Last night, Shelvia Dancy of ABC 24 did a story on the new air conditioner initiative that was launched by City Councilwoman Janice Fullilove.
Fullilove is asking for donations of wall-unit air conditioners to be given to customers in need. Please note that these customers are being selected and identified by MIFA. MLGW is not accepting requests, however we will be happily installing these air conditioners.
Customers looking for more information should contact Sophia Wordlaw in Ms. Fullilove's office at 576-6798 or Sophia.Wordlaw@memphistn.gov.
In addition to participating in this program, MLGW has donated 200 air conditioners each year to customers selected by MIFA and CSA and we are currently installing the remaining units.
We also have a heat moratorium in order to protect customers from cutoff if the heat index is going to exceed 100 degrees during a 24 hour period (95 degrees for seniors or physically challenged customers).
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Havoc Wreaking Obese Raccoons
Last week, an alleged 40lb raccoon made headlines when he caused a major outage in the Medical District. The major hospitals affected had back up generators and were fine. However, the Commercial Appeal's generator wasn't strong enough to run its printing presses, so the Friday paper didn't go out until mid day. That sure got people's attention!
Naturally we've had some questions about how a rodent could cause so many problems. As you can see from our masthead, we have several animal friends who like to make their homes in our substations, play on our electrical wires, and occasionally wreak havoc.
So here's what happened. A giant raccoon was scurrying along on the substation structure. When he (allegedly a "he") decided to climb across a switch that was ~30 ft off of the ground, he became an unwitting conductor for a few milliseconds. Some times (most times) the protective service equipment breaks (opens) the affected circuit and the offending bridge falls away and the circuit can be closed in again. In this case, a lightning-like spark formed over and through the raccoon and destroyed portions of the switch which had to be replaced. This is what caused the long outage. It was a really unusual situation--you might even say it was the perfect storm because it was a critical switch at this particular station and one of the last ones you would think an obese raccoon could get across!
As far as animal mitigation goes, we have a systematic, economical plan in place. We start with the big ticket items, like transformers and breakers, which also add up to long outages. Much like chess, we protect the king and queen first, but we have to choose which of the "back" pieces to protect. (Switches might be considered rooks or knights.) And well, the pawns are often on their own. (i.e. The station class insulators - there are so many of them and they are typically much shorter than a raptor, squirrel or raccoon.)
Breaker with "Big Red Covers"
Before we started our Animal Mitigation Program, we looked at historical records and chose the stations that had the most animal outages. We have stored animal mitigation stock on hand and the field workers cover equipment that is put back into service because animals think alike and will likely use the same path to shelter or food.
Basically, we try to increase the distance between high and low voltage typically around insulators and bushings so that an animal cannot initiate an arc "over" the insulator. All of the possibilities are considered, but economics play heavily into the extent of the implementation. The animal mitigation components are not cheap because they have to have huge insulation properties and have to survive being in the elements for decades without degradation.
Switches with "Clear Polycarbonate Bushing Barriers"
To read more about our efforts, click here.
New Rebates
As reported in today's Memphis Daily News from the Associated Press...(To view the full details, click here.
Tenn. to Give Rebates Under Energy Program
Tennessee will begin giving rebates soon to people who buy energy-efficient air conditioning and heating equipment.
The state is among the last to roll out the rebates funded with money from the Department of Energy. Tennessee will offer fewer options than many states, but Ryan Gooch, the state energy policy director, said the state's plan should be effective for residents.
According to The Tennessean newspaper, the state plans to begin its $5.9 million rebate program this week or next.
Purchases dating to April 22, before the early May floods, will be eligible if they meet guidelines. [Read: purchases made after April 22 are eligible.]
According to the U.S. Department of Energy website, Tennessee, Nebraska, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Territory of Guam are the last to get programs up and running.
"It's going to reduce electric bills significantly for Tennesseans all across the state," Gooch said.
The federal energy department allowed each state to pick what appliances would be targeted for rebates. Gooch said the state decided not to make rebates available for kitchen appliances, such as refrigerators or dishwashers, and instead focus on heating and cooling systems because they drain the most energy in residences statewide.
In Tennessee the rebates will range from $250 for central heating and cooling systems and air-source heat pumps to $40 for room air conditioners. The money could be enough for about 41,500 rebates in Tennessee, depending on the requests.
The rebates may be too late for some homes undergoing repairs after the flooding in May.
Joan Lange said she didn't know about the rebate for Energy Star equipment before she placed her order to have her heating and cooling system replaced after her condo flooded.
"I've already contracted for one, and I have no idea if this is a unit that qualifies for that," she said.
Tennessee announced last year it would roll out the rebate program on Earth Day on April 22, but missed that target.
Gooch said a request had to be put out for a third party to handle the rebates.
"We've completed that process, which is the good news, and now we're able to move forward. We will be releasing additional information on the exact process, probably next week or the week after," Gooch said.
Tennessee regularly ranks among the top states in the nation in residential electricity use, which generally means more pollution because coal is the main source of energy for the area served by the Tennessee Valley Authority.
"We see this program as a way to move that needle in a better direction," Gooch said.
Gooch's office estimates that the rebates could create $1.4 million in savings statewide and a drop in carbon dioxide emissions of about 32 million pounds.
Gooch also said the energy efficient systems put less strain on the electrical grid during peak power use times, such as summer afternoons.
Information from: The Tennessean, http://www.tennessean.com
Tenn. to Give Rebates Under Energy Program
Tennessee will begin giving rebates soon to people who buy energy-efficient air conditioning and heating equipment.
The state is among the last to roll out the rebates funded with money from the Department of Energy. Tennessee will offer fewer options than many states, but Ryan Gooch, the state energy policy director, said the state's plan should be effective for residents.
According to The Tennessean newspaper, the state plans to begin its $5.9 million rebate program this week or next.
Purchases dating to April 22, before the early May floods, will be eligible if they meet guidelines. [Read: purchases made after April 22 are eligible.]
According to the U.S. Department of Energy website, Tennessee, Nebraska, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Territory of Guam are the last to get programs up and running.
"It's going to reduce electric bills significantly for Tennesseans all across the state," Gooch said.
The federal energy department allowed each state to pick what appliances would be targeted for rebates. Gooch said the state decided not to make rebates available for kitchen appliances, such as refrigerators or dishwashers, and instead focus on heating and cooling systems because they drain the most energy in residences statewide.
In Tennessee the rebates will range from $250 for central heating and cooling systems and air-source heat pumps to $40 for room air conditioners. The money could be enough for about 41,500 rebates in Tennessee, depending on the requests.
The rebates may be too late for some homes undergoing repairs after the flooding in May.
Joan Lange said she didn't know about the rebate for Energy Star equipment before she placed her order to have her heating and cooling system replaced after her condo flooded.
"I've already contracted for one, and I have no idea if this is a unit that qualifies for that," she said.
Tennessee announced last year it would roll out the rebate program on Earth Day on April 22, but missed that target.
Gooch said a request had to be put out for a third party to handle the rebates.
"We've completed that process, which is the good news, and now we're able to move forward. We will be releasing additional information on the exact process, probably next week or the week after," Gooch said.
