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Another take on solar, wind power
Credit: Courier & Press | Dec. 31, 2018 | www.courierpress.com ~~
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Translate: FROM English | TO English
I would like to add to the ideas that Jean Webb proposed in her recent Letter to the Editor “Let’s All Become YIMBYs (Yes In My Back Yard).”
Please, do not let us neglect the thousands of unused acres in our state and national parks! Most could readily accommodate solar and wind projects! Solar panels could be used for marking trails, and wind turbines could be placed in most open areas, many with reliable winds – several hundred turbines could easily be placed atop Yosemite’s iconic Half Dome! The 106 acres of national parkland surrounding the Washington Monument would be perfect for solar panel placement; pedestrian walkways could be easily integrated among the panels.
And do not let us forget our nation’s cemeteries! There, solar panels would clearly be a win-win proposition, as fossil fuels would not have to be expended to mow the grass and loved ones could visit graves in the shade, provided by solar panels. (No trees required!)
In fact, why not surround all residential developments with industrial-size solar fields, with the houses neatly integrated among the panels. (Who really needs open space, after all!)
You don’t agree?
My neighbors and I disagree. Although solar and wind power are of great benefit, not every placement makes sense. Ms. Webb is correct that there should be fewer barriers to individuals wishing to install home solar.
The benefits of the power source to the nation as a whole are not the only consideration however. Some thought must be given to the effect on citizens who live in the area of the proposed placement and on property values and aesthetics of the area—both at the present time and 25 years into the future, when the solar panels will have reached the end of their useful life and will need to be removed and destroyed. What then?
– Eric Cure
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