A new survey of 50 U.S. cities shows that MLGW customers pay the second lowest combined rates for electricity, natural gas, water and wastewater. The survey is based on average usage and on rates effective January 1, 2010.
The average residential bill for MLGW customers is $266.01. Springfield, MO slightly edged out MLGW with an average bill of $263.59. Of the cities in the survey, Boston had the highest combined bill at $495.43. MLGW’s average residential bills were lower than those in cities like Louisville, Nashville, San Antonio, Little Rock, Cincinnati, Seattle, Phoenix, Knoxville and Jacksonville. The complete survey can be found here.
“The employees at MLGW are dedicated to supplying our customers with low cost and reliable service,” said MLGW President and CEO Jerry Collins Jr. “We are pleased with these results and our goal for next year is to have the lowest residential utility bills.”
The annual survey is conducted by MLGW and is based on 1000 kilowatts of electricity, 200 hundred cubic feet (CCF) of natural gas, 10 CCF or water and 10 CCF of wastewater, which is the usage of a typical MLGW customer.
MLGW customers also saw their average bill drop significantly from 2009, when the average residential customer bill was $344.97 per month. The 2010 total of $266.01 represented a 23 percent reduction compared to last year.
There are a few explanations for MLGW’s improvement in this survey:
• MLGW had no rate increases for 2009 and no budgeted increases for 2010.
• MLGW was able to secure natural gas at low prices that benefited customers during the winter and held overall heating costs down.
• TVA’s fuel costs, which are passed on to MLGW customers, dropped in the latter part of 2009.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Be Prepared for Outages
We have another bleak forecast for the weekend. We're not expecting any emergencies, but this is good info to have.
In any emergency situation, whether it’s a tornado, ice storm, earthquake or flood, you need to be prepared for the possibility of temporary power outages. You need to know where your gas and water shutoff valves are located, how to identify the main electric service panel and how to turn them off in the event of an emergency. An emergency kit is always good to have readily available.
Your “emergency kit” should contain items such as: bottled water, canned food, prescription medicine, flashlight, radio, batteries, manual can opener, first-aid kit, eating utensils. Be prepared. Don’t let an outage catch you off guard.
Download a free storm preparation guide.
In any emergency situation, whether it’s a tornado, ice storm, earthquake or flood, you need to be prepared for the possibility of temporary power outages. You need to know where your gas and water shutoff valves are located, how to identify the main electric service panel and how to turn them off in the event of an emergency. An emergency kit is always good to have readily available.
Your “emergency kit” should contain items such as: bottled water, canned food, prescription medicine, flashlight, radio, batteries, manual can opener, first-aid kit, eating utensils. Be prepared. Don’t let an outage catch you off guard.
Download a free storm preparation guide.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Energy Saving Tips
Hopefully this is something you've heard before, but in any case it bears repeating:
Set your thermostat at 78 degrees in the summer!
This is the #1 thing you can do to save on your utility bill. Get a programmable thermostat and you can set it to 80+ when you are asleep or gone from the house for 4+ hours.
You can also:
1. Replace incandescent light bulbs with fluorescent bulbs that last longer and emit less heat.
2. Turn off the water when you are brushing your teeth.
3. Turn off TVs, lights and unused appliances. Also use energy-saving power strips.
4. Replace showerheads with low-flow showerheads.
Set your thermostat at 78 degrees in the summer!
This is the #1 thing you can do to save on your utility bill. Get a programmable thermostat and you can set it to 80+ when you are asleep or gone from the house for 4+ hours.
You can also:
1. Replace incandescent light bulbs with fluorescent bulbs that last longer and emit less heat.
2. Turn off the water when you are brushing your teeth.
3. Turn off TVs, lights and unused appliances. Also use energy-saving power strips.
4. Replace showerheads with low-flow showerheads.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
MLGW’s Energy Awareness Month Poster Contest - “Saving Energy”
MLGW’s Energy Awareness Month Poster Contest provided students from Memphis and Shelby County Schools the opportunity to showcase their artistic abilities while learning about saving energy. The students’ artwork will help to increase awareness about the importance of saving energy.
The students’ entries were judged on the basis of their ability to clearly and creatively communicate the theme “saving energy.” Also, the entries were judged in three categories: elementary school (grades K-5), middle school (grades 6-8), and high school (grades 9-12). The judging was done by Elizabeth Alley, formerly with the Urban Arts Commission, and Theresa Bullock, owner of Flamingo Graphics, with input from MLGW graphic artists.
Winners were recognized at the MLGW Board of Commissioners meeting on April 15.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
New MLGW bill payment system offers free transactions and adds Visa and MasterCard
On May 1, MLGW will introduce a new My Account electronic bill payment service that will give residential customers additional payment options. In addition, there will be no more transaction fees to the customer for these types of payments.
Payment methods for residential customers will include bank checking or savings account, Visa and MasterCard credit or debit card , Discover card, and ATM debit card (those showing the Star, Pulse or NYCE logos). Non-residential customers will only be able to pay electronically using a bank account.
MLGW’s 151,000 existing My Account users will retain their current UserID, but will receive a new password during the transition. For these customers, MLGW will send two e-mails this week that contain the UserID and password for login effective May 1. Customers who previously used the one-time payment system now must register and log in to My Account to make an electronic payment.With the new system, customers will be able to make one-time payments or set up recurring payments. Payments can be scheduled to pay any day up to the bill due date. Payments scheduled for any day other than the current date will be noted on customer accounts by 8 a.m. on the pay date selected.
A 12-month bill history will also be available via the new system for customers who opt to enroll in paperless eBilling. Customers who continue to receive a printed bill will only be able to view their current bill online.
“These changes are of great benefit to the customer,” said MLGW President and CEO Jerry Collins Jr. “Not only can customers now pay using Visa and MasterCard, there are no more transaction fees and the easy navigation make the My Account experience very user-friendly. We listened to what our customers were saying, and we thank them for providing us the building blocks for this new system.”
Payment methods for residential customers will include bank checking or savings account, Visa and MasterCard credit or debit card , Discover card, and ATM debit card (those showing the Star, Pulse or NYCE logos). Non-residential customers will only be able to pay electronically using a bank account.
MLGW’s 151,000 existing My Account users will retain their current UserID, but will receive a new password during the transition. For these customers, MLGW will send two e-mails this week that contain the UserID and password for login effective May 1. Customers who previously used the one-time payment system now must register and log in to My Account to make an electronic payment.With the new system, customers will be able to make one-time payments or set up recurring payments. Payments can be scheduled to pay any day up to the bill due date. Payments scheduled for any day other than the current date will be noted on customer accounts by 8 a.m. on the pay date selected.
