Jeff Rubin, former Chief Economist for CIBC Bank of Canada, says it’s not about oil supply, but it is more about oil we can afford to burn. I like him because his reasoning makes common sense. If we cannot afford the renewable energy solution, what is the point?

Mark Glick was just appointed head of the Energy Division of the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Back when I was supporting the Thirty-Meter Telescope, Mark was President of the Sierra Club, and I had an issue with them.

I pointed out that the Sierra Club is anti-Hawaiian in carrying out its policies. I made clear that I was not against the people who belonged to the Sierra Club – I was a member, and the folks were my friends. I just called its policy anti-Hawaiian.

By all indications, Mark is very well-qualified for his new position. But he needs to keep in mind that when choosing renewable alternatives, people have to be able to afford it. The Energy Department’s policies will have a huge effect on Hawai‘i’s economy. Some people, like me, believe it will have the largest effect.

It’s the folks on the lowest rungs of the economic ladder that get their lights turned off first. Too often, they will be Hawaiians.

Energy policy must balance distributed generation, so we do not end up with the “haves” leaving the grid, and the “have nots” and small businesses being left to pay for the grid.

If we use proven-technology, indigenous, low-cost energy – such as geothermal – we will become more competitive with the rest of the world. This will stimulate economic activity.

Hawaii is blessed with abundant natural energy resources. We must maximize our resources. But we also need to prioritize wisely.

Choosing low-cost energy will benefit everyone; not only the rubbah slippah folks.