PNM repeats its usual tactics, issuing threats to get its way

IT SEEMS THAT PNM, basically a state private monopoly, is trying to threaten the Public Regulation Commission into rejecting a demand for a huge increase. PNM says if the PRC does not reject the recommendations of PRC hearing examiner Carolyn Glick, they will have to let go between 200 to 300 employees. In addition, PNM seems to want to get environmental activists to take action to prevent PNM from having to return to the use of coal and natural gas (if they have to terminate its leases at the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station). Makes one wonder about PNM and its highly paid executives.

Glick, on Aug. 4, recommended that the PRC reject PNM’s request for a $123 million increase in revenue and reduce it to $41.3 million. Glick called PNM’s purchase of 64.1 megawatts of Palo Verde nuclear power “imprudent.”

Then PNM threatens that if the PRC accepts Glick’s proposal, they will have to up the rates it charges consumers in the coming years. And PNM says it may even go to the New Mexico Supreme Court if necessary. Oh my. PNM, in the past, seems to find all kinds of ways to threaten any and all attempts to lessen their income — high executive salaries and more. And PNM sheds tears for the harm it might cause their stockholders.

Oh, well, let’s see what happens. I might see my own PNM bill go up for daring to question them. Stay tuned for more threats and weeping in the PNM executive suite.

DR. BEN LAIME Albuquerque