A Three-Part Roadmap to Energy Independence

By Bill Richardson, APCO Worldwide
November 30, 2012   |   

 

Energy independence is not a theoretical discussion. It will strengthen our national security and will boost our domestic economy. As a former member of Congress, Governor of New Mexico, and Secretary of Energy, I have looked at the issue of energy independence from many perspectives and can tell you that its need is more critical now than ever. As he enters his final term, I urge President Obama to take three specific steps to help move the nation toward energy independence.

First, he should convene a national energy summit. Bring together all energy stakeholders from industry, NGO, and other key groups representing oil and gas, renewables and clean tech, coal, and nuclear for a comprehensive discussion of the energy issues that confront us. The oil and gas industry must realize they just can’t have a free hand. There’s got to be sensible regulation. That means dialogue. Let’s keep politics out of it. Other than the President, no elected officials should be in the room – they’ll get their chance later.

Second, the President should direct his Administration to develop a federal climate change policy. If Hurricane Sandy taught us anything it’s that our planet is saying something to all of us – and it’s not good news. Economists say the world can protect itself from catastrophic climate change at a cost of one to three percent of our economic activity. We can’t afford not to do it.

Third, the President must work with Congress to introduce and pass a comprehensive energy bill. We desperately need one, but because of politics we haven’t had one for far too long. Here’s where Congress gets its chance. Recent energy legislation has been piecemeal, and has too often pitted small factions against one another. Now is the time for conciliation and compromise on the energy front, instead of this incessant competition.