Solar Energy

I was surprised to read in your editorial (Nov. 11), “Energy Shambles,” a quote from an oil company executive who believes that the death knell has been rung for the alternative energy industries.

As the representative of more than 300 solar businesses in California, it is always disturbing to hear disparaging remarks made about us by our competition. Particularly in a forum where it is difficult to respond.

I admit our industry is not as wealthy or well developed as the oil and gas industries, but we are getting better each year. The solar industry was forced to develop its products and services in response to a tremendous energy crisis. Under those circumstances any industry would have had a difficult time. We did too, and we are still here and getting better and more competitive with natural gas and electricity.

Please don’t close the book on the alternative energy industry until the story is over. And do not forget to look me up in 50 years to give you an editorial remark about the death knell of the oil and gas industries.

SUE deWITT

Sacramento

DeWitt is executive director of the California Solar Energy Industries Assn.