Dear Secretary Chu,

We write today regarding the December 7, 2011 order issued by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in the matter of the Bonneville Power Administration's environmental redispatch policy.

As you know, the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) is a Power Marketing Administration (PMA), one of four PMAs that market and deliver power in 32 states nationwide. BPA's enabling statutes make clear its obligations to provide cost-based power to its customers, operate within flood control restraints, and maintain and operate a reliable transmission system. Further, BPA must adhere to subsequent laws and mandates, including mitigating the impact of the federal hydropower system on fish and wildlife. As the Secretary of Energy, you are ultimately responsible-for helping ensure that BPA fulfills these multiple obligations.