Energy Discussion Funding in Alabama: Uncovering the Backers
In the realm of energy policy discussions in Alabama, the name Daniel Tait often surfaces as a trusted advocate for green policies. As the leader of The Energy & Policy Institute (EPI) and Energy Alabama, Tait is frequently quoted in news stories, promoting green energy solutions and opposing American natural gas projects. However, questions have been raised about the transparency of EPI's funding sources and potential foreign influences.
The EPI, under Tait's leadership, operates without disclosing a physical address, donor list, or registration as a nonprofit in any state. This lack of transparency has sparked concerns, especially when coupled with investigative reports linking the EPI to Tigercomm, a Washington, D.C.-based public relations firm. Tigercomm represents major solar companies, including Trina Solar, one of China's largest and most influential solar-panel manufacturers.
The associations between EPI and Tigercomm raise concerns about potential foreign influence, specifically Chinese interests, in the activities promoted by EPI. Approximately 80% of solar cells and lithium-ion battery materials come from China, which further fuels these concerns.
The U.S. Senate held a hearing titled "Enter the Dragon" in response to these concerns, warning about the potential influence of the Chinese government on U.S. energy policy through American nonprofits. The ties between the EPI and Tigercomm suggest the Energy & Policy Institute may be advancing Chinese interests at the expense of the American public.
Gerald Allen, a Republican representing Alabama Senate District 21, has also expressed concerns about these associations. District 21 includes portions of Tuscaloosa County and Pickens County. Allen believes it's time for Mr. Tait and the Energy & Policy Institute to be transparent about who funds their work to alleviate concerns about foreign ties.
In summary, the Energy & Policy Institute's funders are not publicly known, and investigative reports raise concerns about indirect connections to Chinese solar industry interests through associated PR firms, suggesting the possibility of foreign influence in its advocacy efforts. The EPI and Energy Alabama regularly seek to influence state energy policy, advocating against American-made natural gas projects and promoting the rapid adoption of solar and other green-energy technologies. It is crucial for transparency and public trust that the EPI discloses its funding sources to address these concerns.
- Given the associations between The Energy & Policy Institute (EPI) and Tigercomm, a public relations firm that represents major solar companies with Chinese origins, concerns about potential foreign influence, specifically from China, in the activities promoted by EPI persist.
- Amidst calls for transparency, the EPI's funders remain undisclosed, raising questions about the institute's advocacy efforts in the field of energy policy, particularly in relation to American natural gas projects and the promotion of solar and green-energy technologies.