Tennessee regularly ranks among the top states in the nation in residential electricity use, which generally means more pollution because coal is the main source of energy for the area served by the Tennessee Valley Authority.
"We see this program as a way to move that needle in a better direction," Gooch said.
Gooch's office estimates that the rebates could create $1.4 million in savings statewide and a drop in carbon dioxide emissions of about 32 million pounds.
Gooch also said the energy efficient systems put less strain on the electrical grid during peak power use times, such as summer afternoons.
Information from: The Tennessean, http://www.tennessean.com
Monday, June 28, 2010
Knoxville Gas Stations to Service Electric Cars
From KnoxNews...
Stations to plug electric vehicles
Project to provide sites in Knox area for drivers to charge cars
By Rebecca Ferrar
East Tennesseans driving electric cars will soon be able to charge up their vehicles at a network of 350 stations throughout the Knoxville area.
The publicly accessible electric vehicle (EV) charging stations will begin to open in September.
The project is being supported by the city of Knoxville, Knox County, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Knoxville Utilities Board and the Tennessee Valley Authority. The partners are part of an EV project involving ECOtality, Nissan North America and General Motors/Chevrolet that calls for the deployment of more than 8,000 new Nissan LEAF and Chevy Volt electric vehicles and about 15,000 charging stations across the nation.
Through the EV project, Knoxville, Nashville and Chattanooga are all test markets for the Nissan LEAF and the charging stations, along with Washington, D.C., and cities in Oregon, Washington, Arizona and California.
ECOtality is a nonprofit renewable energy company that won a $115 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to support the EV program. The portion of funding designated for Tennessee has not yet been determined but will be driven by the number of cars sold and the installation costs of the stations, said Susanna Bass, the city's sustainability program manager.
"Owners of any of the new generation of electric vehicles can plug into the charging stations," Bass said.
Identifying locations for the 350 stations is expected to be completed in about a year, Bass said.
"We've been meeting frequently with project partners to think through the challenges and opportunities for electric vehicles in the Knoxville area and to identify places where the charging stations should go," Bass said.
Two pods of solar-powered stations, each containing five charging stations, will probably go in downtown Knoxville; officials are looking at Market Square and the Civic Coliseum and State Street garages.
The charging stations resemble small, box structures similar to gasoline pumps. Cars plug into them to recharge.
Most owners of the new cars will receive home charging stations to "fuel-up" at home, but a network of public stations will be needed to allow EV drivers more "flexibility and freedom," Bass said.
Bass said city officials have met with the Metropolitan Planning Commission, the Knoxville Police Department, the East Tennessee Clean Fuels Coalition and the Knoxville Chamber to discuss possibilities regarding the new EV stations.
"Everyone is very excited to see electric vehicles come to Knoxville and happy to work together on this project," Bass said.
So far, the group has looked at more than 100 proposed locations for the charging stations in Knoxville, Knox County and surrounding counties, but no final decision has been made.
The first group of Nissan LEAF vehicles has been reserved and should arrive late this year. Nissan is taking orders for 2011.
Stations to plug electric vehicles
Project to provide sites in Knox area for drivers to charge cars
By Rebecca Ferrar
East Tennesseans driving electric cars will soon be able to charge up their vehicles at a network of 350 stations throughout the Knoxville area.
The publicly accessible electric vehicle (EV) charging stations will begin to open in September.
The project is being supported by the city of Knoxville, Knox County, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Knoxville Utilities Board and the Tennessee Valley Authority. The partners are part of an EV project involving ECOtality, Nissan North America and General Motors/Chevrolet that calls for the deployment of more than 8,000 new Nissan LEAF and Chevy Volt electric vehicles and about 15,000 charging stations across the nation.
Through the EV project, Knoxville, Nashville and Chattanooga are all test markets for the Nissan LEAF and the charging stations, along with Washington, D.C., and cities in Oregon, Washington, Arizona and California.
ECOtality is a nonprofit renewable energy company that won a $115 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to support the EV program. The portion of funding designated for Tennessee has not yet been determined but will be driven by the number of cars sold and the installation costs of the stations, said Susanna Bass, the city's sustainability program manager.
"Owners of any of the new generation of electric vehicles can plug into the charging stations," Bass said.
Identifying locations for the 350 stations is expected to be completed in about a year, Bass said.
"We've been meeting frequently with project partners to think through the challenges and opportunities for electric vehicles in the Knoxville area and to identify places where the charging stations should go," Bass said.
Two pods of solar-powered stations, each containing five charging stations, will probably go in downtown Knoxville; officials are looking at Market Square and the Civic Coliseum and State Street garages.
The charging stations resemble small, box structures similar to gasoline pumps. Cars plug into them to recharge.
Most owners of the new cars will receive home charging stations to "fuel-up" at home, but a network of public stations will be needed to allow EV drivers more "flexibility and freedom," Bass said.
Bass said city officials have met with the Metropolitan Planning Commission, the Knoxville Police Department, the East Tennessee Clean Fuels Coalition and the Knoxville Chamber to discuss possibilities regarding the new EV stations.
"Everyone is very excited to see electric vehicles come to Knoxville and happy to work together on this project," Bass said.
So far, the group has looked at more than 100 proposed locations for the charging stations in Knoxville, Knox County and surrounding counties, but no final decision has been made.
The first group of Nissan LEAF vehicles has been reserved and should arrive late this year. Nissan is taking orders for 2011.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Substation Outage in Medical District
Substation Outage in Medical District
Power restored to all affected customers at 3:23 a.m.
(June 25, 2010)—At 10:10 p.m. Thursday, an animal (either a cat or raccoon) caused an outage at Substation 21, located on Jefferson, and short-circuited a switch. This damage led to an outage affecting three overhead distribution circuits and 12 network circuits.
The overhead distribution circuits, which included Methodist Hospital and about 300 other customers, were restored at approximately midnight. This was accomplished by re-routing power from other substations in the area.
At the same time, substation maintenance crews were making additional repairs to isolate the damaged switch in order to restore the 12 network circuits at Substation 21. The system is designed for the network circuits to operate simultaneously.
This additional work caused the delay in restoring power to other customers, including Le Bonheur and The Commercial Appeal, who were affected by the initial outage. Power was restored to all affected customers at 3:23 a.m. today.
Power restored to all affected customers at 3:23 a.m.
(June 25, 2010)—At 10:10 p.m. Thursday, an animal (either a cat or raccoon) caused an outage at Substation 21, located on Jefferson, and short-circuited a switch. This damage led to an outage affecting three overhead distribution circuits and 12 network circuits.
The overhead distribution circuits, which included Methodist Hospital and about 300 other customers, were restored at approximately midnight. This was accomplished by re-routing power from other substations in the area.
At the same time, substation maintenance crews were making additional repairs to isolate the damaged switch in order to restore the 12 network circuits at Substation 21. The system is designed for the network circuits to operate simultaneously.
This additional work caused the delay in restoring power to other customers, including Le Bonheur and The Commercial Appeal, who were affected by the initial outage. Power was restored to all affected customers at 3:23 a.m. today.
