It's starting to look a lot like winter out there. Just a reminder that our policy is to not disconnect any residential accounts when the forecasted wind chill factor will be 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below (freezing) for a period of 24-hours or more.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Snow!
It's starting to look a lot like winter out there. Just a reminder that our policy is to not disconnect any residential accounts when the forecasted wind chill factor will be 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below (freezing) for a period of 24-hours or more.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Gift of Comfort
Want to avoid the stores on Black Friday? MLGW's Gift of Comfort program could be the perfect gift for a loved one who is having trouble keeping up with their utility costs. The Gift of Comfort is a program that provides a means for individuals in the community to make a payment towards a customer'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 (a secret Valentine) or a portion of the certificate can be detached and presented to the recipient.
Power Off for Thanksgiving
For those of you with a 2-3 day work week, help save your office money & energy by doing the following before you leave:
-Turn off all task lighting located under desk cabinets and shelves.
-Turn off all PCs, laptops, and monitors.
-Turn off all small electronics/appliances (fans, coffee pots, radios, etc.).
-Turn off all non-essential lighting (areas, under cabinets, storage, closets, etc.).
-Turn off all copiers/printers (if no power save setting is available).
-Turn off equipment that will not be needed after working hours.
Thank you!
-Turn off all task lighting located under desk cabinets and shelves.-Turn off all PCs, laptops, and monitors.
-Turn off all small electronics/appliances (fans, coffee pots, radios, etc.).
-Turn off all non-essential lighting (areas, under cabinets, storage, closets, etc.).
-Turn off all copiers/printers (if no power save setting is available).
-Turn off equipment that will not be needed after working hours.
Thank you!
Monday, November 22, 2010
Use LED Holiday Lights This Year
For those of you who put up your Xmas lights as soon as Thanksgiving is over...
The holidays are supposed to be a joyful, festive time, but high energy bills can put a damper on the fun. Light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, are a great way to keep your energy use down without sacrificing your favorite holiday lighting traditions. LED holiday lights are:
* Energy efficient. They use 70 percent less energy than conventional incandescent strings of lights, saving you money on your energy bills.
* Long-lasting. They can last up to 10 times longer than incandescent lamps.
* Safe. They stay cool to the touch, reducing the risk of fire.
* Sturdy. The bulbs are made of epoxy, not glass, so they are much more durable than other lights.
LED holiday lights come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and lengths and are available at many home improvement, wholesale, or drug and grocery stores. Although they might be more expensive than incandescent lights at the time of purchase, the energy savings over the life of the LEDs make them a big money saver in the long run. The brightness and color of LED lights have also come a long way in the last few years and are now visually appealing. For white lights, you can choose between cool white, which is a bright icy-blue white, or warm white, which has a yellow tint and is the closest to a white incandescent replacement.
For even more energy savings, use a timer to turn on holiday lights from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
FIGURE 1: Typical energy costs for holiday lights, per season
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are less expensive to operate than both incandescent C7 bulbs and mini-lights. The energy savings and long life of LEDs make up for their higher initial price, allowing you to save money during the holidays for years to come.
FIGURE 2: Cool white vs. warm white LEDs
Cool white LEDs are brighter and have a slight blue tint. Warm white LEDs are the closest in color to white incandescent holiday lights.
The holidays are supposed to be a joyful, festive time, but high energy bills can put a damper on the fun. Light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, are a great way to keep your energy use down without sacrificing your favorite holiday lighting traditions. LED holiday lights are:
* Energy efficient. They use 70 percent less energy than conventional incandescent strings of lights, saving you money on your energy bills.
* Long-lasting. They can last up to 10 times longer than incandescent lamps.
* Safe. They stay cool to the touch, reducing the risk of fire.
* Sturdy. The bulbs are made of epoxy, not glass, so they are much more durable than other lights.
LED holiday lights come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and lengths and are available at many home improvement, wholesale, or drug and grocery stores. Although they might be more expensive than incandescent lights at the time of purchase, the energy savings over the life of the LEDs make them a big money saver in the long run. The brightness and color of LED lights have also come a long way in the last few years and are now visually appealing. For white lights, you can choose between cool white, which is a bright icy-blue white, or warm white, which has a yellow tint and is the closest to a white incandescent replacement.
For even more energy savings, use a timer to turn on holiday lights from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
FIGURE 1: Typical energy costs for holiday lights, per season
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are less expensive to operate than both incandescent C7 bulbs and mini-lights. The energy savings and long life of LEDs make up for their higher initial price, allowing you to save money during the holidays for years to come.
FIGURE 2: Cool white vs. warm white LEDs
Cool white LEDs are brighter and have a slight blue tint. Warm white LEDs are the closest in color to white incandescent holiday lights.
