Next First Friday

Power to the People!

Electric power is virtually synonymous with contemporary economic systems. Who can imagine an advanced society functioning without a nearly unlimited flow of energy?

Controlling energy means controlling the economy and the community, as Enron’s manipulation of power shortages in California demonstrated. That intense reality is at the heart of the movement in communities around the country for public ownership of the resources and infrastructure that deliver energy to our homes, businesses, and public institutions.

When energy generation and distribution are publicly owned, rates tend to be significantly lower, more stable, and fairer to business and residential users. When utilities are in some form of public ownership, the management structures can take advantage of local and regional talent and skills, oversight is directly accountable to the community, and the profit motive is replaced by a service ethic.

The Question

So here’s the mystery question: Why does Oregon’s Public Utilities Commission seem determined once again to transfer ownership of Portland General Electric to an out-of-state investment firm with an announced intention of selling the utility off in a few years to the highest bidder? How does this scenario compare to the chapter on Enron’s bankruptcy debacle?

Portland activist Liz Trojan has been a leader in advocating for public ownership of local energy utilities for a decade. Liz will bring her perspective and information regarding the PUC process and options still open regarding PGE to inititate our discussion at First Friday. She has been a consistent voice urging an open public process to determine what model of utility ownership and energy generation will best serve our community and the Portland metro region.

First Friday

First Friday is a time to share good food, exchange ideas and information, and connect with community. The conversation is always lively, the topic discussions are thoughtful and constructive, and everyone is welcome. Bring a vegetarian or vegan dish to share if you can, and jump in to the conversation. There is no charge, but donations are what make First Fridays possible.