Persistent National Energy Issue

Abstract

During the energy crisis of the 1970s, governments at the federal, state, and local level were preoccupied with policy decisions impacting every aspect of energy production and use. Today, as the result of reactions to the energy crisis, the national energy market is characterized by abundant supplies of nearly every source of energy at stable or falling prices. The future as projected by governmental agencies, energy companies, and private institutions, however, contains trends that may threaten energy reliability, the competitiveness of U.S. industry, and ultimately national security. A reliable, economical, national energy system remains a fundamental requirement for a strong economy and for public safety and welfare. Despite the current stability of energy prices and supply, maintenance of an adequate energy system will require continuing development of new fuel resources; renewal and expansion of energy conversion and transportation facilities; and continuing improvements in the technologies associated with the industrial, residential, commercial, and transportation uses of energy. Furthermore, because many aspects of the energy industries and energy use continue to be regulated by government, and because imported energy remains a vital part of our national energy supply, public policy will continue to be an important influence in the development of the national energy system. The civil engineering profession plays important roles in every aspect of the energy system, including the production, conversion, transportation, and use of every major energy source. The technical and professional insights of the civil engineer can be significant contributions to the public policy decisions on energy.