That's a real travesty, because you can't replace those high-paying jobs easily. The Northwest economy is totally dependent on adequate supplies of affordable power to run our industries. From the old economy to the new economy, electricity is the lifeblood that creates jobs and opportunities.
Rural communities are the most threatened by the growing energy shortage.
Most of these communities rely almost exclusively on one or two basic industries to provide family-wage jobs and stimulate the economy. Many of the other businesses in these communities exist solely because the industries do. Without these industry payrolls, gas stations, grocery stores and other businesses couldn't survive. Schools, doctor's offices and other community services would also be at risk. The relationship between Goldendale and its major employer, Goldendale Aluminum, is a great example.