The Northwest recently witnessed a dramatic example of how effective we can be when we work together. In early December, residents, businesses and industries were asked to cut back their electricity use during an arctic front. Electricity use was measured during one peak hour of this warning period. Consumption had dropped so significantly that the savings were equivalent to enough power to supply the entire Portland metropolitan area during that hour and almost enough to supply Seattle for that period. If we can do that much during an emergency, we have the power to avoid emergencies by making a habit of using energy wisely.
Every watt saved means less water run through the dams.
With most of the winter ahead, we cannot afford to deplete our reservoirs. New arctic fronts could mean we need that water to generate electricity during even colder periods. Equally important, we need that water for another Northwest resource, our salmon. If reservoirs are drawn down too far, there will not be sufficient water this spring to flush fish safely through the reservoirs to the ocean. Finally, there's a personal bonus.