Bee readers react to decision to cut rooftop solar subsidies, give thanks to ER staff
Gaslit
“After years of debate, California cuts subsidies for rooftop solar,” (sacbee.com, Dec. 13)
Merriam-Webster’s “Word of the Year” for 2022 is gaslighting, a term that refers to the use of psychological manipulation to sow seeds of doubt in targeted individuals or groups to make them question their own memory, perception and reality. Pacific Gas & Electric Co. and the California Public Utilities Commission are trying to gaslight Californians into believing that rooftop solar owners are not paying their fair share to maintain the power grid. Using false accounting data provided by think tanks that they bankroll, utilities are sowing seeds of doubt in the public media to eliminate their only competition.
The PUC voted to cut net energy metering utility payments to homeowners for their surplus energy by 75%. The demand for new solar installations will drop and destroy the California solar power industry.
Let’s demand that Gov. Gavin Newsom take action to reverse this charade, keep rooftop solar growing and save our planet from climate change.
Rene Wise
Fremont
Betrayal
“After years of debate, California cuts subsidies for rooftop solar,” (sacbee.com, Dec. 13)
The California Public Utilities Commission betrayed us.
On Dec. 15, the PUC voted 5-0 to boost energy companies that burn fossil fuels and undercut rooftop solar incentives with “Net Energy Metering 3.0.”
Californians pay exorbitant rates to the energy companies that pushed for the plan — Pacific Gas & Electric Co., Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas & Electric Co. The big dirty-energy sector is screwing us “little people” both financially and ecologically.
When we produce less clean energy, we prolong our reliance on fossil fuels. Climate science speaks clearly and undeniably: Burning fossil fuels is heating the planet. We are seeing the effects now, and we risk greater future threats.
Our top priority must be to increase renewable energy production. Gov. Gavin Newsom and his PUC appointees undermined that priority and betrayed the people of California.
Nan Renner
San Diego
Astounded
“How CHP officers in overtime scandal beat fraud charges,” (sacbee.com, Dec. 5)
I’ve been chewing on this article for some time, and it continues to bother me for several reasons. As if we didn’t already have many reasons to distrust law enforcement officials, those who are tasked with protecting us are actually stealing from us.
Think about that. Those entrusted with upholding the law are openly breaking the law. If you or I did that at our jobs, we’d be fired. In the case of the California Highway Patrol, we’re the employers.
Our supposedly honest law enforcers rationalized their ongoing crimes with a juvenile excuse: “Everybody does it.” Imagine if you used that as an excuse the next time you’re speeding, driving under the influence or buying illicit drugs? On second thought, please don’t sink to their level.
Ludger Duplessis
Sacramento
Cowardice
“Kiley doesn’t want to talk about latest Trump controversies,” (sacbee.com, Dec. 13)
Learning that Kevin Kiley isn’t paying attention speaks to his ability to ignore the worst of the former president’s predilections while simultaneously claiming to be “truly honored” by his endorsement. Once again, political expediency trumps decency.
To what has Kiley been giving his attention? According to his Twitter feed, he has continued his obsession with Gov. Gavin Newsom as well as his penchant for bashing our state. He’s also dabbling in Twitter controversies, predictably expressing faux outrage about perceived censorship.
What he’s not doing is telling our district how he plans to improve upon the lackluster non-representation of Rep. Tom McClintock, who abandoned the district. Instead, Kiley deflects to talking points that mean nothing.
Kiley says his constituents don’t want punditry, but one doesn’t have to be a pundit to condemn hatred and defend democracy. Kiley is just another paper doll, cut from the template of cowardice and complicity.
Barbara Smith
Auburn
Quality of life
“‘I don’t want to suffer.’ Patient sues Vermont over assisted suicide restrictions,” (sacbee.com, Sept. 22)
I’m dying of ALS, a terminal illness that destroys the muscles in the body. I’ve talked it over with my doctor at UC Davis and have made arrangements that she will help me end my life when the time comes. I’m comforted that California has an assisted suicide law.
Since I had no choice coming into the world, I sure should have a choice in my exit. I don’t want to live by mechanical means via feeding tubes, oxygen machines and ventilators. For me, it’s not the quantity of life but the quality. When life is no longer joyful and the body becomes a liability instead of an asset, clearly I’ve overstayed my welcome.
Since I’m an atheist, I am not restricted by religious entanglements. We all have to die someday. It should be our choice when and how to make that happen.
Richard Cornett
Fair Oaks
A thank you
“Sacramento, CA hospitals slammed by COVID, flu and RSV,” (sacbee.com, Dec. 16)
I would like to publicly express my thanks and appreciation to the emergency room medical team at Sacramento’s Kaiser Permanente Medical Center — and, by extension, to all ER workers.
Last week, I was sent to the ER by my physician. During the seven hours I was there, I was able to observe the excellent teamwork of the medical workers I saw. I am awed by their dedication, incredible patience and compassion. The place is all but overwhelmed, but even in the face of threats, demands and tears, the team explained the rules and promised patients would receive attention as soon as possible. They held the line calmly and firmly and deserve high commendation and thanks.
Sylvia J. Condon
Davis