[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 169 (Monday, November 16, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2772]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     EMERALD PEOPLE'S UTILITY BOARD

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. PETER A. DeFAZIO

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, November 16, 2009

  Mr. DeFAZIO. Madam Speaker, at a time when our economy is focused on 
recovery, adopting renewable sources of electricity will spur job 
creation and economic growth, save consumers money, and reduce 
greenhouse gas pollution. People's Utility Districts (PUDs) have 
consistently been at the forefront of this effort.
  Emerald PUD, in my congressional district, is an excellent example of 
People's Utility Districts that have consistently demonstrated a 
commitment to delivering clean energy and conservation resources to 
their customers. Due to their relatively small size and local consumer 
ownership, PUDs are able to meet the unique energy needs of their 
community while also investing in local renewable energy resources.
  For more than a decade Emerald PUD has offered clean renewable energy 
options to their customers. Their customers have the option to purchase 
a percentage--or all--of their energy from clean wind power sources. In 
addition, Emerald PUD regularly assists customers in gaining access to 
solar energy. Through generous assistance programs they have helped 
numerous area schools, businesses, and homes to install solar energy 
systems.
  Beyond this investment in sustainable energy, Emerald PUD has made a 
priority of aiding local residents, industry, and businesses with 
energy conservation efforts. These projects range from weatherization 
of homes to the large-scale installation efficient lighting in 
industrial facilities. Through this sort of individually tailored 
energy consultation, Emerald PUD has facilitated significant energy 
savings for many customers who otherwise may not have had access to 
such resources.
  Emerald PUD has demonstrated an extraordinary dedication to bringing 
clean energy and energy conservation resources to all of their 
customers. Notably, Emerald--and other PUDS--have shown that this can 
be done while still holding energy costs well below the national 
average.

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