Do We Have the Energy to be Energy Independent?

The fragility of both the environment and the US energy grid are raising new, urgent questions about US energy policy. On a new episode of CEO Perspectives, President and CEO Steve Odland sits down with Vicky Bailey, former Assistant Secretary, US Department of Energy, for a wide-ranging conversation on the state and future of America’s energy policies. Tune into this podcast for insights on:

• The changing US energy picture: Two decades ago, says Bailey, US leaders looked at energy policy from the vantage point of scarcity. After 9/11, their focus shifted to security. Today, due to hydraulic fracking technology, the US has energy abundance—but at what cost?

• The security of the energy grid: The grid, aging and vulnerable, now enables communication (and Teslas) as well as electric power. Capital-intensive, long-game investment in this infrastructure is needed, to prevent crises like the one in Texas last year.
• Reaching net zero carbon emissions: “I don’t think you get there without nuclear,” says Bailey. But there are valid concerns about safety. And we need a plan for disposal of nuclear waste.

• Wind and solar power: These renewables comprise 15 percent of US energy sources. Can they become a bigger part of the energy picture, or does their weather dependency limit their efficacy?

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