Peace Garden News

At a recent Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy hearing, Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak introduced Todd Brickhouse, CEO of Basin Electric Power Cooperative, as a witness. The focus was on the need for more dispatchable baseload energy generation and ensuring that grid management remains unaffected by partisan politics.

"I'm honored to introduce Mr. Todd Brickhouse, who embodies the values of hard work, innovation, and community service," said Rep. Fedorchak. She emphasized his leadership in providing reliable power across the Great Plains and his dedication to rural America's energy needs.

During her questioning, Rep. Fedorchak asked if witnesses could support both renewable energy sources and the urgent need for more dispatchable resources. All witnesses affirmed their ability to do so. She further inquired whether this demand was driven by politics or grid physics; witnesses confirmed it was driven by legitimate need rather than politics.

Mr. Brickhouse discussed how environmental compliance costs impact customer bills due to government regulations driving up costs. He mentioned spending hundreds of millions on compliance while addressing capital and variable fuel aspects.

Rep. Fedorchak also questioned Asim Z. Haque about policy impacts on supply and demand affecting costs for American families. Mr. Haque stressed balancing affordable energy with environmental stewardship.

Concluding her session, Rep. Fedorchak asked if increasing energy demands could be met through renewables alone; all witnesses responded negatively.

The hearing featured several key industry figures: Todd Brickhouse from Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Asim Z. Haque from PJM, Noel W. Black from Southern Company, and Tyler H. Norris from Duke University.