Random Thoughts

I've been frustrated with the U.S. energy policies (or more appropriately, the lack thereof) for many years. In my mind it is probably one of the top 2 or 3 issues facing the near and long term success of this country. We need to make energy security a national priority much like we did with the Apollo program, in order to ensure that the US does not continue to be on the losing end of the energy equation, and to do our part to reduce greenhouse gas output.

I recently came across a blueprint for doing exactly that. At least it's the first comprehensive one that is actually very realistic. Here's a few of the major points from the website:

Energize America - A Blueprint for U.S. Energy Security

Increase energy diversity to strengthen our national security and economic stability Energize America will provide 20% of electricity from renewable sources.

Replace current energy policies that leave America vulnerable
Energize America will reduce imported oil and gas by 20%.

Promote energy efficiency and conservation to protect Americans and the environment
Energize America will reduce carbon emissions by 20%.

Invest in renewable energy to create jobs and enhance America's technological leadership
Energize America will make America the global leader in renewable energy technology, equipment and production.

By 2020, Energize America will:

• make the nation safer from unstable regions of the world - where most of the global oil supply is located;
• insulate the U.S. economy from energy supply disruptions - both natural and human-made;
• create several hundred thousand new American jobs in high-value manufacturing and service industries;
• preserve the environment for future generations by shifting from fossil fuels to clean and safe renewable energies;
• enhance U.S. political power and expand U.S. military options;
• reestablish America as the world leader in renewable technologies and economic growth;
• significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution

While I think we will need to do even more to further reduce greenhouse gasses, this is certainly a step in the right direction. One that is economically doable too.

You can read the whole plan here or visit the Energize America website to download the PDF and Powerpoint presentation.