I would like to offer here a broader context to The Beachcomber’s Sept. 27 coverage of efforts by islanders to bring attention to PSE’s policies regarding use of coal and natural gas to satisfy our energy needs (“Islanders join regional effort to oppose PSE natural gas plant,” Sept. 27).

It was disappointing that PSE closed its office and called in two sheriffs as two dozen island residents attempted to peacefully deliver a letter signed by 1,300 PSE customers, my husband and I among them. We are urgently calling for a switch to 100 percent renewables in the form of solar, wind and hydro.

While we appreciate PSE’s recent commitment to retire two coal boilers at the Colstrip plant in Montana, it is not enough. It is the third dirtiest coal plant in the country. All four coal boilers must be retired and replaced by 100 percent renewables, along with establishment of energy-efficient solutions.

I am alarmed that the liquid natural gas (LNG) project in Tacoma is proceeding, despite strong local opposition led by the Puyallup tribal members. The facility threatens Puyallup treaty fishing rights, the health of local communities and our shared climate future. Vashon Island is a part of the traditional land of the Puyallup. We must stand for them.

PSE needs to stop marketing fracked natural gas to its customers, particularly as we witness heart breaking devastation from hurricanes, fire and drought. Liquid natural gas development will only fuel this cycle of climate chaos.

The Union of Concerned Scientists has found that if the U.S. electric grid transitioned from coal and oil to gas, there would be virtually no reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. That is not a useful transition; It is a death sentence for life on earth.

We must push PSE to cancel the Tacoma LNG facility, retire the entire Colstrip plant in Montana, reject natural gas as a replacement possibility and commit to 100 percent renewables, energy efficiency and a clean energy future.

— Sheila Brown