Nation's power grid vulnerable until
lawmakers agree on bill ; For that reason, break out provisions...
The wind power industry is feeling the effects of Congress' inability to
agree on a comprehensive energy bill, which it is counting on to provide an
important federal tax credit that helps the industry grow. The wind industry's dilemma is a reminder that until lawmakers agree on an
energy bill, important policy is stymied. Most concerning is that the nation's
electrical delivery system is still operating without important upgrades. Lawmakers have been correct in rejecting the massive energy bill because of
damaging or flawed provisions, and as a whole the legislation is disappointing. That's why lawmakers should break out provisions that would upgrade the
protections and safeguards to the nation's electrical grid and pass them
separately. It has been seven months since a blackout wiped out power across the
Northeast and parts of Canada in August, showing that America's power grid is
intensely vulnerable and wide open for acts of sabotage. It's long past the time to strengthen the grid and improve the way
electricity is delivered in America. Lawmakers are right to block a bill that is as flawed as this energy bill,
but they should move forward with efforts to keep the power delivery system safe
from terrorist attack.