Louisiana PSC runoff: solar policy, attack ads and a firebombing

Utility Drive ^ | November 11, 2014 | Robert Walton

[sefarkas]

... heated fight for a seat on Louisiana's Public Service Commission (PSC) is still going strong.

December runoff between PSC chairman Eric Skrmetta and alternative energy advocate Forest Bradley-Wright.

[sefarkas]

Bradley-Wright has worked with the Alliance for Affordable Energy, helped to create New Orleans’ monthly Solar Roundtable discussions, and fought to protect net-metering rules. He's made renewable energy integration the centerpiece of his campaign.

Skrmetta, on the other hand, is a champion for industry in the state and claims to have saved Louisiana ratepayers $4 billion during his term. On a Facebook page used to promote his campaign, he notes "renewables are pushing up energy costs in Europe and causing industry to look elsewhere. With our low rates, Louisiana stands to benefit. Let's welcome these new businesses and jobs."

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms is investigating the blaze at Zervigon's home, along with local authorities. Zervigon helped Bradley-Wright raise more than $210,000 during the election, nearly equaling Skrmetta's $215,000 total and allowing the challenger to finance a slate of campaign ads attacking the incumbent.

Police say the the intended target was likely not the victims home, but only the cars. Arson is suspected in part because the cars were too far apart for fire to spread from one to another, suggesting the blaze was intentional.

[vette6387]

NEVER vote for someone with a hyphenated last name!