What is really happening is a paradigm shift
Gerry Flakas, a RENEW member, sent the following letter to the editor of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel in response to the “fine editorial” in support of the Clean Energy Jobs Act legislation:
To the Editor:
Yes, the Clean Energy Jobs Act is a good thing for Wisconsin. Renewable energy and efficiency/conservation are the future, and Wisconsin is in a strong position to be a strong player. 25% of our electricity from renewable sources by 2025 will be quite a challenge, but will be achievable if energy efficiency and conservation are part of the equation. Wisconsin, with its strong manufacturing and research base, is well positioned to capitalize on opportunities in renewable energy. We already have a strong presence with wind turbine towers manufactured in the former shipyard in Manitowoc, biofuels research and development in Madison, and battery and building energy-management systems plus the newly announced wind electric generator factory in Milwaukee. The nay-sayers cry “job killer” to the push for renewable energy, but they are ignoring that what is really happening is a paradigm shift, in which the old technologies of coal, gas, and, yes, nuclear, make way for the new. Just as when mule-drawn barges gave way to railroads, livery stables, blacksmiths, and harness-makers gave way to automobiles, and passenger trains gave way to airplanes, times are changing, and the old must way for the new. To stand in the way of this new energy paradigm is to stand on the wrong side of history.
Gerald K. Flakas
Excellent editorial Mr. Flakas!
theponman
March 3, 2010