Times are changing. The nearly 2 million strong energy army will conduct their assault on the nation’s capital in the virtual world with extensive Web 2.0 tactics utilizing social networking tools.

Social networking is now the weapon of choice for bringing about a 'virtual march' on Washington, D.C.

Energy magnate T. Boone Pickens, who made billions in the oil industry, has announced plans for what he terms a Virtual March on Washington D.C. for Energy Independence during the first three days of April.

Being touted by the Pickens Plan as “Three Days That Will Change America,” virtual marchers will call, email, fax and personally meet with members of Congress and their staffs to stress the importance of a comprehensive national energy reform that will encourage energy conservation and efficiency, and make the nation safer, cleaner and energy independent.

“Achieving energy independence and reducing our dependence on foreign oil are not partisan problems; they are American problems, and the Pickens New Energy Army is committed to supporting a national energy plan that will help save this nation and rebuild our economy,” Pickens said.

In a sign of changing times, the organizers are planning a Web 2.0 all-out assault.

Communications will be conducted with extensive use of popular social networking sites, including Twitter, Facebook and MySpace. The Pickens Plan also has a social network of their own, called Push, where supporters can interact.

As of Wednesday morning, there were more than 1.8 million marchers signed up, according to the Pickens Plan website.

“Americans are united and the Pickens New Energy Army is motivated and passionate about delivering the message that after 40 years, the time is now to put a plan in place and to end America’s staggering addiction to foreign oil. Along with our partners, we are going to rally Americans to deliver that message to Congress,” continued Pickens. “There has never been a virtual march of this magnitude and we are certain it will leave a strong impression on Washington. The time to act is now.”

According to the Pickens Plan, which has been tracking and reporting the monthly crude oil imports, the U.S imported 62 percent of its oil –about 339 million barrels– in February, at a  cost of $13 billion for the month or more than $328,000 per minute.

The army includes 14 governors, 7 US Senators, 52 congressmen and over 185 mayors in its ranks.