SPRINGFIELD – “Public Power Week” continues through Saturday, Oct. 12, with local public utilities in the Springfield/Eugene area inviting customers to join in the celebration.
Five local consumer-owned utilities serve the area, while 32 other customer-owned utilities serve Oregon. There are more than 2,000 public power utilities across the nation.
“Public power utilities have different structures, but we all have the same purpose,” said Jeff Nelson, Springfield Utility Board’s general manager. “Unlike investor-owned utilities that have a mission of maximizing profits for shareholders, we exist to provide value to the people who live and work in communities we serve.”
Each utility will mark the week in its own way, offering opportunities for customers to learn more about the benefits of community-owned power: local control, affordable rates, safety, customer service, and reliability.
“EWEB’s elected Board of Commissioners makes decisions that reflect the values of our community. EWEB prioritizes reliable, affordable service that is still environmentally responsible,” EWEB general manager Frank Lawson said. “Electric service is essential to the functioning of a vibrant local economy and customers rely on us to customers rely on us to keep the lights on, stay warm, and keep businesses running.”
How SUB and EWEB are Celebrating:
- Springfield Utility Board (SUB): As it has for more than 30 years, SUB will offer customers free coffee drinks and cocoa from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. during the week. Find locations and details at subutil.com
- Eugene Water & Electric Board (EWEB): Hosts a poster contest for all 5th-graders in their service territory and holds a free Truck or Treat Customer and Crew appreciation event at the end of October. Learn more at eweb.org/your-public-utility/calendar/eweb-halloween-truck-or-treat-102425
