Alternative sources of energy and conservation efforts will play a large role in reducing fuel prices and fixing the current energy crisis, two Democratic candidates for the U.S. Senate said in separate interviews.

One of candidate Nick Carter's major campaign issues is creating a comprehensive energy plan that would set a goal of becoming independent from the Middle East for energy in 15 to 20 years.

"Put everything on the table - nuclear energy, wind energy with some tax credits, clean coal, look into drilling at home," said Carter, an attorney from Gillette. "But the idea that we can just drill our way out of this is too simplistic."

He blames high fuel prices on the "complete lack of planning in Washington, D.C., over the past 30 years."

Carter will face Keith Goodenough, a utility line locator from Casper, in Tuesday's primary election. Each is hoping to win the Democratic party nomination to face Republican U.S. Sen. John Barrasso during the general election in November.

Goodenough spent 14 years in the Wyoming Legislature and currently sits on Casper City Council. Carter is a political newcomer.

Goodenough blames high fuel prices on the increase in fuel use by developing countries such as China and India, nervous markets in the Middle East because of military occupation, and the monetary policy of the United States.

Goodenough's solutions include not using military force as a first option, working toward a balanced budget and reducing the demand for oil in the United States.

Neither of the candidates see drilling in the Wyoming Range, Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska, or other "pristine places" as a viable option in the near future.

Goodenough said the country needs to keep those areas as "strategic reserves" for when there is a real shortage.

Carter said he would be opposed to drilling there unless it was determined to be necessary as part of the country's comprehensive energy plan. However, he said drilling in those areas probably wouldn't be needed if the country considered other energy sources in its plan.

Wind energy is a great opportunity to pursue, Carter said, especially in Wyoming.

Neither candidate thinks ethanol should be used as an alternative source.

Both candidates see a need to increase conservation efforts because the population in the United States is still on the rise.

"The U.S. has 5 percent of the population and uses 40 percent of the oil," Goodenough said.

Goodenough said much of the conservation efforts should fall on local governments. He said local governments are closer to the public and will be able to increase the demand for energy-saving technology.

For example, the City of Casper could buy hybrid vehicles and encourage citizens to do the same.

Carter said the government needs to take greenhouse gases seriously and Goodenough said it has a responsibility to cut down on emissions.

"We need to look at the big picture instead of little, quick fixes," Carter said. "Ethanol is a quick fix. Drilling in pristine places is a quick fix."

Contact reporter Allison Rupp at (307) 266-0534 or allison.rupp@trib.com.