Make West Virginia Open for Renewable Energy Business
If the state fails to move on the opportunity to remain a major player in the global energy economy by making this a home for these industries, we will once again be left behind.
By Robin Crawford
As a veteran, I believe it’s time to make sure that West Virginia is open for renewable energy business. The Biden Administration is using the Defense Production Act to ensure American access to minerals critical to the production of solar panels, wind turbines, and giant batteries for grid level energy. West Virginia does not need this act to be used in conjunction with completing pipelines that will have a negative effect on the environment and water systems. We know that these industries will be a major part of the US economy.
If West Virginia fails to move on the opportunity to remain a major player in the global energy economy by making this a home for these industries, we will once again be left behind. With the money from the climate provisions in the Reconciliation Bill, large sums can be used towards workforce development and retraining to lift underemployed West Virginians out of poverty. Not only can we put hard-working people on a pathway to success but also revitalize our communities.
We can’t let that happen to our home state. Let’s be smart and move forward now to develop these vital industries here in West Virginia where there is a smart, dedicated workforce with an existing understanding of energy ready for retraining for these future jobs.
I’m hoping Senator Joe Manchin will take a leadership role and commit to passing the energy provisions to ensure that these benefits come to us. Phone calls are no longer enough. West Virginians that understand the need for renewable energy jobs, please, get involved in your communities and put pressure on your local and state politicians to take action. If you are a veteran and want to use your voice to speak up and speak out about the impact of climate change and the need for good-paying jobs, please reach out to: Common Defense-WV Climate Justice Organizers Lakiesha Lloyd @ lakiesha@commondefense.us and Zach Shrewsbury @zach@commondefense.us
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