Peninsula Light Company is dedicated to reliably powering our local communities while ensuring that the lights stay on at the lowest practical cost. With electricity demand growing and the availability of reliable power sources at risk, it’s more important than ever to advocate for smart energy policies that prioritize both reliability and affordability.
Beyond regular maintenance and grid improvements, PenLight actively engages with elected officials to make sure our members are well represented in Washington, D.C., and Olympia. In January, PenLight representatives joined the Washington Rural Electric Cooperative Association in Olympia for the annual Capitol Hill Climb, where we met with legislators to discuss key energy issues. We also participated in the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Legislative Conference in April, where electric cooperative leaders from across the country, including Washington, gathered in Washington, D.C. to share their priorities. 54630
During these meetings, PenLight representatives discussed the growing need for reliable, affordable power, stressing the importance of a diverse and sustainable energy supply to meet demand. We also advocated for the protection of federal power marketing agencies, such as the Bonneville Power Administration, which recently experienced efforts to reduce costs through reductions in staff. These reductions do not directly reduce the costs to the U.S. Treasury, as the federal agency is completely funded by its Pacific Northwest rate payers, however, it threatens their ability to provide reliable services. Another topic of importance was wildfires and the need for improving permitting and regulatory conditions to allow for utilities to more urgently address wildfire risks. Federal hydropower resources, supply chain constraints, infrastructure development concerns, and federal programs like the USDA’s Rural Utilities Service electric loan program and the New Empowering Rural America co-op loan and grant program were also key topics.
As part of our ongoing commitment, we are eager to continue working with legislators and policymakers to ensure the future of reliable and affordable energy. We will remain a resource for lawmakers when energy initiatives are considered, advocating for positive outcomes for our membership.