Increasing dependence on oil imports . In response to the energy crisis of the 1970s, the United States reduced its oil imports to 32.2 percent of the oil it consumed. However, imports are on the rise again and today we import more oil than we produce. International economic instability . Economic instability breeds political instability, as can be seen in Russia and some Asian countries.
Political unrest can play havoc with energy supplies.
Complacency about the need for reducing energy use . In 1973, Americans were oblivious to the repercussions of excessive energy use. However, since the energy crisis the United States has saved 419.6 quads of energy. That is enough energy to power the entire U.S. economy for almost five years. In addition, investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy have avoided the emission of approximately 8 billion tons of carbon.