Listen to the scientists when reforming the grid

Re: March 31 article, “Texas House approves reforms to state power grid in aftermath of February winter storm.”

The catastrophic mismanagement of our electric grid in February was the most devastating event that I have experienced in my 45 years here. I couldn’t believe it was possible to lose electricity for 77 hours in the U.S.

As Asher Price noted, the hearings and media coverage revealed a deep information gap between utility board rooms, state grid control rooms and Texans in their darkened living rooms.

Our lawmakers have to be transparent about their plans to address the short- and long-term crises. The short term to winterize the grid with adequate funding and management of the power grid that puts Texans in the center and not the regulators in control rooms.

They must listen to the Texas climate scientists’ warning on changing climate and an urgent need to debate thoughtful policies to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. Texans want leaders to transition to clean energy.

Kalpana Sutaria

Austin American-Statesman

April 5, 2021

As with COVID, numbers don’t lie regarding climate

The Republican Secretary of State of Georgia Brad Raffensperger said, “I live by the motto that numbers don’t lie. I believe that the numbers that we have presented today are correct. The numbers reflect the verdict of the people …. ”

The numbers keep climbing when it comes to infections, hospitalizations and number of deaths due to COVID-19. Every few days, we reach the same death toll as the Sept. 11 attack. Yet there is no national strategy to combat this virus.

Numbers don’t lie when it comes to the climate crisis. Harmful emissions are rising, killing 100,000 Americans every year and affecting the health of many more who suffer from environmental degradation.

Votes have been counted and the American people have spoken that we need to move quickly to find solutions for the COVID-19 crisis and climate change.

There is no way around these facts. Lives matter.

Kalpana Sutaria

Austin American-Statesman

December 4, 2020