Energy Independence is Needed to Free Ourselves From Foreign Energy

We must pursue alternative energy resources in order to achieve energy independence.  We must reduce our consumption of oil and coal and turn to renewable.  We can structure our economy on this, for if the US is not a producer of green energy, it will have to be a buyer.  That would be very harmful to our economy in the future.  We can build a powerful energy economy on green energy.  Large producers of oil can control prices and reap the benefits.  We can do the same, with green energy, right here in the US.

Also, regarding biofuels:  we should not use our precious corn supplies to make biofuels.  Instead, we should try to expand cellulosic and other types of ethanol.  It is much more efficient and it is not food, so we will not run the risk of shortages.  It can even be made using the husks of the corn, something that would normally be thrown out.  That way, food prices will be low for farmers can get money for their garbage.  We can use that garbage as part of our energy future.  

Investing in energy will require an upfront cost, spending cuts can cover that, but we can get it back in the future by selling energy and technology to other nations. We must pursue solar, hydrogen-fuel cell, and wind energy futures as well. 

It is time to phase out oil and coal and usher in new, more efficient forms of energy.  One method could be a tax break for people who own cars that have over 35 miles to the gallon.  This way, along with the tax hikes, there will be some tax cuts.  Hopefully, more people will take advantage of this and get a car with a tax break and therefore save money by going green.

Oil Companies must also pay their fair share in taxes.  We must not let oil companies go off free when they do not produce fuel that is sustainable or beneficial to the environment.  We need to push energy companies to reform their practices, encouraging investment in clean and sustainable technologies.