Clearing the air

Environment

Regarding “Reducing emissions takes time” (Page B5, Tuesday), Bill Hammond’s recent op-ed on the Clean Power Plan includes many misleading elements and unfounded assertions, but he did get one thing right: Texas has been a leader in reducing power consumption. That’s because the existing market — not an environmental regulation — is already transitioning our state to a clean energy economy. In fact, current trends show Texas is well on its way to meeting the Clean Power Plan’s goals, while creating new, high-paying jobs for Texans.

For example, we have a thriving wind energy industry that supports more than 17,000 jobs and has enabled Texas to install nearly three times as much wind as any other state in the U.S. And as more low-carbon wind and natural gas have come online, the lights have stayed on and utility bills have actually gone down. That’s not even scratching the surface of our solar energy potential, for which sunny Texas ranks first in the nation.

It’s ironic the Texas Association of Business isn’t recognizing the economic opportunity at hand. The Clean Power Plan can elevate the Lone Star State to a powerhouse in the new, multibillion dollar clean energy economy. If approached thoughtfully, Texas could soon be leading the nation on solar and energy efficiency, in addition to natural gas and wind. Doing so will not only cut harmful pollution, but provide homegrown energy, create jobs and help secure water and energy resources for Texas families and businesses.

John Hall, Texas State Director, Clean Energy, Environmental Defense

Fund, Austin