Rochester Public Utilities | Behind the Meter http://blog.rpu.org Behind the Meter 5/15/2012 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.6 en Conserve & Save® Refrigerator and Freezer Recycling Program Kicks Off for Second Year in Southern Minnesota http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1242 http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1242#comments 5/15/2012 Tony B http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1242 The Conserve & Save® Refrigerator and Freezer Recycling Program, servicing Austin Utilities (AU), Owatonna Public Utilities (OPU), and Rochester Public Utilities (RPU), is back by popular demand. The program, which had an incredible response during 2011, is set to begin May 15 and will continue through October 31, 2012 or until funds are exhausted.

Through this program, which is managed by a local Minnesota based company Appliance Recycling Centers of America Inc. (ARCA), participating utility customers who turn in operating but energy inefficient secondary refrigerators and freezers will be eligible for a $35 incentive for each qualifying appliance, with a maximum of two units per program life. ARCA will perform the in-home collection of qualifying refrigerators and freezers and properly recycle the units locally in Minnesota.

“Our goal is to continue to improve energy efficiency in Rochester by encouraging our customers to remove spare, working refrigerators and freezers from service while also offering a value service and a $35 incentive”, says Stephanie Humphrey, RPU Residential Account Representative. “Recycling appliances leads to a reduction in both energy consumption and emissions of ozone depleting substances and greenhouse gases.”

 

In order to qualify, the refrigerator or freezer must be 10-30 cubic feet, operating secondary unit, in working (cooling) order, and owned by an RPU customer with a valid account number. The appliance will be picked up, free of charge, inside the customer’s home from the address listed on the billing account.

 

To participate in the program, please call 1-877-341-2259 or visit www.rpu.org.


About ARCA

ARCA (www.ARCAInc.com), one of the nation’s largest recyclers of major household appliances for the energy conservation programs of electric utilities, currently provides services for 200 utilities in the U.S. and Canada. Toxic chemicals and environmentally harmful materials such as ozone-depleting refrigerants, PCBs, mercury and oil are carefully recovered in the decommissioning process for recycling, destruction or disposal, preventing them from contaminating soil, air and water resources. The Company is also the exclusive North American distributor for UNTHA Recycling Technology (URT), one of the world’s leading manufacturers of technologically advanced refrigerator recycling systems and recycling facilities for electrical household appliances and electronic scrap.

 

About Rochester Public Utilities

As the municipal utility of Rochester, Minn., for more than 110 years, RPU provides high-quality and reliable electricity to over 47,000 customers. Water customers number more than 36,000. RPU continually investigates innovative technologies to help customers realize the best value from the services they receive. Current initiatives include energy and water education, renewable generation, and smart grid applications.

 

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]]> http://blog.rpu.org/?feed=rss2&p=1242 Hydrant Flushing Routes Starting May 3rd http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1237 http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1237#comments 5/4/2012 Tony B http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1237   

Rochester Public Utilities will be flushing fire hydrants in the areas mapped below (within the red area) between 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., for approximately two weeks, beginning May 3rd. Fire hydrants are flushed to remove mineral deposits and sediment from the water mains and to ensure proper operation for fire protection.

During hydrant flushing operations, it is not unusual for customers to experience rusty water, and or pressure changes. Rusty water does not pose a health issue, but may affect the aesthetic quality of the water. Customers are encouraged to check their water for discoloration prior to using hot water or doing laundry, as rusty water may stain clothing. If rusty water is present, customers should flush their household plumbing by opening cold water taps and flushing until clear. Outdoor watering or using exterior hose outlets can also flush customer piping while still using water efficiently.

If you do experience any clothing staining, rust remover is available free of charge and can be delivered to you by calling RPU at 507-280-1500.

]]> http://blog.rpu.org/?feed=rss2&p=1237 RPU to Expand Home Energy Report Program http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1233 http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1233#comments 5/3/2012 Tony B http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1233 Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) today announced that it is expanding its Home Energy Report program to all residential electric customers.  The program, which has been piloted to 25,000 RPU customers, is now available to all residential electric customers.

 

The Home Energy Reports program is designed to help customers better assess their electric consumption, and most importantly, find additional ways to lower monthly bills by reducing energy use.  Customers will receive the reports monthly, via both traditional mail and through an online web portal.


