Alternative fuel ideas are being batted around throughout the United States and the rest of the world that is dependent upon fossil fuels.  The exception to that statement is that there are a few countries – mainly in the Middle East – that are sitting pretty atop most of the oil being produced.

The state of Pennsylvania has created a $5.3 million annual grant program to help accelerate the production and use of biofuels. The biofuels would be produced in the state and diminish the use of and dependence upon foreign oil.

“Pennsylvania’s alternative energy industry continues to grow through the development and deployment of a new generation of power sources and fuels and smart energy policies,” said acting Environmental Protection Secretary John Hanger about Pennsylvania’s Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant Program. “Alternative fuels made from Pennsylvania’s crops are cleaner and invest millions of dollars into our economy by supporting our rural, agriculture-based communities.”

Since July, developers of fuel in Pennsylvania are required to put a percentage of ethanol or biodiesel into every gallon of gasoline or diesel fuel, respectively.  The governor of Pennsylvania, Ed. Rendell, put the legislation in force to encourage production of alternative fuels in the state.  The legislation allows for up to 10% of ethanol every gallon of gasoline and 20% of biodiesel in every gallon of diesel fuel.
 
The legislation which is called the Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant Program, will give 75 cents per gallon to eligible applicants, with a cap of $1.9 million annually per single producer. Up to $5.3 million annually will be available under the program through fiscal year 2010-2011.

Eligibility for the monthly incentives for producing alternative fuel, is dependent on applicants  producing and selling 25,000 gallons or more per month of qualified biomass-based diesel in Pennsylvania for transportation or home heating purposes.

Applications are available from DEP and will initially cover reimbursement requests for biodiesel produced and sold in Pennsylvania from July 1 through Sept. 30.  Applications must be postmarked or received by Nov. 14.   You can find information at www.depwe.state.pa.us, keyword: Alternative Fuels.

Alternative Fuel Technology, LLC in Ontario, Canada has come up with a discovery that can help change vehicles that run on diesel fuel into vehicles that don’t pollute (or pollute very little).  Alternative Fuel Technology is an organization specializing in research and development.  They are currently designing and developing prototype manufacturing of fuel systems that will be able to use a new alternative fuel called dimethyl ether (DME).  

Alternative Fuel Technology has developed fuel injector systems for vehicles that run on DME.  They also provide DME fuel systems  for testing and research. 

An exceptional attribute of these systems is that they are low cost and efficient, and they can be retrofitted to work with most diesel engines.  The diesel engines that are equipped and retrofitted can then run on the new fuel, DME, which will burn cleaner, lower NOx emissions, eliminate smoke emissions such as soot particulates and eliminate exhaust odor. 

DME is considered by many to be the ultimate bio-fuel because of the attributes we have already discussed.  It is cheaper, better for the environment and can be derived from numerous natural resources including methanol, coal, natural gas and biomass.  Another factor making DME a great bio-fuel is the fact that DME can be administered and sold through existing propane infrastructure.  This provides DME a great advantage over other alternative fuels.  DME can also be used in most diesel engines with little or no modifications to the vehicle.

There has been a lot of research regarding alternative fuel, but most of the research has been geared and directed toward fuel for engines other than diesel engines.  The DME fuel systems being created by Alternative Fuel Technology, LLC are a giant step in the right direction.  With so many diesel engines on the road – from cars to trucks to 18-wheelers – the DME fuel systems can not only help the environment, but also help drivers of diesel run vehicles at the same time.

As we look at the rush toward finding the best alternative fuels and the best ways to distribute them and provide choices for the American people and people in countries around the world, some things that may not be as obvious to us besides creating independence from fossil fuels are the additional benefits of this quest.

Of course, alternative fuel will cut or eliminate our dependence on foreign oil.  We also know that there are benefits to the environment for various reasons, especially lower or no emissions and more self-containment.

In addition, there are plusses for the economy and employment, which are inextricably linked.  With the economy in the shape it is in, some good news about economical improvement and more jobs is music to the ears of politicians and just plain everyday people.

Before we get too over-the-top excited, it is important to remember that this is not an overnight fix.  Though there are many organizations, corporations, cities, states and the federal government working diligently to find ways to develop fuel alternatives and some have already started their work – it will take time for the migration from fossil fuels to the “greener” alternatives to take place. 

Researchers estimate that it can take up to 2.5 to 3 decades for the transition to be complete, but along the way, at least 4.2 million jobs will be created, new training opportunities will exist, and additional jobs will be added along the way.  Jobs can involve every area from working on wind turbines for energy to creating alternative fuel – and everything in between.

In all, it is agreed by lawmakers and corporate executives alike that a concerted effort to use various forms of alternative fuel and energy and continue working hard to do this sooner rather than later will make a positive contribution to the environment, the economy and employment prospects from here forward.

We all know that we are in the midst of a fuel mess.  Not enough fuel.  No way to get it fast enough.  No real plan in place.  You know the deal.  So, what is the answer to solving the crisis?  In a few words, there are a lot of suggestions but not one answer.

At the Republican National Convention there were loud chants of “Drill, baby drill!”  To some, this seems like a good idea, and it may or may not be.  The issues that have come up from both sides of the aisle regarding drilling are that drilling takes a long time to set up.  There is the task of finding the right spot, ecological studies, permits, test drilling, building platforms and more.  Experts, researchers and many others say that it would take nearly 10 years to see any usable fuel from new drilling.

