The Northwest Power Planning Council is accepting comments on a revision of its Fourth Northwest Power Plan through Oct. 31. The plan is the latest created by the council since 1983. It reviews industry developments in generation, conservation, gas and electric. It also examines institutions created in response to increasing competition and policy evolution. The draft reflects recommendations of the Comprehensive Review of the Northwest Energy System and suggests ways to carry out many of those recommendations. For a copy (Document 97-11), call (800) 222-3355.
The Tennessee Valley Authority unveiled a 10-year business plan that calls for a 50-percent cut in its $27.6 billion debt. The plan also sets a target of reducing power costs 15 percent by 2007. The "Ten Year Business Outlook" recommends, however, a price increase in the 1998 fiscal year that would produce $325 million in additional revenue. TVA plans to reduce fuel, supply and labor costs, meaning a reduction of about 725 employees. Proposed power contract changes would give customers more flexibility. If the price increase is approved, then it would be effective Oct. 1. Goals for 2007 are to reduce wholesale power cost from 4.11 to 3.46 cents per kilowatt-hour.