Ex-Greenpeace president discusses future energy

COLUMBIA BASIN - Environmental consultant Patrick Moore delivers the first of two free, regional community presentations Tuesday in Moses Lake.

Moore, a founder and former president of Greenpeace, is now chair and chief scientist of the environmental consulting firm Greenspirit Strategies.

The commissioners of Grant, Chelan and Douglas County public utility districts offer the two presentations as part of their continuing commitment to environmental stewardship.

The Columbia Basin Herald is helping sponsor Moore's visit in Moses Lake.

"As owners of this public utility district, customers have a voice in how we will meet the energy needs of the future," said Grant PUD spokesperson Sarah Morford. "Patrick Moore has been brought in by PUD commissioners to talk about what some of those potential options might be."

Moore speaks at Big Bend Community College's ATEC Building Tuesday at 7 p.m. He also addresses the Wenatchee High School auditorium Wednesday at 7 p.m.

Moore reveals the myths and misinformation distorting current environmental debates, and calls for issues to be discussed on the basis of accurate scientific data, a search for consensus and the creation of sustainable solutions.

"The only way to reduce fossil fuel emissions from electrical production is through an aggressive program of renewable energy sources - hydroelectric, geothermal heat pumps, wind, etc. - plus nuclear," Moore stated. "Wind and solar power have their place, but because they are intermittent and unpredictable they simply can't replace big base-load plants."

Morford said the district hopes audience members leave Moore's presentation with "new ideas on what the future of energy may look like."