There's a silver lining in the combination of the economic crisis and high energy costs, from the standpoint of the environment and workers.  The renewal of tax credits for solar and wind energy will not only help renewable energy companies, but unemployed workers as well.  People who are handy will likely be more able to find jobs installing solar panels or working in clean energy companies.  In addition, since petroleum costs continue to be high, there is likely to be increased demand for increased home and building insulation, weather-stripping, and even caulking of leaky walls that let in cold air drafts.  The Apollo Alliance and Green for All are campaigning for green jobs at the right time.