A 12-month bill history will also be available via the new system for customers who opt to enroll in paperless eBilling. Customers who continue to receive a printed bill will only be able to view their current bill online.
“These changes are of great benefit to the customer,” said MLGW President and CEO Jerry Collins Jr. “Not only can customers now pay using Visa and MasterCard, there are no more transaction fees and the easy navigation make the My Account experience very user-friendly. We listened to what our customers were saying, and we thank them for providing us the building blocks for this new system.”
Monday, April 26, 2010
Jobs at MLGW
We recently added ten new videos to our YouTube Channel that discuss a variety of jobs at the division--from teller to utility worker. Check them out of you've ever wondered what it would take to fill one of these positions.
Job openings are posted on our website and on our Facebook page when they become available. You can also call our job line at 528-4241. It's updated weekly.
Job openings are posted on our website and on our Facebook page when they become available. You can also call our job line at 528-4241. It's updated weekly.
Friday, April 23, 2010
MLGW prepares for possible severe weather
Preparations are underway to ensure reliability of MLGW’s electrical system as the Mid-South braces for possible severe weather this weekend. MLGW officials are monitoring the storm’s movements and progress, and the utility will be ready to respond to any outages that occur.
MLGW leaders and members of the utility’s emergency response teams are making preparations to ensure a quick response to any power outages in the aftermath of today’s (note weather pattern). Some of these steps include:
• MLGW crews are being held on standby in case of severe weather.
• Tree trimming crews and out-of-town crews have also been contacted in the event MLGW needs additional assistance.
• At this time, the MLGW Customer Care Center will stay open until 11 p.m. Friday night and from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. Saturday night. Emergency dispatchers will work overnight. Should the weather cause significant outages, the Customer Care Center will extend its hours of operation.
• MLGW has replacement poles and transformers in place in the event of storm damage.
Important MLGW information for customers:
• Outage Reporting 544-6500
• Emergency 528-4465
• Customer Care Center 544-MLGW (6549)
Customers with Internet access can:
• Download MLGW’s storm preparedness brochure
• View MLGW’s outage map at mlgw.com
• Receive updates and assistance through Twitter if outages exceed 10,000 customers or more.
MLGW leaders and members of the utility’s emergency response teams are making preparations to ensure a quick response to any power outages in the aftermath of today’s (note weather pattern). Some of these steps include:
• MLGW crews are being held on standby in case of severe weather.
• Tree trimming crews and out-of-town crews have also been contacted in the event MLGW needs additional assistance.
• At this time, the MLGW Customer Care Center will stay open until 11 p.m. Friday night and from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. Saturday night. Emergency dispatchers will work overnight. Should the weather cause significant outages, the Customer Care Center will extend its hours of operation.
• MLGW has replacement poles and transformers in place in the event of storm damage.
Important MLGW information for customers:
• Outage Reporting 544-6500
• Emergency 528-4465
• Customer Care Center 544-MLGW (6549)
Customers with Internet access can:
• Download MLGW’s storm preparedness brochure
• View MLGW’s outage map at mlgw.com
• Receive updates and assistance through Twitter if outages exceed 10,000 customers or more.
Solar Power in the News
From yesterday's Commercial Appeal...
Sharp taps into power of sun
Company launches largest solar-power array in Tennessee
The way officials at Sharp Manufacturing Co. of America see it, at least some of the power needed to manufacture solar-energy panels should come from solar energy.
That logic explained the Earth Day ceremony Thursday in which the Sharp plant in Southeast Memphis launched the operation of Tennessee's largest solar-power array.
"We like to put into practical application the things that we tell people," said T.C. Jones, vice president of human resources at the plant.
The nearly 800 solar panels that cover 12,000 square feet of Sharp's roof will generate 150 kilowatts of power. That, coupled with the 50-kilowatt system previously in place, is enough for about 15 homes, but only a "very small" portion of the power needed to operate the entire plant, Jones said.
Sharp, located on Mendenhall in southeast Memphis, is one of the largest solar-power manufacturing facilities in the U.S., producing enough commercial and residential panels annually to generate 140 megawatts of electricity.
Cost figures for the new array were not available Thursday, but the company will benefit from government incentives for solar power.
The incentives include a 30 percent federal tax credit and a state grant covering up to 40 percent of the cost. Also, the Tennessee Valley Authority will buy the power produced by the array, even though the electricity will be used by the plant.
Sharp now has the largest solar array in Tennessee, officials said. It is "by far" the largest of six solar generators in Shelby County, said Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division president and CEO Jerry Collins.
With the solar-energy market expanding, in part because of the incentives, Sharp has expanded production in recent months, increasing the number of employees in the solar division from about 320 to 480.
Sharp president Kunio Kamimura said there is "much, much potential" for further job growth at the plant and in other areas of the solar industry.
Sharp taps into power of sun
Company launches largest solar-power array in Tennessee
The way officials at Sharp Manufacturing Co. of America see it, at least some of the power needed to manufacture solar-energy panels should come from solar energy.
That logic explained the Earth Day ceremony Thursday in which the Sharp plant in Southeast Memphis launched the operation of Tennessee's largest solar-power array.
"We like to put into practical application the things that we tell people," said T.C. Jones, vice president of human resources at the plant.
The nearly 800 solar panels that cover 12,000 square feet of Sharp's roof will generate 150 kilowatts of power. That, coupled with the 50-kilowatt system previously in place, is enough for about 15 homes, but only a "very small" portion of the power needed to operate the entire plant, Jones said.
Sharp, located on Mendenhall in southeast Memphis, is one of the largest solar-power manufacturing facilities in the U.S., producing enough commercial and residential panels annually to generate 140 megawatts of electricity.
Cost figures for the new array were not available Thursday, but the company will benefit from government incentives for solar power.
The incentives include a 30 percent federal tax credit and a state grant covering up to 40 percent of the cost. Also, the Tennessee Valley Authority will buy the power produced by the array, even though the electricity will be used by the plant.
Sharp now has the largest solar array in Tennessee, officials said. It is "by far" the largest of six solar generators in Shelby County, said Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division president and CEO Jerry Collins.
With the solar-energy market expanding, in part because of the incentives, Sharp has expanded production in recent months, increasing the number of employees in the solar division from about 320 to 480.
Sharp president Kunio Kamimura said there is "much, much potential" for further job growth at the plant and in other areas of the solar industry.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Redbirds Tonight!
