A stable energy supply is critical for our economy and the OPEC oil cartel controls 60% of the oil traded internationally. A cartel is a trust set up to limit competition and gain a monopoly. So as much as I’m in favor of free markets, I’m also in favor of weakening OPEC’s influence on our country.

This topic has been discussed extensively while our reliance on foreign energy has increased over the past decades and it’s time to act on some items that will begin to provide relief. As a first step, that means clearing hurdles for domestic fossil fuel production – coal, oil and gas.

Beyond fossil fuels we must develop alternatives now to protect ourselves against supply fluctuations and depletion of resources. Nuclear power is ready today to provide a major share of our domestic electricity, just as it does in France. Several forms of natural energy such as wind, wave, geothermal and especially solar can provide additional power.

There are also lots of programs focused on future energy technologies, including the production of oil from algae. And, while we’re working to expand the sources of power we should work in parallel to reduce consumption. There are lots of new technologies in that area as well.

You might ask why this is such a big problem – just let the price of energy rise and people will naturally choose less consumption. The problem is that the groups most directly affected are those on limited or fixed incomes and businesses. Higher energy prices act just like an additional tax on these groups, and it hurts them.

So, what role should the government play in the development of energy related technologies – production or efficient consumption? Most important, the government should not pick winners and losers. Rather, the government should support efficient methods for businesses and universities to evaluate and develop the most promising technologies.

In doing so, we would enable American companies to compete to solve our energy challenges. On this path we will reduce our dependence on organizations and foreign governments that are working against our country and people. This is part of my vision for leadership that serves our country well. Please help me bring this leadership to Oregon’s First Congressional District.

Thank you very much for your support.

Sincerely,

Doug Keller