Energy solutions

Both parties in Washington have failed America on gas and electricity. In the short term, Tom supports a three-part strategy of increased domestic production, closing the “Enron loophole” on oil speculators, and strengthening the US dollar through fiscal responsibility. But he also understands that real solutions will come through technology driven and require putting America back at the cutting edge innovation. Tom will demand a major investment in emerging technologies and increase in efficiency standards to lower costs and boost job creation. Tom will work with farmers, business leaders, and investors to put Virginia at the forefront of the new energy economy.

• Immediate action against speculators, increase of domestic production, and moves to strengthen the US dollar.
• National commitment to oil independence in a generation, including major incentives for alternative energy and conservation and efficiency technology.
• Support to Fifth District farmers and entrepreneurs pursuing second-generation biofuels (i.e. switchgrass, not corn), wind power and other forms of alternative energy. Provide incentives for farmers to pursue small-scale energy production and require cooperation from power companies for farm-based energy production.
• Promote a consumer rewards program to provide incentives to households for reducing energy use and increasing energy efficiency.

What do you think is the key to solving our energy and gas crisis?