(Salem) - The Oregon Public Utility Commission will hear from officials with the Bonneville Power Administration, Northwest Power and Conservation Council and Oregon’s three investor-owned utilities regarding the extent of the drought and what it could mean for costs in the future. They will also address issues of what impact it will have on system operations, and planning to deal with a shortage of hydro power.

“We want to start getting the word out now that the drought could have serious implications going forward,” Commission Chairman Lee Beyer said. “It may seem like a small thing, but cutting back energy use now can payoff if utilities won’t need to buy as much power on wholesale markets, which history has shown becomes more expensive when supplies get tight.”

The briefing will take place at 9:30 AM April 5, 2005 at the Main Commission hearing room at 550 Capitol Street Salem.