It's a simple question that needs to be posed to our gubernatorial candidates. "How do you propose Virginia gets from Point A to Point B?"
As far as I can tell, none of the candidates disagree that we do indeed need to migrate away from Point A. But do they propose perhaps a Point C? What is Point C? Whether Point B or C, how exactly do we arrive there?
By 2030, total growth in energy consumption will be 31%. The increase comes mainly from the residential, commercial and transportation sectors, driven by a 30% increase in the state's population.
Point A is Virginia's current business as usual where our fossil fuel use continues to grow strongly, particularly for coal and petroleum. Coal consumption in particular increases to 68%, due to construction of new coal power plants in Virginia to meet electricity demand. (A chart showing CO2 emissions for Point A is below the fold.)
Point B is outlined in the Sierra Club's Citizens Energy Plan where "a new energy future integrates energy conservation, more efficient energy use and significant substitution of renewable energy sources for fossil fuel based energy".
Total energy use is reduced 14% by 2020 over the business as usual approach. By 2030 it is reduced by 27%. In absolute terms, energy use is reduced by only 5% from 2005 levels due to the 30% growth in population. However this is offset by a per capita consumption decrease of 56%.
Reduced demand for electricity due to efficiencies makes it possible to halt construction of new coal-fired power plants. As renewable sources such as wind energy grow, older (dirtier and less efficient) coal-fired power plants can be phased out.
The candidates are each very smart cookies. And each have produced energy plans that only talk in generalities. We need to demand more specifics. That said, life could be made easier by pledging to just adopt Point B if elected. Anybody game? |
