I do agree with your points about enhancements to the overall design of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR).
Considering that the SPR came into existence in the 1970’s after an oil boycott, I do support ‘modernizing‘ to better address issues the country faces today. A new administration should be the ones to address it now, and Make It Greater, lol.
As far as a definition for the SPR, I would prefer that it be crude oil stored in underground caverns and reserved for use due to disasters, economic considerations from oil boycotts, military fuels in time of war, and in response to other catastrophes.
I think the underground storage caverns should be filled to 100% of capacity and maintained at this level at all times. If necessary to release volumes, they must be refilled as soon as practical. Price should not be an impediment (Poor Joe. He may not understand the purpose of the SPR).
This STRATEGIC supply could be all that Americans have to rely on in times of catastrophe or emergency and must therefore be protected at all costs and at all times. How long should we expect to go without power (electricity) and fuel (vehicles)? The current authorized capacity of the SPR is 714 million barrels. But after Joe’s release, it is now filled to only 50 percent of it’s capacity.
And it may also be necessary to use it to provide fuel for military activity (ships, planes) to protect the population during time of war. In this instance having this supply available and ready for refining is critical and may make a difference to the outcome.
And recognizing the time (1-3 yrs) needed to plan the projects, manufacture the tubulars (made overseas), execute drilling, and transport the crude to refineries, to replenish 700 million barrels, makes me uneasy. How about you?
I will admit being upset over the position the country’s (D) leadership has placed us all in while pursuing their political CYA games.
These underachievers supported an inept and naive energy plan intended to force the country toward a goal that will give them more of a political advantage. Manipulative, Not Smart.
They deserve the costs and the price required.
I hope they are made to pay it in November.
Mrs. Smith
