Providing dependable electricity to families, farms, and businesses across our service territory is our core mission at Umatilla Electric Cooperative. Right now, that mission is facing new challenges that could directly impact members.
A recent court ruling by Judge Michael Simon requires increased water spill at dams along the Columbia and Snake rivers. While this action is intended to support fish populations, it also reduces how much electricity those dams can generate. When less power is produced, costs go up. Our hydro system is some of our lowest-cost power.
The Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), which provides much of the power serving our membership, estimates that lost generation could cost hundreds of millions over the next several years.
This is why UEC recently joined other consumer-owned utilities in a letter to Governor Tina Kotek, urging collaboration and transparency. Decisions of this magnitude- affecting energy reliability and costs - should include the voices of the families, businesses, and communities who will feel the impact.
Hydropower remains the backbone of our regional power system, providing carbon free electricity that supports our daily lives and local economy. At the same time, we recognize the importance of protecting fish and wildlife, and we believe those goals can, and should, be balanced.
What concerns me is the lack of a clear, and viable, plan to replace the lost generation. Without that, we face increased uncertainty— not just in costs, but in maintaining the level of service our members expect.
We will continue advocating for solutions that are thoughtful, balanced, and grounded in the long-term interest of our members.
Follow this link to learn more and take action by staying informed and sharing your support for collaborative, balanced energy solutions directly with her office.
Our commitment remains unchanged: to provide dependable power while managing costs responsibly on behalf of our members.