Just a couple of months ago, with oil prices above $140 and gas prices above $4 a gallon, energy independence was one of the hottest topics in Washington and in the news. After the historic drop in energy prices over the last several weeks, where have all the headlines gone? We may not be talking about energy independence these days, but lower prices certainly haven’t resolved the issue.

In a recent opinion piece in the Fort Wort Star-Telegram,  Senator John Cornyn said that energy should continue to be a focus of the 111th Congress:

While lower gas prices should have given us the chance to catch our breath and redouble our efforts to develop a comprehensive energy plan, instead it signaled an ill-timed break in discussion on one of the most important issues of our day.

According to a recent American Petroleum Institute report, it’s estimated that the United States has undiscovered technically recoverable resources, including onshore and offshore reserves, totalling 116 billion barrels of oil and 650 trillion cubic feet of natural gas.

Accessing those reserves may not solve all of our energy needs, but as our demand for energy continues to grow, where will the supply we need come from?  And more importantly, how much will it cost us?

According to a report in the Wall Street Journal (subscription required), President-elect Obama is considering appointing and Energy “Czar” to coordinate U.S. policies on climate change, as well as dependence on foreign oil.

One of the great challenges the new administration faces as it relates to energy is how to coordinate and manage the long list of agencies and departments who have a hand in setting energy policy, including the Interior Department, Transportation Department, and the Environmental Protection Agency to name a few.

Is an Energy “Czar” the answer?  Give us your thoughts in a comment.

After what has felt like the longest presidential campaign in history, it’s finally time for the people to have their say.  It might be remembered as the campaign that made Joe the Plumber a rock star, but what’s next for Joe the Pumper? 

The candidates have taken opposing positions on several key energy issues.  The only thing we know for sure is that our decision will likely reshape U.S. energy policy for years to come.

Ultimately, what’s left is our choice.  So cast your vote, buckle up, and hang on for the ride.