Issue #192, December 2021

Board Adopts 2021 Budget

The PUD Board of Directors unanimously approved a $41.2 million Operating and Capital Budget for 2021. That is a decrease of $1.3 million from the 2020 Budget. 

"This is one of the healthiest budgets that I've seen," said PUD General Manager Michael Sykes. "It's pretty much unheard of to come in and have a budget that's 3% less than the year before, but that's what this Budget reflects."

Learn about the system improvement projects the PUD has planned for 2021. 

5 Tips for Reducing Energy Waste

Cold weather forces your heating system to work longer. If you heat with electricity, that typically means increased bills in the winter.

Here are some tips to keep your bills down:

  • Turn your thermostat down when you're asleep or away.
  • Keep windows and doors closed to keep heat in.
  • Open curtains or blinds to let in heat from the sun; close them at night.
  • Seal air leaks around windows and doors. 
  • Use a portable heater if you spend most of your time in one room. 

Grants are Available for Local Organizations

We have two different grant opportunities available for local organizations.

We are once again offering our Economic Development Grant to local nonprofit organizations. Individual grants of up to $7,500 are available. 

We are continuing to offer our COVID Small Business Relief Grant to small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Small businesses are eligible for a one-time, $200 credit toward their electric bill. These are available on a first come, first served basis. 

Apply for Our 2021 Engineering Internship

Local students are invited to apply for our 2021 Utility Engineering Internship Program. 

This year, our goal is to hire one summer intern. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we will take into account the guidance of health authorities before making a decision about the internship program.

The internship is available to high school seniors or college students majoring in engineering who live in our service area. 

Warming Tree Brings in More than 800 Items
The PUD's Rachel Swanson, left, presents Judi Kellar with the items collected from this year's Warming Tree.

Thanks to generous donations from our customers, staff, and Board members, we were able to collect 842 items. 

These blankets, gloves, coats, hats, scarves, and other warming items were donated to the St. Helens Elks Lodge and the Holiday for Hope program.

This is the third year we have had the Warming Tree. Thank you all for your generous donations to help members of our community in need this holiday season. 

$250 EV Charger Rebate Available

Columbia River PUD customers who install Level 2 Electric Vehicle (EV) chargers may be eligible for a rebate of $250.

Our electricity is 96% carbon-free, so vehicles running on our power use fewer fossil fuels than traditional gas-powered vehicles.

Compare your vehicle's emissions and cost to fill up to an EV.