Check out my LTE as it appeared in today’s Virginian-Pilot (with added byline, different photo and embedded link to our ACES “Take Action” page:

Ground zero in wind energy

Virginia is blessed with offshore wind, which could power as much as 20% of the commonwealth. The technology for offshore wind exists today and has proven commercially viable elsewhere in the world. Each wind turbine consists of more than 8,000 parts, which translates to thousands of good-paying, secure jobs. The U.S. holds a majority of the patents involved with solar energy systems. Yet those solar energy parts are primarily produced in Europe, which drives up the costs for systems sold in the U.S. Thus, we don’t see solar panels on as many homes and businesses as we should. The ’shot in the arm’ investment provided by the American Clean Energy and Security Act would get these systems produced right here, right now.

Meanwhile, of all the places in the U.S., the effects of climate change are felt hardest here in Hampton Roads with billions of dollars of our assets vulnerable to sea level rise and greater storm surges. But from problems come solutions, and Virginia could be a national leader in renewable energy production. Congress must pass the ACES Act, and Rep. Glenn Nye must lead the charge.

Eileen Levandoski
Sierra Club, Virginia chapter
Virginia Beach