The race is on to become leaders in self preservation. States and communities that become innovators and solution makers will have an edge.

With electricity rate caps set to begin to be lifted at the end of 2009, they said, there is urgency to get conservation measures in place. Increased competition for "green" companies from other states could hurt Pennsylvania's economy down the road, they added.

"New Jersey and New York each are spending $200 million a year," said John Hanger, president of PennFuture, a statewide environmental advocacy group. "We need at least $150 million a year or we're not going to be a competitor in locating clean-energy producers here." www.philly.com

What's undecided in government is whether consumers are willing to pay now for promoting alternative energies though subsidies that are often risky investment due to the undeveloped nature of many technologies. Thinking green often pulls money away from entrenched capitalization (oil,coal...revenue streams) and money fuels government.

The urgency is reality: California has long tried to push tougher pollution laws often blocked by federal government. California has a dense population and a climate that makes controlling pollution a more in-your-face issue than most of the country.

In 2009 when electricity caps are lifted in Pennsylvania, consumers can expect and 20-30% increase in their electrical bills. One of the reasons that will be given will be high energy prices. A high cost is an in-your-face issue for consumers.

We stand at the crossroads made in all great investment decisions, only there aren't any safe government backed securities to bank on with this one. The worst decision is to make no decision.

Some community leaders are taking their destiny into their own hands.

In Parkland, Fla, there is free hybrid-car parking. Cash rebates for installing solar panels. Low-interest loans for energy-saving home renovations. Money to tear up desert lawns and replace them with drought-resistant landscaping.

Starting next year, San Francisco will offer home owners rebates of up to $5,000 for installing solar panels if they use a local contractor.

The city of Berkeley is financing the cost of solar panels for homeowners who agree to pay the money back through a 20-year property tax assessment.

Baltimore offers at least $2,000 toward closing costs for people who buy new homes close to where they work. It is called the "Live Near Your Work" program.

n Arizona, many cities pay residents to replace grass with artificial turf or plants that use less water. Scottsdale, outside Phoenix, will pay up to $1,500.
AP

Pennsylvania Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency