October 2023 Light Reading

Page 1

Inland Power is my cooperative!

October 2023

LightReading inlandpower.com

October is National Co-op Month!

T

his month in recognition of National Coop Month we thought we’d share a few of the things that set us apart. Because we’re a co-op, we operate a little differently than other utilities. Inland Power’s decisions are made locally, by trustees who also live right here in our community. Everyone who pays to receive electricity from Inland Power is a member. When you pay your electric bill each month, your money stays here – to pay for the electricity used, or to make improvements to our local system to strengthen service reliability. The money you pay Inland Power doesn’t line the pockets of shareholders. We’re a co-op, and we exist to provide a service to you, our local members. You may notice that throughout the year, we schedule opportunities for you to attend co-op events, like our annual meeting and

. . . e d i s in ENERGY Spooky energy savings

F O U N DAT I O N

member appreciation events, so we can connect with you. We conduct an annual survey to gather feedback on Inland Power programs and services so that we can plan for the future and serve you better. Our success lies in your satisfaction, which is why we offer these opportunities to engage and listen to what you have to say. Because you’re part of an electric cooperative, you can count on our team to maintain local jobs, at-cost electricity and first-class service, no matter what the economy––and supply chain issues–throw at us. Inland Power strives to keep costs as low as possible so we can keep more money in your pocket. We want to help you maximize the value you can get from our services and offerings. For example, we can help you save on energy bills through some of our energy rebate programs.

Grassroots and you SAFETY Power outage preparedness

Please know that you–the members of Inland Power are at the heart of everything we do. Co-ops adhere to seven guiding cooperative principles that reflect core values of honesty, transparency, equity, inclusiveness and service. We exist to serve you and provide the quality, reliable and friendly service you expect and deserve. While we’ve grown over the years, we’re still driven by the same guiding principles to serve our community. We hope to see or hear from you soon and thank you for your membership!


“OUR mission IS OUR members.” – M I S S I O N S T A T E M E N T

We have some spooky energy savings

T

his spooky season, we’re sharing a few energy-saving tricks so you can treat yourself to lower energy bills. Here are four simple ways to get in the spirit of energy efficiency. Conjure instant savings with a smart thermostat. One of the easiest ways to save energy is through thermostat control, since home heating and cooling account for a large portion of your monthly energy use. Smart thermostats can help you manage heating and cooling costs by learning your daily routine and adjusting the temperature settings accordingly. You can control a smart thermostat from anywhere (through your smart phone), which allows you to prevent unnecessary energy consumption while you’re away.

A

s a cooperative, Inland Power takes pride in the ability to offer reliable and affordable electricity to its members. We value your interests and the interests of cooperatives as a whole. This is why it is so important for all of us to stay engaged when it comes to state and federal legislation. We invite you to join our Grassroots Action Team so, if needed, you can help us contact legislators who make

Get rid of goosebumps by eliminating ghostly drafts. The winter chill is just around the corner, so now is the time to seal air leaks around your home. Apply caulk and weatherstripping around drafty windows and doors to make your home more comfortable and lower energy use. Illuminate your lair with energy efficient lighting. LED bulbs use 75 percent less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent light bulbs. Make the switch to reduce energy used for lighting. Remember to use LEDs when it’s time to decorate for the upcoming holiday season. LED light strings offer an average of 88 percent energy savings compared to traditional incandescent light strings. Stir up savings with countertop cauldrons. Cooler weather calls for our

the decisions about critical issues impacting Inland Power and other electric cooperatives in our state, region and nation. By signing up you can: • Help utilities keep rates affordable. • Help protect our Northwest power supply. • Help us provide with the ability to keep you informed on important issues - like the threat to hydropower.

favorite soup recipes. Small countertop appliances like slow cookers use less energy than cooking meals on the stovetop. Grab your book of recipes and start stirring up savings in the kitchen. When we look around our homes, there are many opportunities to save energy. So this spooky season, investigate your space and unlock a different kind of magic – the kind that brings real energy savings.

Be sure to visit our website at inlandpower.com/grassroots-action or scan below to learn more.

Scan me!


Inland Power is my cooperative!

Be prepared for a power outage

I

nland Power is committed to providing safe, reliable service. From time-to-time, events beyond our control create outages. Have these items available in your home should an outage occur: A three to five day supply of non-perishable food that needs little or no cooking Blankets and pillows Portable, battery-powered radio and clock Flashlights Extra batteries Manual can opener, bottle opener and utility knife First-aid kit Bottled water (minimum two quarts per person per day, but preferably one gallon per person per day) Candles

Energy Efficiency Tip of the Month Did you know using your dishwasher is more energy efficient than washing a load of dishes by hand? To maximize efficiency, wash full loads in the dishwasher and don’t block the arms of other parts that move while the appliance is in use. For additional savings, turn on the “air dry” setting instead of using the “heat dry” setting and use a rinse aid to help dishes dry faster without spotting and streaking. Source: energy.gov

Matches in a waterproof container or a lighter Cooler (and keep ice or ice packs ready in your freezer) Personal hygiene, sanitary supplies Cash (ATMs and banks may not be available) Pet supplies for three to five days Playing cards, games and books for entertainment


Wildfire devastation and recovery

get in touch

10110 W Hallett Rd. Spokane, WA 99224

MAIN OFFICE (509) 747-7151 TOLL FREE (800) 747-7151 BILLING QUESTIONS (509) 789-4277 PAYMENT SERVICES (855) 386-9903 ENERGY CONSERVATION AND REBATES (509) 789-1801 EMAIL inlandpower@inlandpower.com SOCIAL

T

he Gray and Oregon Road wildfires this past August greatly impacted many valued Inland Power members and our local communities. The aftermath and devastation from both fires have created long lasting effects for many families throughout our region. Inland Power crews along other crews from the region and beyond worked 16-hour emergency cycles during these events. Between both fires, Inland Power lost over 250 power poles. For members in the Gray and Oregon Road fires, power was restored within a one week time frame. Through the amazing work of firefighters, emergency responders, utility crews and volunteers, containment was established, support and supplies were made available for those displaced and power was restored to areas affected.

We know there is a long road ahead for many folks and that our community’s work is not done yet. We thank all those Inland Power members and employees who have made donations and volunteered. Keep in mind there are many more opportunities to lend a helping hand and here are just a few organizations to contact: • Salvation Army: spokane.salvationarmy.org • Project Beauty Share: projectbeautyshare.org • New Hope Resource Center: newhoperesourcecenter.org If your home was lost or damaged, and you have not had the opportunity to contact us, please reach out to our Member Experience Team so we can discuss the various options regarding your electric service.


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.