In partnership with the Memphis Redbirds, MLGW is co-sponsoring “Go Green Night” TONIGHT. MLGW will staff a booth with conservation tips and free energy-saving kits for those attending the game. MLGW will also give out 1,500 compact fluorescent light bulbs after the game. In addition, all year long starting with the season opener on April 16, anyone who brings his/her MLGW bill to the Redbirds box office will receive $1 off a regular price ticket or $2 off a club ticket. Save energy, save money and support the Redbirds – a win-win!
Smart Grid is Coming to MLGW Customers
Volunteer to be part of the MLGW Smart Grid Demonstration!In late 2009, the Memphis City Council approved $1million from the MLGW budget to create a three-year demonstration of 1,000 smart meters among volunteer customers within the MLGW service area. MLGW is seeking 1,000 residential customers to demonstrate how greater energy information can help lower utility costs.
• You can live anywhere in Shelby County and participate as long as cellular coverage is adequate in your area.
• Renters must have lived in their homes at least three years.
• 1,000 volunteers will receive a FREE advanced electric meter.
• Many will receive a FREE in-home energy display to monitor their home’s real-time electricity use and cost details. Others will view information online through a new section in My Account.
Apply online
Access the volunteer application here, complete and submit online by May 14, 2010. (For answers to frequently asked questions, click here.)
MLGW will select 1,000 volunteers from the applicants. If you are selected, you will be notified in early June. Since customer feedback is essential to the success of this project, volunteers are required to respond to surveys about their experience. Installation of electric smart meters at volunteers’ homes will be completed by the end of 2010.
Did you know? In 2008 MLGW households used 36% more electricity than the U.S. average. Imagine how much money you spent on wasted energy. Smart Grid technology is another tool to help customers identify energy consumption and make improvements to lower their usage—which lowers their utility costs.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Attention "My Account" Users
Effective May 1, MLGW will make exciting changes to its My Account service at www.mlgw.com. This is a preview of some of the many benefits for our 150,000 current My Account users:
* In addition to Discover, VISA and MasterCard will be accepted for residential account payments. (Sorry, commercial accounts cannot be paid by credit card.)
* No more fees for using any of MLGW's electronic payments options.
* Everyone will login to My Account when making online payments, with improved payment screens.
* You will be able to view history for all payments, not just electronic ones.
* You will be able to retrieve a forgotten UserID automatically by email and reset your password by answering your "hint question."
* You will no longer need to be a paperless eBilling customer to pay electronically at no charge. (Still, we hope you will consider joining the more than 40,000 customers who prefer the convenience of paperless eBilling.)
Remember to check your inbox between now and April 30 for several important emails from MLGW. These emails will include information regarding your My Account UserID and password, as well as how to login to My Account after April 30.
* In addition to Discover, VISA and MasterCard will be accepted for residential account payments. (Sorry, commercial accounts cannot be paid by credit card.)
* No more fees for using any of MLGW's electronic payments options.
* Everyone will login to My Account when making online payments, with improved payment screens.
* You will be able to view history for all payments, not just electronic ones.
* You will be able to retrieve a forgotten UserID automatically by email and reset your password by answering your "hint question."
* You will no longer need to be a paperless eBilling customer to pay electronically at no charge. (Still, we hope you will consider joining the more than 40,000 customers who prefer the convenience of paperless eBilling.)
Remember to check your inbox between now and April 30 for several important emails from MLGW. These emails will include information regarding your My Account UserID and password, as well as how to login to My Account after April 30.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Scam Artist
Over the weekend and last night, channels 5 and 3 ran stories regarding a woman who has a warrant out for her arrest after she allegedly tried to scam MLGW customers out of their money. The woman offered to pay half their utility bill through MIFA if they would give her the other half.
Here are key points:
-Neither MLGW or MIFA will approach you for payment beyond automated telephone reminders from MLGW.
-In order to receive money from MIFA, you must have a face-to-face meeting with them at their offices. There is no charge for the meeting.
-Neither current or former MLGW or MIFA employees were involved in this incident.
-If someone feels they have been involved in a scheme involving MLGW payments, they need to contact the Revenue Protection Department at 321-6969.
Here are key points:
-Neither MLGW or MIFA will approach you for payment beyond automated telephone reminders from MLGW.
-In order to receive money from MIFA, you must have a face-to-face meeting with them at their offices. There is no charge for the meeting.
-Neither current or former MLGW or MIFA employees were involved in this incident.
-If someone feels they have been involved in a scheme involving MLGW payments, they need to contact the Revenue Protection Department at 321-6969.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Water Quality Report
Aged to perfection, Memphis’ water sparkles in MLGW’s 2009 Water Quality Report
The bouquet was nonexistent, and the vintage was just last year, but 2009 proved to be a very good year for Memphis water distributed by Memphis Light, Gas and Water.
This refreshing resource, pumped from the prolific Memphis Sands Aquifer, received an excellent report card for its purity in the 2009 Water Quality Report. MLGW will mail the report to its residential water customers in May in honor of the American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) National Water Week (May 2 through 8).
All community water systems are required to prepare and distribute an annual water quality report, also referred to as the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR), according to a 1996 Congressional amendment to the Safe Drinking Water Act. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation prescribe regulations that limit the amount of certain contaminants in water including microbial, inorganic, organic, pesticides and herbicides, and radioactive impurities. Specialists in MLGW’s Water Quality Assurance Laboratory perform numerous tests throughout the year to monitor such components of Memphis’ water. The 2009 test results reveal our water to be well within the designated limits, and meeting or exceeding all water quality standards set by the EPA.
In addition to the mailed copy, the report will also be available for viewing and downloading at www.mlgw.com.
The bouquet was nonexistent, and the vintage was just last year, but 2009 proved to be a very good year for Memphis water distributed by Memphis Light, Gas and Water. This refreshing resource, pumped from the prolific Memphis Sands Aquifer, received an excellent report card for its purity in the 2009 Water Quality Report. MLGW will mail the report to its residential water customers in May in honor of the American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) National Water Week (May 2 through 8).
All community water systems are required to prepare and distribute an annual water quality report, also referred to as the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR), according to a 1996 Congressional amendment to the Safe Drinking Water Act. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation prescribe regulations that limit the amount of certain contaminants in water including microbial, inorganic, organic, pesticides and herbicides, and radioactive impurities. Specialists in MLGW’s Water Quality Assurance Laboratory perform numerous tests throughout the year to monitor such components of Memphis’ water. The 2009 test results reveal our water to be well within the designated limits, and meeting or exceeding all water quality standards set by the EPA.
