Some people think that our new Information-age economy is less reliant upon energy than our old economy based on manufacturing. Nothing could be further from the truth. All of these Internet computer systems, e-businesses, and software firms require electricity to keep them running. The Internet, and the systems associated with it, consumes approximately 8 percent of the electricity used in the United States. And yes, America does still make products in factories that rely upon energy to light the lights, run the conveyor belts, and heat the building.
Energy is essential to the production side of our economy.
Energy is also essential to the consumption side of our economy. There is no greater detriment to consumer confidence than not knowing what your utility bill will be at the end of the month. No working family in America is going to by a new car, washing machine, or computer when they are uncertain of the cost of their monthly utility bill. Every person that has ever had an economics class knows the theory of supply and demand. Our energy supply is dwindling while our energy demand is growing.