1. Cap and Trade Discarded by Congress in National Energy Policy

Cascadia believes that Congress will implement a national energy policy in the coming year that focuses primarily on incenting new production of natural gas, renewable energies and nuclear; however, it will not include economic penalties for not achieving a reduction in carbon emissions.

2. Rising Oil Prices Lead to Investments in Natural Gas

As the economy continues to slowly improve over the next 12 months, Cascadia predicts that oil will hit $100 per barrel. At the same time, oil companies will look to expand their operations by purchasing natural gas companies and assets.

3. Waste to Energy Technology Ready for Prime Time

Cascadia believes that technologies capable of converting municipal solid waste to energy will be ready for commercialization in 2011 and will replace incinerators and landfills as the primary option for municipal solid waste.

4. Traditional Energy Companies Pursue Acquisitions in Renewable Energy

Cascadia predicts that traditional energy companies such as BP, Chevron and Shell will continue to grow their renewable energy portfolio through acquisition.

[Editor's Note: This is part of a series of posts from Xconomists and other technology and life sciences leaders from around the U.S. who are weighing in with the top surprises they've seen in their respective fields in the past year, or the major things to watch for in 2011.]

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…is coming soon.

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