In addition to the mailed copy, the report will also be available for viewing and downloading at www.mlgw.com.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Poplar & Yates Construction
MLGW construction work will close lanes of Poplar Avenuenear Yates for three weeks
Crews are preparing to make upgrades to underground services in the area along Poplar Avenue near Yates Road. As a result, the far right lanes both eastbound and westbound will be closed intermittently. The work should be completed no later than May 7. Both the eastbound and westbound shoulder lanes will be affected, but not both at the same time.
Crews should being working around 8 a.m. each morning and work should be completed by 3:30 in the afternoon. However barricades and street plates may remain in place throughout the evening and weekend.
MLGW crews are working to upgrade gas pipes in the area.
Crews are preparing to make upgrades to underground services in the area along Poplar Avenue near Yates Road. As a result, the far right lanes both eastbound and westbound will be closed intermittently. The work should be completed no later than May 7. Both the eastbound and westbound shoulder lanes will be affected, but not both at the same time.
Crews should being working around 8 a.m. each morning and work should be completed by 3:30 in the afternoon. However barricades and street plates may remain in place throughout the evening and weekend.
MLGW crews are working to upgrade gas pipes in the area.
Jerry Collins Q&A
MLGW's President and CEO, Jerry Collins, recently sat down for an interview that will air on Memphis Energized. Collins shared his thoughts on MLGW and his vision for the company’s future. For those of you who can't wait to watch, I have the transcript:
What is your vision for MLGW now and into the future?
I see MLGW, now and in the future, as the most intelligent and efficient utility in the country. I see it as being a utility serving a very energy efficient service area for all customers. I see an area where all the customers are very energy conscious. I see a utility where the employees are very customer service focused.
Why are the employees of MLGW so important to our mission and vision?
Our employees serve our customers – they deal with our customers face-to-face everyday. It’s extremely important that all of our employees be actively engaged and be customer service oriented. Everyday, we’re striving to provide the best possible service to our customers.
Why should the residents of Memphis be proud to have MLGW as their utility company?
What most customers don’t realize is that MLGW has some of the lowest rates in the country for electricity, natural gas and most importantly, drinking water. Relative to other utilities across the country, the utility bills our customers pay are very low. What’s more, our service is very reliable and the number of outages are becoming less and less every year. Not to mention the fact that our employees are generous. They volunteer and give of their time and money – they give back to the citizens of Memphis and Shelby County.
How does MLGW help customers who are having difficulties paying their utility bills?
We have a myriad of payment plans and payment options which help customers. We lobby for utility assistance. There’s more utility assistance available now than there has ever been. Plus, we have very proactive programs such as our rental ordinance program where we inspect rental properties to make sure rental properties are energy efficient. We also are very active in encouraging builders to build energy efficient housing which benefit our customers for the long term.
How does MLGW assistance programs make us different from other utility companies?
I don’t think there is any other utility company that is actively inspecting rental properties to make sure that renters have the lowest possible bills. MLGW also has a very active program for weatherizing homes. There’s probably 40,000 homes in Shelby County that need to be weatherized. Over the next three years, I’m hopeful, with the collaboration of Shelby County, that we can weatherize about 5,000 homes. That’s a proactive step that we’re doing, that we don’t have to do, but it is the right thing to do.
What is MLGW doing to help customers living in the high energy use areas?
We’ve got a great database that tells us the energy usage per square foot for every residential unit in the whole county. There are five ZIP codes that use twice as much energy per square foot as the average home in our county. Those five ZIP codes are 38106, 38107, 38108, 38109 and 38114. We are really focusing our efforts in those five ZIP codes to bring those homes into a more energy efficient mode. We want to help customers reduce their bills, raise their quality of life and improve their economic standard of living.
How does MLGW plan to help the city of Memphis grow and bring new developments and industry?
One of the primary purposes of MLGW is to expand the tax base by bringing new industry into Memphis and Shelby County. We’re doing that by encouraging development in inner city areas where much of the infrastructure has been abandoned. We have ongoing programs that help bring industry to Memphis. We’re a very active partner with the Memphis Chamber of Commerce. We do all that we can to improve property values and to improve and broaden the tax base.
What is MLGW’s future with Smart Grid?
Smart Grid includes many different facets of what we do. It is a very intelligent way of distributing electricity, natural gas and water throughout the whole system. It gives our customers much more information in their homes and business so that they can make decisions on how to save energy and be more energy efficient. Smart Grid would help us make sure that TVA doesn’t spend needless dollars building more power plants. It actually has a positive impact on reducing the operating costs of MLGW and it pays for itself and gives our customers a more empowered way to deal with utilities on an everyday basis.
Where is MLGW now with the Smart Grid process?
In 2010, we are giving birth to a Smart Grid demonstration which will include 1,000 smart meters across the city. This demonstration will be used to show the advantages of a Smart Grid in a large urban area. Hopefully, Smart Grid will be implemented over a 10 year period for our 450,000 customers.
How is MLGW working to curb utility theft?
Last year, there were thousands of incidents of utility theft in our service area. We go after people who steal these utilities. There are very stiff penalties and fees associated with this. Many are prosecuted, but the ultimate solution is to have a Smart Grid in our system that would identify and eliminate theft almost completely.
How is Smart Grid going to improve MLGW’s system?
If someone pulls their meter out of the socket at their house, we will know it immediately. If a person puts someone else’s meter in that socket, we will know it immediately. It will be almost no more theft of utilities in Memphis and Shelby County if we have Smart Grid. Theft is a huge problem and it’s a problem we need to fix.
What is your vision for MLGW now and into the future?I see MLGW, now and in the future, as the most intelligent and efficient utility in the country. I see it as being a utility serving a very energy efficient service area for all customers. I see an area where all the customers are very energy conscious. I see a utility where the employees are very customer service focused.
Why are the employees of MLGW so important to our mission and vision?
Our employees serve our customers – they deal with our customers face-to-face everyday. It’s extremely important that all of our employees be actively engaged and be customer service oriented. Everyday, we’re striving to provide the best possible service to our customers.
Why should the residents of Memphis be proud to have MLGW as their utility company?
What most customers don’t realize is that MLGW has some of the lowest rates in the country for electricity, natural gas and most importantly, drinking water. Relative to other utilities across the country, the utility bills our customers pay are very low. What’s more, our service is very reliable and the number of outages are becoming less and less every year. Not to mention the fact that our employees are generous. They volunteer and give of their time and money – they give back to the citizens of Memphis and Shelby County.
How does MLGW help customers who are having difficulties paying their utility bills?
We have a myriad of payment plans and payment options which help customers. We lobby for utility assistance. There’s more utility assistance available now than there has ever been. Plus, we have very proactive programs such as our rental ordinance program where we inspect rental properties to make sure rental properties are energy efficient. We also are very active in encouraging builders to build energy efficient housing which benefit our customers for the long term.
