Issue #127,  August 2015
 
Board of Directors Calls for Public Hearing on Proposed Rates
 

At their July 21 meeting, the PUD's Board of Directors called for a public hearing on August 18 to take comments on a proposed 4.6% overall rate increase. The rate change is the result of increasing wholesale power costs and lower-than-expected revenues due to the mild winter.


The rate changes, if approved, would take effect on October 1. Read the press release.

Photo by Molly Reese
Submit your Best Photos for the 2016 PUD Calendar Photo Contest  

Calling all photographers: Entries are now being accepted for the 2016 PUD Calendar photo contest. Photos must be taken in Columbia County and they must be suitable for printing at 9.25 inches high and 12.25 inches wide.
 
Entries are due by September 11.

Entry forms and contest details are available at www.crpud.net/calendar. 
Loans for Home Efficiency Upgrades

Would you upgrade your heating system or replace your windows if you had the cash to do it? Two local credit unions offer loans to PUD customers who want to make home efficiency improvements.

St. Helens Community                 Wauna Credit Union
Credit Union                                  Energy Smart Loans
Energy Saver Loans                       (800) 733-3236
(800) 275-6434                               www.waunafcu.org
Please Call us Before Adding Electric Load
Our linemen frequently work in close proximity to transformers, which can overheat and explode if overloaded.

Are you planning to add a shop, indoor growing equipment, a heat pump or other electrical equipment to your home or business? If so, please call us first. Adding load without notifying us first can affect the reliability and safety of the electricity distribution system in your neighborhood. 

Please call our Engineering Department at (503) 397-0760 or email [email protected] if you are planning to increase your electric load. 

Beating the Heat, Plan B: Chill Out on an Ice Cube

When the temperature soars, it can be difficult to find relief from the heat. If laying on an ice block is not your favorite plan, a heat pump or ductless heat pump might be a great option for you.

We offer rebates up to $1,500 and can tell you about tax credits and low-interest loans that are available, and suggest local contractors to work with. Visit www.crpud.net/heating-systems or contact our Energy Experts at (503) 366-5470 or [email protected] for details.  
 
Same Hot Water, from a 67% more Efficient Water Heater
 

With numbers this good, you can count out conventional electric water heaters. Up to 67% more efficient, the GE GeoSpring heat pump water heater gives you reliable hot water and can lower your water heating costs by as much as $200 per year. 


We offer rebates up to $500 for qualified models, and state tax credits are also available. For a limited time, GE is offering a $300 markdown. For offer details and store locations, visit www.geospring.com. 

Columbia River PUD
Energy Experts
(503) 366-5470 or [email protected]

Ask us how you can cut energy waste at home!