Since beginning my sustainability/renewable energy journey, I have expressed interest in securing a national RES policy to help encourage sustained uptake in the use of renewable energy and to help prevent utility monopolies from influencing policy. As I came from the telecom industry and saw first-hand the benefits of competition (better products, lower costs, more choices) derived from divestiture, I thought the utility model would work in a similar fashion. Perhaps I was wrong.
After reading the following article in Renewable Biz, The Readers Say No RES RenewablesBiz, I think I was a bit naive in thinking a national policy would solve the renewable energy sector's woes. This article presents some valid points about state/regional specific needs potentially being overlooked in a national policy. There's also the concern that some states (NJ for example!) have more aggressive policies than those proposed by the Fed. If a federal policy is enacted, does it then negate existing state policies? While consistency is needed to facilitate funding and create stability, what is really in the best interest of the consumer, our economy and our planet?
I don't know the answer right now, but I'll keep reading until I can find it out.
Best,
Paula
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