Progressive Democrat Issue 72: ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION: Prevent a step backwards on alternative energy

Even someone as ignorant and blind as George Bush has admitted that we are addicted to oil and our very survival depends on finding alternatives. I wrote a rather strongly worded article on the subject of global warming and alternative energy in an earlier issue.

But far from giving America the leadership we need to create the alternatives with all the jobs and local economic benefits it would entail, our Federal government remains locked in old thinking, and are even ready to stifle some of our best alternative energy projects.

From the Union of Concerned Scientists:

Attempt to Kill Cape Cod Wind Project Could Have Major Implications for Nation's Clean Energy Future

The Cape Wind project—a 130-turbine wind farm proposed for federal waters in Nantucket Sound—is under attack. If built, this source of clean, renewable energy would be the first of its kind in the United States. However, a last-minute provision inserted in the Coast Guard bill may put an end to this critical project. Cape Wind has already undergone five years of exhaustive reviews and has passed regulatory muster by state, regional, and federal authorities.

America needs clean energy sources that do not deplete our natural resources or destroy our environment. Please urge your senators and representative to oppose provisions in the Coast Guard bill that would stifle much needed development of clean, renewable offshore wind power.

Take action here.


I also want to reiterate that thanks to deregulation of the energy industry across the nation, in many areas YOU have alternative energy options for your home’s energy needs. You can opt for companies that generate energy by renewable means. With oil prices so high, these alternative options are not necessarily even more expensive. Anecdotally, some people have told me that their energy bills went DOWN when they switched.

For many states, you can find out more here.

For the NYC area, you can enroll here.

We all can take some responsibility for changing how America generates energy.