Icy, Powerless Midwest Underscores Need For Improved U.S. Electric Power System

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
December 11, 2007

Contact:
Crystal Borde
(202) 331-4323
cborde@vancomm.com

***INTERVIEW ALERT***

ICY, POWERLESS MIDWEST UNDERSCORES NEED FOR IMPROVED U.S. ELECTRIC POWER SYSTEM

Following an ice storm that left more than 600,000 Midwestern homes and businesses without electricity this week, Kurt Yeager, executive director of the Galvin Electricity Initiative, is calling for the implementation of existing technologies that could ensure a reliable supply of electricity, even in severe weather conditions. According to Yeager, transformation of the outdated U.S. electric power system at the state level is necessary to meet rising energy needs, regardless of weather or surges in demand.

The Galvin Electricity Initiative, launched by former Motorola chief Robert W. Galvin, has brought together the nation’s leading electricity experts to reconstruct the traditional electric power system into one that is more affordable, reliable and fuel-efficient. The Initiative’s objectives are to create innovative business and technological blueprints for a “Perfect Power System” that meets the needs of 21st century consumers and provides reliable, secure electricity regardless of nature’s wrath or security threats.

WHO:  Kurt Yeager, executive director of the Galvin Electricity Initiative, president emeritus of the Electric Power Research Institute and chair of the World Energy Council Study on Energy and Climate Change

Mr. Yeager is available to discuss the challenges facing America’s current electric power system that places consumers and businesses at risk for power failure due to storms, dated infrastructure and cyber attacks, as well as the solutions that are available for a more efficient and affordable system.

WHY:  “Ice and snow storms are predictable, and so are the snapping power lines and blackouts they cause. These power interruptions are the result of our reliance on an aging, energy inefficient electric power system that drains our economy of over $100 billion each year and threatens American competitiveness in the global marketplace,” said Yeager. “We need to implement smart grid technology and start rewarding utilities for efficiency and customer service, giving them the incentive to provide consumers with more reliable energy when we need it the most.”

WHEN:  Interviews are available by request.
(To arrange an interview please contact Crystal Borde at 202-331-4323 or cborde@vancomm.com)

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