Energy Crisis Sparks Responsible Solutions
* Re “State Barely Escapes Day of Blackouts,” Jan. 12: It’s inconceivable that this great progressive state that is the envy of the world could allow this man-made crisis to occur. Natural disasters will occur, and we respond with great speed and resources. Our state has the most informed and talented populace in the U.S. Yet here we find ourselves with a debacle.
Gov. Gray Davis needs to take a few lessons from former President Harry Truman: “The buck stops here.” For once, forget about the votes and do what is right. The vacillation, indecision and blaming of others will not solve the immediate problem. Instead, act with boldness and intelligence, and take whatever drastic measures are necessary to secure uninterrupted service. The voters will follow later.
DICK BURRER
Camarillo
* Since it’s evident that there are alternative means of acquiring electricity, such as solar panels, as was testified in your newspaper, it would be productive and beneficial if the governor would put forward a tax credit to individuals and companies who will then install such systems. In fact, the federal government should offer a tax credit as well. This is the most efficient, nonpolluting, low-maintenance system available today. With such an incentive, individuals and companies can move faster than the state (which is trying to build power plants), and the benefits can show up sooner. It’s a win-win situation.
JUDD SUTKER
Granada Hills
* My electric bill has two different rates: one for a base amount and one for the amount over the base. I propose the following:
1. Lower the base rate to a more comfortable level for our poorer residents (say, 10 cents per kilowatt-hour). The base rate is too high, due to the over-rate being too low.
2. Deregulate the over-rate, but require utilities to disclose the over-rate and the time frame for which the over-rate applies.
3. Allow utility companies to enter long-term futures contracts.
4. Allow residents to choose utility companies, similar to long-distance phone companies.
This will allow residents to make informed economic decisions about their energy usage and perhaps encourage alternative sources.
SEAN DONOHOE
Thousand Oaks
