Applause to The Durango Herald for the recent article “Proposed group to study long-term future of LPEA.”
Breakneck speed changes in the electrical supply industry in both generation and usage require an in-depth examination of options for our future economic stability.
Our wholesale supplier, Tri-State, is tied to its large holdings of coal powered plants, though they put much effort and money into convincing the public they are a “clean” company.
I fear Tri-State’s debt incurred in these plants handcuffs them to a future of coal, a power source that rises in cost yearly. You would be hard-pressed to find any investors now interested in coal.
Other sources, like renewable energy, are out-competing coal in price per kilowatt hour.
I recall the giant Kodak powerhouse that fell from its 2005 high point in the film market to filing bankruptcy in 2012. Experts say their inability to change course and adopt to a changing market was their downfall. Technology has the potential to be disruptive of markets and companies at the same time that it is benefiting consumers.
Change from the status quo can be seen as a threat, or an opportunity to invest in keeping future electric prices affordable for us all.
Thanks to the La Plata Electric Association board for the insight to consider a subcommittee to explore what future energy transitions might benefit our community.
Susan Atkinson
Durango
