Issue #229, February 2024

Apply for Our Utility Engineering Internship

Local students are invited to apply for our 2024 Utility Engineering Internship Program.

This program offers students a chance to learn about utility careers through direct work experience. It is open to high school seniors or college students majoring in engineering who live in our service territory.

Application materials are available online and are due by 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 28.

Let Us Trim Trees Near Power Lines

Trees are one of our leading causes of power outages. During the winter, wind, ice, and snow bring with them the potential to knock trees and branches onto our power lines.

To avoid these outages, we regularly trim trees growing near power lines. Historically, we have contracted with tree crews to provide this service. We now have an in-house tree crew as well. In addition to seeing Asplundh trucks working near our lines, you will also see CRPUD trucks now.

Please do not trim trees growing near power lines. If you have trees growing near power lines, please let us know through this form or by calling us at (503) 397-1844.

Enter the PUD's 2025 Calendar Photo Contest

It's never too early to submit your photos for our annual PUD Calendar Photo Contest.

Our calendar features horizontal photos depicting the scenic beauty of Columbia County. Vertical photos will not be accepted.

We are now accepting photos for the 2025 contest on our website or via email.

Power Bills Tend to be Higher in Cold Months

Electric bills are generally higher during the winter. This may be caused by a number of factors, but cold weather is typically the main culprit.

The colder it is outside, the more energy it takes to heat your home, even if you do not touch your thermostat.

Heat Pumps Can Help Keep Your Bills Lower

Heat pumps can help keep your energy bills lower during cold winter months. Because heat pumps move heat instead of creating it, they work up to three times more efficiently than a standard furnace.

If you heat your home with electricity, you may be eligible for a rebate when you install a qualifying heat pump system.

As an added bonus, heat pumps also provide air conditioning to help keep your home comfortable all year long.