Perhaps you’ve noticed the upward spike in the cost of power – electric power, that is. In 2021 the national average monthly cost of electricity was $122 – obviously much higher here in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast – and has spike 5.5% each year, higher than even the cost of food.
One reason is the increased demand by data centers for AI that gorge on electricity, and with the tax and spending bill passed by Congress, energy prices will only increase since one goal was to cut back on renewable sources. Prices in thirteen states are controlled by PJM Interconnection, a huge energy grid.
Prices here in New Jersey will spike by over 17% due to continued reliance on outdated power plants and blocking low-cost clean energy solutions. PJM has declined accepting new connection requests and is falling into line with the new regime’s priorities of fossil fuels. Who controls PJM? A Board of Managers that is not answerable to the public. As your bills go up this winter, thank Congress and fossil fuel policy.
Prayer for the Day
As we the end of summer approaches, sunrise is later,
And we begin thinking about the new season to come;
Sweltering in the August heat we think little about energy cost,
But those costs are rising and will continue to rise.
We ask, O God, how the rich and powerful control our lives,
For they suffer not from their decisions as do others.
In the name of the One who challenged the rich and powerful,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
At a time of rapidly rising load growth, PJM’s multi-year inability to efficiently connect new resources to its grid and to engage in effective long-term transmission planning has deprived our states of thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in investment that may flow to other regions.
Letter signed by nine governors to PJM Board
Progress is never permanent, will always be threatened, must be redoubled, restated, and reimagined if it is to survive.
Zadie Smith, novelist
Who rises up for me against the wicked? Who stands up for me against evildoers?
If the Lord had not been my help, I would soon have lived in the land of silence.
Psalm 94: 16-17