Ep.14 Wildfire: A worst case scenario for public power

Billy Terry of Consumer's Power Inc. appears on this episode of Dam! to share his experience as chief operations officer before, during, and after wildfires scorched the community of Detroit Lake in Oregon. We dive into his utility background and getting his start in California, the changes he's witnessed to Northwest summers as a result of climate change, the work Consumer's did to prepare for wildfires, the experience of living and working through the Beachie Creek Fire, how hydropower serves as a "fireproof" energy resource, and what's next as his utility faces the enormous challenge of replacing all of the infrastructure that was lost. Plus, he gives us his advice on what to do to prepare yourself in the event that wildfire ends up at your own doorstep.