Colorado is ground zero for energy debate

Colorado is emerging as the focus of nearly all things "energy."  In the past week, the state has been on the travel itinerary of such notables as Senator John McCain, Senator Mark Udall, Secretary of Interior Ken Salazar, US Representative Betsy Markey.  All have focused on energy issues ranging from "renewable energy" to climate change.  Generally, their "host" has been Governor Bill Ritter.

The legislators and administrative officials on the Democratic side of the aisle use the emotional issue of climate change as a threat to promote passage of the Waxman-Markey (not Betsy Markey) cap and trade legislation dealing with CO2 emissions.  They  promote the idea of "alternative energy sources" and "new energy" job creation.  In most cases, the more liberal elements deride the exploration for, production of and use of "fossil fuels."  The oil and natural gas industries are under constant attack as polluters, tax evaders, profiteers and, generally, undesirable members of the state and national business community.

During Senators McCain's and Udall's recent trip to the area, something new emerged from their public discussion of the need for utilizing nuclear energy in the nation's overall energy policy.  Both senators discussed the clean and renewable aspects of modern nuclear energy.  Their recognition of the fact that the most popular elements of the new energy sources, wind and solar, will never supply much more than about 10 per cent of the nation's power needs and virtually none of the "base load" needs...the sun doesn't shine at night and the wind doesn't always blow...is key to understanding why nuclear power must play a major role.  Senator McCain called for building 100 new nuclear plants in the US.  Although couched in terms of combating climate change, the senator's comments are, none-the-less, important.

Colorado is being showcased at the national level as a model for the "new energy environment."  Although admirable, the job creation aspect is yet to be proved and doesn't come close to the number of jobs promised.  What is important to remember is the fact that Colorado also contributes significant quantities of oil, natural gas, coal and uranium for the nation's energy needs and these products will continue to play a major role for the foreseeable future.  While the state will become a "player" in the alternative energy business, that aspect will never surpass the conventional energy sources.

THE DENVER POST:  August 25, 26 and  27

http://www.eia.doe.gov/oil_gas/natural_gas/info_glance?natural_gas.html