Tuesday, August 20, 2002
Blowing wind: The Army Corps of Engineers has decided to permit construction of a nearly 200-foot high “wind” tower in Nantucket Sound, possibly clearing the way for scores of other windmills to be constructed. This is great story: We’re on the verge of finally harnessing the wind for our energy needs. But, for some reason, I just don’t trust the guys pushing this plan. They sound eerily like gambling proponents talking up the economic benefits of casinos, or Enron execs touting the benefits of an unregulated energy market. It all sounds too good. Here’s the kicker quote from the president of the wind-farm company: ``The skyrocketing electric demand and the poor air quality and the drumbeat of war with Iraq certainly underscores the need for clean, renewable energy sources for New England.'' Yeah, right. He’s looking out for our best interests. It's about saving money, saving the environment and saving us from war. All in one package. Maybe I’m being too cynical, but my BS antenna is definitely picking up some beeps.
