Governor Perry's Green Push: Good but Needs Fixing

Governor Rick Perry deserves praise for leading Texas in renewable energy. However, his recent statements on whales and renewable energy projects are off the mark. He's worried about whales, but so far, no U. S. whale has died due to wind turbines. There just aren’t that many offshore wind projects yet. True, these projects disturb whales temporarily because of noise and vessel traffic. That’s why federal agencies help wind companies time installations to avoid whale migrations and stop work if whales are nearby. Wind companies aren't digging as deep as oil and gas firms, so their surveys are quieter. Whales face bigger threats like fishing gear entanglements, boat strikes, plastic pollution, rising ocean noise, and climate change. Environment Texas supports Texas’ natural beauty and clean power. Texas has the best solar and wind resources in the country. With more sunshine and wind power, our air, water, and land stay healthier. Perry’s 2005 initiative boosted renewable energy, leading to Texas being the national leader. Despite benefits, some politicians want to block renewable energy. New laws could slow or stop wind and solar projects, leading to more pollution and higher bills. We need more clean energy, not less. To protect nature and landowners, we should set rules like keeping turbines away from rivers and grasslands, reducing runoff, and limiting light pollution.