Mid-Ohio Valley: Reviving Dull Energy Policies

(Mid-Ohio Valley Climate Corner – Photo Illustration – MetroCreativeConnection)

In recent times, the subject of energy policy has become increasingly significant in American socio-political discourse. The salient feature of this discussion is the radical divergence of views between two major political camps, leading to a cyclic pattern of policy changes that ultimately make little headway in resolving the issue at hand.

From a practicality perspective, policy-making has turned into a battleground of cultural ideologies rather than a platform for problem-solving. Unlike the past when public policies were considered mundane, yet necessary aspects of civil society, they have now become a cause célèbre, with individuals advocating for pet issues, ideologies, or championing a favorite politician.

Resultantly, the most effective policies are those that attract less public attention, grounded in proven technology, implement consistent regulations, and support infrastructural development. The energy industry, in particular, can greatly benefit from such policies due to its dependency on regulatory consistency.

Here, ‘boring’ is not to be misinterpreted as sluggish or lacking ambition. Indeed, such policies can still foster a robust industry and ensure reliability. This is facilitated through incremental improvements, redundancies, and repeated execution. Examples of this approach can be found in the energy sector, especially in Appalachia, in the form of rural electrification, infrastructure buildout, and the emergence of new industries.

Unfortunately, the current state of American energy policy is reflective of a counterproductive approach. Both political factions have indulged in mutual disparagement and instituted bans on each other’s proposed solutions, deeming them either irresponsible or impractical. This scenario breeds public skepticism, not just about the proposed solutions but also the legislative process itself. The resulting policy delays hinder progress and leave many projects unrealized. Even when a policy does make it through the bureaucratic red tape, it is often repealed by the next political majority, as illustrated by the Inflation Reduction Act.

So, how do we break this vicious cycle? The answer may lie in the application of a ‘boring policy framework’. For energy policy, this could translate into a focus on the implementation of effective and proven technologies, rather than constantly seeking ground-breaking innovations. Aspects like grid modernization, building electrification, enhanced energy efficiency, and demand-response are proven strategies that lower emissions, bolster reliability, and are cost-effective.

The beauty of such policies is that they are usually too mundane to capture public interest, making them resilient to sensationalism and demonization. The outcome is a lasting policy that caters to a wide spectrum of stakeholders without necessitating noticeable changes in everyday practices. This leads to cleaner solutions that go largely unnoticed, resulting in consistent energy prices, quieter power plants, and less political chatter in public discourse.

To ensure strong and sustainable policy, the focus should be on making it inevitable rather than exciting.

Griffin Bradley is a lifelong Wood County resident, graduate of West Virginia University, and a contributing author for Mid-Ohio Valley Climate Action.