Since right now, the United States has about 3% of the world’s oil but uses well over 25% of the world’s fuel, waiting 10 years doesn’t seem like a helpful short-term option.  This is not to say that drilling should not be part of the equation to address the fuel crisis.  It is to say that other forms of fuel and energy need to be researched and probably combined into a complete plan that will evolve over time.

There are ways to use ethanol and biofuels in certain cars now.  Production could be increased on these cars and incentives could be given to both the automobile manufacturers and the individuals who purchase these autos in an effort to offset costs for both.  Change of this magnitude is not free, and it’s not cheap, either.

There are cars that are already hybrid and cars using solar and electric power.  Other cars in the wings are hydrogen cell powered.  All of these are less harmful to the environment and will conserve energy and eliminate the need for at least some amount of fossil fuels.  Some of these are being used now, and their use can be increased with the right marketing and incentives.

Researchers are looking at ways to use recycled solid waste to power cities and transportation.  There are ways to use nuclear energy to create power, and we have been doing this for decades.

As for drilling, those who say that it won’t work also say that most of the usable oil is located within 50 miles of the shoreline, but the new energy plan, if passed, will not allow drilling any closer than 50 miles of the shoreline, so there may not be many oil rich areas out there, according to some.  Also, even though the lawmakers will allow the moratorium on drilling to lapse so that the possibility of drilling can become a reality, it ultimately remains up to the individual states as to whether they will approve it or not.

Drilling is a viable option and should not be dismissed.  The current fuel crisis was not created overnight, and just like losing weight after gaining it over a period of time, the solution will not be finalized over night either.

Brazil has quietly become a leader in the efforts to decrease dependence on fossil fuels.  In doing so, they are providing the world – especially the United States – some ideas and methods that should be taken note of.

First of all, after the fuel crisis in the 1970s Brazil moved forward looking for and acting on solutions. 

One of the solutions is to look at a variety of sources that can be turned into biofuels.  Sugar, various plant oil feedstock, starches (which can be turned into sugar) and oilseeds are all excellent sources.  In addition researchers are looking at which of the thousands of types of algae would be appropriate to produce biofuels.  Also, one more piece of the biofuel puzzle could be the use of animal fat from cattle, pigs, fish and poultry.  At present, there is extensive research regarding the technology needed to be able to use all these sources to create biofuel.

There are already proven and cost-effective technologies available to be able to produce biofuels from sugar crops, starch and oilseeds.  Scientists, researchers and farmers are working to create high yields from these crops.

For commercial transportation there are additional fuels needing additional types of treatment and technology.  To create biodiesel and/or ethanol, government subsidies are needed, and in Brazil and other countries, this is taking place.  For these two types of fuel essential to the transportation industry, there is an extra process that turns them from regular biofuel to biodiesel or ethanol.  This can be lucrative if the technology is efficient enough, and researchers at looking at ways to see how this can all happen. 

Energy economists worldwide are in agreement that biofuel is critical and that “mix biofuels” will be an essential when it comes to powering vehicles.  Bio refineries will be needed to produce the quantities needed, and researchers are working toward developing an effective system of these refineries.

One thing that Brazil did after the crisis in the 1970’s was to shift the major portion of their use of petroleum to bioethanol.  This saved them nearly $50 billion in their oil import bills.  In addition, the change to bioethanol from petroleum created over one million jobs, most of them rural.

With all the conversations regarding alternatives to imported foreign oil for fuel, Brazil’s bold move forward in the late 1970’s through today is important for the world to look at.  Other countries, such as India and  China whose economies are weighed down by high oil import bills would be helped by using ideas similar to Brazil’s, and the United States would definitely benefit by using some of the alternatives and making at least some of the changes that Brazil has made.

NASCAR and the Detroit automakers used to be connected at the hip.  Whatever was going on in Detroit made its way onto a NASCAR track and there was instant advertising.  That is not so much the case any more.

NASCAR certainly uses plenty of cars and plenty of advertising, but times have changed, and in the wake of the current fuel crisis, times at NASCAR may have to change even more.

It’s not as if NACAR will be slowing down their races or using alternative fuels tomorrow.  After all, NASCAR reluctantly started using unleaded fuel long after the public did, and it certainly hasn’t hurt the sport any.

There are some ideas about what NASCAR can do to help with the current fuel crisis.  They have long since gone to smaller engines, but it has been suggested that less horsepower might be a good idea.  Nearly 900 horsepower is a ton of horsepower which is probably not really needed to run a good race.  NASCAR is reportedly looking at the issue to see if less horsepower is a viable proposition.

One thing that NASCAR is beginning to do is to look at the idea of using pace cars that run on alternative fuels.  This is a great idea in many respects.  First of all, pace cars don’t affect the actual race, so speed won’t be a factor.  In addition, General Motors has given out some hydrogen powered SUVs to major racing figures, such as Kevin Harvick, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Jimmie Johnson and Jeff Gordon just to ride around town in. 

This high-visibility, low-key, low-pressure approach to getting vehicles – especially popular SUV’s – powered by alternative energy out into the community, especially when driven by NASCAR legends, is an intelligent marketing campaign which could help people in a subtle way become aware of the fact that there are choices when it comes to the vehicles they drive.  In the back of their minds they will be thinking of this as they determine what type of vehicle to purchase.

