In her letter, “Rate design is complex and evolving,” (Herald, Jul. 25), LPEA Board President Nicole Pitcher blames rooftop solar users for “cost shifts” and rising rates. But let’s be clear – rooftop solar represents only 3% of residential members. Are we really supposed to believe this small group is driving the widespread increases in base fees and the unpopular Peak Power Charge?
This narrative conveniently deflects from real cost drivers: skyrocketing administrative expenses, costly and limited-impact projects like Vallecito Hydro, and the secretive Mercuria contract. Members still haven’t seen full financial transparency on the Tri-State termination or where the FastTrack sale proceeds went. Instead of answers, we get talking points.
Pitcher also encourages members to “shift energy use” to save money. But peak hours between 4 and 9 p.m. are when families need power the most – for cooking dinner, heating or cooling their homes, and living their lives. Asking people to restructure their daily routines around an abstract rate design is not a solution – it’s an unrealistic burden.
We don’t need to chase green energy pipe dreams. We already have clean, affordable, and reliable power right here in the San Juan Basin through local natural gas. It meets all environmental standards and supports our local economy.
LPEA should stop scapegoating rooftop solar and start answering for the financial impact of its own decisions.
Jason Mietchen
Durango