Friday, November 19, 2010
MLGW Residential Customers Enter the Smart Grid Era
The MLGW Smart Grid Demonstration is underway this week as MLGW meter technicians have begun installing 1,000 electric smart meters for residential customers who volunteered to be participants in a three-year demonstration project. These Smart Grid pioneers will test the effectiveness of smart meters and in home energy monitoring devices in helping customers to strategically reduce their consumption of electricity—resulting in a smaller bill every month.
The demonstration project has enlisted volunteers from nearly every ZIP code in Shelby County. MLGW technicians began the installation with customers in the 38128 ZIP code, which includes the Raleigh-Egypt area and portions of Frayser, and will continue the installations this Saturday in ZIP codes 38103, 38104, 38105, 38106, 38109, 38111, 38112, 38114, 38116, 38117, 38118, and 38126. The remaining Smart Grid participants in other Shelby County ZIP codes will have their meters installed on Saturdays in December. Participants will receive auto dialer calls and e-mails or letters this week informing them of the scheduled installations.
The demonstration project volunteers do not need to be at home when the installation occurs. The meter installation will cause a momentary power outage as the existing electric meter is removed and the new electric meter installed, so customers may need to reset digital clocks afterwards. The meter technician will ensure the meter is working and power is restored before leaving the property. The meter technician will leave a tag on the customer's front door upon departure to notify the customer that either the installation has been successful or that another visit will be necessary to complete the installation.
The 38128 ZIP code area was chosen for the initial installations because of the close proximity of the volunteers to MLGW’s Electric Meter department, which is located on Covington Pike. This strategy enabled MLGW staff and representatives from SmartSynch, the Jackson, Mississippi-based vendor, to monitor installation progress and quickly address any issues.
Some volunteer homes also were randomly selected to receive a free In-Home Display, which shows the home occupants the most current monthly figures concerning their energy use. Those displays will be delivered to MLGW in mid-December for programming before being given to the 500 selected households. Later this winter, several new features will be added to MLGW’s My Account Web service, allowing Smart Grid participants to view time-stamped electricity usage data, which will be uploaded daily. Installation for all 1,000 meters should be complete by the end of December, based on the vendor’s meter delivery projections.
Customers can join the 210,000 MLGW My Account customers by registering free at www.mlgw.com. Read about MLGW Smart Grid updates at www.mlgw.com/smartgrid.
The demonstration project has enlisted volunteers from nearly every ZIP code in Shelby County. MLGW technicians began the installation with customers in the 38128 ZIP code, which includes the Raleigh-Egypt area and portions of Frayser, and will continue the installations this Saturday in ZIP codes 38103, 38104, 38105, 38106, 38109, 38111, 38112, 38114, 38116, 38117, 38118, and 38126. The remaining Smart Grid participants in other Shelby County ZIP codes will have their meters installed on Saturdays in December. Participants will receive auto dialer calls and e-mails or letters this week informing them of the scheduled installations.
The demonstration project volunteers do not need to be at home when the installation occurs. The meter installation will cause a momentary power outage as the existing electric meter is removed and the new electric meter installed, so customers may need to reset digital clocks afterwards. The meter technician will ensure the meter is working and power is restored before leaving the property. The meter technician will leave a tag on the customer's front door upon departure to notify the customer that either the installation has been successful or that another visit will be necessary to complete the installation.
The 38128 ZIP code area was chosen for the initial installations because of the close proximity of the volunteers to MLGW’s Electric Meter department, which is located on Covington Pike. This strategy enabled MLGW staff and representatives from SmartSynch, the Jackson, Mississippi-based vendor, to monitor installation progress and quickly address any issues.
Some volunteer homes also were randomly selected to receive a free In-Home Display, which shows the home occupants the most current monthly figures concerning their energy use. Those displays will be delivered to MLGW in mid-December for programming before being given to the 500 selected households. Later this winter, several new features will be added to MLGW’s My Account Web service, allowing Smart Grid participants to view time-stamped electricity usage data, which will be uploaded daily. Installation for all 1,000 meters should be complete by the end of December, based on the vendor’s meter delivery projections.
Customers can join the 210,000 MLGW My Account customers by registering free at www.mlgw.com. Read about MLGW Smart Grid updates at www.mlgw.com/smartgrid.
New Carbon Footprint Calculator
We recently introduced a new carbon footprint calculator on our website to help you measure and find ways to reduce your environmental impact.
To access, login to My Account and click the "live green/reduce your footprint" panel in the upper right of the dashboard. The application imports answers and billing history from other parts of My Account, so you simply need to verify data and then answer the additional questions in the Profile, Energy & Water, Transportation and Waste sections. As you complete each section, the bar chart on the right adjusts to show your footprint, which is measured in tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions per year.
Then, use the Actions page to select from a variety of changes you can make to reduce your footprint. Click the Report link to see which of these Actions has the greatest impact so you know where to focus your attention.
Customers who have not signed up for My Account can access the carbon footprint calculator through the residential Energy Saving Calculators section of our website--but you'll have to enter all your data using that method, so it's much better to register and use My Account!
Thursday, November 18, 2010
One Dollar
As the holidays approach, we naturally think about our loved one and those who are less fortunate than us. When you make your gift list, don't forget MIFA's Plus-1 program. All they are asking for is $1 per month. The more people who sign up, the bigger the impact is.The Plus-1 Program is a partnership between MIFA and MLGW that provides utilities assistance for families in financial crisis. MLGW customers are asked to add $1 or more to the cost of their utilities each month, and these donations are reserved for eligible clients of Plus-1. When a client receives assistance through Plus-1, these funds are used to pay a portion of the client's MLGW bill, while a manageable payment plan is constructed for the remaining balance.
Spread the wealth this holiday season. Sign up here.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Green Power
The Daily News ran a story on our Green Power Switch program...
MLGW Spearheads Green Switch Concept
Monday, November 15, 2010, Vol. 125, No. 222
JEFF IRELAND | Special to The Daily News
In any economic climate, it’s pretty rare when businesses take actions that aren’t beneficial to the bottom line.
And when the economy is struggling, taking action that doesn’t produce immediate financial benefits is generally not considered a sound business practice.
But with a nod to the future of the economy, as well as the environment, there are companies in the Memphis area that are taking a chance on a relatively unproven concept: utilizing renewable energy sources.
Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division has spearheaded the concept locally. In conjunction with the Tennessee Valley Authority, in 2005 MLGW began the Green Power Switch, a green energy pricing program designed to fund new sources of electric generation. By converting the energy in the sun, wind and methane gas, TVA generates a portion of its electricity from renewable sources and mixes the green energy into the overall electric supply, reducing the need for traditional generation.
MLGW customers can purchase blocks of the renewable energy as an investment in the future.
According to Becky Williamson, strategic marketing coordinator for MLGW, 16 businesses are currently involved in the program.
“There’s not an economic benefit to customers directly, but the community benefit is what really matters,” Williamson said.
Renewable energy sources are, of course, free. But the devices that capture that energy and generate electricity are far more expensive to construct than traditional ones.
“I think sometimes there’s a disconnect that it costs more to turn that renewable energy into power,” Williamson said.
Nevertheless, that hasn’t stopped businesses from using renewable energy when constructing new buildings.
The Flintco Cos., a construction company with offices in Memphis and six other U.S. cities, has been involved in numerous large projects in Memphis and has been in the business since 1908.
Division President Kevin Moyes has noticed an increased interest in green energy from his business’ clients.
“Sustainability is a big factor right now,” Moyes said. “On the construction side there are a lot more sustainable-design facilities.”
Flintco is currently involved in the construction of a prison in East Tennessee that is recycling water and using a geo-thermal system that will allow the facility to save money on boilers and HVAC-related equipment.
“In my opinion, people are being more sensitive to the environment,” Moyes said. “Three years ago it would be almost a premium cost to do something like that. We’re seeing that change more and more. Manufacturers are using more recyclable materials. The cost has come way down. In some ways it’s shifting toward a standard way of doing business.”
Even though going green is becoming more economically feasible, Moyes said the economic benefits aren’t felt immediately.
“For example, that prison will probably be around for 30 or 40 years,” he said. “Some clients are looking to save money long term.”
Mike Collins, vice president of the building group at Allen & Hoshall, a Memphis engineering firm, has noticed the trend toward green energy as well.
“Once a week somebody asks me about renewable energy,” said Collins, a 17-year employee at a company that does $15 million in business a year. “It’s solar usually. The costs are coming down.”
He’s involved in the design of Legends Park, a 16-roof, mixed-housing development going up on Poplar Avenue. Solar panels are being installed on the roofs, which is a very popular way to take advantage of the sun’s energy.
“As long as there’s government assistance, you’ll see more and more,” Collins said. “With flat cost it just won’t pay for itself. With assistance it becomes viable.”
According to Williamson, there’s no better time to go green.
There are federal tax credits available to residential MLGW customers who want to install energy-efficient systems. The program expires at the end of the year and reimburses customers 30 percent of their investment, up to $1,500. Business tax incentives are available to commercial customers.
Williamson points out that when less energy is used, the savings are passed on to everybody in the long run.
“Everything we can do to lower utility bills helps the environment,” Williamson said, “and the community as well.”
MLGW Spearheads Green Switch Concept
Monday, November 15, 2010, Vol. 125, No. 222
JEFF IRELAND | Special to The Daily News
In any economic climate, it’s pretty rare when businesses take actions that aren’t beneficial to the bottom line.
And when the economy is struggling, taking action that doesn’t produce immediate financial benefits is generally not considered a sound business practice.
But with a nod to the future of the economy, as well as the environment, there are companies in the Memphis area that are taking a chance on a relatively unproven concept: utilizing renewable energy sources.
Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division has spearheaded the concept locally. In conjunction with the Tennessee Valley Authority, in 2005 MLGW began the Green Power Switch, a green energy pricing program designed to fund new sources of electric generation. By converting the energy in the sun, wind and methane gas, TVA generates a portion of its electricity from renewable sources and mixes the green energy into the overall electric supply, reducing the need for traditional generation.
MLGW customers can purchase blocks of the renewable energy as an investment in the future.
According to Becky Williamson, strategic marketing coordinator for MLGW, 16 businesses are currently involved in the program.
“There’s not an economic benefit to customers directly, but the community benefit is what really matters,” Williamson said.
Renewable energy sources are, of course, free. But the devices that capture that energy and generate electricity are far more expensive to construct than traditional ones.
“I think sometimes there’s a disconnect that it costs more to turn that renewable energy into power,” Williamson said.
Nevertheless, that hasn’t stopped businesses from using renewable energy when constructing new buildings.
The Flintco Cos., a construction company with offices in Memphis and six other U.S. cities, has been involved in numerous large projects in Memphis and has been in the business since 1908.
Division President Kevin Moyes has noticed an increased interest in green energy from his business’ clients.
“Sustainability is a big factor right now,” Moyes said. “On the construction side there are a lot more sustainable-design facilities.”
Flintco is currently involved in the construction of a prison in East Tennessee that is recycling water and using a geo-thermal system that will allow the facility to save money on boilers and HVAC-related equipment.
“In my opinion, people are being more sensitive to the environment,” Moyes said. “Three years ago it would be almost a premium cost to do something like that. We’re seeing that change more and more. Manufacturers are using more recyclable materials. The cost has come way down. In some ways it’s shifting toward a standard way of doing business.”
Even though going green is becoming more economically feasible, Moyes said the economic benefits aren’t felt immediately.
“For example, that prison will probably be around for 30 or 40 years,” he said. “Some clients are looking to save money long term.”
Mike Collins, vice president of the building group at Allen & Hoshall, a Memphis engineering firm, has noticed the trend toward green energy as well.
“Once a week somebody asks me about renewable energy,” said Collins, a 17-year employee at a company that does $15 million in business a year. “It’s solar usually. The costs are coming down.”
He’s involved in the design of Legends Park, a 16-roof, mixed-housing development going up on Poplar Avenue. Solar panels are being installed on the roofs, which is a very popular way to take advantage of the sun’s energy.
“As long as there’s government assistance, you’ll see more and more,” Collins said. “With flat cost it just won’t pay for itself. With assistance it becomes viable.”
According to Williamson, there’s no better time to go green.
There are federal tax credits available to residential MLGW customers who want to install energy-efficient systems. The program expires at the end of the year and reimburses customers 30 percent of their investment, up to $1,500. Business tax incentives are available to commercial customers.
Williamson points out that when less energy is used, the savings are passed on to everybody in the long run.
“Everything we can do to lower utility bills helps the environment,” Williamson said, “and the community as well.”
Winter Moratorium Deadline TODAY
Today is the deadline to get in applications for our Winter Moratorium. Please let your elderly and disabled friends know.
The Winter Moratorium program has been in place for more than two decades and prevents cutoffs for registered customers during the months of December, January and February. Participants are still responsible for paying their utility bills during this time, but in the event that the bill exceeds the customers’ means, the customer will not be disconnected. If there is a balance left at the end of the February billing cycle, registered customers can qualify for a short term payment plan.
There are no income restrictions for the Winter Moratorium program. However, applicants cannot have an outstanding balance on their utility bill on November 28 when the program begins. The deadline for application is November 15. Simply download the Winter Moratorium application found here, fill it out and mail to:
Credit and Collections
Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division
PO Box 430
Memphis, TN 38101-9969
Applications are also available at the Aging Commission, Meritan, MIFA, MLGW Business Offices, or by calling 544-MLGW.
Note: Please remember to include proof of age (copy of driver's license, birth certificate or another legal form of ID) to send along with your application if you qualify because you are age 60 or over. If you are applying because of a handicap, please remember to send in the proper certification information along with your application.
The Winter Moratorium program has been in place for more than two decades and prevents cutoffs for registered customers during the months of December, January and February. Participants are still responsible for paying their utility bills during this time, but in the event that the bill exceeds the customers’ means, the customer will not be disconnected. If there is a balance left at the end of the February billing cycle, registered customers can qualify for a short term payment plan.There are no income restrictions for the Winter Moratorium program. However, applicants cannot have an outstanding balance on their utility bill on November 28 when the program begins. The deadline for application is November 15. Simply download the Winter Moratorium application found here, fill it out and mail to:
Credit and Collections
Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division
PO Box 430
Memphis, TN 38101-9969
Applications are also available at the Aging Commission, Meritan, MIFA, MLGW Business Offices, or by calling 544-MLGW.
Note: Please remember to include proof of age (copy of driver's license, birth certificate or another legal form of ID) to send along with your application if you qualify because you are age 60 or over. If you are applying because of a handicap, please remember to send in the proper certification information along with your application.
