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Energy independence is the idea that all of the power needs for a country can be produced within the country using resources that the country naturally possesses. In an abstract sense, with concerns about fuel supplies and terrorism it is a very appealing but Utopian idea.

The problem is that energy independence is a short-sighted proposal for reacting to a very real problem. Right now, many of our energy needs are met by supplies coming from potential unstable political areas and countries that are openly hostile about US policy. In addition, there is rising demand for those same resources. Should something happen to disrupt those fuels sources arriving at our shores, the entire American economy would quickly be in shambles.

What our goal needs to be is Energy Agnosticism. Agnosticism is where we are not dependent on energy from a single source or location. Instead, we have a diverse network of energy sources that are scalable. Disruptions in one source are then made up from another source.

It is the risk of supply disruption that is the current problem. Currently, it is political forces that are the greatest threat. Fossil fuels running out is a longer term, but no less real concern. Both of these factors do require that we change our energy policy and find a better way to ensure that we can get enough energy to meet our needs.

Energy independence calls for us to solve the problem completely internally. Advocates of independence would have us use our own resources to solve this. Regardless of if it is the cheapest or best solution. Agnosticism merely requires that we continually choose from all of the options, both local and abroad.

We may design a gizmo in New York, have it made in Sweden and assembled in Singapore before being sold in San Francisco. We do it that way because it is cheaper - even after transportation costs - than designed in New York, made in Wichita, assembled in Des Moines and then sold in San Francisco. Why should energy be any different than manufacturing?

The threats are the same to both groups. A manufacturer who has factories in Columbia or Lesotho has to account for the risks in those countries. Energy companies getting oil from Iraq and Venezuela must do the same. Alternative energy companies will face and surmount similar concerns.

Changing our energy policy MUST be a high priority in the US. Developing alternative energy sources, ensuring more efficient energy production and minimizing waste in consumption has to be part of our plan. Reliable and abundant energy is our goal, but we do not have to do it on our own or by ourselves. People and countries around the globe that support our country want the same goals, and together we can forge a new global energy economy.

It does not require independence, just intelligence.

Learn more about this author, Jack Thornton.
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