Two measures to reject: 7 & 10

La Opinión
October 18, 2008

Editorial

California voters have two renewable energy measures on the ballot, an important issue for the state’s future. But these initiatives are problematic enough to warrant rejection. Vote no on Propositions 7 and 10.

Proposition 7 is a bold proposal to accelerate the use of clean energy by requiring power companies to generate 20% of their energy from renewable sources. While the idea is interesting, there are some serious uncertainties, such as an unspecified percentage increase in the cost of electricity to consumers. It may also be detrimental to the development of small wind and solar energy companies. The doubts caused by the drafting of this initiative are sufficient to warrant its rejection.

Proposition 10 also has a number of very serious problems. The measure authorizes the issuance of $5 billion in state bonds, of which $2.9 billion would be used as rebates to encourage consumer purchases of clean alternative fuel vehicles. The rest is earmarked for solar energy and education and training projects.

The measure is being pushed by oil and gas industry millionaire T. Boone Pickens, who is its primary benefactor. This deal by Pickens requires California to assume $10 billion in debt to be repaid over 30 years for a natural gas system of dubious advisability.

In short, the problem with Proposition 7 is so serious that it has galvanized opposition across ideological and economic lines, while Proposition 10 is more a personal windfall for its sponsor than a benefit for Californians.