The Kansas City, Kansas, Board of Public Utilities has been named a Smart Energy Provider by the American Public Power Association.
The designation is for demonstrating commitment to and proficiency in energy efficiency, distributed generation and environmental initiatives that support a goal of providing low-cost, quality, safe and reliable electric service, according to a spokesman.
Chris Van Dokkumburg, planning analyst at Holland Board of Public Works and chair of the Energy Services Committee in Michigan, presented the designations recently during the association’s annual Customer Connections Conference held in New Orleans, Louisiana.
The SEP designation, which lasts for two years (Dec. 1, 2019, to Nov. 30, 2021) recognizes public power utilities for demonstrating leading practices in four key disciplines: smart energy program structure; energy efficiency and distributed energy programs; environmental and sustainability initiatives; and the customer experience. This is the first year the association has offered the SEP designation. BPU joins more than 60 public power utilities nationwide that received the inaugural SEP designation.
“This designation highlights utilities that are really stepping up to deliver their customers top-notch programs and services,” Van Dokkumburg said. “These utilities are going beyond ‘keeping the lights on,’ and their communities should be proud.”
“We’re honored to be recognized for our efforts to support our community’s responsible energy use,” Bill Johnson, general manager of BPU, said. “We take a lot of pride in the programs we offer that help our customers save money and reduce our collective footprint on the environment. It’s encouraging to be recognized as a best-of-class utility when it comes to smart energy.”
- Information from David Mehlhaff, BPU chief communications officer