All energy solutions should be on the table

Joel Rector, North Las Vegas

Monday, July 7, 2008 | 2:05 a.m.

In response to Orlis Trone’s Friday letter to the editor (“Democrats guilty of the worst outsourcing”), I find myself agreeing on some points and disagreeing on others.

First, I absolutely agree that we need to be working toward energy independence and finding safe and eco-friendly ways to drill for oil in our own country. This is a matter of national security and long-term survival. Along with doing so, we must ensure that all domestically obtained production is used exclusively in the United States.

If this is truly our oil, it should be used here. Congress should pass legislation that guarantees that point. Otherwise, there is no reason to believe oil companies won’t simply sell the product on the global market to the highest bidder (China or India, maybe?).

We should be building new nuclear facilities and incorporating the technologies developed in France for recycling nuclear waste (which to date have not been used in the United States).

Second, I disagree with Mr. Trone’s position that alternative sources “are in the laboratory stage of development.” I suggest that he take a drive down to Palm Springs, Calif., sometime to see the acres of funny looking fans (windmills) sticking up out of the desert.

Solar energy is a viable option today, as well, and power generated in this manner can be stored in batteries for use when the sun is not shining. Many people are using solar energy to produce hot water for their homes and have been doing so for years.

Granted, oil is the primary grist for the U.S. economic mill, but we must begin using alternatives that have been proven successful, now. Congress and the administration should provide incentives for people and business to use more of these alternative fuels and stop their finger pointing.

Democratic and Republican members need to be reminded that they have taken an oath to work for the common good. Nuclear, solar, geothermal and wind power are all proven technologies and have been used for decades. To discount or reject their use is irresponsible.