Who knows if NASCAR will ever race hydrogen-powered cars, but the idea of driving around town in them and hopefully using pace cars with alternative fuel could be NASCAR’s contribution to helping solve the fuel crisis.

The search for alternatives to fossil fuels is at a breakneck pace worldwide.  Researchers are working with everything from ethanol to solid waste trying to find ways to provide alternative fuel sources to power cars, busses and cities throughout the globe.

For the first time ever, a proton motor fuel cell has been approved in Germany.  This is an energy source involving hydrogen fuel-cell technology which is a powerful and fuel efficient source of energy.

In the past, the cost of producing the cells was prohibitive because the cells, called stacks, had to be produced one at a time and they could only be produced in small quantities. 

The PM 200 stacks were actually invented to be mass produced, however certain tests had to be completed and approvals had to be given by the government.  Now that this has been done, the original idea of automated production, which will be much more cost effective as well as much faster in bringing the product to market so it can be used, will be able to go into effect much sooner.

The stack had to pass leak tests, freezing and thawing tests, pressure tests and more in order to become certified.  The stack passed all of these tests without any problem.  Now that the certification has been given manufacturing and production at a high level can begin.

Hydrogen is a very versatile source of energy and can be used in many areas.  Some of the applications in which the PM 200 stacks can be used are buses, trucks, forklift trucks and an uninterrupted supply for telecommunications systems. 

The SM 200 is not only certified for use, but also has an extremely high quality standard.  It is the very first product of its kind in the world and the first to create the certification and quality standards that will apply to all hydrogen fuel cell stacks of this type to follow.

At a time when the world is searching for alternative sources of energy, the approval of the SM 200 is exciting and encouraging news.

Everybody is searching for fuel these days, and almost everybody is trying to find fuel that is sustainable, environmentally friendly and affordable. 

The UK has been experimenting with biodegradable fuel that could cut its transportation fuel purchases by 10%.  The fuel is actually created by using bacteria found in compost heaps.  The bacteria is used to convert waste plant fiber into ethanol. 

Researchers have actually created a new strain of bacteria that can break down straw and agricultural plant waste, domestic hedge clippings, wood chips, cardboard, garden trimmings and other waste products and convert them into fuel that can be used by the transportation industry.

There are a number of benefits to this discovery in addition to having another source of fuel.  The bioethanol fuel produced by the process will easily mix with existing fuel.  By creating the mix, greenhouse gasses will be diminished and this will help decrease global warming.  In addition, the fuel will reduce dependence on foreign oil and work toward meeting criteria for renewable energy sources.

Bioethanol used to be quite expensive to produce, because the barley mash had to be heated then cooled then re-heated, taking quite a lot of time, as well.  The new strain of bacteria that has been created does not have to go through such an intricate and elaborate process, making it faster and less expensive to produce. 

The UK has just completed commissioning its first cellulosic ethanol demonstration facility.  There are only a few of these facilities in the world.  Researchers are convinced that in addition to creating biofuel, the process can be used to create high-value chemicals and drug ingredients that are currently created from oil.

There are reports that the U.S. is working on similar projects that could create one piece of the energy puzzle through sustainable waste that is easily obtainable and efficient to use, while being renewable and less harmful to the environment.

Algae has been sought out as a source for fuel since the 1950s.  At that time experiments were being started to see if converting algae to fuel could run cars efficiently.  In the late 70’s when the fuel crisis was creating long lines at gas stations, studies to see whether or not algae was a viable alternative to fossil fuel began in earnest, funded by government and private money.

As the fuel crisis of the 70s and 80s ended, memories shortened and money for fuel research dried up in favor of other studies, algae research slowed to a near halt.  However, with the fuel crisis looming its head again, there has been a tremendous interest in algae as an alternative source of bio-fuel.

While researchers have been looking for methods of using algae for cars, there has also been research to help find alternatives for airlines and the military, who are also troubled by the same fuel issues that everyone else is.  It looks as if one company, Solazyme, has found an alternative that will work.

Solazyme has been researching an algae-based alternative to jet fuel and has created an alternative that passes the ASTM’s standards.  It is the first algae-based bio-kerosene fuel and could be used for jets both commercially and in the military, which would provide solutions to problems for both.

This algae-based fuel has the same properties as regular jet fuel.  It also has an advantage over other bio-fuels in that most bio-fuels freeze at high altitudes, but algae-based bio-fuel does not freeze at high altitudes.  Algae-based jet fuel also has the same density that regular jet fuel has, which makes it a truly viable choice, since none of the alternative jet fuels produced matches in density – not even ones derived from coal or natural gas.

It will take time to bring the fuel to market for widespread use.  At present it is more expensive to produce than fuel that is currently used.  Also, building a plant or plants to create and produce the algae-based fuel is a huge expense and will take time to do.  However, the good news is that this fuel, when ready, will not hurt the planet, especially the rainforests, and the rest of the good news is that researchers are making progress toward eliminating dependence on expensive foreign oil, which will put air travel in reach again.

Everyone is looking for an alternative to fuel that harms the environment, costs too much and holds the country hostage to the handful of countries that control fuel supplies.  There are numerous ideas being considered. 

As the presidential election inches closer, we are hearing about everything from drilling to ethanol to natural gas.  Of course, any of the alternatives to fossil fuels would require major adjustments – and possibly major costs – to the vehicles that these fuels are made for.

