One of the largest energy consumers in Oklahoma are our schools, with thousands of buildings across the state. One of the largest school districts in the state seems they are finally getting serious about saving energy.  All the budget problems that have befallen our public schools are not their fault - they're just playing the hand they've been dealt. One part of the budget that has always been certain is operating expenses, it just costs a certain amount to open the doors to the kids. 

While things are changing here in Oklahoma, some things stay the same.  Attacks on the wind industry are as constant as the wind itself, reliably coming each spring with the legislative session.  The latest gust has come through SB888; originally a bill to end the ethanol tax credit, the latest iteration would have ended the refundability of the Wind Tax Credit beginning January 1, 2019.

This marks the end of an era of trying to build this HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current) transmission line from wind rich Oklahoma to wind hungry South East United States. There were some controversial elements to the project, including eminent domain being used in Arkansas.  The Arkansas Congressional delegation called the decision a "victory for the states," but that ignores the position of the other states that lose in this decision.  Clean Line says "the project is still viable but is moving at a slower pace now."

Our annual OREC bill tracker is now live.  Let your representative know how you feel about the legislation by phone or email, they will never know if you do not speak up.  Click Here to find your representative and their contact information.  If you have a request for any other bill to be tracked, please email to OREC2006@gmail.com.