Clark Howard's Tips

June 2, 2008

The Department of Energy is now saying that wind power could represent 20% or more of our future energy needs.

Wind power in the United States began as something of a curiosity and a big money loser. The first wave of installations took place in the '70s just west of Palm Springs, Calif. Today's windmills are highly automated and can even rotate to catch the wind. We're also getting closer to figuring out how to store the energy that's generated, which had long been a problem.

However, one of the main deterrents to wind power remains the "NIMBY" mentality. People love the idea, but "not in my backyard."

For example, the wealthy are protesting the installation of wind power off the coast of Massachusetts. Likewise, The Houston Chronicle reports that some HOAs in Texas are fighting solar installations.

Clark thinks we all need to grow up and look at the greater good. We need a gut-check as Americans. Are we going to be sitting ducks to foreign energy, or will we seize the moment and work to find alternative forms?

Consumer advice courtesy of