The fierce devotion to zero carbon emissions can have dangerous consequences, even resulting in loss of life. The recent devastating wildfires on the Hawaiian island of Maui serve as a tragic example. Instead of addressing the root causes, government officials and the liberal media were quick to blame climate change for the destruction. However, mounting evidence suggests that it was actually the extreme pursuit of zero carbon that led to the neglect of vital precautions against wildfires.
Hawaiian Electric, the main electrical producer on the island, was diverted from taking necessary steps to prevent wildfires, such as insulating wires and clearing vulnerable areas around transmission sites. Instead, they prioritized meeting the government’s renewable energy mandate for all electricity to be produced from renewables by 2045. As a result, the death toll from the devastating Lahaina Fire has already reached 111, with the number expected to rise as search efforts continue.
Lahaina Fire is not an isolated incident. Inadequately maintained electrical transmission systems have also sparked destructive wildfires in Texas, Colorado, and California. Aging transmission equipment and poor maintenance have been cited as causes for six out of 20 recent wildfires in California, including the deadly 2018 Camp Fire, which claimed 85 lives.
While California’s Pacific Electric & Gas proudly claims to be “helping to heal the planet” and aims for a net zero energy system by 2040, the focus seems to be misplaced. The safety of families who have needlessly lost loved ones in these fires should be the top priority. Sacrificing safety and reliable electricity supply for the sake of zero carbon emissions is simply unreasonable. A reasonable pace towards protecting the planet is necessary, as only 30% of Americans support President Biden’s goal of reaching zero carbon as soon as possible.
As rescue operations continue in Maui, President Biden celebrates his Inflation Reduction Act and reaffirms the United States’ commitment to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. However, only 30% of Americans support this goal, recognizing the risky trade-offs involved. The recent tragedy in Maui further highlights the need for a more realistic approach.
Though it will take months for an official report on the causes of the wildfires, early evidence suggests that power lines hitting trees or the ground due to high winds ignited the fires. Grid monitors provide data confirming that utility grid faults were likely responsible for multiple wildfires on Maui. It is troubling to know that four years ago, Hawaiian Electric acknowledged the threat posed by power lines emitting sparks and developed a plan for fire retardant poles and insulation. However, the company delayed the implementation of these preventive measures while focusing on renewable energy projects.
The priorities of Hawaiian Electric, in retrospect, were fatal and aligned with the overwhelmingly Democratic political culture of the state. It is important to be cautious of left-wing politicians across the United States who are pushing for ambitious net-zero targets without considering the safety of ordinary people. Wildfires are just one of the dire consequences that can arise from such reckless goals.
Even in the New York City area, Democrats are mandating Con Edison to achieve zero-carbon and zero-nuclear electrical generation, disregarding the fact that consumers will face soaring bills and potential blackouts. Energy expert Harold Hamm emphasizes in his book, Game Changer, that with current technologies, net-zero is simply unattainable. It is crucial to urge politicians to prioritize both saving the planet and preserving our standard of living without putting lives at risk.
In conclusion, the fervent pursuit of zero carbon emissions can have profound and deadly repercussions. The tragedy in Maui serves as a stark reminder of the need for a more balanced and responsible approach, acknowledging the trade-offs and prioritizing the safety and well-being of communities.
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