Press Mention Black Mountain News September 5, 2013
SACE Referenced
Why not make Asheville known as 'Solar City'?
In this mention
Asheville resident Erin Singer McCombs writes a letter to the editor advocating for renewable energy adoption and positioning Asheville as a 'Solar City.' She references a Southern Alliance for Clean Energy report on offshore wind potential and highlights the success of the Solarize Asheville campaign as evidence that clean energy is viable.
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Why not make Asheville known as 'Solar City'?
Sep. 6, 2013 | 0 Comments
Written by
Erin Singer McCombs,
Asheville
The recent letter regarding not shutting down power plants sounds like the tired "we do it this way because we've always done it this way" argument. We can't keep relying on energy that pollutes our air and water with no accountability. Our clean energy future divests from fossil fuels in a range appropriate energy sources just like any strong financial portfolio. The viability of renewables grows more favorable every day, and there is evidence to support it. Just look at the ingenuity of the Solarize Asheville campaign. Entire neighborhoods able to collectively bargain for solar energy.
Also, the new report out from the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy shows the sea breeze effect perfectly matches peak energy consumption for offshore wind — a viable option along our North Carolina coast. And, energy efficiency — we can do so much more with less! I am optimistic that in light of climate change, we can reduce carbon pollution while we protect public health, build resilient communities, and strengthen our energy and economic portfolio with future generations in mind. And as for tourism, we are already a green dining destination, Beer City, USA; why not Solar City, USA, too?
Erin Singer McCombs, Asheville