ENERGY

America needs to become energy independent, and I will work hard to make the United States free of foreign oil by 2020. In the short term, we need to increase domestic energy production and strictly regulate price gouging by oil companies. In particular, I suggest that we research and invest more in renewable energy solutions while we consider clean coal, nuclear power, or offshore drilling. For the long term, we should focus on renewable natural energy programs and provide incentives for companies that utilize "green" energy technologies.

I was proud to learn that New Jersey is already home to the nation's first "net zero electric" facility that relies almost entirely on solar power generation, and I believe this case can provide a shining example that renewable energy is not just a fanciful dream for tomorrow- it is a viable, cost-effective option for today. America will save on energy costs immediately while building an independent and self-sustaining system that will last for generations into the future. We will not only free ourselves from the dangers of foreign oil, but shed the "time bomb" of fossil fuels altogether. Renewable energy will also benefit our economy, because every job in this domestic industry will be an American job, and every dollar spent will feed the American economy- not hostile foreign oil producers. This plan will not only solve America's energy crisis in a sustainable way, it will also create new industries and stimulate future economic growth.