Douglas County Public Utility District - Commissioner No. 2 · Douglas County

I have been diligently working for all customer owners of Douglas County PUD for 12 years. Douglas County residents benefit from low cost, reliable power because we own Wells Dam. We are seeing unprecedented growth in energy demands. US energy consumption is projected to increase by more than 50% by 2050, and data center growth alone will increase by 300% in the next decade. What does this mean for Douglas County? Under my watch, I’ll continue to protect customer owners. In 2024, the commission adopted a policy requiring all new large loads (over 1.5 megawatts) to purchase their power on the open market. They pay a “power delivery fee” for use of transmission lines and infrastructure, plus pre-pay for equipment. Microsoft is the first customer on this plan, and we are moving all large crypto and data loads to this plan by 2028. Growth needs to pay for growth. This model is now being adopted throughout the industry by other utilities, and Douglas PUD is viewed as a leader in protecting its customer owners from steep rate increases. If you support this fiscally conservative approach to meeting growth, while protecting low-cost reliable electric service, I’d appreciate your vote.

As a lifelong resident of Douglas County, I am running for PUD Commissioner because I believe our public utility should remain reliable, affordable, and accountable to the people it serves. Our community thrives on dependable power, responsible stewardship of the Columbia River, and leadership that plans wisely for the future without losing sight of local needs and benefits. I believe the PUD must continue protecting low electric rates while investing in infrastructure and long-term energy stability. Decisions made today will affect families, farmers, small businesses, and future generations across our county. I am committed to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and open communication with the public. I will listen carefully to ratepayers, employees, and community leaders to ensure decisions are practical, fair, and focused on serving Douglas County residents first. As Commissioner, I will work to maintain strong public power values, support economic opportunity, and ensure our utility remains locally controlled and community focused. I would be honored to earn your trust as you vote Nick Warner for PUD Commissioner.