Today is America Recycles Day!
America Recycles Day is today, and the Center City Commission is sponsoring an e-waste drop off at Central Station from 3-6:30pm. Check it out!
Click to biggify:
Click to biggify:
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
New Federal Program--Home Energy Score
From the Associated Press:
The White House unveiled a new "Home Energy Score" federal program Tuesday that will allow people to determine how energy-efficient their homes are.
It was one of several energy initiatives that Vice President Joe Biden announced at a White House event Tuesday. The voluntary Home Energy Score program, developed by the Energy Department, will provide homeowners a score of between one and 10, along with estimated savings from energy retrofits, and a personalized list of recommended home energy upgrades.
The program is starting up on a pilot basis in several places this fall before going nationwide: Charlottesville, Va.; Allegheny County, Pa.; Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard, Mass.; Omaha and Lincoln, Neb.; Portland, Ore.; Eagle County, Colo.; South Carolina; Texas; Minnesota; and Indiana.
Another new program, PowerSaver Loans, will offer homeowners federally insured loans from private lenders to make energy improvements. Lenders will be able to borrow for terms as long as 20 years. It will start as a two-year pilot program early next year.
The White House unveiled a new "Home Energy Score" federal program Tuesday that will allow people to determine how energy-efficient their homes are.
It was one of several energy initiatives that Vice President Joe Biden announced at a White House event Tuesday. The voluntary Home Energy Score program, developed by the Energy Department, will provide homeowners a score of between one and 10, along with estimated savings from energy retrofits, and a personalized list of recommended home energy upgrades.
The program is starting up on a pilot basis in several places this fall before going nationwide: Charlottesville, Va.; Allegheny County, Pa.; Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard, Mass.; Omaha and Lincoln, Neb.; Portland, Ore.; Eagle County, Colo.; South Carolina; Texas; Minnesota; and Indiana.
Another new program, PowerSaver Loans, will offer homeowners federally insured loans from private lenders to make energy improvements. Lenders will be able to borrow for terms as long as 20 years. It will start as a two-year pilot program early next year.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Rate Survey
MLGW strives to deliver the highest quality service at the lowest possible rates. One way that we measure our performance is to examine how MLGWs average bills compare to those in other cities across the U.S.
We survey approximately 50 utilities, including many that are geographically close to Memphis as well as utilities that are similar in size. Some major metro areas are included in the survey as well, which provides a snapshot of average utility bills effective July 1, 2010.
The rate survey focuses on residential services. The comparative survey is not an opinion survey; it takes into account actual published rates on record from energy providers across the nation. Consumption levels typically used by residential customers during this period were used as the basis for the rankings.
Highlights of the summer survey include:
-MLGW ranks 6th in rates for Electric (residential) service
-MLGW ranks 21st in rates for Natural Gas (residential) service
-MLGW ranks 1st in rates for Water (residential) service
-MLGW ranks 1st in rates for Sewer (residential) service
-MLGW ranks 1st overall in rates across combined (residential) services
See the 2010 Utility Bill Comparisons Publication (Spring Edition) for more info.
We survey approximately 50 utilities, including many that are geographically close to Memphis as well as utilities that are similar in size. Some major metro areas are included in the survey as well, which provides a snapshot of average utility bills effective July 1, 2010.
The rate survey focuses on residential services. The comparative survey is not an opinion survey; it takes into account actual published rates on record from energy providers across the nation. Consumption levels typically used by residential customers during this period were used as the basis for the rankings.
Highlights of the summer survey include:
-MLGW ranks 6th in rates for Electric (residential) service
-MLGW ranks 21st in rates for Natural Gas (residential) service
-MLGW ranks 1st in rates for Water (residential) service
-MLGW ranks 1st in rates for Sewer (residential) service
-MLGW ranks 1st overall in rates across combined (residential) services
See the 2010 Utility Bill Comparisons Publication (Spring Edition) for more info.
TDOT Road Work to Cause Lane Closures on I-240 and Shady Grove
MLGW crews will be relocating a 12-inch gas main that crosses Interstate 240 at ShadyGrove due to Tennessee Department of Transportation road work. The work started yesterday and is expected to be completed by December 10.
The northbound and southbound emergency lanes on the interstate at the Shady Grove overpass will be closed. Also, periodic lane closures will impact Brierview Street and Sylben Drive near the Shady Grove overpass.
The project is part of T-DOT’s widening of I-240.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Pay Your Bill at Walgreens
MLGW customers can now make self-serve automated bill payments through the TIO Kiosk Network located in participating Walgreens stores in the Memphis area.
