American taxpayers subsidize energy production across the board—from oil, natural gas, and coal to nuclear, wind, and solar—through tax breaks, protective tariffs, market mandates, loan guarantees, grants, and other programs. Too often, this federal spending works at cross-purposes, creates long-term liabilities for taxpayers, distorts markets, and in some cases drives up food and energy prices. More rigorous evaluation of federal energy incentives is essential to ensure that taxpayer dollars deliver real value.
Weekly Wastebasket