Energy Independence Isn't Very Green: Conflicting Priorities Are Confusing Policy

Argues that energy independence has fostered an alliance between those looking to ameliorate climate change ("climate greens") & those wishing to achieve energy security ("oil independents"). However, the collaboration's bases is flawed, & three problems are cited: (1) Mitigating climate change also requires cutting coal consumption along with oil & gas. (2) Climate greens & oil independents clash over oil alternatives, eg, nuclear energy. (3) Oil independents' time horizon is much shorter than that of climate greens. In light of the latter concern, presented are four geopolitical scenarios wherein in the US economy & security are threatened if oil imports continue to increase or even remain stable. Attention is also given to issues surrounding coal; & renewable energy, eg, wind, solar, & biofuels; conservation & efficiency policies. Reasons why oil independents might chose to distance themselves from climate greens are then offered. D. Edelman