By Bob Steiner

At a time in our history when we could soon again experience $4. 00 a gallon gasoline, our community is trying to evaluate sources of energy which could meet our  present and future needs.  There are many  potential  solutions. Some of these might require extensive networks of pipes or electrical wiring.   We also could be looking  at nuclear power or ”coal-fired” electric plants (more on this later) .  We must not forget solar power and wind energy which, if feasible,  might provide  the energy we need.

For some time the town has worked on a town ordinance which would regulate the installation and use of wind generators. The town  energy committee, chaired by Town Councilor John Abrams, has been researching the technical side of this issue for the past year.  Surprisingly, the Mayor of Edgewood, Bob Stearley, who had appointed that committee,  without waiting for the group’s final report and conclusions, came out against wind energy in a local newspaper article (see The Independent,Sep 23rd).  In his writing he challenged  citizens to research the internet for information on the negative aspects of  wind turbines. I, personally did  go to “wind turbine wars” on Google and I did, in fact find some negative data.  By the same token, I looked up “Wind Energy” also and found just as many articles attesting to the viability of “Wind’ as a potential cost-effective source.  Needless to say, not being an energy technician, I am now quite confused as to whether to support wind energy or not.

In view of the above, I have decided not to take a position on this issue until I am able to gain more comments from the energy committee and other sources. Having watched the group’s chairman at many council meetings, I have the utmost respect for him and his work.  Any  premature decisions on this subject , based upon “minimal” internet data, from potentially questionable sources, could have a devastating impact on our valley for many years to come.   I would hope to  soon hear some definitive input from the committee.

For those citizens who are concerned about this issue, a draft ordinance on wind generators will be discussed at the town council meeting  to be  held at the community center  October 7th at 6:30 P.M.  I would encourage anyone who can attend the meeting to do so. There could well be some changes in your long term lifestyle being discussed.In the event you are unable to attend and would like to comment on this issue, please send an Email to the town administrator,  Karen Mahalick, at planning@edgewood-nm.gov

According to the Mountain View Telegraph of October 1st,  a developer is planning to install 330 wind turbines near Duran, New Mexico. (This indicates that someone who is going to spend a lot of money believes that wind turbines are practical.)

Highlighting  the  ongoing importance of coal as an energy source, the National Nuclear Museum on Eubank SE in Albuquerque has a display which points out that 82% of coal mined in our country is used to power “coal-fired” electric power plants. Is there coal smoke in your future?  More important, how would this affect the environment that your grandchildren are growing up in?

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