Weather-Related Reconnection Program For Residential Customers
There's a new weather-related reconnection program for residential customers who are currently without electric, gas and/or water services due to non-payment or failure to complete MLGW’s required identification procedures. These residential customers—no matter how much they owe—can pay $225 to reestablish service but are required to enter into a deferred payment plan (not to exceed five months) for their remaining outstanding balances. MLGW would restore service for a minimum of 15 days.
The Reconnection Program starts today and is available on days of extreme temperatures whenever MLGW declares a moratorium on disconnections due to non-payment or failure to complete the utility’s required identification procedures. The program only applies to residential customers who have lost one or more services due to non-payment or failure to complete MLGW’s required identification process.
To participate, eligible residential customers must pay $225 at one of MLGW’s five community centers: 245 South Main Street, 2935 Lamar Avenue, 1111 East Shelby Drive, 2424 Summer Avenue or, in Millington, 5131 Navy Road. “This is an experimental and temporary initiative. We are hopeful that hundreds of customers will take advantage of this opportunity in an effort to obtain relief from our extended heat wave. As an extra measure our community offices will be open Saturday to accommodate any customer that wishes to participate,” said MLGW President and CEO Jerry R. Collins Jr.
Currently, MLGW enacts its weather-related moratorium policy whenever these conditions exist:
(a) the forecast heat index will be 100 degrees Fahrenheit or above at any time during a 24-hour period; or (b) the forecast heat index will be 95 degrees Fahrenheit or above at any time in a 24-hour period for customers 60 years of ago or older, physically challenged, or customers certified as life-support dependent.
The Reconnection Program would require customers to complete a Hazardous Weather Agreement; to enter into a deferred payment plan (not to exceed five months) for the remaining past due balance owed to MLGW; and to pay his or her first bill, following this reconnection, in full by the due date printed on the bill. If that first bill is not fully and timely paid, then the customer is subject to immediate disconnection without further notice.
There's a new weather-related reconnection program for residential customers who are currently without electric, gas and/or water services due to non-payment or failure to complete MLGW’s required identification procedures. These residential customers—no matter how much they owe—can pay $225 to reestablish service but are required to enter into a deferred payment plan (not to exceed five months) for their remaining outstanding balances. MLGW would restore service for a minimum of 15 days.
The Reconnection Program starts today and is available on days of extreme temperatures whenever MLGW declares a moratorium on disconnections due to non-payment or failure to complete the utility’s required identification procedures. The program only applies to residential customers who have lost one or more services due to non-payment or failure to complete MLGW’s required identification process.
To participate, eligible residential customers must pay $225 at one of MLGW’s five community centers: 245 South Main Street, 2935 Lamar Avenue, 1111 East Shelby Drive, 2424 Summer Avenue or, in Millington, 5131 Navy Road. “This is an experimental and temporary initiative. We are hopeful that hundreds of customers will take advantage of this opportunity in an effort to obtain relief from our extended heat wave. As an extra measure our community offices will be open Saturday to accommodate any customer that wishes to participate,” said MLGW President and CEO Jerry R. Collins Jr.
Currently, MLGW enacts its weather-related moratorium policy whenever these conditions exist:
(a) the forecast heat index will be 100 degrees Fahrenheit or above at any time during a 24-hour period; or (b) the forecast heat index will be 95 degrees Fahrenheit or above at any time in a 24-hour period for customers 60 years of ago or older, physically challenged, or customers certified as life-support dependent.
The Reconnection Program would require customers to complete a Hazardous Weather Agreement; to enter into a deferred payment plan (not to exceed five months) for the remaining past due balance owed to MLGW; and to pay his or her first bill, following this reconnection, in full by the due date printed on the bill. If that first bill is not fully and timely paid, then the customer is subject to immediate disconnection without further notice.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Be a Generation Partner!
From the Knoxnews....
TVA restarts Generation Partners enrollments
TVA has reinstated its Generation Partners program for smaller renewable energy projects but is still considering what to do about larger systems.
One week after the federal power provider announced it would freeze new system applications for the program, TVA announced it would again accept all solar, wind and biomass installations up to 200 kilowatts.
Generation Partners pays for electricity generated by customers through solar, wind and biomass technologies. Last year TVA expanded the pilot program to include systems that could produce up to 1 megawatt of electricity (approximately enough electricity to power 1,000 homes) and increased incentives for solar power.
TVA halted the program after changes to the application process earlier this year resulted in an influx of requests totaling $200 million. As a pilot program, Generation Partners is limited to projects totaling $50 million and 200 megawatts.
The new plan will allow all but four projects already approved by TVA to move forward along with any upcoming projects of less than 200 kilowatts, said John Trawick, TVA vice president for commercial operations and pricing. TVA will reconsider incentives for projects generating 200 kilowatts to one megawatt and put forth a plan later this year, he said.
TVA has 37 projects awaiting approval and another 25 in various stages of development, Trawick said. Of those projects, 29 of them represent one or more megawatts of power generation, he said. TVA has approved a total of 264 projects since Generation Partners' inception.
'Those larger projects are creating a challenge for us in terms of managing them against our total budget,' he said. 'We've got to figure out how to accommodate such an overwhelming response.'
Solar company officials said they were pleased with TVA's announcement.
Industry representatives met with TVA officials Wednesday to discuss the plan. The 200-kilowatt cap matches system size limits set by the Solar Institute, a federally funded grant and research program at the University of Tennessee that began accepting grants for solar projects Monday.
'TVA has brought us out of the dark and back in the light,' said Thomas Tripp, president of Big Frog Mountain Corp., a solar installation company based in Chattanooga. 'It's going to keep a lot of people from hitting the unemployment lines on Monday.'
Although TVA has continued the stay on larger projects, Harvey Abouelata, vice president of sales and marketing for Efficient Energy of Tennessee, said he believes TVA will work quickly to resolve the issue.
Efficient Energy has begun construction in East Knox County on what's believed to be the state's first megawatt solar array.
'Based on the conversation today, I'm very positive,' Abouelata said. 'I think we're going to get all those projects worked out.'
The solar industry isn't the only sector to be affected by TVA's decisions on Generation Partners.
Of the $200 million worth of current and proposed projects, about half are powered by biomass, including at least one system exceeding 200 kilowatts, Trawick said. TVA spokesman Mike Bradley confirmed that an 850-kilowatt bio-powered installation in North Alabama had been approved for Generation Partners.
Added to the program last year, biomass has the potential to eclipse solar in incentives because the systems can operate 70-80 percent of the time, compared to the 15-25 percent capacity of photovoltaic systems, said Stephen Smith, executive director of the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy.
While SACE and solar companies are supportive of the bioenergy industry, Smith said there are concerns about how TVA will handle incentives for the new technology.
'Within the Generation Partner program, not all resources perform the same; not all resources need the same incentives,' he said. 'There clearly are some challenges.'
TVA restarts Generation Partners enrollments
TVA has reinstated its Generation Partners program for smaller renewable energy projects but is still considering what to do about larger systems.One week after the federal power provider announced it would freeze new system applications for the program, TVA announced it would again accept all solar, wind and biomass installations up to 200 kilowatts.
