Last summer, Ohio became the first state to weaken its renewable energy standards. Considering that the EPA had recently released new rules requiring individual states to meet standards for reducing their carbon emissions. The bill, SB 310, was heavily backed by the loud voices of energy companies. This served to repeal a rule that required utilities to source half of their renewable energy from in-state companies. It put a two-year freeze on Ohio’s renewable and energy-efficiency standards.
Ohioans have already enjoyed the benefits of investing in renewable energy with saved money and new green jobs. How could our legislators just turn their backs on this progress? David Scott, board president of the National Sierra Club says, “This reckless step backward gives Ohioans fewer energy choices, fewer jobs, and dirtier air. Even Lake Erie shows adverse impacts from climate disruption, as respected scientific bodies warn we must cut carbon pollution now.”
He’s right. Carbon pollution and its impact on our climate must be not only acknowledged, but dealt with effectively in Ohio. Lake Erie already sits swirling in controversy. Often mocked and the butt of jokes, the Lake has become the perfect host to the blue-green algae that recently caused the water in Toledo to become unsafe for drinking. And some renewable energy companies already have said they plan to take their business out of Ohio because of the freeze.
Fortunately, the EPA has set into motion The Clean Power Plan. These proposed new rules would place limits on carbon pollution from power plants — and we need those limits in place as soon as possible. Why? Because strong carbon standards will ultimately cut hazardous power plant emissions in half. This protects our children’s future.
I have hopes and dreams for the world my children will grow up into. But it’s important to remember, not everyone is on the same page. Energy companies have loud voices and deep pockets. If you want Ohio and the rest of our beautiful country to move forward with clean renewable energy, our government needs to hear from parents. Let’s tell them just what is at stake — our children.