LETTER: Talk with candidates about wind, solar energy

Iowans understand the responsibility of hosting the Iowa caucuses. It’s a privilege to ask those who run for the presidency hard questions about their vision for America.

With less than one month to go, the conversation between candidates and Iowans is beginning to broaden. We agree the economy, national security and health care play significant roles in our lives every day. Still unclear are other issues that directly impact the future of our state. Let’s talk about wind and solar energy and conservation and land stewardship and preserving our natural resources.

Iowa is a national leader in wind production. Today, more than 25 percent of all electricity generated in the state comes from wind turbines. The economic impact of wind energy benefits land owners, energy companies, consumers and the workforce. More than 6,000 Iowa jobs are tied to wind energy, and wind yields more than $16 million annually in lease payments to landowners. What’s more, wind energy cuts water waste, saving an estimated 3.2 billion gallons of Iowans’ water annually. Now, we are poised to see growth in Iowa’s solar power industry, bringing even greater energy security, job opportunities and savings.

It is important presidential candidates understand the significance these energy sources play in powering Iowa’s lights and economy, while conserving our water, our soil and the air we breathe. Help share the positive things happening in Iowa, and ask the candidates if they share the vision. – Adam Pitts, Cherokee, Iowa

LETTER: Talk with candidates about wind, solar energy