Generation Partners pays for electricity generated by customers through solar, wind and biomass technologies. Last year TVA expanded the pilot program to include systems that could produce up to 1 megawatt of electricity (approximately enough electricity to power 1,000 homes) and increased incentives for solar power.
TVA halted the program after changes to the application process earlier this year resulted in an influx of requests totaling $200 million. As a pilot program, Generation Partners is limited to projects totaling $50 million and 200 megawatts.
The new plan will allow all but four projects already approved by TVA to move forward along with any upcoming projects of less than 200 kilowatts, said John Trawick, TVA vice president for commercial operations and pricing. TVA will reconsider incentives for projects generating 200 kilowatts to one megawatt and put forth a plan later this year, he said.
TVA has 37 projects awaiting approval and another 25 in various stages of development, Trawick said. Of those projects, 29 of them represent one or more megawatts of power generation, he said. TVA has approved a total of 264 projects since Generation Partners' inception.
'Those larger projects are creating a challenge for us in terms of managing them against our total budget,' he said. 'We've got to figure out how to accommodate such an overwhelming response.'
Solar company officials said they were pleased with TVA's announcement.
Industry representatives met with TVA officials Wednesday to discuss the plan. The 200-kilowatt cap matches system size limits set by the Solar Institute, a federally funded grant and research program at the University of Tennessee that began accepting grants for solar projects Monday.
'TVA has brought us out of the dark and back in the light,' said Thomas Tripp, president of Big Frog Mountain Corp., a solar installation company based in Chattanooga. 'It's going to keep a lot of people from hitting the unemployment lines on Monday.'
Although TVA has continued the stay on larger projects, Harvey Abouelata, vice president of sales and marketing for Efficient Energy of Tennessee, said he believes TVA will work quickly to resolve the issue.
Efficient Energy has begun construction in East Knox County on what's believed to be the state's first megawatt solar array.
'Based on the conversation today, I'm very positive,' Abouelata said. 'I think we're going to get all those projects worked out.'
The solar industry isn't the only sector to be affected by TVA's decisions on Generation Partners.
Of the $200 million worth of current and proposed projects, about half are powered by biomass, including at least one system exceeding 200 kilowatts, Trawick said. TVA spokesman Mike Bradley confirmed that an 850-kilowatt bio-powered installation in North Alabama had been approved for Generation Partners.
Added to the program last year, biomass has the potential to eclipse solar in incentives because the systems can operate 70-80 percent of the time, compared to the 15-25 percent capacity of photovoltaic systems, said Stephen Smith, executive director of the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy.
While SACE and solar companies are supportive of the bioenergy industry, Smith said there are concerns about how TVA will handle incentives for the new technology.
'Within the Generation Partner program, not all resources perform the same; not all resources need the same incentives,' he said. 'There clearly are some challenges.'
More Air Conditioners Coming
This was on News Channel 3 last night...
FAST FACTS:
(MEMPHIS 6/23/2010) Shelby County Interim Mayor Joe Ford has been down this road before. "Good morning," he said, as other department heads gathered around a large meeting table. Joe Ford was honest as can be about this meeting. "I need the media to help us," he said. "This is a serious situation."
For the second time in two weeks Mayor Ford talked about what Shelby County is doing to try and help people survive this early summer heat wave. The Mayor's Action Line is continuing to take applications from people for free air conditioners. "We have about fifty left," Mayor Ford said, "but we're going to get another two hundred coming in the next several days."
In years past, a lot of people tried to use the free air conditioner program to their advantage. We're talking a lot of people. "Our past experiences," according to Community Services Director Dottie Jones, "show that of the people who've signed up for air conditioners, at least fifty percent of them already had air conditioning and just wanted a free unit." Jones says this year, however, there are tougher requirements for the program, and she hasn't seen any fraud.
The temperature, in the meantime, is watched by just about everybody. Often, during natural events, people talk about conditions changing by the minute. Nothing is changing in this heat wave. It just keeps intensifying, the heat, the problems, the concerns. And according to Shelby County Emergency Management, it needs to get a lot hotter before cooling tents are established. EMA representative Levell Blanchard told people that his agency is ready, and can put up two cooling tents quickly. The heat index has to get to at least 105 degrees for several hours in a row, or it just needs to reach 115 degrees. "We can set those up anywhere," Mayor Ford said, "and if they're needed, they're going up."
Here's the most difficult thing to consider. Summer is officially only 3 days old. Two people have already died from heat, and it's just June. "This is going to be a long summer," Yvonne Madlock of the County Health Department said, "and there could be a lot of troubles."
Doctor Kenneth Robinson is Chief Medical Officer for Shelby County. He's not just concerned about the elderly, or the children, he's concerned about everybody. "In this type of heat and humidity, everybody is at risk," he said. "Everybody is vulnerable."
FAST FACTS:
Shelby County about to get 200 more air conditioners
People must meet qualifications to get new air conditioner
County EMA is ready to set up cooling tents if temperature goes up
(MEMPHIS 6/23/2010) Shelby County Interim Mayor Joe Ford has been down this road before. "Good morning," he said, as other department heads gathered around a large meeting table. Joe Ford was honest as can be about this meeting. "I need the media to help us," he said. "This is a serious situation."
For the second time in two weeks Mayor Ford talked about what Shelby County is doing to try and help people survive this early summer heat wave. The Mayor's Action Line is continuing to take applications from people for free air conditioners. "We have about fifty left," Mayor Ford said, "but we're going to get another two hundred coming in the next several days."
In years past, a lot of people tried to use the free air conditioner program to their advantage. We're talking a lot of people. "Our past experiences," according to Community Services Director Dottie Jones, "show that of the people who've signed up for air conditioners, at least fifty percent of them already had air conditioning and just wanted a free unit." Jones says this year, however, there are tougher requirements for the program, and she hasn't seen any fraud.
The temperature, in the meantime, is watched by just about everybody. Often, during natural events, people talk about conditions changing by the minute. Nothing is changing in this heat wave. It just keeps intensifying, the heat, the problems, the concerns. And according to Shelby County Emergency Management, it needs to get a lot hotter before cooling tents are established. EMA representative Levell Blanchard told people that his agency is ready, and can put up two cooling tents quickly. The heat index has to get to at least 105 degrees for several hours in a row, or it just needs to reach 115 degrees. "We can set those up anywhere," Mayor Ford said, "and if they're needed, they're going up."
Here's the most difficult thing to consider. Summer is officially only 3 days old. Two people have already died from heat, and it's just June. "This is going to be a long summer," Yvonne Madlock of the County Health Department said, "and there could be a lot of troubles."
Doctor Kenneth Robinson is Chief Medical Officer for Shelby County. He's not just concerned about the elderly, or the children, he's concerned about everybody. "In this type of heat and humidity, everybody is at risk," he said. "Everybody is vulnerable."
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
In the News
The Commercial Appeal's "25 Years Ago" feature had this MLGW tidbit which I found to be rather odd:
Taking solace in sewage water?
There was some other odd news, but odd in a good way....FedEx's Fred Smith calls on Congress to spur development of electric vehicles!
