Welcome to Energyville: Population 3.9 million

So, Houstonians, you think energy prices are higher than a proverbial cats back? We can power our world on biodiesel, wind turbines and solar power? You have the opportunity to experience what it takes to power a city of 3.9 million, courtesy of Chevron and the publisher of Economist magazine. So, bang here to try your hand at running "Energyville" and learn a little about energy supplies. Here's a blip from the Chronicle that gives you some additional scoop:

Created by San Ramon, Calif.-based Chevron Corp. and the company that publishes the Economist magazine, the new online game is an attempt to illustrate the complexities of our energy supply, now and in the future.

Players decide how to supply a cartoon city with enough power for its 3.9 million people. You can choose from sources as eco-friendly as wind or as dirty as coal. Each choice has an economic and environmental cost.

The better you balance those costs, the higher your score. Think SimCity rebuilt by energy economists.

``Our interest is looking at new ways to engage people,'' said Dave Samson, Chevron's general manager of public affairs. ``As a company, we've been saying for a long time that we're going to need all forms of energy to meet growing demand. There are trade-offs.''

What Houstonist finds most interesting is that the cost-basis for energy has been based upon real pricing data - giving the general public a better look at the heretofore mysterious world of energy, energy-pricing and what it really takes to keep your domicile running brightly and at an optimal temperature, while you drive all over town doing stuff and stuff. Have fun playing!!!! We just checked it out - a counter tells you how many barrel-equivalents of oil/gas are used during your visit - at risk of irking "the man" - we gotta play. In the meantime, here's our PSA for today - we support alternate forms of transportation (like feet and feet on pedals), recycling, locally produced foods (and beer), composting and living over 70 degrees in the summer and under in the winter.