Column on energy a logical analysis

Re: “Consider Europe’s green-energy experience,” column, Nov. 10. Just a quick word of thanks to Lawrie McFarlane for his column on the greenenergy initiatives in Europe. It was a pleasure to read a logical analysis of hydroelectric power compared with the emotion-based so-called “green” alternatives that are currently proposed.

I grew up in England and vividly recall how envious we were of the opportunity to use hydroelectric power and how highly regarded B.C. was for developing clean, sustainable and cheap energy for its residents.

When I returned to Britain two summers ago, I was appalled at the visual destruction of the landscape with wind turbines everywhere; and on a road trip last year, I could not believe how the view of Mount Rainier has been ruined by the sight of hundreds of wind turbines as you drive west on Interstate 90.

We should consider ourselves fortunate that we can flood a single valley to provide clean, sustainable hydroelectric power for the next few generations.

Richard McLeish Sooke