Nevada voters approve eliminating energy monopoly
Nevada voters appear to have approved Question 3, which would eliminate the monopoly on Nevada’s energy market.
With 51 percent of precincts reporting the yes on Question 3 has 72 percent of the vote and no has 28 percent of the vote.
Nevada voters were very positive towards breaking up the monopolies.
Susan Hartley said breaking up Nevada’s energy monopolies is important for Nevada residents.
“Anytime you stop a monopoly it’s good for the public,” said Hartley. “Free market and competition means lower prices.”
Nevada’s energy market was created as a state-imposed monopoly to help build Nevada’s energy infrastructure. The main player in this monopoly is NV Energy, which controls 90 percent of Nevada’s energy market.
Right now, the Nevada Public Utilities Commission regulates energy prices and energy policies.
If Question 3 passes again in 2018, the Nevada Legislature would be required to establish a competitive energy market by 2023. Energy companies would be prohibited from monopolizing markets.
Question 3 would also reduce energy market regulations, which may bring about more competition into the market.
While there is a majority in favor, some are concerned.
Pat Sergott is apprehensive about the future for Nevada energy and how changes could effect prices.
“Deregulation is good, but the issue is with having a separate production and distribution pipeline that could raise prices,” Sergott said.
Still, Sergott does see a new age of renewable energy. “Solar really should be taken more advantage of in Nevada.”
Bob Muer feels very positive about how much freedom Question 3 could bring to Nevada residents.
“Right now you have to be on the electric grid whether you like it or not,” said Muer. “They could put in wind, solar, or even use heat energy in this part of the country.”
If Question 3 passes again in 2018, Nevada voters will have more options and possibly lower prices for energy.
