Resources available to help utility customers make good choices about solar: As the popularity of residential solar installations has increased, so have instances of aggressive salespeople and substandard solar installations. The state’s Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), has recently developed a tip sheet to raise awareness of rooftop solar, including how to choose a qualified and reliable contractor. The information is available on DATCP’s website under Solar Power Buying Tips, and the document can also be downloaded as a PDF.
Some MEUW members have reported issues with solar installers misrepresenting their relationship with the local utility and providing inaccurate information to customers. The DATCP tip sheet from is designed to provide the facts and help utility customers. DATCP also provides a Consumer Complaint Form to enable utility customers to register complaints about negligent solar installers.
MEUW committee appointments approved: An association like MEUW benefits from member input and involvement in committees that support effective operations and member engagement. MEUW’s Board of Directors recently approved the selection of two new members to join the Safety and Education Committee. Adam Carroll (Shawano) and Brad Shea (Bangor) are now part of the committee, which has increased to 11 members in order to provide more geographic balance and representation to members not affiliated with WPPI Energy. A full list of all MEUW committees is available here.
Registration now open for Accounting and Customer Service Seminar: MEUW is holding its annual gathering for municipal electric utility accounting and customer service employees on Thursday, Sept. 23, at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells. As always, the program features a presentation from the Public Service Commission, and this year’s presenter is Kristy Nieto, Administrator of the Division of Digital Access, Consumer and Environmental Affairs. Other topics include electric vehicle adoption, construction authority and public bidding, and a discussion about the American Rescue Plan funding. The cost to attend is $135 for MEUW members. Additional details are available here.
Sign up to attend one-day chainsaw and tree-trimming workshop: MEUW is hosting a series of one-day workshops focusing on the maintenance and safe operation of chainsaws as well the basics of safe tree trimming. The training offers hands-on opportunities to learn from an expert. Cost is $235 per person for MEUW members/communities. Space is limited to the first 30 registrants at each site. To learn more, click here.
Utility leaders encouraged to register for October Retreat: MEUW is organizing a two-day event to bring together those who are “in charge” of their community’s electric utility operations. The goal is to build connections, share leading practices, and help to strengthen public power. The gathering is Oct. 12 and 13 at the Lodge in Mauston; full details are here. All MEUW member utilities are encouraged to send at least one person to have their voice heard.
Save the date for 2022 Electric Operations Conference & Expo: The success of the outdoor expo held this past April is contributing to exciting changes for the 2022 event, which will return to its normal season and the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells. The event (formerly known as the Joint Superintendents’ Conference) will take place Jan. 12 to 14, 2022, and will feature an expanded trade show offering larger space to accommodate heavy equipment and more time for attendees to visit with exhibitors. The banquet held to celebrate graduating apprentices in metering and line work is set for Thursday evening, Jan. 13.