Minnesota could best become an energy leader through massive conservation. We are now using more energy per capita than we did in the 1970s. A realistic goal might be 30% reduction in total energy use within 10 years. These would mean insulating older homes, encouraging mass transit and disouraging driving (perhaps a tax on new vehicle sales based on weight?), discouraging urban sprawl, etc. Much of this could be done with the "bully pulpit" of government.

Energy conservation has many advantages - zero pollution, economic security, and perhaps greater well-being.

I doubt that technological improvements or new energy sources alone will be sufficient. After all, if energy prices went down, we would simply consume more. We have to start on the consumer side, which politicians seem unwilling to do.

> State adopts higher energy code standards for new construction and remodels

> Metro Transit implements suburban "high level transit service districts" that have high frequency internal transit service plus frequent links to existing high service districts such as downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul. This would leverage high density, transit-oriented development.

> PUC requirements that energy utilities be aggressive in partnering with residential and commercial consumers to implement conservation measures, as Xcel has done in Colorado.

To become an energy leader Minnesota should advocate for the efficient use of locally owned and locally available renewable energy resources, which can be a diverse mix of solar, wind, geothermal, low- head hydro, and biofuels. This would keep the wealth of Minnesota in Minnesota and provide a measure of economic democracy.