While Northwest Power Planning Council figures show that peak demand for electricity in the Northwest has risen 24 percent over the past decade, the region s power-producing capacity has increased only 4 percent. Some can argue that, since 1995, there actually has been a net loss of more than 500 megawatts of power-generating capacity because of fish protection efforts. Despite showing leadership on conservation since the energy crisis began last fall, Gov. Gary Locke deserves some blame for our current crisis. Despite warning signs, the governor didn t act. While conservation definitely should be part of our energy policy, we cannot conserve our way to low prices and energy independence.
More power generation has to be a major part of Washington s long-term energy policy.
Weeks ago, the governor introduced his energy package, including a couple of bills to increase power production. While Locke s energy package is a good start, it needs to go further. Senate Republicans recently unveiled an energy package that focuses on increasing power generation capacity in Washington and helping energy consumers on limited incomes. The people hit hardest by the higher energy prices over the past few months are our low-income neighbors and seniors on fixed incomes. This is especially the case in Eastern Washington, where winter temperatures are colder than in Western Washington.