Recently, much has been said and written about Initiative 937, both pro and con. In a nutshell, the measure, if approved, would require “certain utilities” with more than 25,000 customers to meet targets for both energy conservation and the use of renewable energy resources. In the event the utilities don’t meet the prescribed targets, they (should read you, the consumer) will be assessed penalties. Interestingly, while we in Washington consume primarily hydroelectric generated power, and have for years, hydro doesn’t count as a renewable resource, so all of us will be in the same barrel when penalty time comes around, paying higher rates.
Renewable resources such as wind power, thermal and solar conversion technologies sound good and have become less costly over time, which is good news. The bad news is that in most cases, their cost per kilowatt hour is significantly more that traditional energy sources. The right place to determine what is the most cost effective means of serving our ever-growing population lies with the free marketplace and the professional utility managers, who understand the complexities and economic impacts of bringing on new energy sources. It’s not via some well-intentioned initiative that will drive all consumers’ electric rates higher yet. Vote no on Initiative 937.
Lloyd Marthaler
Everett
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