Independence Day of Dreams – Part 2

America does not have a long-term energy policy committed to sustainable energy. I see this as the # 1 issue we as American’s must address in order to ensure the health and well being of our nation. There is progress on the regional level where states and municipalities have taken action. New Jersey for example, has an innovative solar program that provides residents with rebates and assistance for the installation of solar electric systems. Residents of Los Angeles can elect to have green power supplied to their homes and businesses by paying a small surcharge per month on their utility bill.

There has been no significant leadership on the federal level for the deployment of a sustainable energy program. The energy policies of the current administration can be characterized as arcane and irresponsible. While our president has acknowledged “we are addicted to oil”, Washington has done little to ease our dependence upon foreign oil. Relying on increasingly expensive oil imports is like borrowing on credit; sooner or later we will have to pay the price for our consumption. This nation needs a broad based commitment to self reliance. I would like to see the leadership in Washington embrace this issue much like the Conservation Corps of the 1930’s initiated by Franklin Roosevelt as part of the New Deal to revive America. With the proper leadership we can actively engage business, individuals, schools and other organizations to work towards the goal of energy independence.

With an eye toward the future, I’ve begun to read up on the proposed energy policies of the two presidential candidates. For additional reading, here are Barack Obama’s energy policy and John McCain’s energy policy.