Published: June 08, 2007 05:54 pm      

Alternative energy — United effort crucial for America’s future

A change in tune by U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall, D-W.Va., regarding his support for proposed, intense regulation for the wind energy industry was encouraging news.

Earlier last week, House Committee Chairman Rahall put a requirement into an energy bill that would mandate the Interior Department regulate the siting and operation of energy wind turbines to ensure the safety of wildlife.

Rahall’s proposal would have required the Interior Department to develop regulations affecting surveys, siting, operation and monitoring standards for wind energy projects to determine their impact on migratory birds, bats and other wildlife, according to an Associated Press report.

While we can appreciate the importance of environmental protection — What true-blooded West Virginia would not want to protect our extraordinary wildlife and natural resources? — we believe it is vital for our leaders in Washington to work together toward development of any and all alternative fuels that could ultimately rid our country of its dependence on Middle Eastern oil.

While we have, and continue to be, solid proponents of the growth of coal and coal-to-liquid technology, we also welcome development of other energy alternatives.

“Electricity from wind turbines serves some three million homes, although wind power still accounts for less than 1 percent of the total electricity produced,” according to the AP. “Coal is burned to produce more than half of the country’s electricity, and nuclear reactors account for about 20 percent.”

Rahall backed off from his hard-line environment stance Wednesday, and opted to support a measure by Rep. Edward Markey, D-Mass., which opts for guidelines for the protection of wildlife from wind turbines instead of regulations.

Following the committee meeting, Rahall told the AP, “I think it was a good compromise. It will allow the development of wind and still allow for a process” to protect wildlife

There is certainly no easy solution that will provide a quick fix to America’s energy crisis. We did not become dependent on foreign oil in a day; and it will certainly take years, if not decades, for America to become self-sufficient for its energy needs.

But there are viable options in the works and, we believe, this country is certainly big enough to support a plethora of energy sources.

We appreciate Rahall’s commitment to the coalfields and his endless hard work and effort to bring “King Coal” back to its monarchy of decades past.

However, we believe support of coal doesn’t mean one has to oppose other potential energy sources.

As residents of a coal-producing state, it is imperative we advocate the development of this resource for the future economic growth of our region.

But, as Americans, we must be open to progress in other alternative fuel energies for the well-being of the United States.

There is room for more than one alternative energy source in America.

It would be heartening to see our members of Congress realize this, and unite as a team to develop these fuel sources for the betterment of all Americans and our future generations.