Imbalance of Power
Related Stories
When we think of shared resources, our waterways, forests and air are often the first that come to mind. Yet in many ways, the electric current that runs from home to home is also mutual — the costs of utility investments are shared by all customers, even though some feel the environmental or economic consequences of power providers’ decisions more acutely.
In Appalachia, our energy options and prices are determined by where we live. Much of our area is controlled by monopolies that determine whether we are connected to a pollution-belching power plant or a utility-owned solar array. These monopolies even affect the affordability of putting solar panels on our own roofs.
These electric utilities — whether they are private companies or publicly owned nonprofits — are supposed to be accountable to the people they serve and act in the public’s interest. But the system often does not work in residents’ favor.
In Part One of a special two-issue look at our energy system, we examine the underlying problems that prevent power companies from responding to the needs and interests of citizens.
Part Two in our December/January issue will include stories from citizens directly affected by the current power landscape, and examine the transformative potential of more democratic participation in the energy sphere. If you have a story to share, please email [email protected].
Related Articles
Latest News
More Stories
‘First Line of Defense’
During Hurricane Helene and its aftermath, rural fire departments and other first responder hubs played critical roles in keeping their communities safe, even without power and cut off from outside support for days or weeks after the storm. Two years later, plenty of work remains to ensure these hubs have the resources they need to operate day to day and be ready when emergencies or natural disasters strike.
The Rocky Road — and Bridge — to Recovery
Hurricane Helene is estimated to have damaged nearly 7,000 private roads and bridges in Western North Carolina. Two years later, many restoration projects are complete, but the journey hasn’t been easy — and isn’t over for others.
After 20 Years, Letcher County Prison Proposal Is Still Alive, Though Obstacles Remain
A $605 million proposal for a federal prison on a former strip mine site in Letcher County, Kentucky, championed by U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers, refuses to die, despite local opposition, a lack of support from the executive branch and numerous other obstacles.
The Washout and Rebuild
For nearly two years, residents of Unicoi County, Tennessee, have had to make do without a hospital after Hurricane Helene destroyed the rural hospital. Ballad Health, which owns the hospital, broke ground on a new location — in another floodplain — in August 2026.
The Shenandoah Salamander
The Shenandoah salamander is a woodland salamander, which has adapted to life at higher elevations away from water. This sparkling rarity lives among the dry leaves, cracked logs, and stony hillocks on the highest peaks of Shenandoah National Park.
‘Foraging Is a Way of Connecting’
Foraging has experienced a modern resurgence, partly because of social media, online groups, the pandemic and people wanting to connect with nature. It also builds community, whether in person or online.
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Leave a Comment