25 years ago: 1985
WASHINGTON -- Memphis Light, Gas & Water Division officials like to brag that the city's "genuine pure artesian" water is "renowned for its excellent clarity and taste." But they're being denied a chance to prove it in a taste test of water from eight cities here tomorrow. A campaign by Rep. Harold Ford of Memphis and LG&W, however, has secured a promise from the American Water Works Association for Memphis water to be considered for the contest next year in Denver. And there is solace in the fact that the defending water champion, New Orleans, has Memphis water, of a sort, because it takes its supply from the Mississippi River, into which Memphis empties its treated sewage.
Taking solace in sewage water?
There was some other odd news, but odd in a good way....FedEx's Fred Smith calls on Congress to spur development of electric vehicles!
Smart Grid Update
By now, you should know if you were selected to participate in our Smart Grid Demonstration Project. If you weren't selected, don't worry, you may still be selected yet.
At last week’s board meeting, the Board approved the selection of a smart meter vendor, Smart Synch, to provide MLGW with 1,000 smart meters for the Smart Grid Demo for considerably less than we initially budgeted. The current contract must be approved by City Council and if and when that happens, the plan is for MLGW to bring a change order before the Board next month to increase the number of smart meters purchased. The goal is to accommodate all 1,900 of the MLGW customers who requested to participate in the Smart Grid Demo project.
At last week’s board meeting, the Board approved the selection of a smart meter vendor, Smart Synch, to provide MLGW with 1,000 smart meters for the Smart Grid Demo for considerably less than we initially budgeted. The current contract must be approved by City Council and if and when that happens, the plan is for MLGW to bring a change order before the Board next month to increase the number of smart meters purchased. The goal is to accommodate all 1,900 of the MLGW customers who requested to participate in the Smart Grid Demo project.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Be Prepared for Outages!
You need to keep your telephone number(s) updated with MLGW so we can provide you with better service.
Updated information will:
1. Allow us to contact customers with our automated outage notification dialer.
2. Allow customers to report an electrical outage by telephone using the telephone number associated with their account.
3. Allow customers to obtain electrical restoration status by telephone using the telephone number associated with their account.
To update your phone number information, you can do one of the following:
• Update your phone number in My Account on mlgw.com
• Send an e-mail to mlgwcustomercare@mlgw.org (residential customers) or crc@mlgw.org (commercial customers).
• Residential customers can call 544-MLGW (6549), Tuesday - Thursday 5:30 p.m. -7 p.m.: English: 1-2-3-3 Spanish: 3-2-3-3 (listen to bill inquiry).
• Commercial customers can call 544-MLGW (6549), Tuesday - Thursday 10 a.m. -12 p.m.: English: 1-2-4-1 Spanish: 3-2-4-1 (listen to bill inquiry).
Updated information will:
1. Allow us to contact customers with our automated outage notification dialer.
2. Allow customers to report an electrical outage by telephone using the telephone number associated with their account.
3. Allow customers to obtain electrical restoration status by telephone using the telephone number associated with their account.
To update your phone number information, you can do one of the following:
• Update your phone number in My Account on mlgw.com
• Send an e-mail to mlgwcustomercare@mlgw.org (residential customers) or crc@mlgw.org (commercial customers).
• Residential customers can call 544-MLGW (6549), Tuesday - Thursday 5:30 p.m. -7 p.m.: English: 1-2-3-3 Spanish: 3-2-3-3 (listen to bill inquiry).
• Commercial customers can call 544-MLGW (6549), Tuesday - Thursday 10 a.m. -12 p.m.: English: 1-2-4-1 Spanish: 3-2-4-1 (listen to bill inquiry).
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Remembering Reginald “Reggie” Payne
“Easy going,” “quiet,” and a “great leader” are just a few words to describe 42 year-old Reginald Payne, known to his co-workers as Reggie. Tragically, Reggie lost his life in the line of duty Tuesday when he was struck by part of a broken utility pole. Reggie began his career at MLGW in 1989 as a helper/apprentice and from there rose through the ranks working within Electric Distribution. He was working as a crew leader at the time of his death. Steve Ledford, General Supervisor, Distribution Support, said that the hard worker wanted to keep moving up professionally within the Division.
“He wanted to move up and eventually work in management,” said Ledford. “He was a really good person. He stepped up and took this job when no one else wanted the work. He could have worked somewhere else because he had seniority, but he chose this (job) because he wanted the challenge.”
Ledford said the work involved forming a crew of about eight workers to work on this special project, a year-long project that had been going on four months. Ledford said the work was a real challenge, but that Reggie looked forward to it.
“This work is really hard and heavy work, and not a lot of people want to do it, but Reggie stepped up. He was a good leader,” Ledford said. “People respected him. He didn’t brow beat those who worked on his crew and he led by example.”
Chris Enos, General Supervisor, Elec., Dist. Suppt., worked with Reggie for five years and said everyone knew Reggie as a great guy. “He was a hard worker. He was the kind of guy who got out and worked with his crew. He wouldn’t ask any more of them than he would ask of himself. He put everybody’s needs and wants ahead of his, and he was willing to teach what he knew to others. He’s going to be missed. I told him I wish I had more employees like him.”
The jobs that many MLGW employees perform daily involve dangerous and grueling work. Let us not take for granted the work these men and women do every day.
Enos said the job of a lineman involves dangerous work and every precaution is taken on the job to ensure safety. “Nobody can believe this happened. You work with someone for years and don’t think about something like this happening. You go to work every day, kiss your wife and kids, but don’t know if you’re coming home.”
MLGW’s Board of Commissioners will read a resolution honoring Reginald Payne at its June 17 meeting and MLGW officials will hold a special memorial service in MLGW’s Administration Building at a date to be announced in July. The employees who were on site with Reggie were given Wednesday off and will receive grief counseling on Thursday.
Reggie leaves behind his father, Roosevelt Payne; his mother, Pearl Payne; a son, Dericho Payne; a daughter, Reketa Payne; and a stepson, Bevin Carpenter II
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Free Utilities for Dad! (Sort of)
Does your dad (or husband) like to stand in front of the refrigerator with the doors open? Take long showers? Keep the TV on 24/7? Well let him indulge his inner energy hog on Father's Day with the gift of utilities.
MLGW's Gift of Comfort program provides a means for individuals to make a payment towards someone else's utility bill as a gift.
Gift of Comfort brochures are available at all MLGW community offices and can be downloaded here. To give this gift, you only need to know the recipient's address. Gifts can be purchased in any amount and will appear as a credit on the recipient's bill. Donations can be made anonymously or a portion of the certificate can be detached and presented to the recipient.
photo by esther17 on Flickr
MLGW's Gift of Comfort program provides a means for individuals to make a payment towards someone else's utility bill as a gift.
