Group seeks higher 'energy intelligence'

WASHINGTON, Feb. 14 (UPI) -- U.S. citizens must increase their "energy intelligence" if the nation is to meet its energy demands, an industrial trade association said Wednesday.

U.S. energy consumption is projected to exceed production by 7 percent over the next 25 years, "leaving the United States more dependent on the energy imports and vulnerable to higher energy prices," National Association of Manufacturers President John Engler said.

Without improving people's awareness of energy issues through education, internships and research programs, the United States faces a potential energy crisis, the association said.

The association called for research and development into new energy sources.

"A healthy economy and a healthy energy policy go hand in hand," Engler said. "When we talk energy, we talk about our economy. We have to be smarter about the choices we make, think beyond the near-term and invest in our energy future."