fierisq's comment history

fierisq said...

Well written Mr. Magee, these climate change issues are only the tip of the iceberg if we leave our current situation unchecked. All we have to do is look around to see how the changing climate is affecting the productivity and usability of our land and oceans.

Drier conditions alter the makeup of the state’s forests, increase the frequency of wildfires, and hurt Tennessee’s timber industry. More extreme floods and droughts contribute to costly property damage and losses in crop production. Not to mention the loss of tourism dollars from hunting/fishing/wildlife viewing and an increase in health problems like asthma and Lyme disease.

Global warming throws ecosystems out of balance, harming not only Tennessee’s wildlife habitats but also the people and economies that depend on a healthy environment. I commend legislators who have already shown support for climate legislation and urge Sen. Alexander and Sen. Cork to do the same!

November 24, 2009 at 4:18 p.m.
fierisq said...

If these guys can do it, why not our own state? The answer is, Tennessee definitely can.

In 2005, the alternative energy company Aerisyn, invested over seven million dollars to turn a Chattanooga plant that was once used to manufacture equipment for nuclear power plants, into a facility that annually produces up to 200 steel towers (the things that support the rotor and generator of commercial size wind turbines). The company employs a workforce of 133 employees and supplies towers for wind facilities in Wisconsin, California, and Arizona.

And let’s not forget about the Tennessee Valley Authority. As the main power company in Tennessee, TVA is leading the way for renewable energy in the state producing 29 megawatts of power and selling back power to the grid, making it more affordable for individuals to invest in small-scale wind or solar.

Tennessee is already ranked 27th in the nation for wind power by the American Wind Energy Association. Chattanooga’s existing manufacturing infrastructure and large shipping port made it an ideal location for the facility, and will allow companies like Aerisyn to expand as it seeks to meet the growing U.S. clean energy market.

I hope that the success of these companies will spur Senators Alexander and Corker to support the climate bill this fall and invest in clean energy.

September 11, 2009 at 5:26 p.m.
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