Cities that make significant investments in clean energy typically brag about their accomplishment. Cities like Naperville, Evanston, Chicago and others around the nation use their commitment to advertise the appeal of their community.
Springfield not only made a significant investment in wind power, but CWLP also has impressive energy-efficiency programs. Efficiency rebates and other programs reduce utility bills, making the city more appealing to potential residents and businesses. The solar rebate program is already successful and should be expanded. It represents the next step that will allow CWLP to produce clean energy within city borders. Other cities proudly highlight similar programs to attract new businesses and young professionals. Why doesn’t Springfield?
I find no mention of these community highlights on the city or Q5 websites. It’s normal for politicians and bureaucracies to shy away from controversy. The Sierra Club agreement, which led to the wind power purchase and additional efficiency funding, was certainly controversial. But there’s no sense in ignoring the benefits of these positive decisions years later.
These are some of the best things happening in Springfield. It’s a mistake to keep quiet about local accomplishments in order to placate a curmudgeonly alderman who likes to complain about wind power.
I suppose I could have left out the "curmudgeonly" adjective but if someone is going to attack wind power on a regular basis then they deserve to be called out on it.