What the Consumer Wants

Joe Rulison

Listen to what the consumer is saying: electric energy is good in some cases, not in all cases.  

As public entities look to allocate their remaining ARPA funds, or plan for new capital infrastructures or transportation needs, consumers are sending clear signals to them: they will not financially support 100% green-energy spends. This is not to say they are against all climate change initiatives, but rather, they are skeptical about the efficiency, cost, and reliability of going pure electric.

Recently, I read that the estimated costs of going 100% electric throughout New York State would exceed $3 trillion, over 15 times the annual state budget. Is that even feasible? My guess is that New York consumers and taxpayers would not accept such a tax burden.

Recent consumer purchasing patterns have changed the course of electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing. Toyota, GM, Ford, and Volvo have reduced their level of EV output due to lack of consumer interest. Now these car manufactures are taking major “write-offs’” as they retool their factories in order to boost hybrid and gas-powered vehicle production.

As public officials, it is important that we listen to what our taxpayers are saying. What they may want may be far different from the initiatives and associated costs proposed by the powers that be.