Road traffic congestion results in wasteful oil consumption in cities of all sizes, and severely threatens the potential future oil-saving benefits associated with more efficient vehicles and alternatives fuels. In 2010, drivers in U.S. urban areas were estimated to have wasted 1.9 billion gallons of fuel. In the absence of substantial and effective policy intervention, […]
Iran Launches 2012 Campaign to Rattle Oil Markets
Summary Iran’s recent threats to close the Strait of Hormuz have rattled oil markets and increased the risk premium attached to each traded barrel; however, this is likely just the beginning. The current flare-up follows closely on the heels of a threatened embargo on Iranian oil imports by the European Union and strengthened financial sanctions […]
Republican Presidential Primary Contenders and their Energy Policies
Summary Following a year of tumultuous energy debates and volatile oil prices, a comprehensive national energy policy has never been more urgent. This Intelligence Report details the energy platforms of all Republican Presidential Primary candidates for the conscientious policy wonk, ordered by their performance in the Iowa Caucuses. The GOP candidates are emphasizing increased domestic […]
Department of Energy Loan Guarantees in Context
Summary Government loan guarantees were designed to bridge the gap between basic technology research and venture capital that commercializes the technology. This gap, known among technologists as the “valley of death,” has been targeted twice in the past decade by policymakers from both parties, but with less than perfect results. Authorized by the Energy Policy […]
Libyan Revolution Lessons for Oil (and Gas) Security
Summary Libya has substantial challenges ahead, and the rebels’ victory is only the end of the beginning. Much more needs to be done to build a stable, democratic state. Libyan oil production is unlikely to recover until 2013, requiring the global oil market make up the losses for at least another year. If handled properly, […]