November 4, 2024—ROCHESTER, MINN. — Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) has been awarded a Smart Energy Provider (SEP) designation from the American Public Power Association for demonstrating a commitment to and proficiency in energy efficiency, distributed generation, and environmental initiatives that support the goal of providing safe, reliable, low-cost, and sustainable electric service. Erin Miller, Vice President of Programs and Sustainability at American Municipal Power, Inc., and Chair of the SEP Review Panel, presented the designations on October 28 in Louisville, Kentucky during APPA’s annual Customer Connections Conference.

The SEP designation, which lasts for three years (December 1, 2024 to November 30, 2027), recognizes public power utilities for demonstrating leading practices in four key disciplines: smart energy program structure; energy efficiency and distributed energy resources programs; environmental and sustainability initiatives; and customer experience. RPU joins more than 100 public power utilities nationwide that hold the SEP designation.

“SEP-designated utilities have demonstrated their leadership in smart energy programs and services,” said Miller. “This designation celebrates utilities that are committed to serving their customers while taking the extra step to plan for the future. Communities served by utilities that have earned the SEP designation should be proud of their utility’s accomplishments.”

“We are honored to be recognized as a utility at the cutting edge of smart energy best practices,” said Patty Hanson, Director of Customer Relations of RPU. “This SEP designation represents our dedication to offering programs that keep our power affordable, support energy efficiency in our community, and reduce our environmental impact.”

This marks the second time RPU has received the SEP designation, having previously been recognized for the period of 2022-2024 and now extending from 2024-2027.

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About Rochester Public Utilities

As the municipal utility of Rochester, Minn., for over 120 years, RPU has provided high-quality and reliable electricity to more than 59,000 customers, along with water services to over 42,000 customers. RPU is governed by a five-member Utility Board and the Rochester City Council. The utility continually explores innovative technologies to help customers maximize the value of the services they receive, with current initiatives including photovoltaic offerings, wind energy, energy and water-efficient equipment, and electric vehicle charging.