RPU has been running this program since 2010 and has found that customers save on average 2.1% on their monthly electricity bills. The program has helped save RPU customers over 6,758 MWh of energy, over $650,000 on their electricity bills.

 

“We are excited to provide this service to all of our residential customers,” said RPU General Manager Larry Koshire. “Through the expansion of the Home Energy Reports program, RPU strives to continue to display our commitment to providing our customers with the information and insights needed to reduce energy usage and monthly bills.”

 

Developed by Opower, the Home Energy Reports combine behavioral science with cutting-edge data analytics to provide customers with detailed information and insights on their household energy usage. The reports include usage history comparisons, goal setting tools, and progress trackers. Through the program’s online portal, customers can further interact with their energy usage information, review a larger library of additional efficiency tips, conduct an automated 30-second home energy audit, develop a savings plan, and more. In addition to the Home Energy Reports, Opower also provides a social application called Opower Social for users to share their energy usage and savings through social media channels such as Facebook. All of these features are designed to help customers actively engage with their energy information and make smarter choices about their energy use.

 

The Home Energy Reports program has been successfully deployed at numerous utilities across North America, delivering between 1.5 and 3.5 percent in average energy savings to customers.  To date, the Home Energy Reports program has saved American families and businesses over $90M on their energy bills and later this year will hit 1TWh of energy savings, enough to remove 100,000 households from the grid. 

 

 

About Rochester Public Utilities

 

As the municipal utility of Rochester, Minn., for more than 110 years, RPU provides high-quality and reliable electricity to over 49,000 customers.  Water customers number more than 37,000.  RPU continually investigates innovative technologies to help customers realize the best value from the services they receive.  Current initiatives include fuel cell research, wind power, and photovoltaic offerings.

 

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]]> http://blog.rpu.org/?feed=rss2&p=1233 10th Annual Arbor Day Celebration to be held on April 27 http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1226 http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1226#comments 4/26/2012 Tony B http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1226 Rochester Public Utilities (RPU), with partners Maier Forest and Tree and Rochester Park and Recreation, will host the 10th Annual Arbor Day Celebration on Friday, April 27 from 11 a.m. to1 p.m. at Mayo Park behind the Mayo Civic Center.

 

The fun and free community event will feature a variety of activities and displays that will include: A tree giveaway of over 3,000 trees, a free lunch of hot dogs, corn on the cob, chips, cookies, and soda will be provided (while supplies last), and live music from Paul Mayasich and his band, Real American Made Music. Tree experts will also be on hand to answer questions on tree planting and care, along with many other vendor displays.

 

Children will be able to enjoy Smokey Bear, balloonists, a scavenger hunt, temporary tattoos, bean bag toss, and much more!

 

At noon, an awards ceremony will honor the Rochester elementary school student that won this year’s Arbor Day poster contest. This year’s winner is Sarah Brewer, a fourth grader at Folwell Elementary. Sarah will receive a $100 U.S. savings bond, her winning poster will be featured in advertising, and a tree will be planted in her honor at Folwell Elementary School.

 

Co-Sponsors of this year’s event include: Hy-Vee, People’s Energy Cooperative, Sargent’s Gardens, and Seneca Foods.

Participants include: Cascade Meadow Wetlands & Environmental Science Center, Minnesota Energy Resources, Olmsted Soil & Water Conservation District, RNeighbors, Rochester Public Works, University of Wisconsin – Steven’s Point, Zumbro Valley Audubon, and Zumbro Valley Woodland Council.

 

In the event of rain, the celebration will be moved to Graham Arena 2 at Rochester Graham Park.

]]> http://blog.rpu.org/?feed=rss2&p=1226 Hydrant Flushing Routes Starting April 26th http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1228 http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1228#comments 4/26/2012 Tony B http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1228  

Rochester Public Utilities will be flushing fire hydrants in the areas mapped below (within the red area) between 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., for approximately two weeks, beginning April 26th . Fire hydrants are flushed to remove mineral deposits and sediment from the water mains and to ensure proper operation for fire protection.

