The New York Times reported today that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), headed by Lisa Jackson, is expected to regulate carbon dioxide emissions. The article claimed that the potential regulation could have a “profound impact on transportation, manufacturing costs and how utilities generate power.” Regulation will likely increase the direct costs associated with fossil fuels, which could spur investment in alternative, renewable, clean energy. Legislation would primarily deal with carbon dioxide (CO₂) as a pollutant. This leaves opportunities for wind, solar, geothermal and other sources of nonpolluting energy. There may be room for ethanol in the new energy economy, despite its carbon dioxide emissions. Whatever the final legislation looks like, President Obama’s administration has set a course that allows for the consideration of clean energy. Aside from the reduction of greenhouse gases, renewable energy projects could take hold and create jobs and the infrastructure needed for 21st century development.