HECO, TEP and PSE. What do these utilities have in common? They want to build controversial overhead power lines in scenic communities with neighbors that do not want the ugly poles.
Puget Sound Energy issued the first project need report in February, 2012.
Today, over 10 YEARS later, PSE is one permit away from getting approval to build a 230kV line in place of the existing 115kV line. https://lnkd.in/g6ZdNcET
Is the need the same? Are there better alternatives 10 years later? Did anyone evaluate the lost goodwill and reputation of a utility that battles their customers for 10 years?
Those customers started Citizens for Sane Eastside Energy https://lnkd.in/gsqcHGHG. Sadly, the PSE customers use words like “lies” and “fraud” in their years long opposition to the controversial PSE project. The website is a “public forum for citizens on the Eastside who oppose Puget Sound Energy’s proposed “Energize Eastside” project.”
There must be a better way to build electric infrastructure in our communities. Look at the UG in Anaheim, Ft. Collins, or Colorado Springs. Look at the results that IOU’s like Dominion, WE Energy and FPL are getting with strategic undergrounding.
HECO, TEP and PSE should take note. Your customers and your regulators certainly are.
Mike Beehler
Expert Member
Top Contributor