To the Editor:

Your March 25 editorial ''Pain at the Pump and Beyond'' pointed to the strain that high energy prices are putting on America's economy, families and businesses. As energy secretary, I agree that our nation is ''far too dependent on oil.'' We absolutely must lessen our dependence on fossil fuels, harness the power of clean energy, and increase our energy efficiency.

And so I strongly disagree with your statement that the Bush administration's energy strategy is ''focused on one thing: getting more oil.'' At best, this suggestion demonstrates an incomplete understanding of the efforts under way across our nation.

Since the start of this administration, the federal government has spent more than $12 billion to research, develop and promote alternative energy sources. Last year alone, the Energy Department announced more than $1 billion to spur the growth of a robust, sustainable biofuels industry -- with a focus on cellulosic ethanol. We also continue to make critical investments in solar and wind power, hydrogen fuel cells, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, cutting-edge clean coal plants and advanced nuclear power technologies. And we're already seeing results -- in our national laboratories and, more important, out in the marketplace.

This work has been under way for years and must continue at a rapid pace. After all, our energy challenges have been decades in the making and will not be solved overnight.

Our national strategy is not a reaction to high oil prices. It's a comprehensive policy that seeks to address two of the most fundamental challenges we face: improving our energy security and combating global climate change. Today's high energy prices only underscore the urgency of these efforts.

Samuel W. Bodman
Secretary of Energy
Washington, March 26, 2008

Last Reviewed: 7/28/2008