STOP B2H Voices Disappointment over Oregon Public Utility Commission’s Decision
By Garrett Christensen on Monday, July 10th, 2023 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
EASTERN OREGON – (Release from Stop B2H) The STOP B2H Coalition, a grassroots organization comprising over 1,000 members and dedicated to future energy independence and protecting Oregon’s natural landscapes and communities, voices its profound disappointment and concern regarding the recent decision made by the Oregon Public Utility Commission (OPUC), as outlined in Order No. 23-225 (https://apps.puc.state.or.us/orders/2023ords/23-225.pdf). “This decision represents a significant setback for environmental conservation, energy independence, and the well-being of local communities impacted by the proposed B2H power line,” according to Jim Kreider, the Coalition’s co-chairperson.
In the legal briefs filed by STOP B2H Coalition and other intervenors in the OPUC condemnation case, several key points were outlined, further reinforcing the negative impacts of the B2H project. It is imperative to emphasize the detrimental consequences of the OPUC’s decision.
STOP B2H Coalition highlights the following six detrimental consequences:
1. Environmental Impact: The B2H transmission line would traverse Oregon’s pristine landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and critical wildlife habitats. Its construction would irreparably damage these sensitive ecosystems, disrupting wildlife corridors and endangering the survival of endangered species.
2. Unnecessary for Idaho’s Energy Needs: Idaho Power and PacifiCorp have already permitted and are building two (2) 500 kV transmission lines called Gateway West, from Wyoming to Idaho, which will more than meet Idaho’s energy needs. “The OPUC decision keeps us further away from creating an energy independent future, where we have more choices and more security. This ruling will keep us hostage to the investor-owned utilities for a very long time,” according to Kreider.
3. Incomplete Analyses & Mitigation: The required surveys and mitigation plans for the B2H are still incomplete. Despite this, the OPUC is allowing Idaho Power to condemn land and deprive property owners of their rights without knowing the true impacts of the degradation or value of their land. Seventy percent of landowners have rejected Idaho Power’s inadequate offers, leading to legal battles for fair compensation.
4. Unknown Details: Multiple amendments to the site certificate are anticipated. The first one, which is pending, includes the addition of 1,000 acres and over 40 miles of access roads. Another amendment will be for a large mid-line capacitor station near Baker City to boost the power since 300 miles will have too much line loss, indicating a lack of comprehensive planning.
5. Property Values and Economic Impacts: The construction of the B2H will result in reduced farm and timberland production, increased cost and burdens for weed control, decreased tourism and property values, all adversely affecting homeowners and local economies. The brief also highlights the absence of a thorough economic analysis, raising doubts about the project’s overall viability and benefits.
6. Unknown Total Cost–Last but NOT Least: The projected cost of the B2H has increased from $1.2 billion in 2016 to $1.4 billion in 2023. This miniscule rise, over a span of seven years–through a pandemic, supply chain issues, and ongoing inflation–raises serious concerns. And, more costs are expected, as mentioned above: mitigations, amendments, and land condemnation. “Allowing the project to proceed without a clear understanding of the total cost is a disservice to ratepayers, who will be burdened with the cost,” Kreider added.
The STOP B2H Coalition firmly believes that the OPUC’s decision inadequately addresses these critical concerns. The Coalition urgently calls upon the OPUC to reassess its decision, considering the key points and alternatives outlined in the legal briefs filed by STOP B2H Coalition and other intervenors. It is crucial for the OPUC to recognize the importance of preserving Oregon’s natural beauty, protecting public health, honoring cultural and historic heritage, and supporting thriving local economies.
The Coalition will persist in its efforts to watchdog the project, raise awareness, engage the community, and advocate for sustainable and responsible energy solutions aligned with our vision of energy independence and Oregon’s values of environmental stewardship and community well-being.
