The article “Why Trump’s ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ likely to raise WA energy costs” (Aug. 10, Climate Lab) is right: By shifting from cheaper clean energy to more expensive fossil fuels, the bill Congress passed last month will drive up energy costs.
But a bad bill can still be fixed.
During the ongoing federal budget process for the fiscal year starting Oct. 1, Congress can restore clean energy credits that support the nation’s lowest-cost power sources.
Solar and wind aren’t just good for the environment — they’re good economics. The red state of Texas didn’t work up to nearly 40% wind and solar power today for political reasons; it did it because it saves ratepayers money. Twenty-one House Republicans (including Washington’s Rep. Newhouse) recently signed a letter urging preservation of these credits because their districts see the benefits.
As a bonus, Congress can streamline energy permitting so new sources come online faster and cheaper.
It should act now — before ratepayers get stuck with the higher bills.
Mike Kelly, Bainbridge Island
