Disclosure: I am on the LPEA board, these statements are mine only.
The LPEA election is in full swing and, as expected, people who oppose progress and reliable, sustainable, affordable electricity are spreading misinformation and engaging in cruel personal, unwarranted, and uninformed attacks on Nicole Pitcher. I am honored to serve on the LPEA board with Nicole. She is a strong, fair and dedicated leader who is firmly committed to Archuleta County, and to the future of LPEA and all its members.
There is so much misinformation being spread that it would be impossible to correct it all in one letter. So here are a few to consider.
One recurring, and ridiculous complaint: The LPEA board has not been “transparent” about the Tri-State buyout. Nothing could be further from the truth; and anyone who has actually paid attention knows that. I have been on the board for seven years and we have spent hundreds of hours studying the Tri-State exit. At every step we have been fully open about our intentions. And we’ve released all the information that is possible as we negotiate with private businesses on a variety of services.
LPEA is focused on our members’ best interests and not throwing money away to a Front Range landlord. By exiting Tri-State, LPEA took a step toward a future that provides our co-op with flexibility and choices for energy independence, free of the Tri-State stranglehold and its $3 billion+ debt. On April 1, when LPEA exited Tri-State, the co-op’s wholesale power costs dropped by 22% and our greenhouse gas emissions dropped 20%. Outstanding results that benefit all LPEA members! Exiting Tri-State is a long-term strategic decision and was not taken lightly or with a lack of information.
For those with complaints about rates, let’s talk facts: The Average KWh rate in Colorado is 16 cents; U.S. Average, 17-19 cents. LPEA’s rate is 11 cents.
Nicole is a student of the energy industry. As board president she takes her work seriously. She regularly attends national trainings that inform us of important industry trends, best practices for co-ops and insights on how LPEA can improve its operation. She challenges LPEA staff and other board members to offer ideas and consider creative solutions.
In short, Nicole is firmly focused on the future of the LPEA community and she deserves your vote.
Joe Lewandowski
Durango, CO