| One of the many top issues with voters is renewable energy. Its actually right up there with the failing economy and high gas prices. California, Colorado and Missouri all have measures on their ballots that deal with alternative energy sources, which include wind and solar power. An initiative in California would require utilities to obtain up to half their power from renewable resources by 2025, setting the toughest standard in the United States. This is typical of California. California has always been the leader in reducing greenhouse emissions. Although this is a progressive move, it has also drawn much opposition. Environmental groups which include the Sierra Club, along with the Democrats and Republican parties both agree that the initiative has too many loopholes as it stands. This initiative would require the utilities to add two-percentage points to their renewable portfolio each year. As it stands these companies are not doing it now. The new law would seek to fine the companies if they didn't add renewables to their portfolio. The new law, if passed, would reign in municipal utilities that are not even covered by the law. These municipal utilities are guilty of using some of the dirtiest fuel out there: Coal. The state of California's public utilities commission projects that California utilities will miss their target by at least three years as they are having trouble reaching these goals already. Another California proposal would allow for $5 billion in bonds to give rebates for alternative-fuel vehicles and to promote renewable energy. |
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