HELENA (AP) -- Gov. Brian Schweitzer is endorsing a national initiative that aims to have 25 percent of the country's energy come from renewable sources by 2025.

The governor said the ''25 X '25 Initiative'' hopes to find ways to get more energy production from biofuels made from common crops and reduce the nation's reliance on overseas oil.

''I believe the time is right to develop a diverse mix of alternative fuels to replace our dependence on foreign oil,'' Schweitzer wrote in a letter to the project coordinator. ''I am happy to be a part of this effort that seeks to help America solve its energy supply problems while bolstering agriculture.''

Schweitzer said he will also ask the Western Governor's Association to back the initiative.

On the Net

25 X '25 Work Group: www.agenergy.info