Communications is also a big part of it. If the high-level objective is to reduce the energy intensity of the U.S. economy, why don't we run fiber-optic cable to everyone's house? That will support applications to allow people to stop commuting.

No shit.

Economics 101 states that in bad times, investment in basics is what pulls you through. Want to prime yourself for the recovery? A long term energy strategy, communications infrastructure (WHICH INCLUDES POLICY/REGULATION REFORM!), and health are all excellent candidates for attention. All three are at crisis stage, and all three can provide the foundation for tremendous growth and innovation for the next 20+ years. Let's get to it!