Letter: Time has come to reorganize LIPA
A Long Island Power Authority in Belle Harbor, Queens. (Nov. 12, 2012) Credit: AP
The Long Island Power Authority's structure was a well-crafted solution to the Shoreham debacle ["Envisioning a better power provider," Editorial, Nov. 26]. LIPA was designed to deactivate the nuclear plant, manage and pay off the debt, and restore confidence in Long Island's energy future.
In 1998, LIPA was transformed into an operating entity, with operations contracted out to KeySpan Corp. The original intent was to co-brand the trucks, a model that was used for 10 years. Unfortunately, LIPA lost its way, and Long Island has lost confidence in that model.
While privatization was considered at various points, it has not been taken seriously enough.
As companies look to build, grow and invest in Long Island, reliable power at a manageable cost makes everyone's top-five list. LIPA's time has come and gone. With the right leadership and financial advice, we can move to a better future with a real plan, real communications and real accountability.
