July 17, 2008, The Wind Coalition
For Immediate Release Contact: Eric Bearse
July 17, 2008 512-397-3212
The following statement was issued today by Paul Sadler, the executive director of The Wind Coalition, in response to tentative approval by the Public Utility Commission of Scenario 2, which will add 11,553 MW to the electric grid:
“The wind industry applauds the PUC for a hearing process that was open to all views in determining the right level of investment in transmission capacity to carry power from West Texas wind farms to more populated regions of the state. Our state leadership has been visionary in its approach to growing this clean, renewable energy source. With the eyes of the nation watching Texas, we have developed a process that will serve as a model for the country as we look to diversify our energy fuel mix.
“Wind energy is clean, cost-competitive and completely renewable. Today’s historic decision will not only greatly increase wind production in Texas, it will reduce the total carbon output of the power industry and apply downward pressure to electric rates. This multi-billion dollar investment in transmission lines will generate thousands of new jobs, $18 billion in fuel savings over ten years, and billions of dollars in additional revenue for rural West Texas communities.”
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