Governor Matt Blunt has signed an executive order creating the Missouri Energy Task Force. The task force will be responsible for providing the Governor with a report that makes recommendations for lessening Missouri’s dependence on oil and other fossil fuels, provides assistance for low income Missourians who need assistance paying winter heating bills, promotes new opportunities for the use of renewable fuels, and encourages Missouri utilities to develop and operate electric power generation resources that will result in low-cost electricity for the future. The Task Force’s report is due by August 31st of next year. The panel will consist of nine members, with Public Service Commission Chairman Jefferson Davis serving as Chair.