It is high time that this great nation develops a plan that will lead us to energy independence. Being energy independent is vital to the well-being of this nation and to our national security. As global demand for energy expands at a dramatic rate we must have a real course of action that will produce real results for Americans. Talk about energy has been just that, all talk; it is now time to do something about it.
We must develop an approach with real milestones to move this nation to energy independence. Our energy policy should be rooted in our private sector. The government’s role should be to help create an environment where private industry has the opportunity to use innovation and imagination as we work together to move towards energy independence. We do not need the government to be an energy central planner, but rather a supporter of the free enterprise system to foster a playing field that will enable Americans to know how to thrive.
We should work hard to develop new energy options, ever mindful of the need for clean and affordable sources. That, however, is not enough. We must also utilize to the fullest, existing sources of energy like natural gas and shale oil, which will help us loosen the grip of foreign dependency on oil.