Overview

This discussion will address the burning issues of energy security and climate change in U.S. energy policy as they relate to transportation. Focusing on cars and light trucks, we will collaboratively explore the key stakeholders, and policies that can help to address transportation’s key energy challenges.

Key Questions

1.    What are the key issues and rationale driving transportation-sector energy policy?
2.    Who are the important stakeholders and what are their positions and motives?
3.    What policy instruments are available? What is an optimal policy structure for achieving energy policy goals in the transportation sector?
4.    How does this compare with current developments?

Preparatory Readings

• Greene, (2005) “Improving the Nation’s Energy Security: Can Cars and Trucks be Made More Fuel Efficient?” Testimony to the U.S. House of Representatives Science Committee. (pages 1 to 6)
• Driving America’s Future (2007) “Is CAFE the Right Way?” Driving America’s Future Website. (1 page)
• Laboratory for Energy and the Environment (2004) “A Multi-pronged Approach to Curbing Gasoline Use” (2 pages)
• detnews.com (2007) “Bush aims for new emissions rules before he leaves office”, September 10, 2007 (2 pages)
• Associated Press (2007) “Judge Rejects Carmaker’s Emission Suit”, New York Times, September 12, 2007. (2 pages)

U.S. Energy Policy: Cars and light trucks in transportation

06:00-07:00PM Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Leader: Chris Evans
Location: Thirsty Ear Pub