Fighting for Energy Freedom
Welcome to my website! I am Mike Massey, and I am running for Benton PUD.
I have decided to enter this race because I believe much more can and should be done to secure energy for our near and distant future. I have the background, skills, and knowledge to be a strong contributor to the Benton PUD team.
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As a long-time Washington resident and agri-business professional, I know what issues are concerning me, my neighbors, and other local businesses. Energy is one of the most important components of our society. We must have reliable energy for our homes and businesses.
The current leadership in our state has put us on a path where we will be expected to rely on intermittent energy while reducing the availability of more reliable energy like nuclear power.
This is a very challenging time, and our communities are working in opposition to the power in Olympia and Washington, D.C. I will fight for energy freedom and for the rights of all Washingtonians to have reliable energy.
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The Benton PUD needs someone who knows the issues, cares about the community, and is willing to work hard for Benton County residents.
I am that person. I would be honored to have your vote.
Endorsements
Dr Raul Garcia
For US Senate
Michael Alvarez
Benton County Commissioner
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Eric Eisinger
Benton County Prosecutor
Gretl Crawford
Mayor of Kennewick
April Connors
Washington State Representative
Stephanie Barnard
Washington State Repsresentative
Positions and Issues
No Windmills
I will fight against the imposition of windmills on our ridges, destroying the peace and serenity of Horse Heaven Hills.
I believe that wind energy is supplemental at best and should not be prioritized for any energy strategy
Save Dams
I will advocate against destroying the lower Snake River dams.
They are vital to farmers, and they provide hydro-electric power critical to our energy strategy.
Energy Freedom
I will stand up to the state and federal authorities who are destroying our ability to rely on safe, affordable energy to achieve minuscule reductions in carbon emissions.
Nuclear Power Revival
I will advocate for a re-start of the nuclear power industry. Nuclear power has the potential to double or triple our national power supply.
No other source of power besides natural gas can achieve the base level of electricity to meet future demand.
Energy Planning
I will work with the other Benton PUD Commissioners on a plan to provide long term energy for our community.
This plan will include natural gas, hydro-electric power, and nuclear energy.
Facts
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Benton PUD uses 68% hydro, 10% Nuclear, 7% wind, and 11% from other sources.
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​Benton PUD buys power from Bonneville Power Administration (BPA). BPA buys power from Federal Hydropower Dams and from Energy Northwest. Energy Northwest produces mainly nuclear and some wind and solar power.
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Wind nameplate potential production does not mean real actual production which ranges from 8-22% of nameplate - this is called intermittent power - not base load power where nuclear power can be turned up or down as power demand is needed to prevent blackouts and to add critical reliable power to the grid. Nuclear power is the future.
Let’s Get Real About Energy
I will share some important realities with those who are pushing their dangerous agenda on our citizens. (source: Rick Dunn, P.D. substack)
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The minor reduction of emissions from the state of Washington will never stop climate change, and politicians need to stop pretending that it will. ​
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Natural gas is a clean, safe, affordable energy. We need to stop accepting the false narrative that it is harmful.
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Washington has managed energy needs effectively in large part because 60 percent of our electricity comes from the dams. That reality makes it incredibly foolish to destroy the dams without a much more significant reason than they have provided thus far.
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As Washington moves further away from reliable, affordable, energy, all residents will feel the pain including senior citizens on a fixed income. Alternative energy advocates need to be honest and accurate about the costs.
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Energy policies pushed by our current leadership in Olympia strongly resemble policies in California. What have these energy policies done to California? California now has rolling black-outs, black-outs, and skyrocketing costs for electricity. Following California’s lead is a bad idea.
Save Natural Gas
Mike advocates for the continued use of natural gas. Natural gas is an affordable and clean energy source.
Cost Efficiency
The post-covid economy has hit families hard. Mike promises to continue to lower energy bills with strategic planning.
Timing
Our four seasons create varying needs for power throughout the year. Mike will plan around the colder months to lower costs.