Those waiting for a magic bullet to solve the country's energy woes better settle in for a long wait, says Renato Bertani of Thompson & Knight Global Energy Services. In the meantime, lifting the ban on U.S. offshore drilling is one component that will lead to a diversified energy plan. Despite the promise and excitement of

alternative energy, Bertani says oil production will remain the backbone of the country's energy needs for the foreseeable future.  "Fossil fuels will continue as the main source of energy for at least a few more decades," he says. "Oil and gas resources in frontier exploration areas and the extra-heavy oil and tar sands are economically feasible and very attractive in light of new technologies, better environmental management and the higher energy prices. In the long term, the security of our energy supply will have to be based on a broad mix of sources and mutually beneficial interdependence between energy producers and consumers." To interview Mr. Bertani about energy issues, contact Barry Pound at 800-559-4534 or barry@androvett.com.