New Forces
While some of the new forces affecting the cost of energy are under our control, others are not. For example, state and federal requirements like renewable energy standards will drive costs higher. Also, replacing the pipes, wires and poles needed to deliver energy is far more expensive today, compared to when they were first installed. A substation transformer that cost $35,000 in the 1960s, for example, can now cost up to $500,000 to replace.
 
There’s also the rising cost of power itself. The fact is, because of growth and increasing demand, our low-cost hydropower now provides only about half of the power our customers need, and new resources are more expensive.
 
Smart Choices
Since we began our energy efficiency programs more than 30 years ago, our customers have helped save more than 110 average megawatts – enough energy to power cities the size of Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls combined. 
 
On our side, we’re committed to operating efficiently in every aspect of our business. As just one example, we’re replacing 50-year-old turbines at our Noxon Rapids hydroelectric dam with more efficient machines – creating about 30 megawatts of additional energy from the same amount of water, while meeting new renewable energy laws.  
  
We’ll continue to do our part to operate efficiently. And we have plenty of tools and tips that can help you save even more energy, too. By making wise energy choices, we can help control costs and shape a better future for us all.
 
To learn more about energy efficiency, visit us at everylittlebit.com  for rebates, energy efficiency tips and more.
 
Previous Discussion Topics
• What it Means to be a Regulated Utility
• Lower Natural Gas Rates