David Smith

The climate plan President Obama disclosed at Georgetown University on Tuesday is full of problems. Nevertheless, since it's on the horizon, Fools would be well advised to look for energy companies that will benefit from or be unaffected by its arrival.

While uncertainties have enveloped our economy, crude prices are likely to head for higher ground.

It's tough to choose between the two remaining major U.S.-based integrated oil and gas companies. But if you have to make a decision, the nod probably should go to Chevron.

With the market bouncing about like a cork in a storm, and all manner of traps waiting to ensnare it, you'd be well-advised to revisit the energy portion of your portfolio.

Without the advances in seismic technology, the globe's oil and gas output would be massively lower than today's levels. Beyond that, the seismic group includes some awfully compelling companies.

Most mining stocks have plummeted during the past several months. But for Fools with patience, there are some awfully compelling opportunities warranting attention.

By now you know about the misdeeds at both the Internal Revenue Service and the Justice Department. But were you aware that the EPA has also been inappropriately playing favorites?

With its big Grasberg facility likely to resume operations shortly and its pair of oil and gas acquisitions being wrapped up, the time may be ideal to salt away some Freeport-McMoRan shares.

Events in Syria and Iraq could be far more perilous for energy investors than is generally recognized.

With the energy world awaiting a presidential decision on whether or not to build the Keystone XL pipeline, Congress may be lining up to co-opt approval authority from the administration.

There are numerous strong energy companies for Fools to choose from, but this threesome is deserving of especially close attention.

Chevron's relationships in Ecuador, Argentina, and Brazil, while still imperfect, are looking far more positive than they did just a year ago.

Look at The New York Times Company's forward multiple, and then examine the same metric for the blowing and going offshore drillers. Is there any logic there?

With its founder and longtime CEO relegated to flying around in its aircraft, Chesapeake's new strategies and approaches become especially important to the world of energy investors.

While its earnings dipped year over year, the causal factors were either one-time events or uncontrollable macros. The company remains among the sounder members of the energy sector.

Its downstream assets are successfully ensconced in their own company, and it's jettisoning a host of worldwide properties. Will this slimming down make ConocoPhillips stronger?

Despite an earnings miss and sliding margins, National Oilwell Varco is a solid company that simply needs to catch its breath.

Dow Chemical turns in a surprisingly robust quarter as management strives to enhance the company's strengths.

Despite a less-than-thunderous reception from Mr. Market for its quarter, ExxonMobil is clearly on track for some growth years.

With its acquisitions pace likely to slow, watch for Varco's margins -- and maybe even its dividend -- to expand.