Monday, April 04, 2005

Iraq oil update. Oil exports via northern Iraq again at a standstill (repairs can't keep up with attacks).  Attack interdicted both domestic and northern export pipeline flows. 9:12:01 PM    Comment_ Trackback []

What the Attack on Abu Ghraib Means  As I mentioned earlier, the attack on Abu Ghraib is proof that al Qaeda is now officially in Iraq.  The execution followed a classic al Qaeda pattern.  Here are some things that the press missed in the little coverage they provided: The level of sophistication.  Swarming and feints. Large number of attackers (50). Low casualties for attackers killed (~1 maybe). No prior intelligence on a large, well planned attack of this size. Weapons mix:  RPGs, VBIEDs, and small arms. This is problematic.  This attack demonstrates that Al Qaeda can now mount an attack of the size and sophistication necessary to over-run a large number of US troops.  An over-run could produce significant US casualties and captives. 12:38:01 PM    Comment_ Trackback []

Another good BW article.  Chinese energy inefficiency.  China spends three times the world average on energy -- and seven times what Japan spends -- to produce $1 of gross domestic product.  At $100 oil, what happens to China?  Additionally, it's clear that bilateral Chinese oil deals will prevent shortages (when they occur).  Will the US be as lucky? 10:52:16 AM    Comment_ Trackback []

Electricity World  BW.  Super efficient plug-in hybrid cars.  The Set America Free coalition, a group of conservatives and enviros, is pushing for $2 billion in incentives, pointing out that "if all cars on the road are hybrids and half are plug-in hybrid vehicles, U.S. oil imports would drop by 8 million barrels per day." Of course, this begs the question: where do you get all of that electricity? Our existing electrical system is in serious disrepair.  Investment in the infrastructure has been falling for decades. Of course, the market for energy is seriously distorted.  The costs of hydrocarbon security aren't being factored into the pump price. 10:40:59 AM    Comment_ Trackback []

Newsweek.  Donations to Al Qaeda's coffers had dried up as bin Laden's top men were killed or captured. Now private money is once again flooding in. Bin Laden himself is looking more confident and relaxed-maybe too relaxed, al-Iraqi said. 9:41:12 AM    Comment_ Trackback []

It's pretty funny that the press falls over every improvement Google makes to a product still in limited beta.  7:33:49 AM    Comment_ Trackback []