There are, however, some alternative fuels that have not been mentioned much and that many of us do not know much about.  Algae is the basis for one of those bio-fuels.

According to researchers, algae can be grown inexpensively and it can be grown in areas that are unfit for crops.  As a result, crops that are raised for human or animal consumption would not be affected by the growth of algae, which has been a concern when dealing with using crops for the development of ethanol.

Experts in the Department of Energy and in the Bio-Fuel industry estimate that algae for fuel can yield up to 30 times more energy per acre than soybeans and other crops, thus using less land for higher results.  In addition, there are thousands of types of algae world wide that could be adapted to be grown and harvested for fuel.

Algae is extremely rich in oil and scientists have been able to isolate the types of algae that have the most oil and the best suitability to be used for fuel.  Extensive research has been done from the 1970s through late 1990s, especially during the Carter administration.  In fact, there are existing patents for using algae as a base for fuel.  Funding and budget shortages ended research at that time.

There is good news, however.  With all eyes on the fuel crisis, there are three U.S. studies being performed regarding the viability of using algae to create alternative fuel.  Additionally, there are studies being performed in Japan, Australia and other countries involving major oil companies.

Algae may very well be a big part of the solution to the fuel crisis affecting the U.S. and the world.  Though there are no immediate answers and though it will probably take a combination approach, algae could alleviate a substantial part of the fuel crisis at a reasonable cost, and the good news is that it is available everywhere. 

The current fuel crisis is not new news.  It has been escalating for quite some time now.  In fact, since the late 1970’s and 1980’s, the world has had fuel issues that have needed to be addressed.  During the severe crisis and shortage of the 70’s and 80’s there was talk by researchers and lawmakers and citizens alike stating that it was essential to find alternative fuel and alternative ways to find fuel.

The crisis at that time died down, and so did the talk and the money for research.  It seems that the trauma of those years, the long lines, leaving your car at the gas station the night before your even or odd license-plate day, or showing up at 4 A.M. to wait your turn, were forgotten once there was a “fix” for the oil we depended upon.

The result is what we are seeing today.  When things were so difficult, the promises of a race to find the alternatives to fossil fuels were freely flowing.  Fast forward to now, and the alternatives are not here or they are not available.  Even Congress has been baffled as to what the answers are.

In May, in an effort to understand the crisis as much as possible, Congress invited truckers, consumer advocates and energy industry analysts to offer testimony regarding the effects of the fuel crisis.  The reason for this, according to Congress is that “oil impacts every aspect of our life.” 

Truckers, gas station owners and refiners have all been hurt severely by the current fuel situation.  The President of the National Association of Small Trucking Companies stated in his testimony before Congress that “high fuel costs affect everything – everything in this room came on a truck at least once.”  Testimony placed some of the blame on gas station owners, and squarely on oil companies, who are making more profits than ever.  Fifty years ago, oil company shareholders received 1% of the profits.  Twenty years ago, 10 to 15%.  Ten years ago, 15% to 20%.  And now, with the worst fuel crisis and highest prices in history, shareholders are receiving 50% of the profits and oil companies are paying little or no taxes.

Congress listened to the testimony of these individuals who know how hard the crisis has hit.  Lawmakers have spoken about the problems in the months since, and it is even an election issue.  It is time for us to see what will actually be done to fix the problem this time – once and for all.

During the past year, fuel prices have shot up to hefty triple digits, making it impossible for many people to travel on vacations the way that they used to.  As a result, many are simply staying home. 

Add to this scenario the fact that jet fuel isn’t exactly inexpensive, so that puts the world’s airlines in a dilemma, as well.  They say they can’t lower ticket prices because they cant afford to.  However, because ticket prices are so high, travelers can’t afford to buy them.  As a result, airlines have been closing operations and many have gone out of business during the past year or two.  In fact, more airlines have gone out of business during the past year than after 9/11 when people were afraid to fly.

At least 26 airlines have gone out of business and nearly 200,000 jobs have been lost in the airline industry during the past year.  Airlines that had been hoping to hold on until fuel prices and other economic factors settled, could not hold on long enough and had to close their doors.

Some of the airlines are major international carriers, such as Alitalia, the Italian airline that has been a staple in travel to and from Italy for decades.  Part of the dichotomy is that travelers who could still afford to fly to their vacation destinations but cannot afford the fuel for a rental car to explore the destination once they arrive there.

There are ideas on the table about how to make things work and how to keep other airlines afloat.  Researchers are looking for ways to create biodiesel jet fuel and feel that it is a real possibility, but it will take time and money.

Meanwhile, the fuel situation in the world has forced us to look at the obvious problems and search for realistic solutions.  Researchers must look for alternative fuels, lawmakers must work with airlines, manufacturers and others to find ways to produce and distribute those fuels.  Individuals must do what they can to conserve.

It is important to note that when the world’s airlines are going out of business, this is no small crisis.  For now, if you want to fly on vacation, watch for specials, go on EBAY or one of the discount travel sites, find a good price, and go for it while you can!

Last week many of us watched the Democratic National Convention and this week the Republican National Convention, both to nominate their respective party’s candidate for President and Vice-President of the United States.

There were record numbers of people at the conventions and record numbers of people who watched on TV.  Lawmaker after lawmaker gave speeches about all of the issues that need to be addressed, changed, rearranged, fixed and overcome in this country and around the world – sooner rather than later.

