Will Alaska continue as an energy leader?

With Congress now back in session, clean energy and climate legislation will be picking back up. I say it's time to put partisan politics aside.

We know that Sen. Lisa Murkowski in her leadership role can successfully strengthen any bill that comes out of the Senate, to the point where energy and climate legislation become a smart and economically sound investment for Alaska.

Our state, from the coastal villages and towns to the population centers, can greatly benefit from a climate and energy bill. The blooming green economy has generated new momentum and has transformed Alaskans' perspectives on energy. Yes, we profit as an oil and gas-rich state. But we also should be investing in and profiting from the development of our renewable energy. No other state has such defined potential. For Alaska to continue to be an energy leader long into my lifetime, Alaskans must support clean energy legislation, and our senators must prepare us for the future.

Andrea Sanders

Alaska Renewable Energy organizer, Union of Concerned Scientists

Anchorage/Bethel