Submission Number: UBR-DEIS-00385 -- Oral Comment at Public Meeting 

Received: 12/1/2020 12:00:00 AM
Commenter: Jack Green
Organization: 
State: 

Agency: STB
Initiative: Uinta Basin Railway EIS
Attachments: No Attachments
Submission Text
Yes.· Thank you for allowing us to express our views on this very critical matter.

First of all, I want to wish those in the Uinta Basin the best.· I have many friends out there.
I've spent time out there.· I haven't worked there, but just the same.· Thank you for all those in the Uinta Basin who have expressed their concerns.

I'm joining many students, both college and secondary students, around the state who wish to compliment SITLA on its interest and investment on renewable energy, who have deep concerns.· Also, these students who have deep concerns for their future in a climate compromised planet.

The School Trust Lands Administration is reporting an incredible surge in interest in renewable energy products, particularly solar, across the state on parcels of land that it owns.· We who have wind leases and 23 solar leases with 2 more under review, said Ron Torgeson, deputy assistant director for school trust lands.· There have been a steady flow of applications for school trust lands, which is good. The administration will get money once a lease is secured and then additional revenue after the project is operational.

The last board of trustees's expert named to serve for SITLA is a renewable energy expert
expected to guide the industry into new horizons that include green hydrogen generated from solar energy production.· Torgeson has oversight of the ambitious Castle Solar Lease which offers expansive development in 450 acres that will not only include the features, but a canal, a power substation and more.· He said it will easily be the most efficiently used parcel of land within the administration's portfolio once complete.

Rocky Mountain Power's partner, DE Shaw Renewable Energy Investments, has an accomplished track record in the renewable energy arena.· My students and I urge you to deny in the proposed railway and invest in a long-term economically viable energy solutions for the Uinta Basin in the State of Utah.· Thank you.