Russia Might Be Doing Something in Wind Energy–Or Maybe Not
Though he was only a couple of years out of college when I was introduced to Stephen Lacey (pictured) in 2009, he had already become a senior staff writer at the prestigious website RenewableEnergyWorld.com, and had learned essentially everything there was to know about this burgeoning industry. I asked him about REW’s editorial criteria, trying to understand what his organization wanted from me as a new contributor in the clean energy space. He and I had a long and very interesting conversation, but my key take-away from our talk was this: “We advocate for renewable energy, and we advocate away from nothing.”
“So, if I get your meaning, you won’t let me call out the bad guys?” I asked innocently. “Oh no, Craig. You can write whatever you want. but it’s not what we do here; just don’t be surprised or disappointed when we don’t join a conversation that isn’t positive news about renewables.” I was totally OK with that, of course; they have an unassailable right to take whatever position they choose. In fact, I’ve reflected back onto that discussion a great many times over the intervening years, wondering if I too should have taken a similar tack.
I hold Stephen in great esteem, both his piercing intellect and his intense moral character; I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone with more dedication to doing everything humanly possible to ensure the sustainability of our civilization, and more mental horsepower to lead us in that direction. It is for this reason that I interviewed Stephen for chapters in two of my books: Renewable Energy–Facts and Fantasies, and Renewable Energy—Following the Money. Readers have gushed praises over his insights of both pieces.
But the time this conversation took place, Stephen had already noticed that I tend to be nasty as hell to rich people who insist upon becoming even richer by destroying Earth’s environment, in the process depriving all others now and into the future of a decent quality of life. Neither am I kind to tyrants, wherever in the world they may reside. For example, Vladimir Putin, a world-class butcher by any standards, with a list of human rights violations too long to list, has spent a fortune in PR campaigns in the US and Europe, in a remarkably successful effort to soften his image. As disgusting as it may seem, Putin won Time Magazine’s “Person of the Year” in 2007 and was runner-up again in 2014, though, obviously, that changes absolutely nothing about his widespread “disappearing” of dissident journalists and use of torture, not to mention his “work” running the KGB.
Fast-forward 10 years. Stephen is now the editor-in-chief of an ever prominent outlet: GreenTech Media, which recently published this piece on Russia’s interest in wind energy. Now, as we all know, Russia’s only visible concern in the energy space at this point is the continuing torrent of dollars coming in from the export of coal, oil and natural gas to other countries in Europe and Asia. But not surprisingly, this article focuses on a potentially positive aspect of Russia’s energy program (even though it hasn’t happened yet). Though the author grants that very little has taken place to date, she notes: “The next year will reveal just how serious Russia is about developing wind energy…..A new $1.7 billion development fund could signal that Russia’s “sleeping giant” of a wind market is stirring from its slumber.” (Emphasis added, to show the completely conditional nature of Russia’s actions in wind.)
As much regard as I have for Stephen, I wonder if he hasn’t gone too far with his “we advocate away from nothing” concept. Having said that, if he knew for a fact that Russia had no sincere intention to do something significant in wind, I’m sure he wouldn’t have let this article run.
But here’s the question of the day: Is promoting Russia’s dubious efforts here, in light of everything we’ve discussed, the right thing to do? I honestly don’t know.
Craig,
I think that it’s important to recognize when a country is considering doing something “good”, and attempt to use flattery, praise, etc… for trying to guide those decisions.
When Kim Jun Un first rose to power after his father died… there was an immediate response from the US state department hoping for better relations and better dialogue. Wishing Kim Jun Un well. Expressing sorrow for the death of his father… etc.
It wasn’t as if anyone believed the man was going to be a progressive dynamo… but it was hoped that he could see that, by making some progressive movement halfway, that perhaps a better relationship might be forthcoming.
Of course history is history. But I don’t think the attempt was wrong. It’s always worth the effort to try to praise efforts you agree with from someone you typically disagree with.
If you’ve noticed, I go out of my way – on the very few occasions possible – to note instances where I agree with the Trump administration. It’s to let his followers know that I can be agreeable if they do agreeable things. I believe it to be a reasonable strategy.
So if Russia makes a sound economic decision to install a large wind farm or two… that’s just smart business on their part, but I can applaud them for it. It costs me nothing and just MIGHT encourage them to go further, so as to further attempt to improve their image.
If they don’t… it cost me nothing to have applauded their promise to do something I agree with.
