If a home generates more power than it uses, the bill is zero.

Ask the administration or the Republicans or most academics why America needs more manufacturing, and they respond that manufacturing gives birth to innovation, brings down the trade deficit, strengthens the dollar, generates jobs, arms the military and brings about a recovery from recession.

Today, factory output generates just 12% of G.D.P. and employs barely 9% of the nation's workers.

High savings lead, over time, to increased investment, which in turn generates productivity gains, innovation and job growth.