We must plan a proactive, informed, and smooth transition to renewable energy that avoids economic disruption. Energy efficiency measures can be implemented quickly, and with immediate benefits. The switch to renewable energy sources will take a little more time; but we now know how to create an energy system that is secure, affordable, and clean. We need the political leadership to bring it about.

We've identified a number of public policy initiatives that could make the U.S. independent of oil by 2020. By and large, these measures are revenue-neutral to the national budget. And none of these policies will have us huddling under blankets to stay warm; efficiency just means the elimination of waste, not the imposition of austerity.

The policies fall into three broad categories:

• Energy Efficiency
• Renewable Energy
• Infrastructure Reform