If the environmental community at large just takes the (historically defensible) stance that Putin is absolutely an enemy of the environment, period… Then it could help in some small way to signal that they gain no goodwill from doing these types of investments, so there’s no need to follow through, or do more… So by maintaining enmity come what may, I risk being a part of a catalyst to DIScourage actions that I would applaud.
That’s how I think about these things. I recognize that I’m a small player, but I also see the game theory in things: if everyone acted in the best interests as though they had a voice, then they would – united – have a voice, and enact significant change.
This is very sound. It’s funny, I’ve done the same thing with Trump, though I have to look hard for things with which I agree. He DID make it easier to fire incompetent employees at the VA about a month ago; I went nuts over that. 🙂
One of favorite take-aways from a weekend clinic I attended for incoming soccer coaches when my kids were younger was this: “Re-enforcing something good a kid does has FAR more effect that criticizing a mistake. Even the clumsiest kid on you team will EVENTUALLY do something right. Try not to miss it.”
Agreed.
🙂
The kids soccer metaphor is a great one.
Thanks. As I’ve noted, coaching my kids’ soccer is one of the top five highlights of my life: http://www.2greenenergy.com/2009/01/03/coaching/
Craig,
I’m curious, why are you so vehement about Russia and Putin’s human rights record, and silent when it comes to the Peoples Republic of China’s far more reprehensible policies ?
Glenn is correct, although criticism is important, so is recognizing positive achievements.
Another valuable maxim I’ve always found is “try to walk a mile in another person’s shoes”.
Understanding others, by understanding the dynamics of the environment they inhabit can be both humbling and productive.
Too much praise and irrational adoration for any advocate, no matter how ‘moral’ or charming, is also counter-productive. I believe it’s important to remain critical of all advocates, while remaining open minded and objective.
The problem for all Renewable Energy advocates, is getting trapped in a reality created by their own rhetoric. When the technology proves inadequate, uneconomic, or problematic to suit consumer demand, RE advocates demand consumers be modified to suit the technology, rather than the technology suit the consumer.
Those who advocate renewable energy from the perspective of a passionate ‘moral’ crusade, will always be frustrated by the practical inadequacies of developing technologies.
Naturally, such idealists will need to find “bad guys” and scapegoats. The more cracks appear in their vision, the more fanatical the rhetoric becomes.
Today, my son and I arrived in Huntington West, Virginia. I traveled to Huntington in 1969 while on leave from Vietnam. I visited the family of a American friend who fell during the battle for Hue.
Huntington is an example of the spirit of recovery taking place in former US rust belt cities. While only 53 miles from the State Capitol, it’s economic revival is more pronounced ( the food and accommodation is also preferable. It’s still a little startling to see smoking and non-smoking rooms).
We’re looking forward to hearing Bill Raney, President of the
West Virginia Coal Association. Bill considers himself a dedicated environmentalist.
Bill’s career in coal was largely spent reclaiming and rehabilitating defunct coal fields and mines while working for the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources.
His views on Carbon Sequestration, land rehabilitation and mining practices, will be first hand (at the coal face so to speak :).
While we expect Bill, like Stephen Lacey, to promote his his own cause, I believe his contribution will contain valuable insights.
I’m sure Bill Raney loves his wife Pam and wants the best life possible for his son and daughter. Bill’s a Trump supporter in a State that was once a Democrat strong hold.
Everywhere I go in Huntington, I meet folk who tell me of the new atmosphere of hope and optimism in this city which has seem its population drop by almost half, and of those remaining, more than 30 % live below the poverty line.
Most of the cities revival is due to the hard work and determination of the citizens of Huntington. The President is popular because he paid tribute to their efforts.
Interestingly, the hysteria of critics like Stephan Colbert, NYT and Washington Post, is met with a sort of resigned pragmatism by Trump supporters. Even the college students seem to be embarrassed by the excesses.
The disconnect between these locals and the big city liberal political elite, seems to be increasing, not decreasing. The divide which had narrowed during the Reagan years, seems to have progressively widened.
In these towns and small cities I’ve detected a genuine feeling of the Americans feeling ignored and despised by the political elite and those in the new economy. The resentment of Washington, is only exceeded by a dislike of Californian ‘values'(what ever that means).
I’m not going to pretend our trip will make us experts in American politics, but it does provide some first hand experience.
I’m also grateful to spend this time with my youngest son. I guess this will be the last time before he has children of his own and all the time constraints a family creates.
Russia should do something in wind energy. I think so.