Most of us see our public utility as the source of electricity. But it’s more. It’s a valuable information resource. So don’t let Clark Public Utilities’ 75 years of experience and expertise go to waste. Take advantage of it. If your organization, club, association, school or neighborhood association needs a speaker, the utility can provide someone to present on topics ranging from cutting energy waste to incentives and rebates, energy assistance programs, electric safety, environmental stream restoration, or even identifying invasive plants.
Since the 1940s, Clark Public Utilities has worked to educate customers by offering programs and services to help local consumers reduce wasted energy and lower their electric bills. During the 40s, 50s and 60s, home economists for the utility made presentations to homemakers about the latest in energy-efficient electrical appliances for the home.
In the 1990s, it worked at educating customers about the construction of energy-efficient homes by participating in one of the first widespread energy-conserving homebuilding initiatives, the Super Good Cents Home program. Today, it strives to educate consumers about the benefits of homes and appliances built to Energy Star standards and beyond.
“We’ll provide a speaker related to almost any energy issue,” said Lena Wittler, senior communications manager for Clark Public Utilities. “Getting face to face with our customers is a great way to share information and help folks take advantage of the different programs and incentives we offer.”
“Meeting people in person can make a big difference in our customers’ willingness to ask questions or take the next step, especially in communities where English isn’t the first language. Being in a casual environment allows us time to explain the different benefits of our programs and increase interest in participating,” said Matthew Babbitts, residential program manager, who has given several presentations himself.
Several groups request annual presentations or updates. The Clark County Rental Association is just one of the groups frequently visited by Clark Public Utilities’ energy counselors. The rental association is a nonprofit organization that educates landlords and works to improve the quality and operation of the rental industry in Southwest Washington.
“Clark Public Utilities has put on excellent presentations that are relevant for our group,” said Max Hohnbaum, who schedules speakers for the association. “They’ve given us tips about how landlords and property owners can save on energy costs that our members can pass on to their renters to reduce expenses.”
Clark Public Utilities’ speakers adapt their presentations to the needs of the audience. They can address residential conservation tips, rebate programs, small business conservation advice, renewable energy and water conservation, as well as low-cost or no-cost ways to use, and pay, less.
“Many of the incoming calls to our energy counselor phone line focus on the big things people want to do to save energy, like installing a heat pump,” Babbitts said. “In a presentation, we have a chance to talk about the unique situations that arise, as well as explain the small things that can make an immediate difference for them, like turning down thermostats, weatherizing, and setting water heaters to 120 degrees.”
To schedule a time for a utility representative to speak to your community, business or neighborhood group, contact Lena Wittler at lwittler@clarkpud.com or 360-992-3268.
Energy adviser is written by Clark Public Utilities. Send questions to ecod@clarkpud.com or to Energy Adviser, c/o Clark Public Utilities, P.O. Box 8900, Vancouver, WA 98668.
