Volts How railroads could boost the US energy transition
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Nov 6, 2024 Bill Moyer, founder of the Reconnect America campaign, advocates for harnessing U.S. railroads to support the clean energy transition. He highlights how shifting freight from roads to rails can significantly cut emissions. Moyer discusses the drawbacks of a profit-driven railroad model, which often overlooks public benefits. He emphasizes the potential of electrifying rail systems for environmental justice and the importance of community engagement in revitalizing rail transit to foster economic growth.
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US Rail System Ownership
- The US rail system is privately owned and operated for profit, unlike most other countries.
- This focus on short-term profits hinders the system's potential public benefits.
Railroad Regulation
- The Interstate Commerce Commission, created in 1887, regulated railroads like utilities.
- Railroads had common carrier obligations, ensuring non-discriminatory service and transparent rates.
Freight Shift and Amtrak
- Freight shifted from rail to trucks due to publicly funded highways and deregulation.
- The creation of Amtrak bailed out railroads, relieving them of passenger service obligations.