Opinion: This Christmas, I want more renewable energy to help address hardworking Nevadans’ economic challenges

As a full-time college student balancing part-time work and rising living costs, utility expenses have become an unsustainable burden, especially during the holidays. The increase in utility rates disproportionately impacts students, low-income workers, and families living paycheck to paycheck, forcing difficult choices between essential services like electricity and basic needs like food. 

With rising costs for rent, groceries, and education, transitioning to renewable energy is crucial for easing the financial strain on everyday people.

The ever-changing prices of fossil fuels place a growing financial strain on hardworking people. Traditional energy sources are affected by market fluctuations, geopolitical instability, and environmental disruptions, which lead to inflated utility bills. With an incoming administration proposing to derail climate efforts and invest in fossil fuels, investing in renewable energy is more important than ever. By investing in solar and wind energy, utility companies can provide more affordable and predictable rates, benefiting consumers who are the backbone of our state.

The Clean Energy Plan offers a viable path to achieving these goals. Supported by federal incentives and technological advancements, renewable energy is becoming increasingly cost-effective. Solar and wind, once seen as expensive, are now among the cheapest forms of energy. As these technologies develop, utility companies’ operational costs are expected to decrease, allowing them to pass savings on to consumers through lower rates.

For utility providers like NV Energy, the economic case for renewable energy is clear. Reducing reliance on fossil fuels not only lowers operational costs but also shields the company from the price volatility that affects traditional energy markets. More importantly, this transition benefits the broader community, especially those most impacted by rising utility costs. By prioritizing renewable energy, NV Energy can help ease the financial burden on households and individuals already struggling to meet basic living expenses.

The social implications of this transition are profound. Access to affordable, reliable energy is a necessity, particularly in a state like Nevada, where extreme weather conditions can make utility access a matter of health and safety. As energy costs continue to rise, the number of people forced to choose between essential services and other basic needs will only grow. By adopting renewable energy on a larger scale, utility providers can play a crucial role in reducing this inequity.

The shift toward renewable energy is not only an economic imperative but also a moral one. The long-term benefits of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change are well-documented. However, the immediate, tangible benefits—such as lower utility costs and greater economic stability for working people—are often overlooked. Renewable energy provides a unique opportunity to address both environmental and social challenges, fostering a more sustainable future for all.

This transition is not just about environmental stewardship; it is a necessary step toward economic justice. For students like myself, and many others facing the rising cost of living, renewable energy offers a lifeline. By investing in clean energy, NV Energy can help build a more equitable and sustainable future, ensuring that no one has to choose between their education and keeping the lights on.