Energy Policy

I was somewhat impressed by the desire of the administration to mention the development of a sustainable energy policy in the State of the Union a few weeks ago; however, I am still hesitant to jump onboard and believe it will happen. Mr. Bush was quoted today saying:

"Our nation is on the threshold of new energy technology that I think will startle the American people. We're on the edge of some amazing breakthroughs - breakthroughs all aimed at enhancing our national security and our economic security and the quality of life of the folks who live here in the United States."

I'm not so sure how close to "threshold" the United States actually is, but the progression in biofuels and ethanol production is slowly beginning to improve. I hope that a little more funding will help push it along. What I am not so sure of is the obsession with the new Lithium-Ion batteries and solar panel companies that Bush seemed enamored with. From my understanding, renewable energies will not even be close to mainstream for AT MINIMUM 10-15 years due to cost and installation issues. I also have to believe that since the new Lithium-Ion batteries designed by Johnson Controls are at least 2-4 years away from auto production.

The push for a new energy policy has been a noble effort so far. But much like the rest of the Bush policies (No Child Left Behind, International Policy, Social Security Reform, AIDS funding for Africa, etc), I will believe the results when I see them. This administration has become the child that calls wolf during every State of the Union address to try and improve their poll numbers. I am done believing, and I want results.