Solar, wind power are not our future

Pete Moe (letter, May 4) says that solar and wind power are the future. If they were the future, the subsidies wouldn’t be needed to make it appear that they compete. The subsidies distort markets. This will eventually catch up with anyone trying it, including China. Hydroelectric plants can be paid off through affordable electric and water rates without any outside subsidies.

The alternative energy is a false economy, and it is why we have among the most expensive electric rates in the nation. There is also the technical aspect. The tons of spinning metal in the turbines (steam, hydroelectric) adds stability (and reliability) to the grid.

Australia, Canada and California all have similar populations. The Australians eliminated their carbon tax because it reduced their competitiveness. It lasted only two years. The Canadians have been encouraged by this and are fighting against Rachel Notley’s carbon tax. California leaders somehow think they are leading the nation instead of reducing competitiveness.

How arrogant. How much economic harm before the lesson is learned? The Diablo Canyon nuclear plant will close. We will continue to pour money into needlessly expensive electricity. We will continue to stress conservation in the household, while increasing use of electric cars (also subsidized).

This story was originally published May 9, 2017 at 2:43 PM with the headline "Solar, wind power are not our future."