The Wright Words: U.S. lagging behind other nations

Why is the administration opposed to funding renewable energy programs? The present budget proposes a decrease in spending for energy efficiency initiatives. Countries that participate in the Kyoto Protocol are moving forward in their quest for a clean energy economy. Sadly, the United States does not participate in this endeavor. It was reported recently by BBC that Scotland produced enough electricity from wind farms in January to power over 300,000 homes. Scottish Power realizes that wind power is a wonderful source of energy, and has committed itself to generate 40% of their electricity from renewable sources by the year 2020. Margaret Eubank of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel recently wrote: “ I have just returned from India. Most of the time during my 30-day stay my eyes stung, and my throat was sore from pollution. But the Indians have taken positive action by outlawing two-cycle engines. All motor vehicles in Delhi must be powered by compressed natural gas. What has to happen before Americans realize they have the power to control pollution, to find an alternative to gasoline as a source of energy?” The administration so far has not committed to this kind of forward thinking, and, frankly, it makes no sense. Even in the state of Texas, legislators and clean energy advocates are joining forces to dramatically expand renewable energy sources in the state. According to an article in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, State Sen. Troy Fraser introduced a bill that would require 10% of the state’s electricity come from renewable energy sources by 2025. At this time it is mandated that only 2.7% be derived from renewable sources by 2009. It is incomprehensible that our federal government is not taking steps to greatly reduce our dependence on oil for energy. At the same time, most of us know the oil industry and large auto makers influence decisions made by the current administration when they pertain to energy use. Unfortunately for American citizens, the time for change is now, not in the future.