A military experiment into alternative fuels could eventually save the taxpayers billions in fuel consumption and save money for those at the pump as alternative fuels are mass produced.
What is the experiment? A reported by NPR, rather than using oil or coal the Navy is working on using renewable sources like algae, garbage, grasses, or other renewable resources as a drop-in hydrocarbon fuel.
But Congress, especially Republican Texas Congressman Mike Conaway, is trying to pull the plug on the experiment , citing the high costs of the experiment and lack of availability on the front lines for this type of fuel.
The truth is the alternative fuel industry would be able to ramp up production if a major market like the military opened up for them, which would decrease the costs of making the fuel. This in turn would create a more affordable alternative for the public as well. And how much harder is it to pump alternative fuels to the front lines than regular fuels?
By halting the experimental program Congress is siding with the oil companies and costing the people billions in the bargain. While gas prices were high there was a lot more talk about alternative energy and fuel sources, but as soon as the price fell the talk died down. Until a major consumer base like the U.S. Military gets involved the public will continue to be dependent on the oil companies for our fuel and power.
0 Comments