Energy Bills Rising Due to Fuel Crisis
With the fuel crisis in full gear, we are all being hit one way or the other. We are also doing everything to conserve fuel and keep our expenses down as best we can.
Aside from not being able to control the cost of gasoline at the pump or groceries at the market (which are higher prices due to fuel costs for truck drivers that deliver them to the market place), we are now at the mercy of energy companies when it comes to heating and cooling our homes, as well as cooking, having hot water, doing laundry and dishes, and just cleaning in general.
Natural gas prices have risen over 120% in many areas just since last year. In Mississippi, electric prices have risen 28% during the past year. Residents are paying an average of around $1 per day extra due to the increase.
Companies are looking for ways to operate as efficiently as possible and many companies are looking for alternatives to traditional fuels. Unfortunately, converting to alternative types of fuel takes time and money to initiate.
We have been warned over and over for quite some time that we could not continue on the path we were on without ending up with a fuel crisis. We were told that there should be research and implementation of alternatives. We have been told for decades. Those of us who remember the long lines and the rationing of gasoline during the 70’s know how uncomfortable things can get. In fact, at this time, things could actually get worse because it is a much different world than it was back then.
That is little comfort for those of us feeling the crunch. It is critical that Congress put aside their differences and work together to bring relief to average Americans. The people that are being hit hardest are the ones who can’t afford it. People are losing jobs – either because of layoffs or because they can’t afford the gas to get to work.
It is time to look at the situation and come up with a long-term solution to the fuel crisis. Americans are doing their part as best they can. It is time for Congress to collaborate with average, every day Americans to find a solution to the fuel crisis, which will help bring relief to the American people and to the economy as well.