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GLOBAL
ENERGY NETWORK INSTITUTE
a
solution to global problems
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October
31, 2002
Business
and Governments Embracing Renewables
Dear GENI
friend,
Change
is often difficult, as we get comfortable with the
way things are. Change is constantly occurring around
us, and is really a universal principle. The change
within the energy business takes years, as huge investments
remain in the fossil and nuclear sectors — mines,
transportation systems, processing, distribution,
power production and waste treatment.
Yet, interest
in renewable energy by major corporations and governments
is growing, with several top corporations and municipalities
taking a lead role. Today, the biggest names in solar
are Shell, BP (British Petroleum), Sharp and Kyocera.
These firms, known for oil, gas and electronics, are
investing
heavily in what they see as growth technologies
in coming years.
Some environmentalists
still attack these giants by saying it's all "sizzle
over substance." Well, the solar portion of
their business may be small in comparison, but several
firms are betting $500 million. By any measure, this
commitment is substantial. Anything you can do
(as a shareholder or consumer) to encourage this corporate
activity would be helpful.
Just as
important, there are now local, state and national
governments that are making renewable pledges and
offering tax incentives to renewable energy developers.
San Francisco and Los Angeles are building solar rooftops
on city facilities. California offers a 50% rebate
for residential customers — and the state has
set a 20% renewable portfolio target by 2017.
We don't
need to stop there. The attached final paragraph states
that just 9% of Nevada's desert covered in solar
thermal systems could power all the electricity needs
of the US! Recall, the U.S. is one quarter of
the global market — so there is no limit to
solar's potential. Michael Powers, a GENI Board
member has brought together Astropower and Home Depot
— making the installation of solar PV consumer
friendly. Our work is making a difference and again,
I thank you for your support.
In partnership
for the planet,
Peter Meisen
p.s.
We all live within several government jurisdictions.
Send these reports to your mayor and governor, and
ask them to consider similar pledges to develop local
renewable energy resources.
A
U.S. Tax Exempt 501(c)(3) Corporation committed to
improving the quality of life for everyone without
damage to the planet.
GENI
Affiliates in Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, New Zealand,
Singapore and United States.
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