Public Regulators Pose Tough Questions to WAPA’s New Chief

Officials from WAPA faced challenges from regulators at the Public Services Commission during their appearance at a public meeting on Tuesday. Newly appointed Chief Executive Officer Karl Knight and his team were pressed over the size of utility bills causing customer disputes.

Utility officials were also questioned about a pending agreement with VI Electron to procure a battery storage array to work with a recently approved solar-powered alternative energy system. PSC Vice Chairman David Hughes questioned how WAPA would cover the cost of the deal given its precarious financial state.

In its current state, the battery storage system would extend over 25 years and cost $250 million. “That would make it the largest single contract that WAPA has ever signed,” Hughes said.

In his first appearance before the commission, Knight made several references to financial challenges facing the public power company. Right now, he said, WAPA is “biting a very hard bullet” to keep from raising its rates for water and electrical services.