A more realistic approach to energy
Editor: This is in response to two letters to the editor in the July 24, 2021 edition of the Lodi NewsSentinel. First, the letter submitted by Ahmad Khan outlines his involvement in a student-led initiative to raise awareness with respect to greenhouse gases and a need to pursue renewable energy. Mr. Khan informs us of efforts to start clubs in every high school within the Lodi Unified School District to teach students and staff about this issue.
Any effort to “teach” about renewable energy, in my view, must, however, include scientific facts based on the laws of physics using basic mathematics. Participants in these clubs must understand that energy and power production are governed by four important characteristics: power density, energy density, cost, and scale. For example, solar and wind power, in the absence of other backup, do not provide the dependability our industries require. Blanketing our landscapes with gigantic solar and wind farms will be expensive and inefficient.
At a minimum, I suggest these clubs use as their primary text book “Power Hungry, the Myths of ‘Green’ Energy and the Real Fuels of the Future” authored by Robert Bryce. In it, he provides facts and advocates for a more realistic approach of promoting natural gas and nuclear power while working on renewable energy options particularly energy storage technologies such as batteries while continuing oil and gas production.
In the second letter, Jane Henderson praises the county supervisors for approving the Cannabis Development Project in Lockeford. Ms. Henderson goes on to tout the benefits of this alleged “agricultural business enterprise”.
In contrast, I would like to acknowledge Supervisor Chuck Winn for his opposition to this project. Supervisor Winn bravely resisted the temptations linked to empty promises, misinformation, and redirection that obscure the real costs and exaggerate the alleged benefits of marijuana businesses. He rejected the false promises of increased tax revenue and instead understood the increased costs associated with law enforcement as well as the physical and mental health risks posed by the elevated levels of THC in today’s marijuana; particularly to the county’s youth.
FRANK WERNETTE
Lodi