During hydrant flushing operations, it is not unusual for customers to experience rusty water, and or pressure changes. Rusty water does not pose a health issue, but may affect the aesthetic quality of the water. Customers are encouraged to check their water for discoloration prior to using hot water or doing laundry, as rusty water may stain clothing. If rusty water is present, customers should flush their household plumbing by opening cold water taps and flushing until clear. Outdoor watering or using exterior hose outlets can also flush customer piping while still using water efficiently.

If you do experience any clothing staining, rust remover is available free of charge and can be delivered to you by calling RPU at 507-280-1500.

]]> http://blog.rpu.org/?feed=rss2&p=1228 RPU Receives National Recognition for Reliable Electric Operations http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1220 http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1220#comments 4/17/2012 Tony B http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1220 Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) is one of 176 of the nation’s more than 2,000 public power utilities to earn Reliable Public Power Provider (RP3®) recognition from the American Public Power Association for providing consumers with the highest degree of reliable and safe electric service.  Brent McKinney, manager, electric transmission and distribution at City Utilities of Springfield, Mo., and chair of APPA’s RP3 Review Panel, presented the designees on April 16 during the association’s annual Engineering & Operations Technical Conference held in Cleveland, Ohio.

 

“RP3 utilities are serving their customers at the very highest level,” said McKinney, “These utilities have demonstrated that they are providing excellent service now as well as keeping their eyes forward on improvements for the future.”

 

The RP3 designation recognizes public power utilities that demonstrate proficiency in four key disciplines: reliability, safety, workforce development and system improvement.  Criteria within each category are based on sound business practices and represent a utility-wide commitment to safe and reliable delivery of electricity.

 

“Receiving the RP3 designation means a lot to us,” said Larry Koshire, General Manager of RPU. “It’s an honor to be recognized on a national level for the work we are doing here locally in Rochester.”

 

This is the seventh year that RP3 recognition has been offered.  APPA is the national organization representing more than 2,000 not-for-profit, community- and state- owned electric utilities.  It is located in Washington, D.C.

 

About Rochester Public Utilities

As the municipal utility of Rochester, Minn., for more than 110 years, RPU provides high-quality and reliable electricity to over 47,000 customers. Water customers number more than 36,000. RPU continually investigates innovative technologies to help customers realize the best value from the services they receive. Current initiatives include investigating smart grid capabilities; fuel cell research, wind power and photovoltaic offerings.

]]> http://blog.rpu.org/?feed=rss2&p=1220 Lake Zumbro Spring and Summer Pool http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1210 http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1210#comments 3/21/2012 Tony B http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1210 Due to the recent warm weather Lake Zumbro will be raised from winter pool (elevation 918.5 dam datum) to the normal summer pool (elevation 919.7 dam datum) with a target date of April 1st.  The lake level will slowly be raised over this time period until the normal summer pool is reached, but could be sooner than the target date if there is a significant rain event.

Real-time lake level information is available on the RPU web site (www.rpu.org) For additional information regarding the Zumbro Dam and Hydroelectric Facility please contact Tony Benson 280-1534 or Todd Osweiler, 280-1589.

 

 

Tips for safe boating:

 

Watch the weather. Be aware of changing water levels and conditions that would expose logs, snags or cause floating debris. Be cautious when boating in the vicinity of the dam. Do not proceed past the warning signs and buoys. Tell someone where you are going, who is with you, and how long you will be away. Avoid standing, and when changing seats, stay low and near the centerline of your boat. Be ready for trouble when a powerboat passes you in a narrow channel. Maintain a safe operating speed. Always wear approved personal flotation devices (PFD).

 

 

About Rochester Public Utilities

 

As the municipal utility of Rochester, Minn., for more than 110 years, RPU provides high-quality and reliable electricity to over 47,000 customers.  Water customers number more than 36,000.  RPU continually investigates innovative technologies to help customers realize the best value from the services they receive.  Current initiatives include fuel cell research, wind power, and photovoltaic offerings.