Transactions may be securely completed in English or Spanish, and all payments will be posted to the customer’s account within 30 minutes. To make a payment, the customer needs either their MLGW account number or the phone number associated with the account, plus the last four digits of their social security number. At this time, the touch screen kiosks will accept cash payments only and no change is given. TIO Networks will collect from customers a $2 processing fee for each transaction; MLGW does not receive any revenue from this fee. For a complete listing of the kiosks located at local Walgreens, please click here.
Friday, November 5, 2010
E-Cycle Event
America Recycles Day is November 15th and the Center City Commission is sponsoring an e-waste drop off at Central Station from 3-6:30pm.
Click to biggify:
Also, the Commercial Appeal ran a good story on reusing old cellphones yesterday. Read it here: Recycling phones can save animals.
Click to biggify:
Also, the Commercial Appeal ran a good story on reusing old cellphones yesterday. Read it here: Recycling phones can save animals.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Rx Discount Cards
You may have noticed something new in your bill stuffer--here's the scoop:
MLGW has prescription for medication expense with discount cards
Last month, Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division started including the city of Memphis' prescription discount card in all utility bills.
The utility board voted 3-1 in June to include about 400,000 prescription drug discount cards in utility bills to get more people to use the benefit.
Last year, City Councilman Myron Lowery got the city included in the National League of Cities Prescription Discount Card program, which provides for deep discounts on medications.
"Anyone who wants to save money and has a prescription should use it," said Lowery. "There's no reason in throwing money away. If you have insurance, then you may not want to use it. However, there are many prescriptions that aren't covered by insurance and that is where it could come in handy."
The program can save an average of 20 percent off the full retail cost of prescription medication for residents who are without health insurance or a traditional pharmacy benefit plan or those who have prescriptions not covered by insurance.
There is no cost to the city or participants.
"There are no fees or restrictions on using the discount card and the card is accepted at more than 60,000 pharmacies nationwide, including all national pharmacy chains and most local independent pharmacies," said Marc Shapiro, who oversees the program for the National League of Cities.
In addition to the MLGW bills, the prescription benefit cards are available at city buildings, including City Hall, libraries and community centers.
There are no age or income restrictions on the city-issued cards. Even though the program is administered by CVS Caremark, nearly all pharmacies in the area -- including Walgreens, Walmart, Kmart, Ike's and Rite Aid -- are participating.
For more details, call 576-6428.
MLGW has prescription for medication expense with discount cards
Last month, Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division started including the city of Memphis' prescription discount card in all utility bills.
The utility board voted 3-1 in June to include about 400,000 prescription drug discount cards in utility bills to get more people to use the benefit.
Last year, City Councilman Myron Lowery got the city included in the National League of Cities Prescription Discount Card program, which provides for deep discounts on medications.
"Anyone who wants to save money and has a prescription should use it," said Lowery. "There's no reason in throwing money away. If you have insurance, then you may not want to use it. However, there are many prescriptions that aren't covered by insurance and that is where it could come in handy."
The program can save an average of 20 percent off the full retail cost of prescription medication for residents who are without health insurance or a traditional pharmacy benefit plan or those who have prescriptions not covered by insurance.
There is no cost to the city or participants.
"There are no fees or restrictions on using the discount card and the card is accepted at more than 60,000 pharmacies nationwide, including all national pharmacy chains and most local independent pharmacies," said Marc Shapiro, who oversees the program for the National League of Cities.
In addition to the MLGW bills, the prescription benefit cards are available at city buildings, including City Hall, libraries and community centers.
There are no age or income restrictions on the city-issued cards. Even though the program is administered by CVS Caremark, nearly all pharmacies in the area -- including Walgreens, Walmart, Kmart, Ike's and Rite Aid -- are participating.
For more details, call 576-6428.
Winter Moratorium Deadline Approaching
The Winter Moratorium program has been in place for more than two decades and prevents cutoffs for registered customers during the months of December, January and February. Participants are still responsible for paying their utility bills during this time, but in the event that the bill exceeds the customers’ means, the customer will not be disconnected. If there is a balance left at the end of the February billing cycle, registered customers can qualify for a short term payment plan.There are no income restrictions for the Winter Moratorium program. However, applicants cannot have an outstanding balance on their utility bill on November 28 when the program begins. The deadline for application is November 15. Simply download the Winter Moratorium application found here, fill it out and mail to:
Credit and Collections
Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division
PO Box 430
Memphis, TN 38101-9969
Applications are also available at the Aging Commission, Meritan, MIFA, MLGW Business Offices, or by calling 544-MLGW.
Note: Please remember to include proof of age (copy of driver's license, birth certificate or another legal form of ID) to send along with your application if you qualify because you are age 60 or over. If you are applying because of a handicap, please remember to send in the proper certification information along with your application.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Going Paperless: My Account
Save paper and postage by “going paperless” to view and pay your MLGW utility bill. It’s quick, easy and it’s good for the environment.
To enroll in paperless eBilling, go to the “My Account” page at www.mlgw.com and set up an account. Each month, you’ll receive an e-mailed reminder and can login to view your bill, then pay online or through any other method. Those already using My Account can switch to eBilling under the My User Profile link.