Gift of Comfort brochures are available at all MLGW community offices and can be downloaded here. To give this gift, you only need to know the recipient's address. Gifts can be purchased in any amount and will appear as a credit on the recipient's bill. Donations can be made anonymously or a portion of the certificate can be detached and presented to the recipient.
photo by esther17 on Flickr
No disconnections today either
We will NOT be disconnecting Residential Services or C13 orders due to the forecasted heat index today, June 16th, 2010 per the 2010 Credit Policy.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Accident Claims Life of MLGW Employee
MLGW employee Reginald Payne was fatally injured in a routine transmission maintenance accident today. The incident occurred near Ingram Micro and the BFI Landfill in Millington, off of Highway 51.
Payne, 42, a Crew Leader, Lineman in Electric Distribution, had been employed at the Division since 1989. He is survived by his mother, and two children.
Another, employee Kortnie Dockery, an Apprentice Lineman, Electric Distribution, was also injured in the accident. Dockery is being treated at the Med. He is listed in stable condition. Both Payne and Dockery were performing routine transmission maintenance when part of a pole fell and struck Payne.
This incident marks the first time since April 2002 that an MLGW employee has died in the line of duty.
"The entire MLGW family mourns today for our friend and co-worker, Reggie Payne," said MLGW President and CEO Jerry Collins Jr. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. Today is a sobering reminder to all of us of the dangerous work that MLGW employees perform everyday. Reggie Payne gave his life serving the customers of Shelby County and we will not forget his dedication."
MLGW is currently conducting an investigation of the accident.
Payne, 42, a Crew Leader, Lineman in Electric Distribution, had been employed at the Division since 1989. He is survived by his mother, and two children.
Another, employee Kortnie Dockery, an Apprentice Lineman, Electric Distribution, was also injured in the accident. Dockery is being treated at the Med. He is listed in stable condition. Both Payne and Dockery were performing routine transmission maintenance when part of a pole fell and struck Payne.
This incident marks the first time since April 2002 that an MLGW employee has died in the line of duty.
"The entire MLGW family mourns today for our friend and co-worker, Reggie Payne," said MLGW President and CEO Jerry Collins Jr. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. Today is a sobering reminder to all of us of the dangerous work that MLGW employees perform everyday. Reggie Payne gave his life serving the customers of Shelby County and we will not forget his dedication."
MLGW is currently conducting an investigation of the accident.
Heightened State of Awareness
Shelby County Mayor Joe Ford announced a Heightened State of Awareness. The county is offering the following services and information:
* Fans for Seniors Program - The Aging Commission of the Mid-South's
Fans for Seniors Program uses volunteers to deliver fans to seniors over the
age of 65 and those with disabilities. Individuals may receive a fan every
other year if they live in Shelby County and do not have a functioning
air-conditioner. Those in need of a fan may contact the Aging Commission of
the Mid-South at (901) 324-3399.
* Air Conditioners - The Shelby County Community Services Agency has a
limited number of air conditioners available for residents who qualify.
Residents who meet minimum income guidelines and do not have a functioning
air-conditioner may contact the Mayor's Assistance Center at 545-4311
beginning June 15.
* Suggested Cooling Locations - Residents who do not have a fan or
air-conditioner are encouraged to visit the nearest public, air-conditioned
facility such as a community center, mall or library to stay cool during the
hottest part of the day.
Numbers to Call:
* Aging Commission (901) 324-3399
* Assistance Center (901) 545-4511
Also, FYI, MLGW is not disconnecting anyone again today due to the heat index.
* Fans for Seniors Program - The Aging Commission of the Mid-South's
Fans for Seniors Program uses volunteers to deliver fans to seniors over the
age of 65 and those with disabilities. Individuals may receive a fan every
other year if they live in Shelby County and do not have a functioning
air-conditioner. Those in need of a fan may contact the Aging Commission of
the Mid-South at (901) 324-3399.
* Air Conditioners - The Shelby County Community Services Agency has a
limited number of air conditioners available for residents who qualify.
Residents who meet minimum income guidelines and do not have a functioning
air-conditioner may contact the Mayor's Assistance Center at 545-4311
beginning June 15.
* Suggested Cooling Locations - Residents who do not have a fan or
air-conditioner are encouraged to visit the nearest public, air-conditioned
facility such as a community center, mall or library to stay cool during the
hottest part of the day.
Numbers to Call:
* Aging Commission (901) 324-3399
* Assistance Center (901) 545-4511
Also, FYI, MLGW is not disconnecting anyone again today due to the heat index.
Monday, June 14, 2010
No Disconnections Today
We will NOT be disconnecting Residential Services due to the forecasted heat index today, June 14th, 2010 per the 2010 Credit Policy.
See the policy below:
It is the policy of MLGW to not disconnect any residential accounts for non-payment whenever the following conditions exist:
(a) The forecast wind chill factor will be 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below (freezing) for a period of 24 hours or more.
(b) The forecast heat index will be 100 degrees Fahrenheit or above at any time during a 24-hour period.
(c) The forecast heat index will be 95 degrees Fahrenheit or above at any time in a 24-hour period for customers 60 years of ago or older, physically challenged, or customers certified as life-support dependent.
See the policy below:
It is the policy of MLGW to not disconnect any residential accounts for non-payment whenever the following conditions exist:
(a) The forecast wind chill factor will be 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below (freezing) for a period of 24 hours or more.
(b) The forecast heat index will be 100 degrees Fahrenheit or above at any time during a 24-hour period.
(c) The forecast heat index will be 95 degrees Fahrenheit or above at any time in a 24-hour period for customers 60 years of ago or older, physically challenged, or customers certified as life-support dependent.
Friday, June 11, 2010
21 Things to Compost
I've been composting for several years, but many of the things on this list were new to me. What about you?
From the Modern*Simplicity Blog...
The usual suspects -- old veggies and fruits, plus the skins/rinds of veggies and fruits that normally get discarded, such as potato skins, banana peels, the tops of strawberries, that browned salad, etc.
Dead houseplants and the leaves they drop all over the floor
Brown matter from the yard -- no, not the dog poop, the dead leaves, grass clippings, hedge trimmings, dead flowers, etc.
Dryer lint
Hair and pet fur ~ a little gross, but hair adds nitrogen and other beneficial nutrients to compost.
Fireplace ashes ~ ashes (including ashes from wood and from charcoal made from wood) help to retain moisture in the compost. They also contain potassium.
Jell-O (gelatin)
Cotton, wool and silk clothing/fabric ~ worn-out clothing made of natural fibers will decompose faster if you shred them before composting.
Full paper vacuum cleaner bags and their contents.
Nail clippings, both human and animal ~ again, a bit gross but compostable. Make sure they're polish-free.
Rope, string and twine made out of natural fibers (cotton, hemp, jute and manila ropes)
Leather goods and clothing ~ natural leather products will decompose (very slowly) in the compost pile.
Leftover beer, wine and corks
Pet food leftovers ~ dry dog, cat, fish food and even too-chewed rawhide dog chews are OK for the compost pile (bury it in the pile to deter rodents and other unwanted pests.
Spoiled milk and dairy products ~ meat products are generally a compost pile no-no, but spoiled dairy products like moldy cheese, sour milk and yogurt are OK.
White glue and masking tape ~ check for toxic ingredients, but most white glues (like Elmer's brand) and paper masking tape can be composted. Post-It-Notes can be too.
