June 06, 2023

Local utilities celebrate Public Power Month of Giving

Member Utilities

June marks the “Public Power Month of Giving” and, along with the upcoming “Public Power Day of Giving” on June 16, the events highlight the supportive power of locally owned, not-for-profit utilities within communities.

The 51 utilities who make up joint action agency WPPI Energy feel strongly about contributing to important causes in their communities.

“Our member utilities are all about community,” said Kelly Davis, WPPI Energy senior marketing manager. “While volunteer efforts and giving back are a year-round undertaking for them, this month really highlights all they do to help their communities thrive.”

With a shared vision of enhancing their communities, the utilities that make up WPPI Energy support their customers in various ways. They provide scholarship funding to help students advance toward their desired careers, invest in the beautification of downtown main streets, support local fundraisers, sponsor special events, and more.

The 51 utilities choose where to volunteer their time and dedicate funding depending on their community’s specific needs.

“That’s the beauty of public power,” continued Davis. “Utilities can really look at what their customers need, and then work with the local residents to help fill it.”

“Public power” is the term used to describe the 2,000 local, not-for-profit utilities powering towns and cities across the nation. Locally owned utilities provide significant benefits to both customers and communities. Through partnership with local economic development organizations, educational institutions and nonprofit organizations, these utilities ensure their community is a better place to live, work and play.