The Iran war is deepening the US energy crisis. A bad winter is ahead | Mark Wolfe
Summary
The article says the war in Iran has disrupted energy markets and could raise heating-oil costs for U.S. households by about 50% this winter. It urges Congress to add $3 billion to the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and consider extending eligibility to struggling middle-income families.Key Facts
- The article estimates that households heating with oil could face nearly $900 in additional costs this winter.
- Heating oil and diesel are closely related petroleum products, and the article says both have been affected by disruptions to global energy markets.
- Higher diesel costs can raise expenses for transporting food and operating farms and construction equipment.
- Research by the author's organization found electricity shutoffs in 10 states rose 28% over the past two years.
- A Consumer Reports survey found that more than a quarter of families reduced home heating or cooling to uncomfortable levels to save money.
- The same survey found that 19% of families cut back on groceries or switched to less expensive food.
- The author says repairs to damaged refineries, reopened shipping routes, and replenished oil inventories could take months even if the war ends.
- The author calls on Congress to provide $3 billion in additional LIHEAP funding and consider temporary eligibility for struggling middle-income families.
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