Larsen Encouraged by BPA Plan to Cut Energy Rates

Larsen Encouraged by BPA Plan to Cut Energy Rates

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement after the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) announced plans today to reduce power rates by 5 to 7.5 percent starting October 1, 2004:

"The Bonneville Power Administration's announcement today that it plans to reduce power rates up to 7.5 percent this fall is welcome news for Pacific Northwest families and businesses who have absorbed the brunt of rising energy costs in recent years.

"I am pleased that the BPA is cutting internal costs and passing on those savings to Northwest customers. This rate decrease will benefit the Washington state economy. It will give workers like those at the Ferndale Intalco aluminum plant and ratepayers across the state a respite from rising energy costs that have haunted our state.

"This rate decrease is a step in the right direction. I urge the BPA, utilities, and other stakeholders to continue working toward more long-term rate cuts that will help Washington state families pay the bills and help save jobs that depend on low energy rates."

Larsen is a member of the congressional Northwest Energy Caucus and has pushed for BPA to work toward internal cost cutting that would result in a rate decrease for the region.