energy independence

(noun)

Energy independence involves reducing U.S. imports of oil and other foreign sources of energy. If total energy is considered, the U.S. is over 70% self-sufficient.

Examples of energy independence in the following topics:

  • New Sources of Energy

    • "Energy independence" has thus become an important buzzword in U.S. politics, leading to greater investment in new and alternative sources of energy.
    • Two of the best known and least scientifically controversial new energy sources are solar power and wind power.
    • This is not the first time the idea of greater energy independence has become popular in U.S. policy and politics.
    • These wind turbines exemplify one type of a new and alternative energy source.
    • Describe the challenges facing those attempting to shift the United States away from non-renewable sources of energy

  • Oil

    • Oil remains a major energy source in the U.S., and changing this reliance requires political initiative.
    • However, fossil fuels and petroleum remain a major energy source in the U.S..
    • This is in part because of the strength of the oil and energy lobby in the US.
    • Today the idea of energy independence has emerged as an important political buzzword.
    • It is yet to be seen if there is enough political will to make a significant shift from oil to other energy sources.

  • Energy Policy

    • State-specific energy-efficiency incentive programs also play a significant role in the overall energy policy of the United States.
    • The Federal Department of Energy was started with steps planned toward energy conservation and more modern energy producers.
    • This energy is used for transport, industry, and domestic use.
    • Renewable energy accounted for about 8% of total energy consumption in the United States in 2009.
    • It was estimated by the Energy Information Administration that in 2007 primary sources of energy consisted of petroleum (36.0%), coal (27.4%), and natural gas (23.0%), amounting to an 86.4% share for fossil fuels in primary energy consumption in the world.

  • The Rise of Independents

    • Independents may hold a centrist viewpoint between those of major political parties.
    • In 2008, Independent Presidential candidate, Ralph Nader formed Independent parties in New Mexico, Delaware, and elsewhere to gain ballot access in several states.
    • Vermont senator Jim Jeffords left the Republican Party to become an Independent in 2001.
    • In November 2005, Manny Diaz was elected Mayor of Miami, Florida as an Independent.
    • Describe independent voters in U.S. politics and the history of independents elected to national, regional and local offices

  • The Declaration of Independence

    • The Declaration of Independence was a letter to the king explaining why the colonies were separating from Britain.
    • The Declaration of Independence was a statement adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, which announced that the thirteen American colonies, then at war with Great Britain, regarded themselves as independent states, and no longer a part of the British Empire .
    • A committee was assembled to draft the formal declaration, to be ready when congress voted on independence.
    • After ratifying the text on July 4, Congress issued the Declaration of Independence in several forms.
    • Explain the major themes and ideas espoused by Jefferson in the Declaration of Independence

  • Cabinet Departments

    • Energy: The Secretary of Energy is responsible for research into energy sources and the handling of nuclear material.
    • In addition to the secretaries of the established executive departments, there are some cabinet-level officers who are the heads of independent executive agencies.

  • [PF content: The Declaration of Independence]

  • Iraq

    • Since the United States recognized an independent Iraq in 1930, relations with that nation have been an important aspect of U.S. foreign policy.
    • The Iraqi Parliament also ratified a Strategic Framework Agreement with the U.S., aimed at ensuring cooperation in constitutional rights, threat deterrence, education, energy development, and in other areas.

  • Political Strife and American Independence

    • Advocates of independence in Congress moved to have reluctant colonial governments revise instructions to their delegations, or even replace those governments which would not authorize independence.
    • The resolution of independence was delayed for several weeks as revolutionaries consolidated support for independence in their home governments.
    • On June 7, 1776, Richard Henry Lee tabled a resolution before the Continental Congress declaring the colonies independent.
    • Congress finally approved the resolution of independence on July 2, 1776.
    • Describe the steps taken by the Continental Congress after declaring independence from the British Empire

  • Independent Agencies

    • Independent executive agencies operate as regulatory and service agencies to oversee federal government functions.
    • These agencies are distinct from executive departments because they have some degree of independence from the President.
    • Even though the president appoints them, agency leadership is non-partisan, or independent from Presidential politics and election turn over.
    • To illustrate this point, consider one independent agency — the Federal Communication Commission (FCC).
    • The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is one of many independent executive agencies.