Cheney Gets Coal Fired

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Coal isn't the only winner. The Cheney task force is nearing approval of other proposals that have the energy industry humming:

--Nukes are suddenly on the table again, even though the industry has not ordered a domestic generator since the Three Mile Island disaster 22 years ago. And the panel is considering new money for research into disposing of nuclear waste, the most toxic garbage ever created.

--For oil and gas, the task force will recommend exploration on sacrosanct federal lands--including the controversial Alaska National Wildlife Refuge--and possibly offshore tracts.

--Plans to encourage new electricity grids--our power lines are shot--and gas pipelines stand to be recommended.

--Development of renewable fuels such as solar, geothermal and wind will get tax credits.

Bush has held three working sessions with the task force, which is scheduled to send its report to the printer's this week. The President is planning a high-profile rollout in mid-May, including three days of travel to sell his proposals. If that doesn't heat up America's energy debate, blackouts in California and elsewhere this summer should do the job. Democrats in Congress, which must approve many of the panel's ideas, are relishing the opportunity to brand Bush as an environmental rogue. Beyond that, there's the nimby problem. California might be going dark, but would Republicans living in Santa Barbara approve a new coal-burning or nuclear plant in their backyard? Would anyone?