Today's intersection: BHE blames labor costs for layoffs; SD last in solar capacity

Freedom works where?

Probably not coincidental to Kristi Noem's political grandstanding is the flight of talent from South Dakota where her christianic religionists blame Democrats for inflation as labor shortages drive wage increases and utility rates. South Dakota-based Black Hills Energy laid off 44 employees across their eight-state service region, 24 of those positions in Rapid City. 

According to an industry watchdog South Dakota ranks last in solar capacity.

Members of Dakota Rural Action said that’s in part due to how utility company Black Hills Energy reimburses solar panel users who put energy back onto the grid. [Bill Janklow's idea of public radio]

Pacific Gas and Electric, Xcel, Black Hills Energy, Hawaiian Electric Company and Public Service of New Mexico or PNM are all responsible for massive blazes causing millions or even billions in damages. 

Learn more at KBHB radio.

Gov. Kristi Noem is touting a new phase of the “Freedom Works Here” workforce recruitment campaign just as lawmakers are scrutinizing the project.https://t.co/HOnfJyLa57

— SDPB News (@SDPBNews) November 16, 2023