How does MLGW assistance programs make us different from other utility companies?
I don’t think there is any other utility company that is actively inspecting rental properties to make sure that renters have the lowest possible bills. MLGW also has a very active program for weatherizing homes. There’s probably 40,000 homes in Shelby County that need to be weatherized. Over the next three years, I’m hopeful, with the collaboration of Shelby County, that we can weatherize about 5,000 homes. That’s a proactive step that we’re doing, that we don’t have to do, but it is the right thing to do.
What is MLGW doing to help customers living in the high energy use areas?
We’ve got a great database that tells us the energy usage per square foot for every residential unit in the whole county. There are five ZIP codes that use twice as much energy per square foot as the average home in our county. Those five ZIP codes are 38106, 38107, 38108, 38109 and 38114. We are really focusing our efforts in those five ZIP codes to bring those homes into a more energy efficient mode. We want to help customers reduce their bills, raise their quality of life and improve their economic standard of living.
How does MLGW plan to help the city of Memphis grow and bring new developments and industry?
One of the primary purposes of MLGW is to expand the tax base by bringing new industry into Memphis and Shelby County. We’re doing that by encouraging development in inner city areas where much of the infrastructure has been abandoned. We have ongoing programs that help bring industry to Memphis. We’re a very active partner with the Memphis Chamber of Commerce. We do all that we can to improve property values and to improve and broaden the tax base.
What is MLGW’s future with Smart Grid?
Smart Grid includes many different facets of what we do. It is a very intelligent way of distributing electricity, natural gas and water throughout the whole system. It gives our customers much more information in their homes and business so that they can make decisions on how to save energy and be more energy efficient. Smart Grid would help us make sure that TVA doesn’t spend needless dollars building more power plants. It actually has a positive impact on reducing the operating costs of MLGW and it pays for itself and gives our customers a more empowered way to deal with utilities on an everyday basis.
Where is MLGW now with the Smart Grid process?
In 2010, we are giving birth to a Smart Grid demonstration which will include 1,000 smart meters across the city. This demonstration will be used to show the advantages of a Smart Grid in a large urban area. Hopefully, Smart Grid will be implemented over a 10 year period for our 450,000 customers.
How is MLGW working to curb utility theft?
Last year, there were thousands of incidents of utility theft in our service area. We go after people who steal these utilities. There are very stiff penalties and fees associated with this. Many are prosecuted, but the ultimate solution is to have a Smart Grid in our system that would identify and eliminate theft almost completely.
How is Smart Grid going to improve MLGW’s system?
If someone pulls their meter out of the socket at their house, we will know it immediately. If a person puts someone else’s meter in that socket, we will know it immediately. It will be almost no more theft of utilities in Memphis and Shelby County if we have Smart Grid. Theft is a huge problem and it’s a problem we need to fix.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Engineering and Manufacturing Camp
I don't know how this compares to band camp, but...
The Center for Manufacturing Excellence (CME) and the Center for Mathematics and Science Education (CMSE) announces the Engineering and Manufacturing Camp for high school students who are strong in science/mathematics and have an interest in engineering.
The Engineering and Manufacturing Camp is a one-week overnight camp that will be held the weeks of June 13-18 and June 20-25 at the University of Mississippi in Oxford, Mississippi. The only cost of attendance is a $50 reservation fee. However, scholarships are available for those who qualify or need assistance. The campers will be introduced to engineering concepts and will do hands-on activities, including computer-aided design and 3-D printing. Participants will also take two field trips to manufacturing plants in Mississippi to see real-world applications of engineering.
It promises to be an engaging and challenging experience. Interested students must submit an application on or before April 22, 2010.
For more information, please contact:
The Center for Mathematics and Science Education
University of Mississippi
662-915-6621 or umcmse@olemiss.edu
The Center for Manufacturing Excellence (CME) and the Center for Mathematics and Science Education (CMSE) announces the Engineering and Manufacturing Camp for high school students who are strong in science/mathematics and have an interest in engineering.
The Engineering and Manufacturing Camp is a one-week overnight camp that will be held the weeks of June 13-18 and June 20-25 at the University of Mississippi in Oxford, Mississippi. The only cost of attendance is a $50 reservation fee. However, scholarships are available for those who qualify or need assistance. The campers will be introduced to engineering concepts and will do hands-on activities, including computer-aided design and 3-D printing. Participants will also take two field trips to manufacturing plants in Mississippi to see real-world applications of engineering.
It promises to be an engaging and challenging experience. Interested students must submit an application on or before April 22, 2010.
For more information, please contact:
The Center for Mathematics and Science Education
University of Mississippi
662-915-6621 or umcmse@olemiss.edu
Energy Credits
Did everyone get their taxes in? Did you remember to get your tax credits? Well if you didn't do it this year, maybe you can next year:
Federal Tax Credits Extended, Increased for Home Energy Improvements
There is no better time to make energy improvements to your home, given recent legislation that has expanded tax incentives for qualified residential energy efficiency upgrades. There are important changes between the earlier legislation and the regulations included in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, signed into law on 2/17/2009.
Homeowners interested in making energy improvements in 2009 and 2010 should review these new guidelines and consult a tax advisor to see if projects qualify for Residential Energy Efficiency Property Credits on federal income tax filings. The new household maximum tax credit amount is $1,500 (unless otherwise noted)—so now is the time to improve your home, as you will reduce monthly energy costs and cut your taxes!
Click here for more information!
Federal Tax Credits Extended, Increased for Home Energy Improvements
There is no better time to make energy improvements to your home, given recent legislation that has expanded tax incentives for qualified residential energy efficiency upgrades. There are important changes between the earlier legislation and the regulations included in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, signed into law on 2/17/2009.
Homeowners interested in making energy improvements in 2009 and 2010 should review these new guidelines and consult a tax advisor to see if projects qualify for Residential Energy Efficiency Property Credits on federal income tax filings. The new household maximum tax credit amount is $1,500 (unless otherwise noted)—so now is the time to improve your home, as you will reduce monthly energy costs and cut your taxes!
Click here for more information!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Africa in April!
MLGW will be participating in this year's Africa in April cultural celebration of Nigeria from Friday the 16th through Sunday the 18th. Stop by our booth for energy saving tips and a change to win a shopping bag.The Festival will showcase the Republic of Nigeria from an international perspective using a multiplicity of mediums- education, economics, culture, fashions, arts/crafts, music, history, and cuisines.
