US must change energy policy to spur supply

The country's inability to cope with the energy problems of how to increase energy supplies and how to increase energy efficiency without lowering the standard of living indicates a need for better market signals. The author sees encouraging signs in steps to deregulate crude oil, the realization that mandates will not solve the problem, and evidence that energy use and gross national product are being decoupled. Opportunities to improve energy efficiency and encompass energy conservation in national policy are suggested. These include deregulating energy, making consistent energy statements, by government, removing certain environmental constraints, rewarding conservation, stimulating alternative fuel development, opening up Federal lands, eliminating regulatory lag, and offering financial incentives.