One of the issues that was brought up time and again was the fuel crisis.  Though it is a bad situation, it is good news that the topic was noteworthy in speech after speech.  It means that at least there is acknowledgement of the problem even if there isn’t agreement by lawmakers for the solution. 

There are obviously a lot of ideas swirling around as to how to fix the problem.  One of the main ideas is that it is time to become less dependent upon – or independent of – foreign oil.  This is not a new idea.  We’ve been hearing it on and off since the fuel shortages of the 70’s and 80’s, but this is the first time in recent history that everyone agrees that this dependence must change somehow.

Science and research have brought us many new alternatives since the 1980’s and there is the opportunity in this current crisis to explore a variety of ways to hit the fuel crisis head on, long term and once and for all.

In watching the conventions it was obvious that this issue was vital and that with some forethought, direction and actual study and communication across party lines, across ideologies, across education and background, there is enough fuel and energy from enough sources to make sure that it is used wisely and distributed so that everyone has what they need.

There are far-reaching implications to using some of the various sources of fuel that were mentioned including solar energy, wind energy, plant energy, nuclear energy, coal, oil and more.  With the right balance, not only could the fuel crisis be solved once and for all, but it might just help the environment as well.

Now that we have the attention of lawmakers who were willing to speak about the issue on international TV, that is a start.  It’s time for them to move forward and start really speaking to the experts and to each other and come up with a workable solution.

Even though prices for fuel have gone down a bit during the past few weeks, the fuel crisis is still alive and well.  After all, we are still looking for alternative fuel sources as well as taking less vacations and trying to conserve on our driving. 

There are huge issues as far as the airlines are concerned, as well.  After all, the gas tanks on airplanes are so much larger than the ones on our cars. 

We are looking at alternatives for fuel everywhere.  Plants are being seriously considered.  Vegetable oils, steam and other substances are being tested, tried, experimented with and looked at closely to try to end dependence on fossil fuels. 

Biodiesel and other eco friendly, sustainable and renewable fuels are being looked at closely as alternatives to the fuels that we have relied on through the end of the 20th century.  As we move further into the 21st century, we are moving forward toward alternatives that will do a better job for all of us in the future.

The airline industry is pursuing alternative fuels that can be created at home rather than being purchased abroad.  Ongoing studies have yielded ideas for these alternatives, but most of them are still being developed.  Unfortunately, it is essential to find alternatives that will work now. 

Jet engines run on kerosene but can be retrofitted to run on other fuels, such as hydrogen.  There is a logistical problem with this, however, in that in order for jets to run on hydrogen, they would have to be fitted with massive tanks for the fuel.  In today’s economy, that might be an overwhelming financial issue.

There are synthetic fuels available, notably from South Africa, using coal as a base.  Because these synthetic fuels are blends and work like actual jet fuel, planes will not have to be redesigned to use this fuel source.  Numerous American companies are now creating these fuels and will be able to provide millions of gallons in the near future.  Another biofuel made from tree oil will be tested this spring b several of the major air carriers.  In addition, algae-based fuel is being developed.

It may take some time for these developments to be available on a wide scale, however there are alternatives for the airlines.  Maybe vacations are not a thing of the past after all.

Pakistan is yet another country that has been hit by the fuel crisis.  It is somewhat ironic since they are located in the midst of the richest oilfields in the world.

Even with their proximity to oil, the country is looking to alternative fuel in the form of bio- diesel and bio fuels to help them in many areas.  The results of starting a bio-diesel program would be a positive use of marginal land, work for more farmers, reduced pollution, an extra source of renewable energy, and a more eco friendly country.

The bio-diesel can be obtained from chemically converting non-edible oils from plants and turning it into balanced, organic fertilizers that are rich in nitrogen and have less negative effect on the soil.  These plants can be planted and grown on marginal land that can be cultivated with saline and waste water.

In addition to all of these positive effects, one of the best effects would be the positive effect on the economy.  Since over 60% of all of Pakistan’s land lies barren, the potential for growing these crops is tremendous.  In other countries it might be too difficult and costly to undertake a change like this, but because of Pakistan’s land situation, the costs would not be as great in Pakistan.

There are about 100 million barren acres of land in Pakistan that are available to be planted and by using non-edible plants the costs will be low and price hikes for products yielded from the program should be negligible, or there could possibly be no price increases at all in the marketplace.

Pakistan State Oil has already begun planting non-edible plants on parts of the 100 million acres.  The bio-diesel can be used for buses, wagons and trains, reducing harmful emissions that lead to serious pollution.  Additionally, like every other oil-dependent country that imports much of their oil, by fully implementing the program, Pakistan will not have to depend on imported oil for as much of its fuel.

We should all look to Pakistan to see what the outcome is and how it could help the fuel situation in our own country.

Here in the United States, even though we are coping with fuel costs that are too high, we are somehow muddling through.  The costs are ridiculous, and they are having a disruptive effect on many families, some who cannot afford the gas to get to work and are worried about how to heat their homes this coming winter.

The fuel crisis here is also affecting municipal transit, especially bus lines in various cities.  Some bus lines are being curtailed or eliminated because fuel costs are too high.  The irony is that this is happening just as more people need to commute on mass transit because they can’t afford the price of fuel for their vehicles.

It is important for lawmakers and concerned citizens to continue looking for answers in this crisis before the situation here becomes as critical as it is in other countries around the world. 

