The proliferation of data centers is outpacing the ability of Ohio’s electrical grid to provide enough power to meet the state’s demand. The situation is so dire that Advanced Energy’s policy director, Jon Gordon, recently stated, as quoted in The Plain Dealer: “When all else fails, we are looking at rolling blackouts.” (“Get paid for using less electricity when demand spikes?” Dec. 17).

I could hardly believe my eyes when I read that! Is the great state of Ohio about to become like a third world country, where rolling blackouts are common? This sorry state of affairs is the result of the short-sighted energy policy promoted by Republican legislators in Columbus. They have repeatedly bowed to the wishes of the fossil fuel industry, and blocked the development of renewable energy in our state.

Ohio citizens must demand that our legislators repeal all laws that have stymied the development of wind and solar energy. And our legislators must instead aggressively promote renewable energy, because it will greatly increase the power we can generate. Moreover, promoting renewable energy will make Ohio a more attractive place to do business.

After all, what company wants to come to a state which has rolling blackouts?

James D. Edwards,

North Ridgeville