Energy / Oil Dependence, The Betrayal of America

What could be more important to America, our economy, our national security, and our long term survival as a nation, than energy independence? For over 35 years Americans have been betrayed by successive administrations in Washington and by both political parties in Congress. During the mid 70's a promise of energy impendence was made to the American people. Not only has nothing been done, today we are even MORE dependent upon foreign oil.

Yet a small group of bright college students could EASILY come up with a comprehensive plan of energy independence where our federal government cannot. The plan could center on both available and alternative sources of energy, conservation, and possible new sources of energy, while at the same time being environmentally responsible. We have before us all the pieces, all the resources, and all the possibilities of clearly and rather easily succeeding with America establishing energy independence. All it takes is leadership and a committed national plan. Further, this plan would not cost the American people more for energy costs as currently claimed, but significantly less. Still further, the path to achieving it would create jobs and be a major boon to the economy. The path to achieve this should include the VAST deposits of oil available to us, conservation, seeking alternate sources of energy such as natural gas, solar energy, wind generated energy, hydroelectric power, responsible nuclear power, environmentally responsible coal energy...as well as new technology sources.

We don't have to go into all the details here, but information readily available from the US Geological Service, the Energy Information Administration, and other sources, clearly indicate that we have enough oil available to us within our borders and off shore to achieve 100% independence from foreign sources for the next 200 years, or longer! Yet for over 35 years we have not even taken step 1.

Not only is energy independence for years to come within our grasp, it will create jobs, be a major, major boon to our economy, and will cost homeowners and the American people significantly less (contrary to what we are being told today) and increase our standard of living. By the way, if we embark upon a national committed plan of energy independence, watch how fast OPEC and all those who are currently manipulating our energy costs scramble to lower costs in an effort to deter us.

The goal should be to reach energy independence within 10 years. We need the leadership and a national commitment to achieve this. It is extremely doable to accomplish this. It is time that the American people stand up and demand this. We need to start NOW. IMMEDIATELY.