It has been reported that in some countries essential services such as ambulance and police have been cut back due to fuel shortages and fuel prices.  In addition, people cannot afford the high cost of food because of the high cost of fuel.  In addition, farmers hare finding it difficult, if not impossible, to grow their crops because they can’t afford fertilizer nor can they afford fuel for their equipment.

The United States is experiencing great difficulties due to the expense of fuel, however, they are still doing much better than many other countries in the world.  It is essential that lawmakers, oil companies, energy companies, inventors, carmakers, scientists and others who can help, get together and come up with a solution to the crisis before the economy of the U.S. is as bad as it is in other places in the world.

During the past couple of weeks, the soaring cost of fuel has gone down a bit from an average of around $4.50 per gallon to a little over or under $4.00 per gallon, depending upon where you live. 

Every little bit helps, so we are not complaining about the savings we are seeing lately.  However, there are predictions that fuel prices will begin to climb again, and that this climb may be steeper than the last.

This is a difficult situation to fathom.  When prices went near $3 per gallon, people were stunned, and when they went above $3 it really started to hurt consumers.  Now that we have been over $4 per gallon, it has not only hurt consumers at the pump, but created an economic mess in the United States and other countries, as well. 

The cost of fuel has affected the cost of food, clothing, air travel and just about everything else we can think of.  It has become overwhelming for many, and there is already great concern about what various areas will do about heat this winter, and what farmers will do to be able to afford fertilizer for their crops.

If this isn’t bad enough, there are news articles and reports coming out of everywhere stating that gas prices will continue to rise and could get to as high as $7 or $8 in the United States and $11 or $12 in Europe by early 2009. 

There is no way of knowing if these reports are based on anything but fear, however, it is certainly possible that fuel prices will continue to rise until a solution to the crisis is found.  The technology is available for creating and using alternative fuels, as well as creating other fuel and energy sources.  In addition, the idea of more drilling has been tossed about a lot lately. 

Regardless of what method or methods are used to deal with the fuel crisis, it is likely that prices will waver up and down until they finally level off, hopefully at a number that we can all find a way to live with somehow. 

In the meantime, lawmakers will keep going back and forth about the appropriate solution, and we will be keeping our eyes on the pump and watching how much we drive. 
 

Here we are in the 21st century with inventions that boggle the mind.  In addition to computers that are outdated in a nanosecond, we have been offered – and some people have already put deposits down for – the first commercial trip to the moon.

All of this and we are unable to deal with the fuel crisis.  It is interesting that the fuel crisis is not a new idea or situation that just landed on the horizon.  As far back as the late 70’s we were being warned that this time would come, and it would happen sooner than we think and affect us much worse than we thought it would.  Those who predicted this were right on the money, no pun intended.

In around 1979, Jimmy Carter, who was president at the time, stated that there should be alternative energy, such as solar power.  He even went so far as to have solar panels installed at the White House.  No word on whether they are still there or still in use, but it seems that he may have been a visionary who was ignored, as many visionaries are.

Carter had a few other ideas, too, such as pushing automakers to increase the mileage to somewhere around 48mpg by 1995.  Well, a few of the hybrids, like the Prius that has been out a couple of years now, boast 50mpg.  Carter suggested offering windfall taxes to oil companies so that they could look for alternative fuel and energy sources.  He also felt that at least 20% of our energy should come from alternative sources – especially solar power – as soon as possible.

Here we are 30 years later listening to the very same arguments by lawmakers while the price of gas has gone up from under $.50 per gallon to over $4.00, partially due to inaction on some of the logical alternatives to dependence on fossil fuels.  Then again, there is also the fact that for years, America has been far behind the curve in manufacturing cars that perform like those that have been manufactured in Japan.  Only recently have U.S. automakers been catching up.  And only recently – with an election looming and with gasoline prices that have skyrocketed – have lawmakers across the aisles been actually seriously talking, and some of them have stopped arguing long enough to actually communicate about getting things under control.

The worst of the issue is that we could have avoided getting to this point to begin with, so getting things under control now will not be quick or easy.  It’s like trying to keep ice from melting after it has sitting on the counter for an hour or two.  It can be done, but it has to go back into the freezer. 

The fuel crisis can be remedied, but it will take going back to some of the ideas that have already been proposed and actually implementing them and adding to them to get started.  It’s good to know that at least part of Congress is finally talking together and working together to move forward and get things done before it’s really, really too late.  Hopefully, the rest of Congress will stop arguing and join in solving the problem.

It’s no secret that the fuel crisis is out of control and it is hurting people from one end of the country to the other.  Whether you are a farmer, a secretary, a city worker or an executive, paying $4 or more for gasoline hurts the budget, the wallet and people’s everyday lives. 

Some workers are opting for lower paying jobs closer to home because they can’t afford to pay for the gas.  Because other companies are struggling financially, other workers are being laid off.  There is not enough money to pay for their wages and for the cost of fuel to keep business going.

The country has been speaking out, crying out and begging Congress to come up with some sort of assistance.  People are looking for and hoping for a plan that will at least begin to address the fuel and energy issues for the short and long term, and begin to bring some relief.

It is possible that his is finally happening.  Senator Lindsay Graham of South Carolina has co-sponsored a bill that may address some of these issues.  This is a bipartisan issue and a bipartisan bill that both sides of the aisle seem to be taking note of and taking a positive view toward.  In fact, both John McCain and Barak Obama, senators running for president who rarely agree on anything these days, agree that this is a good start and could begin to energize lawmakers in an effort to actually start solving the fuel and energy crisis in this country sooner rather than later.

