Wind Power Soon
Liz and Dick Vanden Heuvel
Wind power is the fastest growing clean energy source in the U.S. and
the most easily
available. The eastern shore of the mid-Atlantic is naturally protected
from storms and is
located in big, fairly shallow water. Wind always blows in the the
mid-Atlantic. With wind
power, Maryland could meet two thirds of its energy requirements,
reducing significantly its
reliance on coal and nuclear energy. Research shows no significant
impact on birds, and
the turbines will be barely visible at ten or more miles off the coast.
What is needed now is a power purchasing agreement between the turbine
companies and
the power companies. Legislation is being proposed that will require
the Public Service
Commission to negotiate long term contracts between Maryland’s power
companies and
off-shore wind generator suppliers. Such legislation could create
thousands of new jobs
and stabilize electricity rates for years.
The Sierra Club has a long history of supporting alternative energy
sources and now we
have a chance to move ahead. Hopefully, by the time you read this,
bills will have been
filed. Please contact your state delegates and senator to urge support
of this plan. To find
your legislators, contact
http://www.mlis.state.md.us or call 410-946-5400.
You are also
welcome to contact us at
liz2vh@olg.com or by phone at 410-267-9009. |
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