Independence-(v)

__Shawn__ “Editorial: Erring on ethanol” __Los Angeles Times__ 22 May 2006, B10 This is a bit of an opinion piece regarding the Federal government (and therefore U.S. taxpayers) subsidizing the domestic ethanol industry with billions of dollars each year. Demand for ethanol has risen, while supply has not, which has begun to raise prices. This article also briefly discusses the possibility of the Federal government eliminating the 25 cent a gallon tariff on important ethanol (which will help to increase supply). However, the ethanol subsidizes will almost likely never be eliminated. “Editorial: A Fresh Start on Energy” __The New York Times__ 14 May 2007, A18 This article discusses two energy bills that are currently active in the U.S. Congress. The first bill would accomplish three things: requires the quintupling of biofuel production (including ethanol from sources other then corn), mandate stronger efficiency standards for household appliances and lighting, and helps to build coal power plants that have the ability to capture and store emission of carbon dioxide. The second bill would raise the standard fuel economy of passenger vehicles from 25 to 35 miles per gallon over the next 10 years. The New York Times feels these bills need some work, but they are in support of the general ideas. Leonhardt, David. “Commentary: U.S. Hybrids Get More Miles Per Congress.” __The New York__ __Times__ 21 June 2006, late ed.: C1 This article discusses the sales record and cost savings of hybrid vehicles. High gas prices and federal tax credits has driven sales since the first hybrid was build 10 years ago by Toyota. These tax credits help to motivate people to change their behavior. The author comments that the federal government is not good at predicting which alternative energy source will pan out. But what the government can do, that no one else can, is set up a simple system of rewards and penalties. Although this is a commentary piece, there is some good statistical information about hybrid sales in the U.S. and the fuel cost savings they provide. _________________________________