IT is unfortunate your columnist Tim Treadgold didn’t bother to speak with anyone at Western Power for his article “Painful road ahead on power” (WA Business News, August 25). Had he done so, he would know that Western Power chose gas for its new base load power station because it was the best commercial option.Contrary to Mr Treadgold’s view, gas was chosen because it offered the lowest total delivered cost and the least risk, as our media statement announcing the deal stated. Far from dismissing coal, it will continue to be part of our fuel mix, as the new long-term coal contract recently signed with Wesfarmers Premier Coal confirms. As for the disparaging remarks about our workforce, it is obvious that Mr Treadgold has little experience of dealing with our people. The staff of Western Power recognises the need to be able to compete aggressively in the newly-formed electricity market and is looking forward to this challenge. Tony Iannello Managing director, Western Power