Benefits of alternative energy

The Washington Post has this very interesting report (by Steve Mufson) on how alternative energy can help rebuild America.

"Many boosters of solar, wind and biofuels have tried to sell them as pieces of a new American economy, but these nascent industries rely on many of the same skills and materials as the old American economy-- and that's good for people looking for jobs.

The wind turbines installed by Madison Gas and Electric Co. in Wisconsin, for example, were placed on towers that weigh 73 1/2 tons, mostly made of steel. They were built in Shreveport, La. Wind turbines also use components common in many endangered U.S. industries, such as gearboxes, rotors, control systems, disc brakes, yaw motors and drives, and bearings.

'What we need are policies that advance the climate for investment in these products,' says Marco Trbovich, communications director for the United Steelworkers of America."

The article continues, explaining how certain electric rate policies may move people in a certain direction:

"If utilities start charging customers more for electricity during peak-usage periods -- around midday and early afternoon, when solar power is most available, the solar business could get another boost."

Personally, I don't want to see any more rates increase. I think we've all had enough of that. But perhaps cutting off-peak rates would have the same impact as increasing peak rates?

If you're thinking about using solar power (photovoltaics) and are interested in getting more info about it, this is a good place to start. And that webpage may lead you to this page where you can find CT tax incentives.

Tim White
Town Council, Energy Commission liaison