We need to look at new or existing energy sources, especially renewable energy sources. New technology has provided solar electric roof shingles with guarantees that are similar to contemporary roofing. These solar electric shingles provide power into the grid, reversing the meter when the homeowner is not using a lot of power. Solar water heaters can provide water temperatures of 80 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit even in our cool coastal climate in winter. New technology has provided us with hybrid vehicles that run on both batteries and gasoline or propane.
New technology can provide more efficient generators and transmission lines.
Maybe it is time to reconsider a National Energy Policy that stresses efficiency, self-sufficiency, and sustainability. One of Audubon's major national programs, Population, has not received much attention recently. Population and human recreational activities expanding into once wild areas is one of the major reasons we need programs to protect endangered species. A recent Audubon Magazine article looked at many old dams that are being decommissioned. As more dams are being decommissioned to allow fish migrations, power plants may be removed, but luckily the new power plants being built are more energy-efficient.