A Time for Action Our Energy, Our Future: A Dialogue with America By: Addie Armato America has an emerging energy crisis that is too big to ignore. As electricity consumption increases, the cost of new generation climbs, as do pressures to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. What does all of this mean for most Americans? Higher electric bills, for one. We do have the power to make a difference, however, and to let policymakers know just how much of an impact their decisions have on those of us footing the bill. By asking tough questions, we can focus attention on what matters and get some real answers about what our officials and newly elected representatives are doing to help us meet the growing demand for electricity while addressing climate change goals. You can make a difference by continuing a conversation with your elected officials about reliable, affordable, and environmentally responsible electric power. Electric cooperatives across the country are currently engaged in a grassroots campaign called “Our Energy, Our Future: A Dialogue With America” to do just this. The major questions we need to ask elected officials are: Experts say that our nation’s growing electricity needs will soon go well beyond what renewables, conservation, and efficiency can provide. What is your plan to make sure we have the electricity we’ll need in the future? Our country faces a crisis as electricity use increases faster than available supply. I believe that by unleashing American ingenuity we can solve this problem. What are you doing to speed the development of new technology that will allow me to have the electric power I need while meeting national climate policy goals? Balancing electricity needs and environmental goals will be difficult. How much is all this going to increase my electric bill and what will you do to make it affordable? For those of you who have already joined in, thank you. To get involved, please visit www.ourenergy.coop today and keep this conversation going. The stakes for doing nothing are just too great. You can send a letter to your elected officials from this website. Simply click on the “Contact your elected officials and begin the dialogue now” link. Then fill out the information boxes and click the “Send Message” button. Source: Straight Talk Alert, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. Presentations are available for organizations, church groups and groups of individuals who would like more information about “Our Energy, Our Future.” Presentations last approximately 30 minutes. If you would like more information on energy efficiency ideas, Pointe Coupee Electric can help you by providing brochures and other literature. We also offer residential energy efficiency seminars for groups of eight or more. If you would like more information about the seminars, please call the Member Services Department at 225-638-3751.