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Mickey Miller |
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Co-op Power: Reliable, Affordable, and Environmentally Responsible
We have three top priorities at Nolin RECC: provide you safe, reliable access to electric power; offer that service as affordably as possible; and do both of those things in a financially and environmentally responsible fashion.
Because Nolin is a not-for-profit business – which means your money stays local; we don’t have to worry about distant shareholders – we are well-positioned to make any necessary investments for ensuring safe, reliable, and affordable electricity. However, fulfilling our commitment to environmental stewardship in a cost-effective, responsible manner has become more challenging. Today, many environmental laws that were adopted by Congress decades ago are being used by federal agencies and the courts to address issues for which they were never intended.
For example, the federal Clean Air Act is now 40 years old and was last amended in 1990 – more than two decades ago. Much has changed since that time, including technology, our understanding of the environment, and the electric utility industry.
Today, officials with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (often under court order) are trying to modify the Clean Air Act to fit new circumstances. Without a doubt, new EPA rules being issued will wind up back in the courts and lengthy litigation will follow.
People will disagree over how to find a balance between protecting the environment, guaranteeing a reliable supply of power, and keeping electric bills affordable.
Under the right circumstances, Congress eventually will have to revisit the Clean Air Act and update it to fit the needs of the 21st century. In the meantime, Nolin will keep you updated on our efforts to encourage lawmakers and regulators to strike the proper balance on these concerns.
Let’s hope 2012 brings an increase in jobs, provides a sound environment, and brings our military troops home!
