Our continued insistence on staying reliant upon finite, polluting and foreign sources of energy has cost us dearly. The Gulf oil spill that poisoned the Gulf and the ongoing nuclear crisis in Japan that has blanketed our nation with radiation clearly highlights the dangers inherit within these short sighted and dangerous energy technologies. Despite possessing huge renewable energy sources in Nebraska, we find ourselves totally dependent on non-renewable energy sources that hold our agricultural and business economy hostage. With prices already exceeding $4/gallon for diesel, we can expect to pay even higher prices for the fuel we import into Nebraska in the near future. If it wasn't for the Public Policy created that led to our ethanol infrastructure, we would have little to show as we see in all other areas.

While Public Power has and continues to provide tremendous value to Nebraska, forward looking vision is needed to ensure our power remains 'cheap and reliable' for our children as well. Clean and renewable technologies that utilize our wind, solar and biomass resources need to be prioritized over technologies that require fuels imported to Nebraska. While Public Power electricity only involves a small fraction of our total energy consumption, it is hoped new NPPD leadership will positively impact where we are headed. Wyoming coal requires imported diesel fuel to get here.

Despite skyrocketing energy prices, little to no help can be expected from Lincoln any time soon. In fact, annual efforts to further increase fuel taxes have been undertaken. While citizens are encouraged to contact their Senators to promote a comprehensive clean energy policy, they are also strongly encouraged to take their own steps to consider energy strategies in their lives that will insulate them from anticipated energy shocks.

WE HAVE ENERGY CHOICES, GET INFORMED AND MAKE THESE CHOICES WISELY!