Search For Solutions
As you will see on page 8 of this month’s Ruralite, (Ruralite link is available under the Links section of this website) we will begin a series on climate change called Search for Solutions. The purpose of this series is to provide you with information on this important issue, including Website resources allowing you to further explore this topic on your own. In addition, we will offer you tangible ways to respond through grassroots programs and energy efficiency efforts.
Regardless of our opinion on climate change, it looks to be a hot-button item for many years to come. In Oregon, the Legislature is considering its part in the process with Senate Bill 80. SB80 is a complex Cap and Trade bill which would target the utility sector carbon emissions. For Oregon’s co-ops this bill does not make sense given that 90% of our power supply already comes from emission free hydropower.
At the federal level, Congress already is working on climate change legislation that could affect all Americans. For example, House Energy and Commerce Chairman Henry Waxman (D-CA) will push for climate change legislation to be passed by Memorial Day. Although it is hard to say whether this goal will be met, it is an indication of the momentum behind this topic.
At the local level, Wasco Electric is actively involved. We understand that any climate change legislation could affect how we do business – from acquiring new power supply resources for electric load growth to transmission facilities that transport that power from generation plants to the substations that serve your home and business. These matters could profoundly impact the cost of energy. We want to make sure our lawmakers are well informed on the consequences before decisions are made.
One way you can get involved is through the Power of Community campaign. Once registered, you will receive information on the important questions surrounding this matter. Members can register through the link at the bottom of our website at http://www.wascoelectric.com.
I encourage you to read Search for Solutions and respond as you deem appropriate. Our goal is to equip you with information and provide you with an opportunity to respond. We will do our best to act on your behalf in order to keep the impacts of cost and reliability to a minimum. As always, we welcome your feedback and are happy to discuss this matter with you.
Jeff Davis, General Manager
