28 August 2001

U.S. Federal and State Officials argue about transmission siting

Dear GENI Friend,

While our work is global by nature, we often provide material that seems very America-centric. This is done because every country pays attention to what's going on in the United States and California. Our successes and failures are broadcast around the world. One example, California's deregulation and subsequent energy crisis has become a textbook case on what not to do for other states and nations. Mistakes are almost always the best teachers.

Today in America, the Federal Department of Energy is debating the 50 State Governors for the rights to site power transmission lines. What a change from just a few years ago, when any new transmission encountered numerous bureaucratic and environmental hurdles. Surely some of the debate is driven by politics, but the very fact that these two governmental groups want responsibility means that thousands of people are now aware and engaged in linking energy systems. That's positive!

While GENI cannot take direct credit for any specific project, our work has reached policy-makers on every continent via newsletters, exhibits, technical reports and speaking. We believe that credible information builds a compelling case for this strategy. For example, our recent presentation to many retired Navy officers has the potential to spread these ideas throughout the U.S. military.

Please share these articles with your own elected officials. Finding solutions to power needs is becoming an issue in most every nation. We are thrilled to continue pushing this Initiative -- and honored with your contributions that make it possible. While our leaders argue over who gets jurisdiction, we know that the credit belongs to you. Thank you for holding this vision.

In partnership for the planet,

Peter Meisen
President

p.s. Another quasi-related report finds a teenager discovering minimal energy structures that involve meshed icosahedrons. This is direct from Bucky Fuller's mathematics -- and if you would like to build your own triangular structures, we offer the Zometool kit for kids from age 7 to 70.

Attachments:
[Governors, feds clash on siting power lines. By Toby Eckert, Copley News Service, San Diego Union-Tribune (web site)]
[Roundtable Hears GENI Founder Peter Meisen Give Solutions To Power Shortage. By Larry Wade, Coronado Eagle & Journal ] (web site)
[Math whiz gets to show up his elders. By Jeff Ristine, Staff Writer, San Diego Union-Tribune (web site)]

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