Energy Strategies

Abstract

The energy problem in Industrialized Countries is threefold:

First, it is a price problem.

The rise of crude oil prices caused a trade imbalance in most of the industrialized countries. Severe economic and political consequences are expected and a worldwide economic crisis may develop.

Second, it is a problem of energy availability.

It has become apparent that the world or at least a major part of the industrialized countries could suddenly be confronted with an interruption of a significant amount of the oil supply. The danger of wars initiated as a result of this is increasing.

Third, it is an acceptance problem.

The difficulty of getting people to understand the measures necessary for solving the energy problem grows continuously; political consensus on the subject is rarely achievable. The controversy has already taken on the character of confrontation. Political stability could earnestly suffer the consequences.