Festival-goers will enjoy a diverse cultural marketplace and four days of fun, festivities, and food with a different theme each day. Make plans now for the celebration.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Smallest User Art Contest--$1000 Prize
The Smallest User needs your artwork to promote energy conservation!
What is The Smallest User?
The Smallest User is an energy saving competition between the Cooper-Young and Evergreen neighborhoods in Memphis. The goal is to see which community can reduce its energy use most in 2010. Competitors are already taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint, and we need your help to keep them motivated.
The Smallest User is sponsored by a Strengthening Communities Grant from the Community Foundation and the University of Memphis, MLGW, the University of Memphis Journalism Department, and the leadership of both both Cooper-Young Development Corporation (CYDC) and Evergreen Historic Neighborhood Association (EHDA).
We are looking for artwork of any form that demonstrates this commitment to being The Smallest User.
What is the prize?
The winning designer will be awarded $1,000.
What is the contest and what are the requirements?
Sponsors are holding an art contest to find an original work of art that most exemplifies the spirit of The Smallest User contest and its energy conservation message.
• Artists are encouraged to use recycled, environmentally friendly, or sustainable materials.
• The work will be displayed prominently in Cooper-Young or Evergreen based on the leader of the contest starting in August and ending in December.
• The work must be easy to transport as it may be moved between neighborhoods throughout the year.
• The submitted work of art will become the property of the associated sponsors.
• In January 2011, the work of art will be awarded to the winning neighborhood by MLGW representatives for display in that neighborhood.
What are the deadlines?
• April 30: Deadline for submitting a proposal of the original design. The proposal must include a description and one or more of the following: a drawing, image, model, or computer file (high resolution JPEG, EPS, etc.)
• June 1: The winning design will be announced on The Smallest User’s Facebook page, its website: www.smallestuser.com (to launch May 1), and via press release.
• July 30: The winner must complete the work of art and deliver it to the University of Memphis, Journalism Department, Room 300.
Who can enter?
Anyone. We hope to attract local artists, especially those from the Cooper-Young and Evergreen areas. All serious applications are welcome.
Who are our judges?
Theresa Andreuccetti, President of Graffiti Graphics
Bryna Bobick, Assistant Professor of Art Education, University of Memphis
Carissa Hussong, Executive Director of the National Ornamental Metal Museum
How do I apply?
By e-mail: alakin@memphis.edu
By mail:
Ashley Akin
University of Memphis
Journalism Department
300 Meeman Journalism Bldg.
3711 Veterans Ave.
Memphis, TN, 38152-3290
Questions?
Contact Ashley at 678.3669 or alakin@memphis.edu
What is The Smallest User?
The Smallest User is an energy saving competition between the Cooper-Young and Evergreen neighborhoods in Memphis. The goal is to see which community can reduce its energy use most in 2010. Competitors are already taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint, and we need your help to keep them motivated.
The Smallest User is sponsored by a Strengthening Communities Grant from the Community Foundation and the University of Memphis, MLGW, the University of Memphis Journalism Department, and the leadership of both both Cooper-Young Development Corporation (CYDC) and Evergreen Historic Neighborhood Association (EHDA).
We are looking for artwork of any form that demonstrates this commitment to being The Smallest User.
What is the prize?
The winning designer will be awarded $1,000.
What is the contest and what are the requirements?
Sponsors are holding an art contest to find an original work of art that most exemplifies the spirit of The Smallest User contest and its energy conservation message.
• Artists are encouraged to use recycled, environmentally friendly, or sustainable materials.
• The work will be displayed prominently in Cooper-Young or Evergreen based on the leader of the contest starting in August and ending in December.
• The work must be easy to transport as it may be moved between neighborhoods throughout the year.
• The submitted work of art will become the property of the associated sponsors.
• In January 2011, the work of art will be awarded to the winning neighborhood by MLGW representatives for display in that neighborhood.
What are the deadlines?
• April 30: Deadline for submitting a proposal of the original design. The proposal must include a description and one or more of the following: a drawing, image, model, or computer file (high resolution JPEG, EPS, etc.)
• June 1: The winning design will be announced on The Smallest User’s Facebook page, its website: www.smallestuser.com (to launch May 1), and via press release.
• July 30: The winner must complete the work of art and deliver it to the University of Memphis, Journalism Department, Room 300.
Who can enter?
Anyone. We hope to attract local artists, especially those from the Cooper-Young and Evergreen areas. All serious applications are welcome.
Who are our judges?
Theresa Andreuccetti, President of Graffiti Graphics
Bryna Bobick, Assistant Professor of Art Education, University of Memphis
Carissa Hussong, Executive Director of the National Ornamental Metal Museum
How do I apply?
By e-mail: alakin@memphis.edu
By mail:
Ashley Akin
University of Memphis
Journalism Department
300 Meeman Journalism Bldg.
3711 Veterans Ave.
Memphis, TN, 38152-3290
Questions?
Contact Ashley at 678.3669 or alakin@memphis.edu
Redbirds and MLGW Go Green
In partnership with the Memphis Redbirds, MLGW will co-sponsor “Go Green Night” on Thursday, April 22. MLGW will staff a booth with conservation tips and free energy-saving kits for those attending the game. MLGW will also give out 1,500 compact fluorescent light bulbs after the game. In addition, all year long starting with the season opener on April 16, anyone who brings his/her MLGW bill to the Redbirds box office will receive $1 off a regular price ticket or $2 off a club ticket. Save energy, save money and support the Redbirds – a win-win!
South needs to increase energy efficiency
Attention fellow energy hogs, this is from the Knoxville News...
South needs to increase energy efficiency
With energy consumption projected to grow and the price of electrons keeping pace - note TVA's Monday announcement of a rate increase - energy efficiency can pay for itself in more ways than one.
That's among the findings of a new report released Monday that takes a look at the potential for energy efficiency in the nation's Southern states.
The South, traditionally flush with cheap power, is the nation's most notoriously wasteful region in terms of energy, and Tennessee is no exception. Tennessee represents 2.1 percent of the U.S. population and 1.8 percent of the nation's gross domestic product. The state consumes 2.3 percent of the nation's energy.
Over the next 20 years, energy consumption in Tennessee is expected to grow 15 percent. Much of that demand could be stemmed by energy efficiency, according to the report, which is co-authored by TVA board nominee Marilyn Brown.
The report was compiled by researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology, where Brown is a professor at the School of Public Policy, and Duke University.
The report analyzed the potential effect a broad suite of energy-efficient technologies and policies would have on energy consumption in the South.
Energy demand in Tennessee is projected to rise 15 percent by 2030, but energy efficiency measures could curb demand by 6 percent in 2020 and 12 percent in 2030, according to the report.
