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Tuesday, 26 July 2005 |
As I have traveled the state this summer, many of you have shared your concerns about the rising costs of energy across the nation. One very important factor in protecting our independence and security for the future is energy. Our country currently has to buy well over half of our oil from foreign countries. This growing dependence on foreign oil has obvious and negative implications for our prosperity, our national security and our international relations.
A stark economic reality now stares us in the face every time we drive up to the gas pump. This summer, gas prices in Minnesota and across the nation have jumped way above the $2 per gallon level. Experts say we should get used to these price levels, and not be surprised if they go even higher. It's becoming more clear that we cannot continue on the same energy path that's got us here. Complacency is our enemy.
I'm proud that Minnesota is leading the way to energy independence. Minnesota farmers grow the corn that our producers turn into ethanol. As the price of foreign oil continues to rise, ethanol will be a more and more viable alternative.
Ethanol is good for our farmers, better for our environment, and cheaper for our consumers. The oil lobbyists may not like it, but it is time to put Minnesota first. As a U.S. Senator, I will advocate for legislation that promotes ethanol use.
Minnesota researchers are also inventing new ways to make energy from crops, crop wastes and plant material. As these new processes are perfected, we can realize even larger energy savings as well as help our farmers earn fair and stable prices for what they work so hard to grow. We must continue to invest in and support the basic and applied research that will turn these ideas into real, marketable products.
So I'd like to hear from you about how our energy policies and prices are affecting you. And I invite you to tell me what you think we should be doing, as individuals and as a nation, to prepare for a more secure, sustainable energy future. Send an e-mail to
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to submit your thoughts on this very important issue which is central to the future prosperity and security of our country.
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