Report Calls On NC Lawmakers to Adopt Clean Energy Policies

(3 April, 2003 — Raleigh)  To promote good energy policy and increase use of clean, renewable energy sources, the North Carolina office of Environmental Defense, in conjunction with the N.C. Sustainable Energy Association, today released a report that addresses key elements of landmark energy bills recently introduced in the N.C. General Assembly.  “Charting North Carolina’s Clean Energy Future” recommends six actions the General Assembly should take to increase the use of renewable resources, protect public health and the environment, and fortify the state’s economy.  None of the recommendations requires state funding.

The report recommends establishment of a Clean Air Trust Fund and a renewable portfolio standard, increased use of wind and solar power, adoption of a net metering policy, and creation of a state greenhouse gas registry.  Go to www.environmentaldefense.org/go/NCcleanenergy.

“The number of bills dealing with energy policy that have been introduced in the General Assembly this session confirms that 2003 is the year for legislators to concentrate on energy issues,” said Michael Shore, southeast air quality manager for Environmental Defense.  “Renewable energy sources — wind, solar, animal waste methane, landfill gas — are cleaner and more environmentally friendly than coal and other fossil fuels, and they should be providing a growing share of electricity generation in North Carolina.  Lawmakers can protect public health and build a clean energy future for North Carolina by adopting sensible, cost-effective policies that promote cleaner forms of energy generation and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.”

“North Carolina’s Clean Smokestacks Act represents only a partial solution to energy challenges in the state.  If North Carolina continues to rely on high-polluting forms of energy generation to meet its growing needs, it will repeat the mistakes of the past and saddle future generations with dangerous air pollution, the burden of high energy costs and more regulations,” said Shore.