Douglas Electric Warns Lawsuit Could Threaten Hydropower and Raise Costs for Oregonians
Douglas Electric warns a state-backed lawsuit against the Bonneville Power Administration could cut hydropower, raising costs and risking reliability for over a million Oregonians. The co-op urges Governor Kotek to seek collaboration, saying hydropower and salmon recovery can coexist.
DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. — Douglas Electric Cooperative is sounding the alarm over a legal battle that could have major consequences for electricity reliability and affordability across Oregon.
In a recent statement, the co-op said the State of Oregon has re-joined a lawsuit against the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), the federal agency that operates the Columbia and Snake River dams, which supply 100% of Douglas Electric’s power.
“If this lawsuit succeeds, it may mean a big cut in hydropower,” the co-op warned. “That’s not just policy talk; it could mean higher costs and less reliable power for more than a million Oregonians.”
Douglas Electric, along with other rural cooperatives, is urging Governor Tina Kotek to pursue dialogue instead of litigation. They argue that hydropower and salmon restoration can coexist, and note that ratepayers already fund the world’s largest fish and wildlife mitigation program through their electricity bills.
“Hydropower isn’t just cheap energy,” the co-op said. “It’s a lifeline in the winter, keeping homes warm and families safe.”
The cooperative is encouraging residents to stay informed and learn more about the issue at www.nwriverpartners.org, stressing that collaboration, not courtroom battles , is the key to sustainable, affordable power for the region.
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