Guest commentary: We need power alternatives

From Thomas H. Glick

Two Harbors

I received notification by Cooperative Light & Power to raise my base rate meter charge to $25, which I understand is more than three times that of Minnesota Power. I pay $2.25 per month for “wind power reserve” that is supposed to go toward alternative energy sources. I hope it does.

In the middle of the 20th century, in the grip of the Great Depression, the United States government embarked on an ambitious plan to bring electricity to the entire nation. Rural Electrification Associations were formed bringing much needed jobs and improving the lives of countless Americans. After years of work, electricity became part of everyday life for nearly the entire population. The resulting reduction in poverty became the model for the world.

The global climate problem caused by the enormous appetite we have for burning fossil fuels will affect every person for generations to come. It is up to us, right now, to solve this problem lest our children inherit an Earth that is far less agreeable to human habitation. It is also a problem we can solve.

Each day, the sun and wind, as well as all other sources of energy the Earth provides, are capable of sustaining our way of life without lowering our standard of living. In fact, our standard of living would be greatly enhanced and our life expectancy extended by cleaner air and water. It is not a matter of technology but of will. Will we leave our children a sustainable Earth, or will we ignore the problem until we are stricken by it?

Unless CLP encourages incentives for alternative source production, engages in technologies capable of sustaining life in perpetuity, and becomes competitive with Minnesota Power, the usefulness of CLP has played itself out and should be allowed to expire in favor of a more consumer and Earth friendly electric supplier.

The author describes himself as a 28-year supporter and customer Cooperative Light & Power.

Tags: local view, opinion