The city of Anaheim, where I live, has its own utility company which is great for the residents because the rates are much lower than those supplied by commercial utilities in California. South Orange County gets its power from San Diego Gas and Electric, one of the utilities deregulated in the 1990's and the rates are much higher than what we pay here in Anaheim. As a result, Anaheim residents were somewhat shielded from the soaring prices of the Enron-powered California energy crisis of 2001. In December, Anaheim started purchasing renewable geothermal energy from Raser Technologies, an "environmentally-focused" company in Provo, Utah. According to the Orange County Register, Anaheim has contracted with Raser to deliver eleven megawatts of power, enough to supply thousands of homes. Of course, like all renewables, geothermal power can't produce as much electricity as a coal-fired or nuclear plant, but it doesn't pollute the skies or produce toxic waste either. But at least it's American made.
It's good to know that my city is looking toward the future and trying to find more renewable sources of energy for its residents. Click here for more information on geothermal energy.
Note: I had hoped to be able to report that the California Legislature has passed a budget, but as of this writing the deal still has not passed the state senate, even though lawmakers worked late into the night on Saturday.
My Town Monday is the brilliant brain child of writer/blogger Travis Erwin. Thanks, Travis! Go to his blog to read his latest post and find links to the other participants.
Linda
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