Butler: Energy Forward Project takes politics out of renewables discussion

Unlike New York and New Jersey, which are seemingly in a game of “Can you top this?” with unrealistic and counterproductive energy policies, and New York, which has just taken the lead with its ill-conceived natural gas ban, Delaware Gov. John Carney and the legislature are taking a more prudent approach. A balanced approach that allows innovation and ensures families and businesses have all available energy options is what our policymakers should be advocating. This is the only way to ensure all Delawareans receive affordable, reliable and environmentally responsible energy.

About 43% of Delaware households rely on natural gas for home heating, and 37% use electricity. While Delaware’s renewable energy standard requires that wind, solar and other renewables generate 40% of electricity retail sales by 2035, only 5% of the state’s electricity came from solar in 2021.

There is a better way to solve the environmental and energy puzzle than throwing pieces out the window.

Each state has its particular needs, specific weather, unique geography and access to energy markets. That’s the thrust of Consumer Energy Alliance’s Energy Forward Project, which aims to depoliticize energy and environmental policymaking by arming the public with unbiased information about our nation’s energy systems, sources and advances in decarbonization. Here’s why: Politics is obscuring the truth about America’s world-leading emissions reductions and impending innovations that make energy production cleaner. There is a cadre of extremist groups who exist to say no to all sources of energy, without offering realistic solutions. Our campaign offers facts, data and an inclusive approach, with the goal of real emissions reductions and affordable energy. It’s time to take politics out of energy policies and ensure we utilize wind, solar, oil, natural gas, nuclear, hydro and all other available options.

Michael Butler

Consumer Energy Alliance

Pittsburgh

Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at civiltalk@iniusa.org.