Energy needs long-term plan, not quick fix

Concern over high gasoline prices is prompting widespread consideration of shortsighted, even reactionary solutions, to our problem of energy dependence. These worrisome solutions include demanding oil-producing countries to increase output, releasing oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, or expanding drilling in U.S. territories, gulf areas and even Alaska. The real solution lies in taking a more “sustainable” approach to energy reliance. Sustainability means continuing to improve our quality of life while preserving natural resources and the environment for future generations.

In reality, U.S. gas prices are among the lowest of all industrialized countries. Adjusted for inflation, they’re not much higher than prices in the late 1970s and most of the ’80s. Regardless, by focusing on gas prices, we risk missing the bigger issue: We need to expand our variety of energy sources.

A more far-reaching solution for escalating energy prices lies in implementing a comprehensive energy policy. The cornerstones of such a policy should include a greater reliance on local energy sources (coal, wind, solar and biomass) and a gradual transition to alternative and renewable energy sources. The State of Illinois and the City of Chicago have a unique and historic opportunity to lead the nation and the world by continuing their visionary approach in drafting and implementing progressive energy policies.

The city and the state should continue to work with public and private stakeholders to pass new codes and regulations on energy production, transportation and consumption to encourage and foster sustainable development with environmental and social responsibility. Some initiatives that will encourage investment in research, development and deployment of clean energy technologies programs include:

• Developing building codes and vehicle emission caps that provide incentives for sustainable development and energy-efficient vehicles.
• Gradually transitioning state and municipal vehicles to alternative energy vehicles (hybrid, ethanol and, ultimately, hydrogen vehicles).
• Investing in the development and implementation of a statewide initiative for hydrogen infrastructure to produce and distribute hydrogen from coal, natural gas and renewable biomass, solar and wind energies.
• Providing incentives for job creation in Illinois for clean and alternative energy industries.

It’s time we understand the real costs if we fail to see the value of providing our nation—our world—with sufficient sources of clean energy.

Said Al-Hallaj

research associate professor,
coordinator,
renewable energy programs,
Illinois Institute of Technology

Founded in 1890, IIT is a Ph.D.-granting technological university awarding degrees in the sciences, mathematics and engineering, as well as architecture, psychology, design, business and law. IIT’s interprofessional, technology-focused curriculum prepares the university’s 6,200 students for leadership roles in an increasingly complex and culturally diverse global workplace.