GOP hatred for “Left” only reason for opposition to Renewable Energy!

The title is my takeaway from the comments below by a staunch Republican who’s mystified by his party’s opposition to green energy.

It all seems to boil down to the irrational hatred of “liberalism,” climate change and anything perceived as “left.” I don’t know about you, but opposing an idea that creates jobs and a burgeoning new energy market due to liberal, progressive and Democratic support it is nothing short of self-destructive. MidwestEnergyNews:

Larry Ward, executive director of the Michigan Conservative Energy Forum, says he’s always been fascinated by the idea that “somehow Republicans can’t be in line” with renewable energy. As a consultant and former political director for the state’s Republican party, says, energy policy affects everyone who pays an electric bill. “I’m just always mystified that we as a political party have let it get that bad,” he said.

Believe it or not, Larry Ward had to create a conservative renewable energy support group. Don’t laugh, if it helps I’m all for it. I especially like how he’s thought about “framing” the issues to make renewable energy exciting, an concept that alludes Democrats:

In late 2013, Ward launched the MCEF as a way to give Republicans a voice on clean-energy issues — an opportunity for those in the party to speak up on the merits of the issue without being lumped in with (and cast away as) liberals, he said. Ward is careful to frame the issue with three pillars: jobs and the economy; energy independence; and leaving a positive legacy for future generations. The group is careful to avoid potentially divisive debates about climate change. (If) a Republican would step out and try something on energy — especially from a renewable or clean side — they felt like they were kind of catering to the left. 

Larry Ward is especially confused over solar bashing, where supposed small government Republicans set in place onerous rules and regulations to prevent its spread. It’s when government bureaucracy ain't so bad:

There are a bunch of rules and laws in place that prohibit just the normal expansion of a product like solar. Wind is great for large-scale energy production, but solar has capability, too. If we just get some of the rules and restrictions out of the way, that market would take off on its own. You’re starting to see that across states, if you look at net-metering laws.