In the state of Colorado, renewable energy may finally be able to economically challenge fossil fuels ("Xcel Energy receives shockingly low bids for Colorado electricity from renewable sources," Daily Camera, Jan. 17). Sure, a competitive market is great for capitalism, but what is the true purpose for the push for innovation and investment in renewable energy technologies?

Of course, a resilient and independent energy source in light of unstable fossil fuel markets is a big one. However, I would argue that collectively, addressing climate change is currently our society's most imperative reason for wanting to switch to renewables. Unfortunately, the problem of climate change is not going to be solved overnight. The greenhouse gases in our atmosphere that create a livable climate are always in equilibrium with plants, animals, and oceans. If humans were to stop the excess production of GHG emissions today, it would be decades before the earth's temperature would stop rising, let alone decrease.


Because of the declining cost of wind and solar, Colorado appears to be in an optimal position for a successful renewable energy transition. Although, it would certainly happen a lot faster if the true cost of fossil fuel production was accounted for. If decarbonizing the atmosphere is where we — as well as industry — want to go, why would we not want to speed things up? One way to accomplish this is through a carbon tax, such as the one that Citizens' Climate Lobby advocates. Revenue from the tax is redistributed back to all U.S. citizens in order to provide an incentive for investment in alternative sourcing of energy. It's time to start giving ourselves a chance against a clock that is spinning out of control. Check out for more info.

Monica Hall

Environmental policy student

CU Boulder