MAILBAG - Nov. 29, 2007

Fuel cells not likely, need energy legislation

Sen. Tom Harman (“UCI research center leads fuel cell frontier,” Nov. 16), writes, “In the near future, Californians may be able to purchase fuel cells for use in their homes.”

In this regard, UCI does in fact state on its pertinent website that “Individual California residents may be able to purchase fuel cells for their homes in the near future.”

Notwithstanding, UCI goes on to state, “However, it is unlikely that anyone will ever have a fuel cell in their back yard for personal use.”

Interestingly, UCI also describes a hybrid technology which sends hot exhaust gas vented from electricity producing fuel cells to a turbine, thereby generating additional electricity.

Importantly, several classes of fuel cells work better at higher temperatures. Additionally, the extra energy so created can be stored in batteries or transferred to flywheels. Further, while natural gas may be used in a home fuel cell, the gas must be converted to hydrogen, adding to the complexity of the set-up.

Thus, it is apparent that few homeowners will purchase fuel cells for home use and that our nation’s need for energy independence will not be met by glib promises of fuel cells in every home. Unfortunately, some of our elected officials brag about their 100% approval rating by the California Chamber of Commerce yet refuse to support legislation mandating energy efficiency or meaningful tax incentives for non-carbon based electricity.

In my opinion, we need less happy talk and more realism from our politicians.

PAUL CROSS

Huntington Beach

Council needs to think outside box

It is sad when fear and politics are the cornerstones of decision-making with local government instead of reasoned consideration and sound judgment.

And yet, fear and politics were once again the misguided masonry of the council majority in the medical marijuana ordinance vote. Fresh from mishandling the pet spay/neuter issue, the City Council again gave many citizens further cause to question its wisdom and leadership.

It is true that nobody considers our council majority the least bit progressive. It is also true that nobody accuses our council majority members of being independent thinkers. It’s easy to just say no.

However, our civic leaders must learn to overcome fear instead of succumbing to it, and resist partisan political pressure instead of acquiescing to it if they are to represent all of our citizens fairly and effectively.

Ignoring solid evidence and persuasive arguments that our status quo posed no pernicious threat to our public safety or civic well-being, the council majority retreated from reality with its vote.

TIM GEDDES

Huntington Beach

Leases violate separation of church, state

The lease of public school sites to religious organizations is a gross violation of the separation of church and state. If it were not for the public school’s property, these religious schools would not have the advantage inherent in same; thus, the school board has enhanced a particular religion over another or, no religion at all.

JOHN BOAG

Huntington Beach