Power companies...

[Clay008]

Recently, people have written to the local newspaper demanding that a local power company here invest in alternative energy such as wind power. So, I have a question for everyone.

Should power companies be expected or forced to use their capital dollars to invest in alternative energy?

I do not believe these companies should be expected or forced into investing into alternative energy. I do think it is probably a good idea for these companies to do so as it appears legislation is going to require companies to have a mix of environmentally friendly energy and not so environmentally friendly energy.

If a power company is burning coal to create electricity that is what they do. Why should they invest in wind power? They don't know how to run wind power plants they know how to run coal power plants. Companies should not be forced away from there core competencies. They could end up losing a great deal of money.

This is the same as asking Exxon to start investing in Ethanol production. Why would a company that sells gas, ships gas and drills oil want to start selling Ethanol?

[Texan_Til_I_Die]

The short answer is no.

The short answer as to why they'll do it anyway - because liberal politicians will force them to.

[wtnhunt]

They could end up losing a great deal of money.

Doubt it, they would only pass on the escalated expenses to consumers.

The short answer as to why they'll do it anyway - because liberal politicians will force them to.

Exactly!

[Clay008]

Doubt it, they would only pass on the escalated expenses to consumers.

True. Rates would increase if they were required to increase spending on alternative energy.

[stevebeilgard]

power companies have only a responsibility to their shareholders. they must make a dollar return on investors capitol. if they make money, that's great. if they can make as much money on wind power as they can on coal power or nuclear power, they will invest wisely in wind. if they cannot, they should not. forget the government advice. out government is geared to lose money, and are quite good at it. but, their advice sucks. the powers are mandated by their investors to do what makes money.

[ParrotHead]

**** yes they should BE EXPECTED TO INVEST IN ALTERNATIVE ENERGIES!

And now I'll tell you why

Duke Power won a law suit against an individual that had installed a wind-mill on his property and was subsidizing his energy use by using this wind mill. Duke suid and won the case and the guy had to shut down his operation so if the our magnificiant judical system will allow them to stop us, then should be held liable for developing newer technologies.

You can still see the windmill if you're in or around Charlotte, NC

Honestly - I think people should demand it and when they balk - execute a few executives - you can bet then next ones will do something.

yes - I said execute them - no, I'mnot out of my mind, just tired of all the BS we allow.