The Left And The Right Are Wrong On Energy

In a time like today, in which $4.00 a gallon gas is a reality and it will probably only get worse, we should be setting aside partisanship and compromise for the greater good. Unfortunately both the left and the right will not meet the other side half way despite the fact that both sides have good ideas, and the nation would benefit from some ideas on both sides of the debate.

The left wants to invest in alternative energy and raise fuel efficiency standards, this is a good thing, the supply of oil will run out one day and if we don't have something to replace it we are in for some really bad times. However, the left is knee-jerk anti-drilling and most are still anti nuclear power. We still are going to be using oil as our primary source of energy for cars for the next generation at least, and nuclear is a non polluting alternative to to coal. What do these people want? Alternative power is still in it's infancy and can't handle America's energy needs yet, some day this will change and I look forward to that day; until this changes we need more oil and that means more drilling.

The right wants to drill offshore and in ANWR, and to build more nuclear power plants, they are also correct. However, many on the right oppose higher fuel efficiency standards on ideological grounds (opposition to government regulation), and don't take alternative energy as seriously as the left. If we raise fuel efficiency standards this will reduce the amount of oil we use and reduce demand. Furthermore, as I stated earlier, we will run out of oil and if we don't have the next thing ready when we run out it will cause the economy and our society untold harm. Also, as we use more alternative energy sources we will use less oil and reduce demand.

There is no silver bullet to solving our energy problems, but real progress can be made if we are patient and are willing to compromise. First thing, drill in ANWR and offshore, Cuba is already drilling off our coast and will get our oil if we don't jump to it fast. Second, fast track nuclear power, build plants as many as we need. France's energy needs overwhelmingly come from nuclear power and it works for them, they even reprocess their nuclear waste for yet more energy. Third, raise fuel efficiency standards for all vehicles every few years, Americans are an innovative people I see no reason why this can't be done. Fourth, Invest in alternative energy and make sure the commitment is real and vigorous.

We should look at the objections of the other side and try to deal with those objections. The left often objects to drilling on environmental grounds, we should make sure there is environmental oversight on any drilling projects offshore or at ANWR, the technology exists to drill without ruining the environment. Similar objections to issues like storing nuclear waste and raising fuel standards should be addressed, but we can't let a few naysayers ground progress on America's energy policy to a halt. If both sides are willing to give a little and get together and do something positive for our country it is possible.