S. dependence on imported oil and adds that administration officials would recommend a presidential veto.