Have you noticed that Massachusetts seems to be sending mixed messages when it comes to supporting alternative energy here in the Bay State?
I think it's time for us to get things straight and stand solidly behind alternative sources of energy for Massachusetts residents.
On Wednesday, we learned that poor economic conditions have led Evergreen Solar, a company the state once supported and touted as a harbinger of economic success, to relocate certain jobs from Massachusetts to China.
At the same time, the Patrick administration is receiving attention for a bill to make it easier to locate wind turbines here in Massachusetts. Essentially, the bill would streamline the state appeals process for the siting of turbines, which would make it faster and theoretically easier to build windmills across the state.
I think it’s good that our state is realizing the importance of cultivating alternative energy resources here in Massachusetts. It’s good for our environment, our economy, and also for our way of life. But at the same time, alternative energy has its drawbacks, and when it comes to wind power, the big one is always a siting concern.
I think Governor Patrick’s bill has some merit. As the Evergreen Solar decision shows, our state has a vested economic interest in making sure that we promote alternative energy projects here in Massachusetts. But I also think it’s important that communities have some input in the process. Allowing the state to single-handedly make decisions about where to locate these facilities is counterproductive.
I have filed a bill on the same topic that would keep communities involved in the decision-making process. Under my plan, cities and towns would remain the ones in charge of deciding where wind turbines could be erected at the local level, factoring in local concerns and input. But it also would prevent what some cities and towns have done to wholly exclude wind power options from their communities through draconian regulations. I think that’s a fair compromise in the name of better alternative energy choices for our residents.
What do you think? Do you support alternative energy, including the development of wind turbines in your community? I’d like to hear from you. Feel free to post a comment below. Thanks for your input.
