Where should the focus be?

Obama’s plan to reduce oil imports by a third by 2025 was announced at an interesting moment, politically. Amid plans to secure a second term in the White House, is this renewed focus on the state of our energy consumption a political opportunity or risk? Perhaps he is thinking of youthful progressives who sway on the side of environmental action or perhaps the public response will be concern regarding funding for his greener vision. In any case, only time will tell how meaningful the President’s rhetoric.

With support from the Obama administration, companies that are already utilizing fuel efficient vehicles and alternative energy sources will likely benefit. In addition, Obama’s plan will likely provide incentives for those who choose to switch to greener practices. This seems to be a good idea…and while I agree with increasing the availability and incentives for fuel-efficient cars as well as investing in high-speed rail and mass transit, I’m not so sure about Obama’s plan regarding increases in domestic oil production. This doesn’t seem to agree with his point that we need to “make the transition to a clean energy economy.” Perhaps the focus shouldn’t be on reducing oil imports by 2025, rather investing in alternative energies, which would decrease oil imports and domestic oil production.