I was thrilled to see an article discussing solar panels in Baltimore ("New Baltimore-based report touts value of solar power," Oct. 18) As a student who cares deeply about the environment and as someone concerned about the health of her community, I stand by the efforts in Baltimore to increase solar panel usage.
The hardest part of utilizing solar power is that it is expensive to replace the power systems we already have. Although solar power, and renewables like it, are more efficient than coal and natural gas, these are the power sources that we are equipped to deal with, causing high rates of pollution and thereby increasing health risks for our community.
Although our future seems bleak, there are plans to move our city to cleaner and healthier energy. The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) includes a group of states, including Maryland, that have placed restrictions on greenhouse gas emissions. Recently RGGI has been pushing for stronger restrictions, and unfortunately Gov. Larry Hogan has been pushing back. Governor Hogan has shown concern for our environment, and thereby our health, but his hesitancy is alarming. Not only do more restrictions within RGGI make it easier for renewable energy to be implemented, but it is also a gateway to better health.
My fear is that Governor Hogan is not aware that the public is informed and wants to be healthy. We need to act now by contacting his office today so that we can express our concerns for tomorrow.
Hannah Conti, Baltimore