To the Editor:

Paul A. Beaudette is a believer in man-made climate change. He is convinced that solar generated power is a critical, viable, and effective tool to offset the impacts of increasing CO2 emissions and their impact on climate change (“Let’s do solar ordinance intelligently,” July 29).

But, with all due respect, what if Mr. Beaudette is wrong? What if the science on climate change isn’t nearly as settled as he implies?

For example, how can Mr. Beaudette be certain that reducing fossil fuel use in America will lower global temperatures? Can he show us proof positive that sea levels will thereby cease to rise?

In his book “Unsettled,” scientist Steven E. Koonin challenges many of Mr. Beaudettes claims about the cause, urgency, and proper response to climate change. Koonin offers a perspective that is more nuanced and open minded than that put forth by Mr. Beaudette.

Mr. Koonin cautions us about the folly of rejecting fossil fuels and becoming overly dependent on unreliable sources of electricity such as wind and solar. That path may very well lead to exorbitant energy prices and rolling blackouts.

I agree with Mr. Beaudette that we want to be smart about solar policies. That is why I recommend that he read Mr. Koonin’s thoughtful book. It might well change his position on climate change hype and hysteria. We should all look before we leap.

A. H. Liddle

Warwick