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Conservation Efforts Show Positive Results in Silicon Valley
In response to the article “California regulators are willing to spend billions to save a few drops” (Page A6, Jan. 30), Dan Walters argues that water conservation efforts in California are a waste of money. However, his oversimplified argument is misleading, and his claim couldn’t be further from the truth.
Walters compares the total precipitation in California to the water saved through conservation efforts, dismissing the benefits as an expensive “drop in the bucket.” However, in Silicon Valley, conservation measures have resulted in significant gains at a relatively low cost. These efforts have helped offset the need for expensive water storage, conveyance, and local purification methods. Currently, there are discussions about constructing a new reservoir at Pacheco Pass at a cost of $2.8 billion.
Those who understand the value of water conservation recognize its immense benefits, and Walters undermines their efforts by dismissing them as mere “virtue signaling.”
Doug Peterson
Water Ambassador, Santa Clara Valley Water District
San Jose
Tara Sreekrishnan for District 26 Seat
In response to the article “Elect Ahrens for Evan Low’s Assembly seat” (Page A8, Jan. 28), we wholeheartedly support Tara Sreekrishnan for state Assembly, District 26. As the daughter of immigrants, she understands the importance of safe jobs, fair wages, quality education, and a clean environment. With her extensive experience on the Santa Clara County Board of Education and as legislative director to state Sen. Dave Cortese, she has proven her ability to make a positive impact on working families in Santa Clara County.
Tara’s endorsement by local city and county firefighters, teachers, and healthcare workers further demonstrates her commitment to serving the public interest. We deserve and need the kind of representation and leadership that Tara has consistently shown.
Ted Smith
San Jose
and Amanda Hawes
San Jose
Renewable Energy Vital for California’s Economy
New statistics released by the Scottish government show that in 2022, renewable energy technologies generated the equivalent of 113% of Scotland’s overall electricity consumption — the highest recorded figures to date and a 26% increase compared to the previous year (Scottish Renewables). This achievement highlights the importance of renewable energy.
In contrast, California could have achieved a similar goal if Governor Newsom and the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) had supported renewable energy sources like rooftop solar, rather than undermining the industry. Instead of moving forward with the growth of renewable energy, Newsom and the CPUC opted to support fossil fuel utilities such as Pacific Gas and Electric.
Scotland’s experience demonstrates that renewable energy can create thousands of jobs and contribute significantly to economic stability. It is time to reconsider the decision to prioritize fossil fuel consumption over renewables. Supporting an industry that provides employment opportunities and boosts the economy at the city, county, and state levels is a logical choice.
Thomas Redfern
San Jose