My Account users will notice a few recent changes.
• Click My Bills or Pay Bill (now a graphic button in the Account Balance section) to view and pay your MLGW bill.
• The Residential Dashboard includes links for Bill History (details about your utility bills) and Bill Analysis (why your bills may vary).
• Use the Go button to access the Carbon Footprint Calculator, which shows the environmental impact of your energy, water, transportation and recycling actions. You’ll find links to it on the Dashboard, Home Energy Center and Learn About Energy pages.
To enroll in paperless eBilling, go to the “My Account” page at www.mlgw.com and set up an account. Each month, you’ll receive an e-mailed reminder and can login to view your bill, then pay online or through any other method. Those already using My Account can switch to eBilling under the My User Profile link.
My Account users will notice a few recent changes.
• Click My Bills or Pay Bill (now a graphic button in the Account Balance section) to view and pay your MLGW bill.
• The Residential Dashboard includes links for Bill History (details about your utility bills) and Bill Analysis (why your bills may vary).
• Use the Go button to access the Carbon Footprint Calculator, which shows the environmental impact of your energy, water, transportation and recycling actions. You’ll find links to it on the Dashboard, Home Energy Center and Learn About Energy pages.
Outdoor Water Winterization
You may have thought about protecting your home’s water pipes from freezing, but have you considered your irrigation systems, hoses and outside faucets?Sprinkler Systems: Winterize your underground irrigation system before the first winter freeze. It’s easy if you have the proper equipment – mainly an air compressor. You can rent one, or a lawn company can winterize for you.
Turn off the water source; drain the system as much as possible. Open the manual drain valves, connect the air compressor and force air into the system from the backflow device, evacuating the remaining water in the system’s lines. Go through each station several times to ensure only air is being blown through the sprinkler heads.
Sprinklers and Hoses: Water can also freeze inside sprinkler housings and hoses and may burst or rupture parts. Clean and store sprinklers in a dry place. Disconnect hoses from their water source and drain them of any remaining water. Then neatly coil and store hoses in a dry area.
Also wrap and protect outside water faucets.
More information about water winterization can be found on our Winter One Stop.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Business of Faith Conference
The annual MLGW Business of Faith Conference is scheduled for Friday, November 12, 2010 from 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. The conference is an annual event hosted by MLGW for ministers, their staffs and others leading faith activities, and aimed at providing this audience the opportunity to network and acquire new skills.
The conference offers an array of workshops to aid organizations in building their ministry and is also a forum for MLGW to share information about its programs, services and activities. (See the brochure here.)
“Institutions of faith are the hub of many communities and they serve as an excellent vehicle to communicate through,” says Glen Thomas, MLGW Supervisor of Communications and Public Relations. “It is our hope that conference attendees use and disseminate the information gained at the conference with members of their congregation.”
This year’s conference will range from workshops on Accounting for Churches to Business Continuity for Faith Organizations. The conference will be held at the MLGW Joyce M. Blackmon Training Center, 4949 Raleigh-LaGrange at Covington Pike.
Registration is $5 and includes a continental breakfast and buffet lunch. For more information, call MLGW Community Relations at 528-4322. Individuals can register on-line at www.mlgw.com/faithleaders.
The conference offers an array of workshops to aid organizations in building their ministry and is also a forum for MLGW to share information about its programs, services and activities. (See the brochure here.)
“Institutions of faith are the hub of many communities and they serve as an excellent vehicle to communicate through,” says Glen Thomas, MLGW Supervisor of Communications and Public Relations. “It is our hope that conference attendees use and disseminate the information gained at the conference with members of their congregation.”
This year’s conference will range from workshops on Accounting for Churches to Business Continuity for Faith Organizations. The conference will be held at the MLGW Joyce M. Blackmon Training Center, 4949 Raleigh-LaGrange at Covington Pike.
Registration is $5 and includes a continental breakfast and buffet lunch. For more information, call MLGW Community Relations at 528-4322. Individuals can register on-line at www.mlgw.com/faithleaders.
Monday, November 1, 2010
TVA in the News
TVA considers switching from coal to gas in Memphis
By Wayne Risher
Originally published 11:49 a.m., October 28, 2010
Updated 10:00 p.m., October 28, 2010
TVA is looking at whether to idle the 51-year-old coal-fired Allen Fossil Plant and replace it with a facility that uses clean-burning natural gas.
TVA officials have gotten permission from the Memphis and Shelby County Port Commission to do soil testing on 73 acres near the Allen plant in southwest Memphis.
They also told port officials that the utility would need an option to buy or lease the site and arrange for temporary use of adjoining acreage for construction staging, if necessary.
TVA's new unit services staff is weighing construction of a natural gas plant versus installing scrubbers to clean up emissions from the coal-fired plant, spokeswoman Jennifer Stone said.
