However, the remedies for the shortage are hotly contested. Liberals and environmentalists advocate conservation and renewable sources as answers to the problem. In fact, there is no disputing that both these are important aspects of any long-term energy policy. However, as Cheney noted in his speech, renewable energy sources and conservation will not bail California out of its problems. The country has become too dependent on foreign sources of energy, and, if we hope to avoid these situations in the future, we must step up domestic production.
Environmentalists do raise some valid concerns.
Every effort must be made to protect our environment and Bush has consistently asserted that is a top priority. Limited drilling should be allowed in sensitive areas only if there is near certainty that it will not destroy the surrounding area. While not widely reported by the media, the administration has noted that advances in technology will allow exploration in areas that were previously off limits. In addition, the administration has also said that if technology cannot guarantee the safeguard of the surrounding environment, exploration will be called off. The bottom line is that conservation and renewable sources of energy will not provide enough power for Californians and other Americans in the near-term.