Puget Sound Energy - Controversies

Controversies

Areas of controversy within PSE's operations include the following. PSE acknowledges the reality of global warming but has stated that they will not change operations until the Federal Government implements a carbon tax, even though state law requires PSE to incorporate the costs of environmental carbon damages when evaluating the "lowest cost" mix of facilities used to generate power, and state law requires "safe and sane" operation. PSE continues to operate a coal-power plant, stating they have no plans to close that plant, while other Pacific Northwest utilities are phasing out and closing down their coal power plants. The cost-effectiveness of this plant in the face of increasing regulatory requirements, including potentially selective catalytic reduction, is being questioned by IRP (Integrated Resource Plan) participants, but PSE refuses to perform the required IRP public accountability of this plant, cited confidentiality. Many customers complain of frequent and long-duration power outages after wind storms. WUTC, the Washington State regulating commission, has taken action against PSE for failing to adequately implement their energy efficiency program. When PSE was sold into private ownership a WUTC commissioner and public counsel questioned whether the new owners were adequately funded to meet regulator requirements, and whether or not the company would remain transparent-enough to allow adequate public regulation. Customers can comment on PSE actions at the state-required bi-annual Integrated Resource Plan's IRP Planning Group.