Teabags, coffee grounds and paper coffee filters
Seaweed/kelp ~ if you live on an ocean or other waterway and your shoreline is being invaded by washed up seaweed or kelp, add it to the compost pile -- it's often used in organic fertilizers.
Eggshells ~ they add calcium to the soil.
Stale bread and other grain products ~ grain-based foods, including pasta, rice, cereal, crackers, pizza crusts, etc., can be composted (again, bury them in the pile to deter unwanted pests.
Organic holiday decorations ~ your Halloween jack-o-lantern, wreaths and pine boughs from Christmas, latex balloons from birthday parties, and that long-dead bouquet from Valentine's Day.
From the Modern*Simplicity Blog...
The usual suspects -- old veggies and fruits, plus the skins/rinds of veggies and fruits that normally get discarded, such as potato skins, banana peels, the tops of strawberries, that browned salad, etc.
Dead houseplants and the leaves they drop all over the floor
Brown matter from the yard -- no, not the dog poop, the dead leaves, grass clippings, hedge trimmings, dead flowers, etc.
Dryer lint
Hair and pet fur ~ a little gross, but hair adds nitrogen and other beneficial nutrients to compost.
Fireplace ashes ~ ashes (including ashes from wood and from charcoal made from wood) help to retain moisture in the compost. They also contain potassium.
Jell-O (gelatin)
Cotton, wool and silk clothing/fabric ~ worn-out clothing made of natural fibers will decompose faster if you shred them before composting.
Full paper vacuum cleaner bags and their contents.
Nail clippings, both human and animal ~ again, a bit gross but compostable. Make sure they're polish-free.
Rope, string and twine made out of natural fibers (cotton, hemp, jute and manila ropes)
Leather goods and clothing ~ natural leather products will decompose (very slowly) in the compost pile.
Leftover beer, wine and corks
Pet food leftovers ~ dry dog, cat, fish food and even too-chewed rawhide dog chews are OK for the compost pile (bury it in the pile to deter rodents and other unwanted pests.
Spoiled milk and dairy products ~ meat products are generally a compost pile no-no, but spoiled dairy products like moldy cheese, sour milk and yogurt are OK.
White glue and masking tape ~ check for toxic ingredients, but most white glues (like Elmer's brand) and paper masking tape can be composted. Post-It-Notes can be too.
Teabags, coffee grounds and paper coffee filters
Seaweed/kelp ~ if you live on an ocean or other waterway and your shoreline is being invaded by washed up seaweed or kelp, add it to the compost pile -- it's often used in organic fertilizers.
Eggshells ~ they add calcium to the soil.
Stale bread and other grain products ~ grain-based foods, including pasta, rice, cereal, crackers, pizza crusts, etc., can be composted (again, bury them in the pile to deter unwanted pests.
Organic holiday decorations ~ your Halloween jack-o-lantern, wreaths and pine boughs from Christmas, latex balloons from birthday parties, and that long-dead bouquet from Valentine's Day.
Jerry Collins Urges Congress to Raise TVA Debt Ceiling
For those of you who may not read the Chattanooga Times Free Press...
Jerry Collins Urges Congress to Raise TVA Debt Ceiling
The head of TVA’s biggest distributor said today that Congress needs to raise the debt ceiling for the Tennessee Valley Authority to allow the federal power agency to undertake costly, long-term improvements.
Jerry Collins Jr., president and chief executive of Memphis Light, Gas & Water, said the $30 billion cap on how much TVA can borrow should be raised so new power plants can be built and long-term investments made without having to burden existing customers with most of those costs.
“The debt ceiling needs to be raised such that our customers that we have today don’t have to pay the total costs for infrastructure that is going to be around for the next 30 to 40 years or even longer,” Mr. Collins told the TVA board of directors during a meeting today in Jackson, Tenn. “I would encourage you to work to raise the debt ceiling.”
In the next five years, TVA is projecting to double what it spends on capital spending programs for new power generation, environmental controls and demand response. The agency is in the midst of a $2.5 billion program to finish a second reactor at the Watts Bar plant near Spring City, Tenn., and TVA President Tom Kilgore said the staff will make a recommendation to the TVA board in August about what type of reactor should be built at the Bellefonte Nuclear Plant in Northeast Alabama.
In its most recent quarterly report, TVA said its long-term statutory debt was $21.8 billion. The utilility has more than $4 billion of other short-term debt and debt-like obligations counted as long-term obligations. TVA set the current debt cap of $30 billion in 1979.
Jerry Collins Urges Congress to Raise TVA Debt Ceiling
The head of TVA’s biggest distributor said today that Congress needs to raise the debt ceiling for the Tennessee Valley Authority to allow the federal power agency to undertake costly, long-term improvements.
Jerry Collins Jr., president and chief executive of Memphis Light, Gas & Water, said the $30 billion cap on how much TVA can borrow should be raised so new power plants can be built and long-term investments made without having to burden existing customers with most of those costs.
“The debt ceiling needs to be raised such that our customers that we have today don’t have to pay the total costs for infrastructure that is going to be around for the next 30 to 40 years or even longer,” Mr. Collins told the TVA board of directors during a meeting today in Jackson, Tenn. “I would encourage you to work to raise the debt ceiling.”
In the next five years, TVA is projecting to double what it spends on capital spending programs for new power generation, environmental controls and demand response. The agency is in the midst of a $2.5 billion program to finish a second reactor at the Watts Bar plant near Spring City, Tenn., and TVA President Tom Kilgore said the staff will make a recommendation to the TVA board in August about what type of reactor should be built at the Bellefonte Nuclear Plant in Northeast Alabama.
In its most recent quarterly report, TVA said its long-term statutory debt was $21.8 billion. The utilility has more than $4 billion of other short-term debt and debt-like obligations counted as long-term obligations. TVA set the current debt cap of $30 billion in 1979.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Streetlight Reporting
Just a friendly reminder that streetlight outages should be reported during the hours of 7am and 7pm if you are reporting by phone (820-7878). Please do not use the emergency line to report the outages, even if you really, really want a streetlight named after you! You can, however, report outages online, anytime. Thank you!
sOccket--The Power Generating Soccer Ball
The Take Part website has an interesting article on Women Entrepreneurs who developed an energy generating soccer ball to bring blean energy to developing nations.This Friday, when the 2010 FIFA World Cup begins in Johannesburg, South Africa, Adidas’s controversial new game ball, the Jabulani, will finally get its official world premiere. Days later, with far less fanfare but with far more potential for global change, the latest model of another game-changing sphere will make its South African debut: sOccket, a plug-in soccer ball that captures energy during play and stores the juice for later use as a power source.
The beauty of sOccket is that a kid in a developing nation can play a game of soccer after school, leave the playground, take the ball home, plug a basic lamp into a built-in fixture and have enough light to do homework—even if there are no buildings with electricity for 100 miles around...
Read the full artile here
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Streetlight Challenge!
We're issuing a challenge to our customers in an effort to improve nighttime safety. The Streetlight Challenge gives us one week to fix common streetlight outages or we will name the streetlight after the first person who reported the outage.Fun, huh?
