I read several letters to the editor from folks asking La Plata Electric Association not to sign a “waiver” from Tri-State, our member-owned and controlled not-for-profit power supplier. These letters didn’t say what exactly the waiver entailed, but luckily, the story headlined “La Plata Electric delays decision on waiver” (Herald, June 16) cleared things up.
As I understand the argument, it’s not a question of if potential local renewable generation would be purchased but who would do the negotiation for the rate we all would be paying for said power. Sounds like if Tri-State negotiates the rate, they may get a better deal on purchasing the power. Odd that some people would be upset with potentially getting a better deal on a commodity we all use. But I get it. Some folks want to pay more for renewable power in order to support the growth of renewables.
Well, I have great news! LPEA has just such a program, called Green Power program. If you sign up, you can pay a bit more to support the generation of renewable energy. Beyond that, you could always invest your money in one of these renewable projects or just donate money directly to them. That way your dollars go to fund the projects you want to see prosper.
For myself, as a LPEA rate-paying customer, I encourage the board to sign the waiver.
Barry Lausman
Ignacio
