President Gorbachev Calls For Dramatic Boost To Solar Energy
Read the full media release

Green Cross International Founder Mikhail Gorbachev has urged world leaders and the private sector to make big investments in solar energy swiftly as a way out of the current economic crisis and as part of an emergency response to climate change.  Mr. Gorbachev held a press conference at San Antonio, Texas, where he addresses the 33rd NPRA International Petrochemical Conference.

“The oil industry is a key stakeholder. Their commitment is essential to turn the tide against the massive pile up of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere,” Mr. Gorbachev pointed out. “This economic crisis must mark the beginning of a new sustainable development path.  That has been long overdue.  Solar power needs big investments to expand for noticeable effects. For the 2 billion people currently living without electricity, the sun is the best hope.”  

Talking about the enormous potential that tapping solar energy holds, Mr. Gorbachev referred to the Green Cross Solar Report Card, the first of its kind, analyzing 16 countries’ investments in solar energy. The full report can be found at www.globalgreen.org/solarreportcard  

“Solar is a key strategic investment that can help combat energy poverty and help fight climate change,” noted Green Cross Energy Program Chair and Global Green president Matt Petersen. “Sadly, investments in solar markets, despite recent growth, have been historically low due to cost concerns. Governments have a responsibility to promote cost reductions through the assurance of long-term commitment to solar so the private sector may deliver economies of scale.”   

“The challenge today is to embed Green Economic policy in national economies worldwide,” said Alexander Likhotal, President of the Green Cross International. “Latest estimates by the International Energy Agency show renewable sources account for only $10 billion of the $250-300 billion allocated to annual energy subsidies worldwide. If we are to deal with the current crises and the ones just around the corner, then every dollar, Euro, or yen is going to have to work smarter and harder.”