Good evening members ofthe EPA panel. My name is Alex Solomon, I'm from Atlanta by way of New Jersey. Iwork as an engineer, I'm a memberofthe Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, and I'm here today as a private citizen. I'm speaking in support ofthe carbon reduction targets proposed in the Clean Power Plan. When Iwas a little kid, I dreamt one day I'd buy aCadillac ElDorado. For those who are notfamiliar, this is an absolutely massive 2 door car, with a sleek low profile, that boat-like gurgling ofan American muscleV8, and 4 gleaming chrome tail pipes, which- to 8year old me- signified the ultimate cool. One might call this a classic "boyhood" dream for a reason: we grow up, and we growout ofthese dreams. We get a little older, we learn a little bit more. As itturns out, the 90s era Cadillac El Dorado was not agreat car. Itwas clunky, had the gas mileage ofa midsized SUV, was unreliable, and as faras reputationsgo, you could often spot a comb over hair-do in the drivers' seat. You see, just like my caddy aspirations, we need to re-evaluate and redefine ourdreams and ambitions for Power Generation. The fact is, we know better nowthan we used to. We know that what's coming out ofourfossil fuel stacks 

### is having an adverse impact on ourworld. We alreadyfeel the effects ofour heating earth, our record setting droughts, ourenergized oceans. This was most recently re-confirmed by the fifth report ofthe UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change in 2013. But even with all the data and hard science on our side, I believe that itdoesn'ttake an advanced degree to feel the effects of climate change first hand. Everyone in this room has a personal tie. Everyone. 2years ago in the wake ofSuperstorm Sandy, I watched the endless news cycle ofmyfavorite beach from childhood, Seaside Heights in NewJersey, literallyfalling into the churning ocean, decimated by astorm that no one could have imagined.
With these proposed actions, the Clean Air Act has a meaningful way to regulate carbon dioxide for the veryfirst time. Take Georgia as an example. Though our state has reduced its coal use in the lastfew years, 33% ofour power supply still came from coal in 2013, according to the EIA. Now, enterthe Clean Power Plan. Based on Georgia's renewables and efficiency possibilities, this plan has taken a real look at Georgia's immense potential for energy opportunities beyond coal. The Clean Power Plan has given us a goal for a44% reduction in 2012 carbon emissions by the year 2030. This would make Georgia a standout leader in the southeast forclean air.
To me, cutting our emissions and fighting climate change is about making an informed choice as we get older, wiser, and as we rethink our dreams. Instead ofan El Dorado, nowadays, I preferto ride my bike. Instead of hanging on to antiquated coal plants ofthe past, the new, rethought dreamfor power generation uses more renewables and improves efficiency.
In short, we know what we need to do. We have the tools to do it. Isupport the Clean Power plan. I support its goal for reducing carbon emissions. Isupport this new, adult dream. It's time for us to grow up. Iwanttothank the EPA fortheir work, and thankyou foryourtime today.