Govoner Ted Kulongoski just last week signed a law requiring major utilities to generate 25 percent of the state's electricity from renewable resources by the year 2025. Some types of renewable resources include wind, sunlight and biomass. It has been said that this should not only make Oregon a leader in clean energy but also promote economic growth in Oregon's rural areas.
Those who are opposed state that there is a chance for rate increases since these alternative sources are still more expensive and a lot of times inconsistent, like wind and sun. The thing is, not only are we protecting our quality of life, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and stimulating our economy but over the long term the varied sources should make our utility rates more stable and predictable.
This is also going to stimulate billions in research investments. Oregon is also lucky enough to boarder the Pacific Ocean which happens to give us access to the underdeveloped technology of tidal power which is already being studied by Oregon State University.
Environmentalists say the Oregon bill demonstrates our willingness to play a leading role in the effort to curb global warming, and there is no better way to lead than by example.
http://www.oregonnews.com/article/20070607/REGIONALNEWS/70607004
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