Public Energy Education

Abstract

Forum - Young professionals speak out on energy education. For this article, The Way Ahead addressed one of the most challenging topics for professionals in the oil and gas industry: public energy education. When oil prices peaked at USD 147/bbl in 2008, everyone felt the crunch. Food prices spiked and transportation costs rose. Global warming and the environmental impact of energy use took center stage in the public debate. Yet, media coverage, public debate, and politicians still seem to lack a fundamental understanding of where energy comes from, the costs and trade-offs related to different energy sources, technological and geographic constraints, and the hard choices that lie ahead. This article illustrates that industry professionals feel a responsibility to educate their friends, family, and neighbors, and students of all ages about energy.