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The "California Energy Crisis" is a cynical illusion |
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The first step in getting past a delusion is to recognize it. California's temporary embarassment is a pawn moving in the globalization game. Californians need the help of all who favor sustainability and oppose corporate hegemony. Bail-outs for corporations results in loss of freedom for all. | |||
Our energy destiny is in our own hands |
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The next step is to exert control, even in small ways, knowing that whenever two or three gather together to make an effect, their work is felt. Little by little, day by day, lightbulb by lightbulb, we CAN make a difference. (In the first four months of 2001, Californians reduced their dependence on electricity by 11%!) | |||
California's "De-regulation" failed miserably |
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Others on the brink of de-regulation, or already in its throes, must be vigilant. Politicians and corporate apologists still maintain that their states' plans are not as flawed as California's, and this may be true. But the essential question remains: can electricity be privately provided without abuse? Senator Norris offered a resounding No! in the late 1920s, and corporate behavior has not improved since them. | |||
A fossil-fuel dependent energy CRISIS IS INEVITABLE |
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The planet's easy oil has been pumped up and burned. New fields, and other dangerous technologies, threaten life as we know it, and must be pursued cautiously, not hastily and in fear of the dark. Corporate interests hope to stampede consumers with premature cries of "Crisis!" but now is a time for heroic preservation and broadening of hard-won environmental controls, not more greedy overuse. |
more about The Hidden Costs of Electricity | ||
There is abundant energy for all... |
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...if we will only respect Nature's limits. "Justice and Electricity for all" -- not just north americans, but for all peoples of the world -- is within reach. Getting to equity will not be easy, but there is no excuse for postponing our start. Fortunates in developed countries should start at home -- many Europeans already have. |
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