Alternative energy would secure America’s future

Rich Goff
Published: July 15, 2008

Gasoline prices are causing concern for every American today, and America needs to completely explore all options with a common sense approach.

People and countries who are jealous of the freedoms and rights that Americans have will not help us. People who are hostile to our way of life are laughing at us now.

U.S. Rep. Eric Cantor believes that real solutions should be put in place now! We have no leverage on producers now, but an increase in all areas of energy exploration can make a change. The expectation of a secure future supply will impact the cost of oil today.

Congress should start by lifting the moratorium on exploration and drilling along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, in the Gulf of Mexico, and in the coastal plain of Alaska. There could also be exploration of oil shale in the American West and coal-to-liquid development.

Government could use a detailed cost/benefit analysis to determine if wind power, solar power, cellulosic ethanol and geothermal power are feasible.

Congressman Cantor believes that nuclear energy is the most promising alternative. Efficiency plus carbon-free equals a green future.

If we as Americans really want to be energy independent, we should choose substance over empty rhetoric.

Domestic energy production can increase if we make a commitment to increase exploration, including drilling.

Rich Goff
Cedar Mountain District