Why Are Nationwide Electricity Prices Rising? (February 17, 2006)
Winter is underway and nationwide energy prices are higher than last year. Despite the fact that Lower Valley Energy has not had an electric rate increase since 1994 (yes, that is 12 years), we have not been as immune to the volatile countrywide natural gas market. Below is some
information on the national energy picture.
RISING DEMAND – Economic growth in the U.S. and overseas (e.g., China) has increased the demand for energy.
AGING GRID – Some area transmission grids are outdated, limiting capacity and reducing the supply of electricity even more. The old supply and demand theory.
REGULATIONS – Government regulations often require costly changes for compliance.
What are cooperatives like LVE doing about it?
INCREASING SUPPLY – Cooperatives are working together to increase electric supply by building modern, environmentally sound power plants.
IMPROVING EFFICIENCY – Cooperatives are investing in new technology to improve efficiency and reliability.
USING NEW RESOURCES – Cooperatives are using alternative energy options whenever they are cost-effective.
What can consumers do about it?
CONSERVATION – All of us can reduce demand for electricity, even in small ways, to have a positive impact. Call Lower Valley Energy for a home energy audit to learn how to use energy more wisely, and visit www.LVEnergy.com for more energy-wise tips.
COMMUNICATION – Talk to your friends and family about the reasons for rising electricity costs and the importance of energy conservation. Get involved in your co-op by attending LVE’s annual meeting in the spring. You have a voice in how we operate and are a part of the decision-making process.
Lower Valley Energy is a non-profit cooperative utility owned by the patrons it serves with any margins returned to its members. Lower Valley Energy is committed to providing the least expensive, most reliable energy with the best customer service.
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