The report offered specific strategies for saving energy, including tightening building codes, improving appliance standards and incentives, expanding the Weatherization Assistance Program - a federally funded energy efficiency program targeting lower income families - and stepping up incentives for retrofitting homes, businesses and factories with more energy-efficient equipment.
Unlike most other Southern states, however, power demand in Tennessee is expected to grow, even if all of the above measures were implemented, said Brown in a Monday teleconference.
"(The Tennessee Valley) is still able to save a lot of energy, and the financials on that are very impressive," said Brown. "It's just not quite able to hold steady the energy consumption for the next 20 years."
Of course, achieving such savings requires investment, and the report stated that $1 billion in public incentives and private dollars in 2020 and $1.3 billion in public and private funds in 2030 would be required to achieve the projected energy efficiency targets.
However, there would be a return on that investment - $1.6 billion in energy-related costs savings in 2020 and $3.1 billion in 2030, according to
the report. The measures also would generate 15,000 jobs in Tennessee in
2020 and 20,700 jobs in 2030, the report stated.
Neither the report nor Brown offered a specific plan for how incentive
programs and regulatory policies should be rolled out - or who should foot
the bill.
"Rather than advocate for particular policy reforms or initiatives, we're
promoting the idea of addressing the energy efficiency in different sectors
somehow," she said. "We have a particular prescription of better information
and some incentives and net metering - but it could be tackled another way."
South needs to increase energy efficiency
With energy consumption projected to grow and the price of electrons keeping pace - note TVA's Monday announcement of a rate increase - energy efficiency can pay for itself in more ways than one.
That's among the findings of a new report released Monday that takes a look at the potential for energy efficiency in the nation's Southern states.
The South, traditionally flush with cheap power, is the nation's most notoriously wasteful region in terms of energy, and Tennessee is no exception. Tennessee represents 2.1 percent of the U.S. population and 1.8 percent of the nation's gross domestic product. The state consumes 2.3 percent of the nation's energy.
Over the next 20 years, energy consumption in Tennessee is expected to grow 15 percent. Much of that demand could be stemmed by energy efficiency, according to the report, which is co-authored by TVA board nominee Marilyn Brown.
The report was compiled by researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology, where Brown is a professor at the School of Public Policy, and Duke University.
The report analyzed the potential effect a broad suite of energy-efficient technologies and policies would have on energy consumption in the South.
Energy demand in Tennessee is projected to rise 15 percent by 2030, but energy efficiency measures could curb demand by 6 percent in 2020 and 12 percent in 2030, according to the report.
The report offered specific strategies for saving energy, including tightening building codes, improving appliance standards and incentives, expanding the Weatherization Assistance Program - a federally funded energy efficiency program targeting lower income families - and stepping up incentives for retrofitting homes, businesses and factories with more energy-efficient equipment.
Unlike most other Southern states, however, power demand in Tennessee is expected to grow, even if all of the above measures were implemented, said Brown in a Monday teleconference.
"(The Tennessee Valley) is still able to save a lot of energy, and the financials on that are very impressive," said Brown. "It's just not quite able to hold steady the energy consumption for the next 20 years."
Of course, achieving such savings requires investment, and the report stated that $1 billion in public incentives and private dollars in 2020 and $1.3 billion in public and private funds in 2030 would be required to achieve the projected energy efficiency targets.
However, there would be a return on that investment - $1.6 billion in energy-related costs savings in 2020 and $3.1 billion in 2030, according to
the report. The measures also would generate 15,000 jobs in Tennessee in
2020 and 20,700 jobs in 2030, the report stated.
Neither the report nor Brown offered a specific plan for how incentive
programs and regulatory policies should be rolled out - or who should foot
the bill.
"Rather than advocate for particular policy reforms or initiatives, we're
promoting the idea of addressing the energy efficiency in different sectors
somehow," she said. "We have a particular prescription of better information
and some incentives and net metering - but it could be tackled another way."
Monday, April 12, 2010
MLGW in the Community
With the 40th anniversary of Earth Day to be celebrated on April 22, many local organizations are sponsoring events throughout the month to capitalize on increased environmental awareness. Look for MLGW at the following community events in April, where you can find information on green power programs, energy saving advice, incentive programs and more.
April 16-18: Africa In April, Robert R. Church Park
April 17: Clean Memphis at Springdale Baptist Church/Rhodes College
April 17: Earth Day at Navy Exchange, Millington
April 17: National Volunteer Week 5K Walk/Run, Shelby Farms
April 19: Earth Day at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
April 22: Go Green Night with the Memphis Redbirds, AutoZone Park
April 25: Down to Earth at Shelby Farms, 10am-5pm
April 16-18: Africa In April, Robert R. Church Park
April 17: Clean Memphis at Springdale Baptist Church/Rhodes College
April 17: Earth Day at Navy Exchange, Millington
April 17: National Volunteer Week 5K Walk/Run, Shelby Farms
April 19: Earth Day at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
April 22: Go Green Night with the Memphis Redbirds, AutoZone Park
April 25: Down to Earth at Shelby Farms, 10am-5pm
Friday, April 9, 2010
Bike to Work Day, May 21
The Center City Commission is hosting downtown's first ever Bike to Work Day on May 21st. MLGW is a sponsor and will be hosting a water station.
You can now register online. Registered participants will receive bag of goodies at their selected "energizer station".
If you sign up, you might also want to read up on (and share) these Share the Road Tips!
Energy Department tightens standards for home water heaters
New efficiency standards released early this month by the Department of Energy will deliver substantial energy savings nationwide by making each of the millions of new water heaters installed more energy efficient, according to a coalition of energy efficiency, consumer, and environmental organizations. For the very largest home water heaters, the new efficiency standards will, for the first time, require advanced technologies (heat pumps for electrically-powered products and condensing technology for gas products), paving the way for even bigger future savings, the coalition said.
"From washing hands to hot showers to clean dishes, we all rely on water heaters for our daily needs," said Steven Nadel, executive director of the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. "These new standards will deliver big national energy savings, reduce consumer energy bills, and cut pollution."
For most product sizes sold, the new standards can be met with modest changes, such as adding more insulation to today's conventional tank-style water heaters, DOE said. For the most common size electric water heater (50 gallons), the standards will save 4%, while for the most common size gas water heater (40 gallons), the new standards will save 3%, said the coalition.
"These per unit savings add up to big national impacts, since more than nine million home water heaters are sold every year and water heating accounts for some 12% of the typical home's energy use," said the groups.
