16 Sep 2019 Green Politics Promotes Energy Poverty

Extreme measures pushed by radical politicians threaten America’s growing energy independence, its international stature and the needs of its most vulnerable citizens.

As liberal lawmakers introduce green energy agendas costing lots of money and promising to fundamentally change America, Project 21 member Derrick Hollie – in a RealClearEnergy commentary – points out that this alarmist attitude to “consume less, accept less, be less” is not new. But it is a cruel stance to take when America can do so much for its citizens and the world.

Derrick writes:

We should all be good stewards of the environment and do our best to protect it. But we also need a sensible approach to our energy needs and that will come from fossil fuels, specifically natural gas, which is the future in U.S. and global electricity production.

In the commentary, Derrick explains that the proliferation of major pollutants has dramatically decreased over the last 50 years without the need for a “Green New Deal.” At the same time, the American gross domestic product rose by 262%. Population and energy use also rose while overall spending on energy decreased.

America is riding high on this fossil fuel boom in domestic energy production. But Derrick notes that there is a risk of that boom turning into a bust  because of politics:

But for America to continue this economic growth, we must continue to pursue energy independence, allowing us more stability and power in trade negotiations as we rely less on hostile and unstable nations. Through our leadership in energy production and environmental protection, the United States is in a position to help lift billions in developing nations out of poverty and sickness by exporting our natural resources—along with pollution control technology.

One aspect that would be particularly hurtful to America is an unnecessary spike in energy poverty.

“Energy poverty,” Derrick explains, “occurs when low-income families and individuals can’t afford basic heating and electric needs due to high energy prices.” While he notes that energy poverty “has no color,” those most affected by it tend to be minority, low-income and rural communities.

“There is no reason anyone should be without affordable energy,” Derrick writes.

He adds:

We don’t have to accept less. We’ve experienced economic freedom and a better quality of life because of our abundance of affordable, reliable energy resources. And with that abundance, we can promote human health, combat energy poverty and improve the quality of life for all people regardless of where they live.

To read all of Derrick’s RealClearEnergy commentary – “No Need for Energy Poverty” – click here.