Sure: by weatherizing homes, we will be saving all the energy, and carbon-based resources, which would otherwise be wasted. By spurring development of wind and solar energy sources, and providing an infrastructure to get the electricity where it will be used, we will be saving that amount of carbon-based resources otherwise required. By putting in smart meters with time-based rates, we will be economically encouraging the use of energy in smart (savings) ways.

We don't need to supplant every source of energy with solar and wind power; but every 5 or 10% counts, a lot. And the calculation I've seen is the 85 sq. miles of thermal solar (the type being constructed in California right now: not a pipe dream) in Arizona or equivalent could, in fact, supply the entire US consumption of energy. Wind could supply 65% if use maximally. The overall goal of the current administration is a 30% decrease, I believe, achieved within 10 years. It's doable, and it would have a huge effect on our balance of trade, our national security, and our economy.

>Can you please detail how we will be less dependent on foreign oil? I am curious how since we cannot drill here and cannot build nuclear reactors or mine for coal. Natural gas can only do som much and solar and wind power is a pipe dream we'd have to have a wind farm the size of Missouri with a turbine every 300 feet to supply our needs. So please tell me...