Rationale and recommendations are presented for vocational education's response to the national energy crisis in light of present involvement and future needs. The problem is stated in terms of the need for training programs in the newer energy technologies, including those related to conservation. Federal policies are outlined, specifically the national energy goals for 1985. These are followed by a review of the status of energy technology development in four areas: solar energy, coal mining technology, nuclear energy, and other energy sources. For each area implications for vocational education are noted. A discussion of present energy-related vocational/technical curriculum development activity at both the postsecondary and secondary level includes results of a national survey of postsecondary institutions, programs, and enrollment in eight energy-related technology fields. It is concluded that there is some awareness of the problem and general methods necessary to reduce it but that the response of the vocational education sector must be one of strong leadership in the total educational community. Six specific recommendations in this regard are addressed to the new Department of Energy, to state and local advisory committees in vocational education, and to the National Institute of Education. Focus in the recommendations is on inservice training in new energy and energy conservation technologies for vocational education personnel and on curriculum development in these areas. (JT)