Most of the time we do not know that a streetlight is out unless our customers let us know, so we need your help to keep our neighborhoods safe. Help us ensure that street lights and leased outdoor lights are in proper working order.
You can report streetlight outages via our website or by calling the Customer Care Center at 820-7878 and using the quick code 1-2-1-4 for English speaking or 3-2-1-4 for Spanish speaking customers. Our Customer Care Center is staffed on weekdays, from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. Please provide all information asked for, including a call back number in case we have questions. An accurate address and the pole number, a number found on a metal plate about eye level on the pole, are vital to ensuring repairs are made.
Outages such as a burned out bulb, replacing a photo cell and day burners will be repaired within seven days or the first customer to report the outage will receive a certificate from our CEO, Jerry Collins, declaring that streetlight to be named after them. Some outages, such as those involving underground wiring or replacing a knocked over pole may take longer than seven days to repair. If repairs will take longer than seven days, we will contact you and let you know.
“We want our customers to know just how hard MLGW employees work for our community. Safety is a top priority for us and this is a way that we can guarantee that street light repairs are made quickly. It is our guarantee to customers,” Collins said.
Before you pick up the phone, remember not all streetlights come on at the same time. Please wait for complete nightfall to occur before determining if a street light is not working.
Thanks for playing!
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Energy Saving Tips for Summer
Living comfortably during a Memphis summer can be challenging, but it does not have to be costly. Here are some of the easiest ways to stay cool and save:--Have a professional, reputable contractor clean and inspect your air conditioner. This should be done every year, whether you have window or central units.
--Check your air conditioner’s filter every time you receive your utility bill. Look for a dust build-up that can restrict the airflow and place stress on the system. This added stress places wear and tear on the unit, and increases operation costs. Filters can be washable or disposable. Most hardware stores carry inexpensive, fiberglass filters that are disposable. Measure the existing filter or filter opening. You want to buy the proper fitting filter. If fitting is not correct, it will not filter the debris. It is best to keep several filters on hand.
--Always replace the filter cover. By creating a tight seal around the filter opening, you can block any unconditioned air that is being pulled into the unit. The stress of having to cool this warm air causes the efficiency to drop and a loss of effectiveness of the cooling process.
--Set the thermostat at 78 degrees or higher for the most energy efficient operation. Each degree below this setting adds 6% to your cooling costs.
--Use fans to move the air inside your home. This gives the sensation that it is 5 degrees cooler than the actual temperature.
--Shade windows on the sunny side of your home. Keep drapes closed or add room-darkening shades to block out the heat from the sun.
--The outside portion of a central air conditioner is the condensing unit. Keep it clear from dried mud, debris and grass clippings, because it needs to breathe. Ask the contractor for instructions on how to do it yourself. Check it periodically, especially after an intense rain. Mud can splatter onto the unit and block the air after it dries.
--Use a programmable thermostat to routinely raise the inside temperature while you are at work or routinely away from home for 4 hours or longer. Pre-set the thermostat to adjust back to your normal comfort range 1/2 hour before getting home. This automatic adjustment reduces the cumulative operation of the air conditioner while you are away, and eliminates any discomfort when you arrive home.
--Use your programmable thermostat to automatically increase the temperature setting at bedtime. Sleep under lightweight bedding and use fans during sleep. You will sleep comfortably with less cooling.
--Do not place lamps near your thermostat. The thermostat senses the heat produced from the lamp and causes the air conditioner to run longer than necessary.
--Plant trees or shrubs to shade air-conditioning units but not to block the airflow. A unit operating in the shade uses as much as 10 % less electricity than the same one operating in the sun.
--Do not set your thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you turn on your air conditioner. It will not cool your home any faster and could result in excessive cooling and, therefore, unnecessary expense.
Monday, June 7, 2010
No A/C?
If you do not have an air-conditioner, or yours breaks, please follow these tips:
-Get up early and do physically demanding tasks during the cooler morning hours
-Don’t cook; eat small meals of fresh fruit, salads, sandwiches and use the microwave, if necessary
-Drink plenty of cool, not cold water, to re-hydrate the fluids lost through perspiration
-Block the sun’s heat by closing the blinds, drapes or shades on the sunny side of the home
-Wear light-weight cotton or natural loose-fitting fabrics in light colors
-Wash your clothes in cold water and hang outside, instead of using a hot clothes dryer
-Air-dry your dishes by turning off the heated drying setting on the dishwasher
-Turn everything off and leave off when not in use, especially incandescent light bulbs
-Stay downstairs in your home, since heat rises, making upstairs much warmer
-Use lots of ceiling and portable fans to keep the air circulating, when the home is occupied
-Leave home; visit the library, church, museum, mall or go to a movie; anywhere air-conditioned
-Take a cool shower, leave your skin damp and towel-dry your hair to stay cooler longer
-When going to bed, strip the bedclothes off, lie uncovered with a fan drawing in the cooler night air
Friday, June 4, 2010
Sisterhood & Latino News
It's a busy weekend. MLGW will be at the Sisterhood Showcase handing out energy saving information and reusable shopping bags.
You can also find us at the Latino News Festival today through Sunday, June 4-6, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. The cost is $6 and there will be traditional music, food, fair rides, and arts and crafts. The festival is located at the corner of Winchester and Riverdale.
You can also find us at the Latino News Festival today through Sunday, June 4-6, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. The cost is $6 and there will be traditional music, food, fair rides, and arts and crafts. The festival is located at the corner of Winchester and Riverdale.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Think before you print
Here at MLGW, we've been recycling paper for a long time. This year we're really focusing on using LESS paper. (We're in the process of installing FinePrint software on everyone's computers to allow them to print two to a page, front and back, etc.) One of the easiest things to do is to encourage people NOT to print out their emails (unless it is completely necessary). For example, I just added "An email hint, please don't print" to my email signature at work. EcoFriendlyEmail.com is a nice site with a step by step process for creating nice, graphic signatures like I posted above. Even if you don't want a graphic one, there are still lots of good ideas for eco-messages to add to your email signature.
What does your email signature say?
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Poplar & Ridgeway Construction
Ongoing MLGW construction work will temporarily close lanes at intersection on Poplar Avenue
Ongoing Memphis Light, Gas and Water construction work will affect two intersections at Poplar Avenue and Ridgeway roads on Wednesday, June 2.
Crews will close a northbound turn lane on Ridgeway to Poplar as well as the westbound curb lane through the intersection on Poplar from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Beyond Wednesday, June 2, periodic traffic disruption will be kept to a minimum. Further updates will be given.
At Poplar and Ridgeway, crews will be working for at least eight weeks to install additional electric lines for the Crescent Building
Ongoing Memphis Light, Gas and Water construction work will affect two intersections at Poplar Avenue and Ridgeway roads on Wednesday, June 2.
Crews will close a northbound turn lane on Ridgeway to Poplar as well as the westbound curb lane through the intersection on Poplar from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Beyond Wednesday, June 2, periodic traffic disruption will be kept to a minimum. Further updates will be given.
At Poplar and Ridgeway, crews will be working for at least eight weeks to install additional electric lines for the Crescent Building
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