By: Jared Fisher
I read with interest the article “Gubernatorial candidates largely plan to back 2018 energy deregulation ballot question” in the October 25th edition of the Nevada Independent. As the only current candidate for governor who has released an innovative and visionary plan for the future of energy in Nevada, and who has built several economically successful renewable business projects, I found it curious that I was left out of the article. Of the four candidates that were interviewed, two had tepid support, one wouldn’t voice an opinion and one couldn’t even remember his position on the ballot question. To say the least, all of their answers were very disappointing.
First of all, let’s be clear about the Energy Choice Initiative. If the voters pass the initiative a second time in 2018, whether or not the governor personally backs the initiative is irrelevant. Whoever is the future governor of Nevada will be tasked with implementing the plan per the will of the people.
Second of all, it is unimaginable that any candidate for governor would waiver in their support for the Energy Choice Initiative. I will state without hesitation that I am in full support of the initiative and as governor, I will work diligently with the legislature to ensure that it is successfully executed. More than ever, people are showing a preference for choice in their daily lives. In Nevada, this includes where and from whom they can purchase their electricity. They started the process last year and will finish the job in 2018.
As the move to a competitive retail electricity market takes place and is fine-tuned, years of business experience proves that competition will drive the prices down. And not just for businesses, but for private citizens, community organizations, government entities and more.
An energy choice policy will make it more competitive for companies to do business in Nevada. That will mean more jobs, more revenue and more tax dollars for our state. We have worked so hard to make Nevada a friendly state for new, diversified industries such as renewable energy. An energy choice policy will actually drive energy companies focused on renewables into our state, creating still more jobs and satisfying Nevada and California’s thirst for clean energy. Rather than sending good-paying renewable energy jobs to Germany and China, we can bring them to our state and make Nevada the ‘go-to place’ and recognized leader in renewable energy employment, education, research and investment.
Nevada’s energy future is an important part of my platform. Because of its effect on jobs, revenue, business development, education, technology, construction and so much more, energy will be high on my priority list as governor. Combine that with the fact that chances are very good the people of Nevada will approve the initiative a second time in 2018, and my support for the Energy Choice Initiative is solid and unwavering. I will ensure that it realizes its tremendous potential to benefit our state and our nation.
Why I Am Running for Governor
Our children’s future and the future of our state is my biggest concern and the reason I am running for governor. Our state must break free from political in-fighting and start moving on a sustainable, productive path that includes a focus on the free market. We cannot continue to outsource our jobs, technology and energy. We must diversify our economy and strengthen our education system through innovation. In all of this, choice is of paramount importance—choice in education, choice in economy, choice in energy, and choice in politics. In a nation divided, it’s time to turn over a new leaf for a healthy Nevada, for the people.
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