However, for the biggest products (those with over 55 gallons in storage capacity, which is about 9% and 4% of the electric and gas water heater markets, respectively), the new standards can be met only with heat pump and condensing technology, the coalition said. Heat pump electric water heaters save at least 50% and gas condensing water heaters save about 25%, relative to today's conventional storage water heaters, the group said.
"In the long run, a shift to electric heat pump and condensing gas water heaters is absolutely essential if we are to make deep cuts in household energy use and costs," said Jeffrey Harris, vice president of national programs at the Alliance to Save Energy. "DOE deserves tremendous credit for kick-starting this transition with its new standards."
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Call Before You Dig!
Getting your lines marked is quick and easy with 811. When you dial 811, your call is forwarded to the One Call Center in your area for processing. Local One Call Center operators record the location of the dig and then notify the affected utility companies of your digging plans. Your utility companies then dispatch a professional locating crew to mark the approximate location of your lines within a few days. You should be sure to call 811 a few days in advance of your scheduled dig to allow time for the request to be processed. Once your lines are marked, you will know their approximate location and you can dig safely. Knowing what's below will protect you, your family and your neighbors.
Tennessee One-Call System, Inc.
Phone: 800-351-1111
Alternate: 615-366-1987
www.tnonecall.com
Tennessee Energy Camps Scheduled for K-12 Teachers
From the Associated Press...
Tennessee is sponsoring three energy camps for K-12 teachers in June.
The camps, sponsored by the Department of Economic and Community Development, are designed to give teachers the information and resources needed to teach the science of energy and energy conservation.
The camps are at Pickwick Landing State Park Inn in Pickwick Dam on June 2-4, Henry Horton State Park Conference Center in Chapel Hill on June 9-11 and Cove Lake State Park in Caryville on June 16-18.
Teams selected to participate in Energy Camp will be given complimentary lodging and meals and will receive a $500 reimbursable grant to help fund energy education activities. Applications are available here and are due by April 16.
Tennessee is sponsoring three energy camps for K-12 teachers in June.
The camps, sponsored by the Department of Economic and Community Development, are designed to give teachers the information and resources needed to teach the science of energy and energy conservation.
The camps are at Pickwick Landing State Park Inn in Pickwick Dam on June 2-4, Henry Horton State Park Conference Center in Chapel Hill on June 9-11 and Cove Lake State Park in Caryville on June 16-18.
Teams selected to participate in Energy Camp will be given complimentary lodging and meals and will receive a $500 reimbursable grant to help fund energy education activities. Applications are available here and are due by April 16.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Unauthorized Pay Agents
Some MLGW customers have experienced problems when paying their utility bills at Unauthorized Pay Agent locations such as WalMart and other local businesses. Payments made at these locations do not post immediately, which can sometimes result in cutoffs. Customers should understand that when they make payments at these establishments, they do so at their own risk.
MLGW has more than 40 authorized American Payment Systems agent locations throughout Shelby County where payments are posted within 30 minutes, making it a fast solution for last-minute payments. There is no charge for this service.
Unauthorized Third-Party Pay Agents may be able to process payments to MLGW, but customers should know that these agents have no contractual requirement to operate under rules approved by MLGW. MLGW provides no assurance as to the timeliness or accuracy of payments made through these agents which may take three to five business days or longer to post to a customer’s MLGW account.
Any fees assessed by Unauthorized Pay Agents are the responsibility of the customer. Any online or walk-in remittance processor not specifically identified on MLGW’s Web site (www.mlgw.com) should be considered an Unauthorized Pay Agent. If you pay through an Unauthorized Pay Agent, keep your receipt or payment confirmation number until your payment has posted to your MLGW account.
Click here for a full list of MLGW-authorized payment locations.
MLGW has more than 40 authorized American Payment Systems agent locations throughout Shelby County where payments are posted within 30 minutes, making it a fast solution for last-minute payments. There is no charge for this service.
Unauthorized Third-Party Pay Agents may be able to process payments to MLGW, but customers should know that these agents have no contractual requirement to operate under rules approved by MLGW. MLGW provides no assurance as to the timeliness or accuracy of payments made through these agents which may take three to five business days or longer to post to a customer’s MLGW account.
Any fees assessed by Unauthorized Pay Agents are the responsibility of the customer. Any online or walk-in remittance processor not specifically identified on MLGW’s Web site (www.mlgw.com) should be considered an Unauthorized Pay Agent. If you pay through an Unauthorized Pay Agent, keep your receipt or payment confirmation number until your payment has posted to your MLGW account.
Click here for a full list of MLGW-authorized payment locations.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
New Online Payment Options
Very soon MLGW customers will be able to pay their utility bills using Visa, MasterCard and Discover. Beginning May 1, 2010, the Division will replace KUBRA with new online billview and payment vendor Metavante. In addition, there will no longer be a fee charged for any payment method used.This means that a residential customer can use his/her Visa or MasterCard credit or debit card, Discover credit card, ATM card or e-check without having to pay any fees whatsoever. Added benefits include streamlined electronic retrieval of forgotten User IDs and passwords.
The new system will require that all users making payments online have a My Account User ID and password, an additional security layer that helps ensure customers using this service are authenticated as well as offering a deterrent to identity theft. Under the previous system, users were able to make one-time payments without having to authenticate themselves as legitimate customers.
The Metavante system makes it much easier for customers to set up paperless billing and recurring payments, or to make a one-time payment. The entire system is much more user-friendly, and there’s much less opportunity for customers to initiate actions they did not intend.
If you are an existing My Account user, watch for details about how to login the first time on/after May 1. My Account users with recurring payment instructions will need to re-enter those details for payments scheduled after April 30.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
MLGW Promotes Water Leak Repairs
MLGW is targeting homes with high water usage. We have field techs going door to door to about 820 customers who have been identified as those who have higher than average water usage. The customers are located in zip codes 38104, 38106, 38108, 38111 and 38114. The customers in these zip codes showed at least 39 CCF of water usage on their bills in February, while the average for MLGW residential water customers is 10 CCF—which is also higher than the national average. Consider this: 39 CCF is the equivalent of drinking 234,000 16-oz. water bottles or flushing a 15-year-old toilet 1.25 million times during the month of February.
Simply put, such high water usage, especially in February, could be a combination of numerous plumbing fixture leaks, really long shower habits, incredible volumes of laundry and water-guzzling fixtures that pre-date the 1990s low-flow toilet/faucet/shower regulations.
MLGW customer service field technicians will be in uniform and have badge identification. A note will be left at homes where no one is present. Our goal with these initiatives is to help these customers reduce their water usage, which will help them lower their bills.
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