By Leann Kostek and Gretchen Aliabadi
Several writers have recently commented on Puget Sound Energy’s (PSE) Energize Eastside project.
Energize Eastside is a project to increase the delivery capacity of the basic electric system serving Eastside communities. The last major capacity increase took place in the 1960s, when the greater Eastside was merely one eighth the size it is today. Growth has been staggering, and credible entities, such as the Puget Sound Regional Council, project robust growth to continue. With strong growth comes the need for the infrastructure improvements to sustain and provide for that growth.
After completing multiple detailed studies — peer reviewed by national experts — PSE has determined that the solution to this problem includes continuing conservation efforts and building a new transmission line and substation. We understand this solution will bring changes to the surrounding neighborhoods. However, we have a legal and ethical responsibility to keep the lights on for all our customers on the Eastside, and Energize Eastside is the only way we fulfill these responsibilities.
Some wish there was another way to meet the basic electric delivery shortage than building overhead electric transmission facilities, but the in-depth studies show that these facilities remain the only way to efficiently deliver power where it’s needed. Large-scale electric needs across the world are still universally served with wires. Wishing that a new technology will suddenly emerge to meet the increasing needs of Eastside customers is not a responsible approach.
Some have suggested Energize Eastside is driven by corporate profit motives or a desire to serve a broader regional area. PSE has one motivation for Energize Eastside — meeting its responsibilities to keep reliable electricity flowing to customers on the Eastside. Meeting that responsibility in an area with as much growth as the Eastside has seen — and will see in the near future — is a daunting challenge.
PSE is a heavily regulated investor-owned utility whose actions are carefully monitored and reviewed by the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission. All of PSE’s work must pass muster. The studies supporting our need are clear and unequivocal. We welcome a review of our needs and solutions studies by qualified reviewers. The detailed need and solution studies, peer reviewed by national experts, are posted for all to review at PSE.com/EnergizeEastside.
A reliable electric system is essential to every person on the Eastside, and it’s important to PSE to talk with our customers about the system and community values. PSE is committed to working with the community throughout all phases of the project development process. The feedback received to-date has been invaluable as we take on the difficult task of selecting a route for the new transmission line. Engagement does not stop; the public process continues in 2015 and beyond. Please visit PSE.com/EnergizeEastside for additional engagement opportunities.
Leann Kostek is senior project manager for Puget Sound Energy; Gretchen Aliabadi is communications manager – Energize Eastside
