BECKY YOUNG, District 18, House Seat B, Republican

The citizens of Idaho are not alone in the dilemma all Americans face regarding the cost, availability and source of affordable energy. These are not problems that can be resolved overnight but progress can be accomplished short-term through energy conservation, higher efficiency standards and incentives that embrace progressive measures. The long-term solution is inclusive of all energy sources and strategies.

Government should be the model of energy conservation, with efficiencies that include proper insulation, weather-stripping, thermostat controls, workforce telecommuting and carpooling. Tax incentives for solar installation and weatherizing are methods to encourage public participation. Incentives to businesses that either construct new facilities or modernize existing facilities that adhere to enhanced conservation measures will encourage corporate participation.

Long-term solutions affect the way we produce and consume energy for generations to come. We are currently limited to the production of hydroelectric energy in Idaho as a primary source. We must become a producer of additional resources to include nuclear, wind, geothermal, natural gas and solar. The use of tax incentives for investment in the development of emerging energy technologies encourage construction of new sources and applications of energy and bring new jobs to Idaho.

Encourage energy-efficient buildings

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