Report says Idaho can create jobs and increase energy security with renewables

Report says Idaho can create jobs and increase energy security with renewables

Jul 16 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Rocky Barker The Idaho Statesman, Boise

Eighty percent of Idaho's $3.7 billion in energy comes from out-of-state, but leaders can reduce that and create thousands of jobs by promoting renewable energy, a report issued Wednesday said.

The report, "Securing Idaho's Energy Future: The Role of Energy Efficiency and Natural Resources," suggests wind, geothermal, solar, and biomass energy sources tapped in Idaho along with upgrading the efficiency of buildings, equipment, and other facilities, will stop the drain of money of state and improve the state's energy security.

"Idaho's heavy reliance on fossil fuel imports is a growing source of economic vulnerability," said report author P.S. Reilly, president of the Athena Institute. "In contrast, Idaho is rich in renewable energy and efficiency opportunities. This report lays out steps Idaho leaders can take to leverage these resources and protect Idaho's economy."

The report says Idaho can increase in-state energy sources from just 20 percent today to 50 percent by 2025 by aggressively developing renewable and efficiency resources.

"Developing renewables within the state helps protect Idaho's economy from rising energy costs and keep more dollars circulating in the local economy," said Idaho Sen. Curt McKenzie, R-Nampa, co-chairman of the Idaho Interim Legislative Committee for Energy, Environment and Technology. "This report is a valuable resource in informing and guiding policymakers and citizens to build a more secure energy future."

The study builds on findings of the 2007 Idaho Energy Plan and was commissioned by Climate Solutions, a private, non-profit organization, through a grant from the Energy Foundation, whose mission is to advance energy efficiency and renewable energy as essential components of a clean energy future.

"Renewable energy is a win for Idaho agriculture," said Dar Olberding with Idaho Grain Producers. "Whether you're talking about wind turbines on marginal land or biogenerators capturing energy from animal wastes, rural Idaho will benefit if we can move forward with more renewable energy production."

The report was written to press Idaho policymakers to support renewable energy and efficiency programs during the 2009 legislative session.

"When an oilman like T. Boone Pickens decides to build a $10 billion wind project, you know the wind business has come of age," said Rich Rayhill, vice president of Ridgeline Energy, an Idaho wind energy firm. "The time for Idaho to get serious about renewable energy is now. It's a win-win-win: reduce energy imports, create high-wage jobs, and spur rural economic development."