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I think Americans are now reacting to high oil/gas prices much more than ever and much faster than ever. I think the reduced demand will help stabilize prices and despite what the doomsday people say , I think oil will go down again fairly quickly. I now use less than half the gas I did last year by buying a hybrid. I now use less than half the electricity I did 2 years ago by going flourescent and using 1 bulb where there once was 4 and by being faithful to turn things off. My natural gas bill dropoped almost 30% by installing a ventless gas heater in the room where I spend most of my time. Whole house is low but I am warm and toasty in my cave.
All this was comparatively easy and economical. i needed a new car so deciding on a hybrid did not cost me any more and in fact i got such a good deal after considering the energy rebate I think I spent less for the hybrid than I would have for any other vehicle I would have considered. The stove cost me $250 and I spent another $40 or so to pipe it in , etc. That stove paid for itself this one winter heater season. Flourescent bulbs are always on sale somewhere and they last so long you get your payback just in bulb life and the 2/3 energy saving is all gravy.
All things considered , I think the oil producers have more to fear from Americans getting energy efficient than we have to fear from them and their Nash Bargaining cartel games. Time will tell but as I see it , the more they push , the more Americans convert to the energy conscious lifestyle.
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