Central ND 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 of the session was on the need for more dispatchable baseload energy generation. Rep. Fedorchak emphasized that partisan politics should not interfere with grid management.

"I'm honored to introduce Mr. Todd Brickhouse, who embodies the values of hard work, innovation, and community service," said Rep. Fedorchak. She praised his leadership at Basin Electric Power Cooperative, which provides power to millions across the Great Plains.

During her questioning, Rep. Fedorchak asked witnesses if they could support both renewable energy sources and the urgent need for more dispatchable resources. All witnesses affirmed their ability to do so and stated that the demand for such resources is driven by physics rather than politics.

Mr. Brickhouse discussed how environmental compliance costs significantly impact customer bills due to government regulations. He highlighted capital and variable fuel costs as factors driving up expenses for consumers.

Rep. Fedorchak further inquired about federal and state policymakers' understanding of energy policy impacts on supply and demand costs for American families. Mr. Haque pointed out the necessity of balancing affordable energy with environmental stewardship.

The session concluded with a unanimous response from witnesses that meeting increasing energy demands through renewables alone is not feasible.

Witnesses included 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.