Introduction

America is built on available energy

There is nothing wrong with America that the faith, love of freedom, intelligence and energy of her citizens cannot cure

Dwight D. Eisenhower

US general & Republican politician (1890 - 1969)

When President Eisenhower uttered those words, I don't imagine he would have envisioned the critical role which energy plays in 21st Century America. Everywhere we look, energy is being transformed and consumed. Our cars need it. Our emails to family use it. The strawberries we eat in Wisconsin arrived here, courtesy of the energy used in the transportation systems.

America has always thrived on abundant energy.

Early American Energy Sources

Many of the pre-revolutionary portraits show famous people standing by a fireplace. Wood was the plentiful energy source in pre-revolutionary years in America. Trees were available free for the taking in the early years of our country.

In the 1600's, 1700's and 1800's...