Tom Steyer and his renewable energy fractivists became a highly divisive figure in the 2014 election, and if you watched last night’s CNN GOP Debate, Steyer is back with a brand new set of ads touting the importance of green energy. Of course, we’d say that he should probably fire his media buyer because Republican activists are among the most highly-educated on energy issues, and the green energy industry’s overwhelming dependence on government subsidies (yes, even moreso than oil and gas) makes Republicans wary. So, this commercial is pretty off key. But, see for yourself.
“If you think there’s no solution to the climate crisis, think again. In America, clean energy is already producing enough power for 18 million homes, reducing our dependence on foreign oil and supporting over a million jobs. With bold leadership, and an endless supply of wind and sun, we could do even more. The goal is 50% clean energy by 2030. So, what are we waiting for?”
First of all, it’s great that green energy is supporting 18 million homes in the United States, but there are 318.9 million people in the United States. It’s a drop in the bucket.
As the National Journal pointed out, there is a major inaccuracy in this ad. It’s the perception that wind and sun could potentially replace oil and natural gas. From the article:
“That leaves the distinct impression that wind and solar energy are substitutes for oil in the U.S energy market. And that’s not really true—because wind and solar are used to generate electricity, while oil is barely a factor in power markets.”
All in all, Steyer’s ad was a flop both in terms of targeting his audience and accuracy of his statements. Maybe he should stick to cattle ranching and traveling in private jets, you know, for the environment.