 

 

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]]> http://blog.rpu.org/?feed=rss2&p=1210 Beware of salespeople pitching energy savings from radiant barriers http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1208 http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1208#comments 3/13/2012 Tony B http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1208 The Minnesota Department of Commerce issued a consumer alert today, encouraging Minnesota homeowners to think twice before installing radiant barriers in their attics. The Department’s Division of Energy Resources (DER) has received reports of salespeople pitching radiant barrier products in flyers and at free dinners throughout Minnesota. The Commerce Department wants all local consumers to know that radiant barriers are not an effective means to reduce heating or cooling loads in Minnesota homes.

“Many Minnesota consumers have been duped into installing radiant barriers based on false promises of substantial energy savings,” said Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman. “We strongly urge all consumers to be cautious, ask questions, and explore other reputable means to make their homes and businesses more energy efficient.”

Radiant barriers consist of a reflective film, usually aluminum, installed over the top of attic insulation in existing homes. They are sold as an energy-saving product, with claims of significant reductions in both heating and cooling costs. However, their potential benefit is primarily in reducing air-conditioning cooling loads in warm or hot climates – particularly in southern states.

A report compiled by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy, shows that the benefits of radiant barriers decrease significantly in northern climates. In southern cities like Miami, Florida or Austin, Texas, radiant barriers could reduce a household’s utility bill by as much as $150 per year using average residential electricity prices. But in colder climate states such as Minnesota, where annual air-conditioning loads are considerably less, savings drop to only $10 to $40 a year.

“The price to install a radiant barrier can be as much as $2,000 or more,” Commissioner Rothman said. “But if the average household saves only $20 per year, it would take 100 years to pay back your investment.”

It’s also important to note that radiant barrier products have negligible benefit in reducing heating costs. It is unlikely that most Minnesota consumers would realize any measurable energy savings from radiant barriers in attics.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the Minnesota Department of Commerce agree that, in Minnesota, implementing air sealing and adding conventional attic insulation is a cheaper and more effective means for saving energy than installing a radiant barrier. In fact, as attic insulation levels increase, the potential benefits from a radiant barrier decrease.

For more information on insulation and other energy-efficient measures to improve your home, contact the Minnesota Department of Commerce at 800-657-3710 or 651-296-5175 or visit www.energy.mn.gov. The website offers free downloadable home energy guides, including the “Home Envelope” guide that includes information on air sealing, insulation, and home energy audits.

]]> http://blog.rpu.org/?feed=rss2&p=1208 RPU Sponsored Community Education Classes Available http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1206 http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1206#comments 3/9/2012 Tony B http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1206 RPU is sponsoring two community education classes covering geothermal heating and cooling and smart grid. Class sizes are limited so make sure to sign up today!

 

Registration can be made by calling 507.328.4000 or on the Rochester Community Education website.

Residential Geothermal Heating and Cooling

Whether you are building a new home or considering a new heating and cooling system for your present one, consider the economic and environmental advantages of geothermal technology. It is the world’s most advanced, most cost-effective heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system for new or existing homes. This class will provide you with geothermal basics: what it does and how it works. It uses the ground as a heating and cooling source-learn how. Geothermal heating and cooling systems can provide greater comfort and energy savings. Find out information on federal tax credits and Rochester Public Utilities’ installation incentives. Cosponsored with Rochester Public Utilities (RPU). Instructor: Arnie Lorimor

 

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

6:30-8:30 p.m.

 

What is the Smart Grid and What Does it Mean

The term “Smart Grid” was created after a major blackout occurred in the Northeastern United States in August 2003. Analysis revealed that if additional intelligence about grid conditions had been more widely known earlier, the extent of the blackout could have been reduced, if not avoided altogether. This overview will provide you with an understanding of our current grid, the goal of Smart Grid, new terminology, and what does Smart Grid mean for you as customers and Rochester Public Utilities (RPU). Cosponsored with Rochester Public Utilities. Instructors: Rochester Public Utilities Staff

]]> http://blog.rpu.org/?feed=rss2&p=1206 RPU opening at 9 a.m. on Thursday, March 8 http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1202 http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1202#comments 3/6/2012 Tony B http://blog.rpu.org/?p=1202 RPU will be holding an employee meeting the morning of Thursday, March 8. Due to the meeting time, the RPU service center will open at 9 a.m.

Payments can always be made online or over the phone by calling 1-855-210-2285.

Thank you for your business!

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