Annie Norman
DemocraticQ2 Delaware’s electricity is delivered through PJM interconnection, the regional grid operator for the mid-atlantic. Across the PJM region, electricity demand is rising in part due to large-scale data center development. What evidence-based policies, if any, would you support addressing the effects of AI-driven data center growth on electricity costs and grid reliability for Delaware’s residents?
Many communities are pausing on Data Center approvals to better understand the broader context. Delaware needs to initiate solutions for energy generation as well. I support, and hope you will help with, providing the big picture of science related issues, the pros and cons of various approaches, as well as potential future energy and environmental solutions that we should plan for and design for now.
FYI, I served on the Governor’s STEM Council under an earlier administration. My favorite STEM concept is systems thinking and understanding cause and effect. As a Librarian, we serve all subjects, science and more. A systems approach will be most effective.
Q3 Federal agencies including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) project that Delaware’s coastal communities face increasing risk of tidal flooding in the coming decades. What evidence-based policies, if any, would you support to help these communities respond to increased coastal flooding risk?
In my youth I lived in Fenwick Island, off of Rt 54. One night, driving in the dark, I hit a wall of water on the road which shut off my car. In recent years, the road is raised above flooding.
We’re already seeing East Coast communities abandon houses on the edge. There needs to be evidence-based planning for newer development to be at a safer distance further inland. The loss of land is a statewide issue to support, with the communities hopefully realistic about climate effects.
Q9 Delaware funds youth substance-use prevention programs through the Division of Public Health and the state budget. According to the 2024 Delaware School Survey, 26% of Delaware 11th graders perceive great risk in regular marijuana use, down from 50% in 1999. What evidence-based policies, if any, would you support to address substance use among young people in Delaware and ensure drug usage decline?
Start by addressing the issue within the current system. What is the effectiveness of the youth substance-use prevention programs – does this survey result mean they are not working? Is the 11th graders view of risk more realistic now? There are many dangers, safety issues for teens. This is one question out of context, what about alcohol use? What is the greater context of the youths’ lives?
I look forward to working with the network of scientists to address all the improvements needed in a systematic approach.