We have been warned for over a decade that by this point in time the U.S. would be dependent on foreign oil if it did not develop alternatives, but the warning was not heeded as a serious issue soon enough.  In 2006, when gas prices were around $2.50 per gallon, they cry for a change was raised with little or no assistance from Congress.  As a result, the country gets nearly 70% of its oil from foreign countries.  Thus, the crisis we face now.  Instead of being ahead of the curve and developing alternatives, gradually using less foreign oil over the past 15 to 20 years, we have done the opposite, and now have to rush to come up with plans to turn the situation around.

The new plan, backed by 10 senators from both parties, features money to U.S. automakers for creating fuel efficient/alternative energy cars, tax credits to individuals who purchase those cars and other measures, including incentives for offshore drilling. 

There are no guarantees, but at least Congress is hearing the voice of the American people who have been trying to get their attention regarding this matter.  Hopefully more lawmakers from both sides of the aisle will agree to communicate in a positive way and finish creating this plan and making it comprehensive enough to truly to help citizens who are being hurt in many ways on many levels by this fuel crisis that could have been avoided in the first place.

The state of California produces the lion’s share of agriculture for the nation.  That has always been a positive thing for the country and for the state.  With the state of the economy and the issue of the fuel crisis as overwhelming as it has become, the fact that California is in the agricultural situation that it is can be more of a negative than the positive it used to be. 

The reason: fuel.  Agriculture alone uses a lot of fuel that, on the surface, we don’t think about, and, often, neither do politicians or farmers.  For instance, in addition to some of the fossil fuels that are used in agriculture – aside from those used in trucking and transporting products to market and aside from equipment used on the land itself – there are other, more subtle uses.

Asphalt for roads uses fuel.  Plastic used in many types of containers use fuel.  Pesticides and other fertilizers use fuel.  When you produce as much agriculture as the state of California does, these things add up to a lot of fuel.

California is in a good situation on one hand because they have 206 oil fields.  On the other hand, California uses about 20 billion gallons of fuel just to be able to drive.  This is a lot of fuel. 

Even though the nation and most states do not have a comprehensive energy plan or energy conservation plan, the need is there.  Politicians – especially the two presidential candidates – are talking about this issue on a daily basis.  CNN and MSNBC along with all the other news channels have program after program about what to do about this crisis.

Some cities in California are not just waiting around for the federal or state government to come up with a plan.  Cities such as Oakland and San Francisco are working on alternative energy in areas such as their mass transit.  Hopefully other cities and counties across the country will follow suit.

The fuel crisis is a problem throughout the world, not just in California, however, since California produces nearly half the fruits and vegetables in the United States, it is critical for them to be able to be sure that they can continue to do so.

But California is not alone.  The country is in need of alternatives, and we are hearing from people like Richard Branson and T. Boone Pickens, among others, with ideas that could help get the fuel crisis under control in the short term and the long run.  California is in a tough situation, and their situation will effect the country and essentially, the world.  It is a good thing that they are taking the lead and taking responsibility to start looking at conservation and alternatives on their own without waiting for the problem to get any worse or the government to help.

For decades there has been an ongoing debate as to whether nuclear energy is a viable alternative to other forms of energy.  With the advent of nuclear power plants came concerns – some justifiable – about accidents and other issues that could harm people and the environment, especially those near the power plants themselves.

Then there were accidents in places around the globe – including the United States – and the fear that came along with the accidents, as well as the myths that were perpetrated as a result.

As our fuel and energy sources have waxed and waned over the years the debate about nuclear power has continued.  With the fuel crisis in full bore, we are hearing more and more about alternative forms of energy these days.

Natural gas has been touted as one form of energy that can be used to replace oil that is so scarce and so expensive.  The problem with that is that the United States gathers much of its natural gas from Canada, and Canada has put the U.S. on notice that there is little natural gas that they can spare due to having to tap into their own reserves to keep their industries moving forward.  In addition,
there have also been huge price hikes in the cost of natural gas, making it ineffective to use in many businesses.

Natural gas has been used to replace electricity but this drove the prices up and has caused over a million jobs to be cut in order to keep up.  The cost of natural gas has risen 93% just since last August.  In addition, natural gas is a finite resource.  North America – particularly the United States – has not been increasing its natural gas production, and with Canada having said that it cannot spare much, if any, of its natural gas, the United States needs to come up with a new commodity – fast.

This is where nuclear energy may or may not come in.  Researchers suggest that nuclear energy would be a good source of energy for electricity, while using other types of energy for other needs.  There is debate about how this would work and whether this would work.

Regardless of what the result may be, it is clear that we need to look into all types of energy – including nuclear energy – in trying to address and solve the fuel and energy crisis before it is too late.

The fuel crisis is out of control.  We are hearing all sorts of theories about what needs to be done to fix it.  One minute we hear that we need alternative energy sources.  Then we hear that there is plenty of fuel right now.  Then we hear that there is a need for more drilling.  And we keep hearing that one.

Drilling may be part of the solution to the problem, but is it enough?  Some people are saying that it is. 

We are being told that drilling would be enough if it was done smartly and efficiently.  We are also being told that with the right agreements with the right countries, the United States and other countries would not be dependent upon oil that is being held hostage by countries who would benefit from seeing prices continue to rise worldwide and seeing the “free word” have to scramble for oil.

The solution, some say, is to drill more ourselves.  Perhaps that is true, but it will take time to find out.  For instance, it is important that tests be done in advance of drilling.  With many of the computer programs and models available today, “virtual drilling” on a computer program is possible.  Not only are these programs able to pinpoint where oil is thought to be available, but also to determine how far under the ground it is and what type of drilling is needed to gain access to it.  These programs can also tell researchers the best way to approach the drill is and what the approximate results would be. 

Even with all this information, there are questions as to whether drilling will be enough.  Can the oil be processed fast enough to be converted to fuel?  Can it be marketed fast enough to avert a further shortage or market collapse?  Can all this be done in a way that is financially prudent?

These are questions that are still being researched and will need to be answered.  In the meantime, we are already in the middle of a fuel and economic crunch now. 

It is important to look at all the options available.  Drilling is one of them.  Time will tell if drilling will be enough to stop the crisis.  Additional drilling might be enough to at least help. 

We are being told by Congress, the news, the President, politicians, the oil companies and others that there are solutions to the fuel crisis.  However, every entity has a different opinion as to what the most appropriate solutions are.

There are ideas about alternative fuel, alternative energy, traditional fuel, fossil fuels, solar power, hydrogen power, water power and more. 

All of these seem to have their place and it seems as though, since the world is in such a crunch for energy, there might just be a place for most types of energy to keep the world running.

Since all of the various energy sources are available – some in more limited quantities than others – why not do what we can to use them all in the most efficient ways possible? 

Wind power can provide for the energy needs that electricity provides for.  Solar power can create electric energy plus energy to run cars and fill other energy needs.  Hydrogen and water can run vehicles and they can provide for other energy needs, as well. 

There is water power – hydro-electricity, which has been around for decades.  There is also nuclear power – which is often a “nasty” word, but in times like these even some of the ideas we don’t like become less distasteful if we can find positive uses for them – especially in saving the planet, creating energy and saving money, not to mention, making the country “fuel independent.”

When we look at all the types of fuel available, it is good to know that there are choices, alternatives and combinations of energy that we can use to address the energy needs now and in the future.

The fuel crisis is creating a lot of issues that are quite difficult to deal with, especially for the average individual or family.  Things are getting more expensive.  In some cases gasoline is unaffordable – even for necessities like getting to and from work.  People who were on a tight budget before are in dire straits now.  And citizens have no control over very much of it.

On the other hand, some citizens are trying to make some changes that make things better for their families and for the larger community and even the global community.

Some of the changes that are taking places are in the area of conservation.  People are giving up their larger cars for smaller more fuel-efficient ones.  They are walking, when possible, rather than driving their car short distances.  Even curtailing a little bit of driving can save money and save fuel, not to mention, help save the environment.

People who never thought of carpooling in the past – in fact, who thought of carpooling as a dirty word – are now, not only doing it, but promoting it wholeheartedly.  Many have taken jobs closer to home – even taking pay cuts (after all, you off set the pay cut with the gas cost savings).  Others have sold their homes and moved closer to where they work.

Some employers are helping too.  Where possible, they are encouraging telecommuting or having employees come in for less days with longer hours.  Not only does this eliminate a day or more of driving, but it also curtails driving during rush hour in many cases, which saves gas by eliminating the stop and go of the crowded rush hour highways.

The fuel crisis is not an easy situation, but in the midst of it all, it’s nice to see some positive side effects and results mixed in with all the negative news and tough choices.

This question has been being tossed around for quite some time. Water-run cars were once “a thing of the future” and considered almost comic-book-fantasy stuff. Thankfully, though, while the naysayers were saying it couldn’t be done, the researchers were quietly continuing their quest for an alternative to the fossil fuels we use to get everywhere – fossil fuels that are too expensive and that are polluting our planet with some serious consequences.

There are various ways that water is being used to run cars. One is that you can add water as a supplement to gasoline and extend your mileage substantially. This is done by adding a water converter to your car that uses your car’s battery to run your car on HHO (2 atoms of Hydrogen and one of Oxygen), which is called Brown’s Gas and/or Hydroxy. The current from your battery separates the H2O (water) into HHO and the HHO becomes an efficient and stable energy source, basically turning your car into a type of hybrid, saving gasoline, saving money, diminishing emissions, and keeping your car driving longer on a tank of gas. There will be more information and results over time.

The other way that cars run on water is a total conversion, which researchers and scientists say is not only possible, but is being done. Researchers have said that part of the reason that we are not hearing about this more and have not heard of it sooner is that it is a threat to gas companies. Some inventors have supposedly been paid well to stop working on the invention. Others, though, have persevered and keep working on these cars. The internet offers more and more information on water-powered cars.

The good news about water powered cars is that they can eliminate pollution and help us actually drive affordably – and it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg to do the conversions and/or make your car run on water.

The bad news – for government is that there will be less taxes and profits from the sale of oil and gas. The bad news for gas and oil companies is that they will not be needed to the degree that they are today, thus, they will sell much less gas because cars will not be totally reliant on it.

Cars that run on water is a subject that will take some time to come to fruition and, it is something that we should all research. There are alternatives to dependence on fossil fuels – we need to find them, learn about them and find out which ones are right for us. Water just might be one of the answers.