Letter writer: Let the Energy Freedom Act pass in N.C.

Posted on by Letters
Graphic by Lori Deaton
I am only one person, however, I do believe that our government should stay out and Duke Power should get out of the monopoly it has on the state of North Carolina and the population it charges for electricity.  Having the citizens be able to choose what kind of power they will pay for is so very, very long overdue.
House Bill 245, the Energy Freedom Act, is the first step in getting [rid of] these outrageous rates that Duke charges for burning fossil fuels, causing massive destruction of our rivers, water systems, [and] drinking water, and probably causing untold cases of cancer for generations to come. We have an opportunity — grant you, it’s a small window — but it is a chance to change the way our state does business.
I am only one, but if the word gets out, I do believe that the power of this pen can be mightier that Duke’s powerful sword,  lobbying and all the backroom deals that go on, but we never have a voice  in these backroom, smoke-filled deals. Our country was founded on the free-enterprise system. What is Duke Power afraid of? If theses solar companies can make electricity cheaper for some, then it should be allowed to become law.
 — Carl Hansley
Hendersonville
Editor’s note: House Bill 245, the Energy Freedom Act, is co-sponsored by Rep. Chuck McGrady of Henderson County. The bipartisan bill relates to third-party energy sales and states that renewable-energy companies would be allowed to build solar- or wind-power systems for customers on their property and bill directly for the electricity, even though they aren’t utilities.
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2 thoughts on “Letter writer: Let the Energy Freedom Act pass in N.C.”

  1. Grant Millin

    The overall effects of global climate change are severe risks too. Government is making HB 245 and a new, more responsible government can enact the fee and dividend Climate Protection Act of 2013 at the Federal level. Whether its Federal policy or solutions like Asheville Microgrid as an alternative to the proposed Duke substations, as a city council candidate I am more than willing to talk about these matters and do what follow-up I’m able to.

    http://www.innovograph.com/ig-blog/asheville-city-council-candidate-on-us-climate-strategy/

    There are many citizens interested in energy innovation matters. I suggest folks ask to participate in the new City of Asheville Community Energy Plan task force by contacting the COA Sustainability Office. There’s power in numbers.

  2. timothypeck

    “is co-sponsored by Rep. Chuck McGrady. The bipartisan bill..”

    Primary Sponsors: Szoka; (R) Dollar (R); McGrady (R); L. Johnson (R).
    .

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