Ask tough questions about candidates, energy

It’s that time of the year again.

The campaign and election season is here and our televisions, airwaves, mailboxes and emails are being filled with solicitations from candidates seeking Alaskans’ votes.

We in the renewable energy fields are particularly keen on following candidates’ commentary and opinions as they relate to alternative energy projects and new energy policies. As an electrical engineer, dealer and educator in wind and solar power, and a variety of environmentally friendly energy systems, it has become my focus to ensure Alaskans thrive from renewable energy’s benefits.

Whenever I hear or see an advertisement or comment made by a political candidate I am always left with some sense of disbelief. It reminds me just how critical it is for incumbents and new candidates to be aware of the critical aspects of alternative energy in Alaska and actually do something. Unfortunately, and especially near elections, a lot of candidates claim they are pioneers for alternative energy. Occasionally, candidates even endorse themselves to their constituents as “the wave of the future.”

It is extremely important as voters to ask more from our representatives. If an issue is important, like alternative energy, it is prudent we get the facts and request the same out of our policymakers.

To all of those candidates who embrace the potential for renewables, I urge you to learn more, acquaint yourself with the depth and amazing spectrum of successes throughout Alaska because of solar arrays, wind turbines large and small, LED and geothermal projects, and then fully recognize the significant reduction of damage to our environment as a result of applications in these innovative technologies.

For voters and the public, when it comes to renewable energy, investigate and learn yourself by contacting our office or nonprofit organizations like Renewable Energy Alaska Project. Make sure you ask questions of candidates at your door or on the phone or by email. Inform yourself about candidates’ stances on alternative energies and being earth-friendly and “green.”

Let’s hope candidates seeking your vote will walk the walk and follow through if they are elected so our state will continue to thrive through the beneficial partnership between clean renewable energy and responsible resource development and implementation.

Be an informed voter when it comes to renewable energies. The next generation will thank you and candidates will be better prepared if they enter elected office and become decisionmakers on our behalf.

Jesse Moe is a third-generation Alaskan, professional engineer and co-owner of Lime Solar.