Current assessment of the energy outlook

Journal Article · · Energy Econ., Policy Manage.; (United States)

OSTI ID:6953535

Decker, G L

Mr. Decker observes that the new energy crisis is the fact that the public no longer perceives it as such; unfortunately, the public perception is often more important than reality. The biggest problem facing energy managers now is to bring the public perception in line with reality so that the problem can be solved. The realities are that dependence on oil will continue, with price the short-term problem and supply the long-term problem. The belief that decontrol will solve the entire supply problem is extremely naive, while public fears of nuclear energy may preclude its future. Mr. Decker feels that business can win the nuclear and coal debates if it will take the initiative in educating the public on the cost-effectiveness of conservation and the importance of capital investments for conservation equipment - after the housekeeping steps have been taken. He says government participation should consist of a program of incentives to replace mandates and penalties. Declining government intervention will allow market forces to work. (DCK)

• Research Organization: Kaiser Aluminum and Chemical Corp., Oakland, CA
• OSTI ID: 6953535
• Journal Information: Energy Econ., Policy Manage.; (United States), Journal Name: Energy Econ., Policy Manage.; (United States) Vol. 1:4; ISSN EEPMD
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
292000* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Supply
Demand & Forecasting
ECONOMIC POLICY
ENERGY CONSERVATION
ENERGY SUPPLIES
FINANCIAL INCENTIVES
GOVERNMENT POLICIES
PUBLIC OPINION