Government must let energy firms do their job

Journal Article · Mon May 30 04:00:00 EDT 1977 · Energy User News; (United States)

OSTI ID:7290085

Thomas, R E

Government energy policies, however well-intentioned, are seen as a political vendetta against energy companies. The record of the oil companies as presently structured is presented as evidence that they can produce. Mr. Thomas says mandatory divestiture will delay energy production because investments will be withheld; and the ultimate higher costs will be borne by the consumer. He proposes that price controls be lifted on a phased schedule and high taxes be imposed on energy consumption; this will reverse the present policy of discouraging production while subsidizing consumption. Governments have historically levied strict controls on scarce, essential goods, but there is no evidence that this policy works. Oil, gas, and coal, which must be found and developed to meet future energy needs, must also be allowed to compete for investment capital in a free market. (DCK)

• Research Organization: MAPCO, Inc., Tulsa, OK
• OSTI ID: 7290085
• Journal Information: Energy User News; (United States), Journal Name: Energy User News; (United States) Vol. 2:21; ISSN EUSND
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
292000 -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Supply
Demand & Forecasting
293000* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Policy
Legislation
& Regulation
CAPITAL
CHARGES
COMPETITION
CONTROL
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ECONOMIC IMPACT
ECONOMIC POLICY
ENERGY CONSUMPTION
ENERGY POLICY
ENERGY SUPPLIES
FINANCIAL INCENTIVES
FINANCING
GOVERNMENT POLICIES
INDUSTRY
INVESTMENT
MARKET
RECOMMENDATIONS
TAXES