A problem Maryland needs: An illegal electric plant
According to news reports, Aquila Inc. built a $140 million Missouri electric plant without a permit and in violation of zoning laws. Now the powers that be are trying to finesse the matter and call it legal. Maryland, of course, seemingly can't get a power plant built under any circumstance.
"Aquila knowingly built the project without a permit and in violation of county zoning laws." said an editorial in the Kansas City Star this week. "Aquila plunged ahead after receiving approval from the Missouri Public Service Commission. In 2006, though, Circuit Judge Joseph Danduran ruled that the then-operating power plant must be dismantled. He said Aquila was guilty of 'arrogance' and 'disregard for the law.' The PSC tried to sidestep that decision by once again giving Aquila permission to keep the plant open."
The latest development is a fabulously florid email, sent by Barton County, Mo., Associate
Circuit Judge Charles Curless, excoriating a legislator trying to make the plant legit. Some excerpts from the Star's copy:
Ed, Congratulations on reaching an all-time low in your so-called "representation" of the 126th District. I am, of course, referring to your incredibly scandalous preferential treatment of the folks at Aquila, regarding the unlawful power plant in Cass County...You certainly must be aware that the vast majority of us who, unfortunately, live within your istrict are respectful of the rule of law, and are disdainful of activist legislation, such as that which you have ramrodded through the House Special Committee on Utilities...
What in God’s name are you thinking? You have railed, both in your weekly "report" and in many orations, about how judges must follow the law. Now we find that it is your opinion that your friends at this powerful corporation, Aquila, are above the law, and that when it comes
to your friends, "logic" trumps the law. Who else’s pocket are you in?You have pulled many boneheaded stunts during your time in the legislature which are contrary to the interests and wishes of the citizens of this district, but this one gets the blue ribbon.
Comments
Dear Jay,
Thank you for providing all this useful information. You do a great job and I am glad to subscribe to the Baltimore Sun and actually read the paper.
I have two questions:
1) is there a website that provides up-to-date prices for electricity per Kwh from all the major competitors in central Maryland, including BGE? It is nearly impossible to find this information about BGE on their own website. Right now we get Washington Gas electrical supply and thir new options are short term 6 months for 13.8 cents per kWh, and long term 2 years for 13.4 cents per kWh. Both seem high. They do include 5% wind power.
2) what do you recommend for a plan for someone who might be moving out of town in several months? Are there short term or month-to-month options? Are there early cancellation fees from the different competitors?
Posted by: Dave | April 19, 2008 6:40 PM