The decision, which would require approval by the TVA board, will be based on economic and environmental considerations, as well as generation needs and reliability.
Stone emphasized the study is in an early stage and that no decision is expected before next spring. TVA's target for completing a new plant or retrofitting the old one is 2015, to meet anticipated clean air requirements, she said.
Although a gas-fired plant would have fewer permanent employees, 30-40 people compared to Allen's 160 or so, either alternative would involve hundreds of millions in construction spending, creating numerous jobs.
TVA spent $474 million on the recently opened Lagoon Creek gas-fired plant near Brownsville and has projected an $820 million tab for a natural gas plant in East Tennessee.
One design under study for Memphis carries a price estimate of $700 million.
Jerry Collins, president of Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division, TVA's largest customer, said, "We have been working hand in hand with TVA on this project.
"The important thing is the power will be generated in Shelby County. Certainly TVA has some challenges with its older coal-fired plants, and there's currently an abundance of natural gas in the U.S."
"It's an economic issue, and TVA has to look at the economics and make a decision that best benefits its customers, and I believe TVA will do that," Collins said.
Allen, built by MLGW in the 1950s, then sold to TVA in the 1980s, has peak output of 753 megawatts, which can supply more than half of Memphis' electricity.
A switch from coal to natural gas would be a boon for the environment, but it would take a bite out of the port's commodity totals. Natural gas would be delivered by pipeline.
Barges brought 2.9 million tons of coal to the port to supply the Allen plant in 2008, making it the No. 2 commodity behind petroleum, port interim executive director Randy Richardson said.
"The benefit of the new (gas-fired) plant would be more so to the whole community, particularly, in my opinion, in terms of air quality," Richardson said.
TVA has installed scrubbers to remove sulfur dioxide from emissions at several coal-fired plants, Stone said.
Another environmental issue is disposal of fly ash, the waste left after coal is burned. Ash from Allen Fossil Plant is stored in containment basins adjoining the plant, and some of it has been used to build up low-lying land in Frank C. Pidgeon Industrial Park.
The EPA is considering new regulations on disposal of fly ash in response to concerns of environmental groups.
By Wayne Risher
Originally published 11:49 a.m., October 28, 2010
Updated 10:00 p.m., October 28, 2010
TVA is looking at whether to idle the 51-year-old coal-fired Allen Fossil Plant and replace it with a facility that uses clean-burning natural gas.
TVA officials have gotten permission from the Memphis and Shelby County Port Commission to do soil testing on 73 acres near the Allen plant in southwest Memphis.
They also told port officials that the utility would need an option to buy or lease the site and arrange for temporary use of adjoining acreage for construction staging, if necessary.
TVA's new unit services staff is weighing construction of a natural gas plant versus installing scrubbers to clean up emissions from the coal-fired plant, spokeswoman Jennifer Stone said.
The decision, which would require approval by the TVA board, will be based on economic and environmental considerations, as well as generation needs and reliability.
Stone emphasized the study is in an early stage and that no decision is expected before next spring. TVA's target for completing a new plant or retrofitting the old one is 2015, to meet anticipated clean air requirements, she said.
Although a gas-fired plant would have fewer permanent employees, 30-40 people compared to Allen's 160 or so, either alternative would involve hundreds of millions in construction spending, creating numerous jobs.
TVA spent $474 million on the recently opened Lagoon Creek gas-fired plant near Brownsville and has projected an $820 million tab for a natural gas plant in East Tennessee.
One design under study for Memphis carries a price estimate of $700 million.
Jerry Collins, president of Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division, TVA's largest customer, said, "We have been working hand in hand with TVA on this project.
"The important thing is the power will be generated in Shelby County. Certainly TVA has some challenges with its older coal-fired plants, and there's currently an abundance of natural gas in the U.S."
"It's an economic issue, and TVA has to look at the economics and make a decision that best benefits its customers, and I believe TVA will do that," Collins said.
Allen, built by MLGW in the 1950s, then sold to TVA in the 1980s, has peak output of 753 megawatts, which can supply more than half of Memphis' electricity.
A switch from coal to natural gas would be a boon for the environment, but it would take a bite out of the port's commodity totals. Natural gas would be delivered by pipeline.
Barges brought 2.9 million tons of coal to the port to supply the Allen plant in 2008, making it the No. 2 commodity behind petroleum, port interim executive director Randy Richardson said.
"The benefit of the new (gas-fired) plant would be more so to the whole community, particularly, in my opinion, in terms of air quality," Richardson said.
TVA has installed scrubbers to remove sulfur dioxide from emissions at several coal-fired plants, Stone said.
Another environmental issue is disposal of fly ash, the waste left after coal is burned. Ash from Allen Fossil Plant is stored in containment basins adjoining the plant, and some of it has been used to build up low-lying land in Frank C. Pidgeon Industrial Park.
The EPA is considering new regulations on disposal of fly ash in response to concerns of environmental groups.
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