In response to The Herald Bulletin’s editorial on wind power (Dec. 1), while the editorial staff did get a number of things right about its benefits (wind is good for our economy and environment), there were some misunderstandings that need to be cleared up.
Technological advances have lowered the cost of wind power by more than 90 percent. Wind energy now powers the equivalent of over 12 million American homes, fosters economic development in all 50 states, attracts over $15 billion in private investment in the U.S. annually, and supports 75,000 American jobs.
America’s wind power potential is nothing short of amazing: 37 trillion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually — equivalent to nearly 10 times the country’s power needs — in onshore wind resources alone, and still more in offshore waters.
And in August, the U.S. wind industry hit 50,000 MW of cumulative wind capacity, enough to power the equivalent of 13 million homes. Earlier in the year, the industry passed another milestone, having generated as much electricity cumulatively as could be generated by burning 1 billion barrels of oil — without using any fuel.
And many believe wind turbines to be aesthetically pleasing and beautiful to marvel at in the country landscape, and studies have confirmed that wind energy development has no negative effect on nearby property values. In fact, wind energy development brings vital economic activity to rural areas, creating jobs, providing payments to landowners and generating tax revenue. As the editorial noted, wind energy is a win-win for America’s economy and environment.
Michael Goggin, manager of transmission policy
American Wind Energy Association
Washington, D.C.
Opinion
Letter: Potential of wind power is amazing
- Opinion
-
-
Editorial: Battery production a positive sign
The production locally of a battery powering a vehicle that has been dubbed the “bus of tomorrow” signals to others that Anderson is still a viable player in the auto industry. Having Altair Nanotechnologies located here is a good sign for Anderson’s future.
-
Editorial: Cleveland crimes could happen anywhere
Neighbors are in the best position to see something amiss so that grotesque crimes, such as those revealed in Cleveland, won’t take away a decade of life from someone else.
-
Letter: Merchant Marine vets deserve honors
Only a few thousand World War II Merchant Marine veterans remain alive today — they should be honored.
-
Letter: Legislators mistrust live dealers
What is the “real” reason that Republican legislators are against Hoosier Park creating 600 jobs by putting in live dealers? Here’s what I think.
-
Letter: Gun supporters’ campaign thriving
The “Guns for Nuts” club is thriving in Washington and Indianapolis.
-
Editorial: AU softball team did university, community proud
During the Anderson University softball team's run to the final eight in the NCAA Division III tournament, the Ravens played quality softball with high-quality individuals, and they did it while brandishing the Anderson name. Whenever the city is associated with high-quality and successful people, it’s always a positive accomplishment.
-
Letter: Major flaws found in reservoir proposal
After a lot of research, I found several major flaws in the reservoir proposal.
-
Letter: Obama should follow Constitution
Congress, or I should say the Democrats, have been trying to take away some of our guns by legislation, thus trying to do away with the Second Amendment.
-
Letter: Wheel tax just costs driver 6.8 cents a day
I can’t understand all of the commotion over a wheel tax when residents of this state pay outrageous fees for license plates. And even more bizarre tax is the state tax on pensions.
-
Letter: County Council should nix wheel tax
Following a conversation with Councilwoman Lisa Hobbs after the May 13 County Council meeting, I believe, in her mind, the wheel tax is needed.
- More Opinion Headlines
-
Editorial: Battery production a positive sign
