When Papa started to drive the price of gasoline was 30 cents per gallon. In a sixteen year’s old mind that meant that for $1 I could drive around town as long as I didn’t travel much more than 36 miles. Of course it was better that my dad’s car was fueled and ready to go at my whim. However, once in awhile a few gallons of gas was needed. I have faint memories before age 16 of gas wars in town and prices dipping below 25 cents per gallon. Stable price levels for gas was the norm for many years.

Then came an oil embargo in 1973 because the US supported Isreal. Prices shot up almost overnight. I think I was at Fort Ord when I suffered shock at the sight of 49.9! Soon long gas lines formed at service stations across America. The significance of dependence on forgein oil hit the US consumer like a two by four to the forehead. Most political leaders pledged policies to pursue gas and oil independence for America. I believe the Alaskan pipeline was constructed in that era. Throughout the 70’s costs skyrocketed and inflation brought gloom to the nation. A President at the time pretty much suggested the US throw in the towel; the good times were going bye-bye. Turn down the heat and put on a sweater. A “suck it up” attitude did not play well in the election of 1980.

Non-fossil fuels were also looked at to help America become energy independent. In 1970 renewables were estimated at 5.9% of America’s energy use. Nuclear was just under 1%. Slow forward fifty-two years and renewables now stand at about 12.7% and nuclear is at 9.6%. That’s an increase of 16% since 1970; the largest portion being from nuclear. Estimates are that wind and solar generation will rise to 6% by 2030. In the meantime, natural gas has rmained about the same (32.% – 31.8%) as has coal (18.1% – 17.8%). Oil is down about 15.5% which according to my old style math means that’s the wash between petro and renewable.

Last week it took over $60 to fill up the old Honda with gasoline. ($5.00 per gallon at Costco) Statewide, the cost is well over $5. The 70’s were not a favorite decade for Papa for various reasons but being less energy indpendent and reliant on foreign oil is a way back journey best to avoid. Inflation is starting to run wild in all areas beyond gasoline. Production and transportation of most of our goods rely heavily on gasoline/diesel. Remember, except perhaps in a few large urban centers, Americans are still in love with their automobiles. (See The USA!) Simple math shuld even lead simple thinkers that US production of fuel should not have been severly curtailed. Green ideals may help people feel good but folks still need to eat, commute and work. Fanciful dreaming can do much damage unless some realistic thought is given by serious leaders on how to cleanly generate electricity in a heck of of a less time than 52 years.

Meantime, supplies down…Honda gasoline costs up. Tonight I will say a prayer of thanks that I don’t spend over $100 for a tank of gas. Such a cost hurts so many of our fellow Americans. For obvious reasons I hate to cite anything from the U of Michigan BUT its consumer sentiment index is currently at an all time low. (Since 1952) Poeple are hurting. I remember the pain of 1970’s pinch on the family budget from inflation. It hurt. I am lucky that I can weather the storm better now. What is most irritating is that I hear an echo: “Suck it up”….”Nothing much we can do about it”….”Need to endure a tough transition.” Problems from the Middle East was one thing 1973 but today’s wounds are mostly self-inflicted. (BTW: When you get the chance…take an economics course or two.)

Again, hope will more likely come from innovation. i.e. Safer nuclear was previously mentioned in this blog. Recently, I read about research to take evil CO2 OUT of the atmosphere. It’s usually best to avoid “someone should do something” aimed at government. Put your hope on bright young minds. Maybe yours.