Times Argus Opinion: Wind poll too narrow
Reposted from Times Argus.
The online poll you issued last week on utility-scale wind in Vermont typifies what is wrong with our debate. Two of the choices you presented: “let’s do it” and “save our ridgelines” are not mutually exclusive choices; and presenting them as such stymies thoughtful debate around our energy future.
No one disputes that the siting and construction of wind farms must be done responsibly, carefully weighing the environmental benefits and trade-offs of each project. Furthermore, no one disputes that the long-term environmental costs of wind power pale in comparison to the human and environmental costs of continuing to use coal, nuclear and natural gas.
If we want to protect what makes Vermont special now and into the future, we’ve got to do both: conserve our most precious wild places and develop wind power in a responsible manner. It’s not one or the other, but both.
Abby White, Communications Manager, NRG Systems
Northfield
