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Finding a mix that delivers

EDITORIAL | editorial | renewable energy

THIS STORY APPEARED IN

February 07, 2012

THE TOWN of Duxbury recently decided to purchase solar power generated 40 miles away, near New Bedford, while opting to drop a proposed wind turbine right in town. The decision is defensible and the town deserves credit for seeking to buy renewable energy created here in Massachusetts, a double economic win, because it will support local jobs today and help to seed an industry with strong growth potential in this region.

A key factor in the town’s choice of solar over wind was cost. It believes solar power would be 35 percent less expensive than wind energy. There’s a risk in making long-term energy decisions based on current prices because they fluctuate considerably; today’s lost-cost option might be tomorrow’s budget-buster. Still, Duxbury officials can’t be faulted for wanting the best possible deal for homeowners and businesses.

Their decision, however, may also have been influenced by residents who protested the turbine siting on North Hill based on fears it would be a danger to residents’ health and would reduce property values. While every project differs in its impact, if any, on local property values, a recent state report found no basis for health concerns related to living near wind turbines.

Duxbury may have been better off following the lead of nearby Kingston, which has both wind turbines and a solar field project it believes will produce a million-dollar revenue stream of renewable energy.

In the long run, Massachusetts towns will probably be best served by a mix of solar and wind energy - along with, for at least the time being, some power generated by fossil fuels, hydro power, and local nuclear plants. Towns would be wise to look for appropriate venues for wind turbines as well as solar panels. Nonetheless, Duxbury’s experience shows that towns can make solid progress without upsetting local sensibilities. A steady transition to renewable energy is good for the Commonwealth, and towns should move ahead with it.