Letter: Nevada Power will ruin state

Friday, March 29, 2002 | 9:14 a.m.

I would like to clear up several things regarding Nevada Power.

First, the company is run by people who don't have any idea of sound business practices. If I ran a business like Nevada Power I would be out of business in a hurry. But I don't have the PUC to bail me out whenever the need arises.

Second, they constantly lie to the people of Nevada. They say if they are given what they want that energy prices and further rate increases will not be necessary. Every time I turn around Nevada Power wants another rate increase. Why should I pay for their mistakes?

Southwest Gas went through the same turbulent times as Nevada Power, and guess what? They are actually decreasing the costs they require from the residents of Nevada.

If Nevada Power is allowed its entire rate request, it will not only bankrupt the little people, it will bankrupt the entire state of Nevada. Or has anyone realized this yet?

Of course, when we have a governor with a background in the power industry, should we be surprised? This state is in a recession right now. If Nevada Power gets its full request, Nevada will be like one of those third-world countries that you see on National Geographic.

By the way, increased power costs mean increased costs every time you go to the store, because the merchant won't eat his increased power costs, he will just pass it on to the consumer.

So like it or not, you're paying your own power bills and the power costs of every store you do business with.

CLIFFORD MONETT