[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 169 (Monday, November 16, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2773-E2774]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 CENTRAL LINCOLN 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.
  Central Lincoln 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.
  With the assistance of a nearly $10 million federal grant, Central 
Lincoln PUD is poised to implement an energy saving smart grid system. 
Central Lincoln will contribute an additional $9 million to the 
endeavor. A portion of these funds will go toward the installation of 
smart meters in home and business. These advanced meters will empower 
consumers to more effectively manage their energy use, leading to 
significant savings.
  In addition to the smart grid project, Central Lincoln PUD has made a 
priority of aiding local residents, industry, and businesses with 
energy conservation efforts. These projects range from weatherization 
advice for homes to the large-scale implementation of energy saving 
measures at local businesses. Through this sort of individually 
tailored energy consultation, Central Lincoln PUD has facilitated 
significant energy savings for many customers who otherwise may not 
have had access to such resources.
  Capitalizing on their costal location, Central Lincoln PUD has become 
a significant player

[[Page E2774]]

in the development of wave energy technology. As a platinum sponsor of 
Oregon State University's Wallace Energy Systems & Renewable Facility, 
Central Lincoln PUD directly contributes to research into this clean 
and renewable technology.
  Central Lincoln PUD has demonstrated an extraordinary dedication to 
bringing clean energy and energy conservation resources to all of their 
customers. Notably, Central Lincoln--and other PUDs--have shown that 
this can be done while still holding energy costs well below the 
national average.

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