As to direct government intervention into the citizens’ personal daily lives, look to the Simulus Bill’s appropriation of $30 billion (in the House version at least) for the “Smart Grid.”

While technical improvements in transmission and distribution is welcome, the “Demand Response” measures embedded within the Smart Grid should give one pause. Since we will move to wind and solar, inherently unreliable, when these peter-out, the only choice is to reach in with computer technology (including Bluetooth-equipped meters, thermostats, and major appliances) and reduce your home’s consumption of electricity.

Look for a future American Thinker article on this topic.