ENERGY

Somewhat surprisingly Rhode Island is becoming innovative in the area of energy. While it may not be exactly what Rhode Island needs, it is clearly a step in the right direction.

The recent embarking on a course of wind energy may prove there is at least some effort being given to the future needs of the state. The problem with this is that these types of projects are not often moved to completion.

Alternative energy for Rhode Island makes good sense. The issue of how to come to the conclusion may be at issue, but it is hard to fault those who may be at least trying to make the dream come to fruition.

A wise energy policy, especially for a New England state, if proven successful, could lead to a major surge in productivity in the region. Additionally, by leading the way in the use of alternative energy, Rhode Island would stand poised to capitalize on this market should it result in success.

While it may seem foolish to plan an alternative energy policy during a period of difficult financial times, such thought needs to be dismissed by the potential it contains. When in the darkest times one can complain or light a candle. This effort may be challenged by funding in the near future, but if it proves its worth, such funding may be considered innovative.

The use of wind and ocean power seems only logical. The need to effectively and efficiently harness this type of power is the real issue. It can be accomplished under present technology, however the real concern for government is the structuring of the plan so as to provide the best deal for the people of Rhode Island and not for the sheer benefit of the investment community.

By lessening our reliance on oil, especially foreign oil, we are making our state far more independent from the strings of both national and international policy. We are in effect fashioning our own destiny.

Certainly Rhode Island needs to consider the trade offs related to such energy development. There needs to be environmental safeguards and there needs to be a policy for the proper development and use. Consideration must also be given to how this will impact the state’s economic well-being.

For decades Rhode Island industry has been challenged by high electricity rates. This factor, albeit one of many, has caused industry to leave the state. By looking at a new way to manage energy there is no guarantee that the industrial base will ever return to Rhode Island, but by eliminating one of the several obstacles in the way of industry, we can at least position ourselves to seek its return.

A revitalized energy policy may in fact spawn other more efficient energy developments in this state. That all said, it is in our best interests to wisely develop and continue to support energy policy that seeks to free us from the high cost of energy in Rhode Island.

In the future I will try to further expound on the use of such power and then explore just how the energy policy will drive the economic development policy in Rhode Island.