Oregon Power Manipulation Settlement Benefits Low Income

After two years of litigation, the Oregon Attorney General's office has announced a $15 million settlement with the Williams energy trading companies, which have been accused of purposefully congesting transmission lines and using other schemes designed to drive up the prices of wholesale electricity. The settlement money will be distributed to Oregon electricity consumers, particularly low-income consumers over three years.

In 2003, $8 million will be distributed to PGE, PacifiCorp and Idaho Power and to the state's public utilities and cooperatives, on the condition that they give consumers a one-time credit (based one each customer's usage).

In 2004, the state will receive $4.7 million. Of this, $1.85 million will be used to help low-income families pay their electric bills. Another $1.85 million will be used by the Oregon Housing and Community Services agency for weatherization projects in low-income households. The final $1 million will be used for energy efficiency upgrades in Oregon public schools.

In 2005, the state will receive a final payment of $1.41 million. Just over $700,000 will help pay low-income households' energy bills, and $705,000 will be used for weatherization and conservation projects.

Page Last Updated: September 24, 2009