NEEDED: POLICIES THAT FULFILL A PROSPEROUS ENERGY FUTURE

The latest issue of Resource (October 2007) has a report that analyzes what we need to achieve a "Prosperous Energy Future," stressing the speed at which energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies will develop. "Policies can range from those aimed at commercialization, subsidizing production

of renewable energy through mechanisms like the production tax credit for wind and biomass, to those targeting development for nascent technologies." One example is the Federal Biobased Products Preferred Procurement Program, which requires all federal agencies to preferentially purchase biobased products. Some states have passed measures to improve transportation infrastructure by investing in cleaner state government fleets, better public transit systems, and innovative new technologies like plugin hybrids. A number of states have Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) that ensure that a minimum amount of renewable energy is included in electricity resources.

Bringing a new technology to fruition is enhanced through public-private partnerships. Government can serve as a catalyst, fostering creative work between the public and private sectors and among industries, universities and nonprofits.

A private sector partnership - British Petroleum DuPont - was recently developed to market a next generation of biofuels to help meet increasing global demand for renewable transport fuels. Another federal partnership involves the 2002 Farm Bill which funds grants and loans. The National Energy Renewable Laboratories has been collaborating with the USDA to bring technical expertise to applications. These are consistent with goals of Building America, Hydrogen Fuel Initiative and FreedomCAR. The goal is to create a climate to build prosperous energy future where energy is clean, abundant, reliable and affordable.