OUC History Book

Orlando Utilities Commission 1875 –2010 A H I S TO RY O F WAT E R & E L E C T R I C I T Y IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

Orlando Utilities Commission 1875–2010 A H I S TO RY O F WAT E R & E L E C T R I C I T Y IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

Published by the OUC Marketing, Communications and Community Relations Department.

Copyright © 2011 Orlando Utilities Commission.

All Rights Reserved.

Orlando Utilities Commission 1875–2010 A H I S TO RY O F WAT E R & E L E C T R I C I T Y IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

Published by the OUC Marketing, Communications and Community Relations Department.

Copyright © 2011 Orlando Utilities Commission.

All Rights Reserved.

F O R E W O R D is a company with a long, rich history. Although “The Reliable One”

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

was coined in 1998, it exemplifies 88 years worth of commitment to outstanding service to our customers. Much of our strength through the years has come from the knowledge, pride and experience passed down from generation to generation of OUC employees.

OUC General Manager and CEO Ken Ksionek was the driving force for this book. As he watched longtenured employees retire, he was concerned that part of OUC’s history was in jeopardy of being lost.

Ken wanted to capture our past so it could be used as a reference for future generations. He also wanted the book to be written from an OUC employee’s perspective, by someone who shared his love of the organization and respect for OUC’s culture. That someone was me.

I joined OUC in 1986 as a public information specialist and am currently the Vice President of Marketing, Communications and Community Relations. I have spent the majority of that time writing for the organization, but working on this book has been the most challenging and rewarding experience of my career at OUC. A book like this cannot be accomplished by one person. Although I was the primary writer, I gained a great deal of information from retirees through interviews or their personal accounts including: former General Managers Curtis H. Stanton and Harry C. Luff; retired Assistant General Manager Louis E. Stone; retired General Counsel Thomas B. Tart, and retired Director of Water Engineering Rick Coleman. I also had the assistance of an amazing staff both past and present. The Marketing, Communications and Community Relations staff were dogged in their efforts to help compile photos, stories and facts in an effort to create a book that would do justice to OUC. For me, one of the best parts of working on the book was the opportunity to spend time with Curt Stanton, Harry Luff and Lou Stone. Curt had retired when I started at OUC. Harry was the General Manager, and

CHAPTER I: In the Beginning

CHAPTER II: The New Frontier

CHAPTER III: America Races to the Moon

CHAPTER IV: A Balancing Act

CHAPTER V: Ups and Downs

OUC CO MMITME NT to Reliability and Quality

Lou was the Vice President (known as Manager in those days) of Electric Operations. Sitting across from the three of them to discuss OUC history was like defending my doctoral dissertation. Having Curt Stanton tell me the discussion was one of the most enjoyable experiences since his retirement was the icing on the cake and a high point of my career.

Lastly, I would like to end with a story from my first day at work 25 years ago. I came home from work and told my mother that I thought they must put something in the water, because the employees were the nicest people I had ever met and very passionate about OUC. I still feel the same way today. It’s been an honor

14

2

38

and a privilege to work with such a talented group of people, and I thank the OUC family for an incredible journey. Together we made history!

Roseann Harrington, Vice President Marketing, Communications and Community Relations

6

22

64

F O R E W O R D is a company with a long, rich history. Although “The Reliable One”

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

was coined in 1998, it exemplifies 88 years worth of commitment to outstanding service to our customers. Much of our strength through the years has come from the knowledge, pride and experience passed down from generation to generation of OUC employees.

OUC General Manager and CEO Ken Ksionek was the driving force for this book. As he watched longtenured employees retire, he was concerned that part of OUC’s history was in jeopardy of being lost.

Ken wanted to capture our past so it could be used as a reference for future generations. He also wanted the book to be written from an OUC employee’s perspective, by someone who shared his love of the organization and respect for OUC’s culture. That someone was me.

I joined OUC in 1986 as a public information specialist and am currently the Vice President of Marketing, Communications and Community Relations. I have spent the majority of that time writing for the organization, but working on this book has been the most challenging and rewarding experience of my career at OUC. A book like this cannot be accomplished by one person. Although I was the primary writer, I gained a great deal of information from retirees through interviews or their personal accounts including: former General Managers Curtis H. Stanton and Harry C. Luff; retired Assistant General Manager Louis E. Stone; retired General Counsel Thomas B. Tart, and retired Director of Water Engineering Rick Coleman. I also had the assistance of an amazing staff both past and present. The Marketing, Communications and Community Relations staff were dogged in their efforts to help compile photos, stories and facts in an effort to create a book that would do justice to OUC. For me, one of the best parts of working on the book was the opportunity to spend time with Curt Stanton, Harry Luff and Lou Stone. Curt had retired when I started at OUC. Harry was the General Manager, and

CHAPTER I: In the Beginning

CHAPTER II: The New Frontier

CHAPTER III: America Races to the Moon

CHAPTER IV: A Balancing Act

CHAPTER V: Ups and Downs

OUC CO MMITME NT to Reliability and Quality

Lou was the Vice President (known as Manager in those days) of Electric Operations. Sitting across from the three of them to discuss OUC history was like defending my doctoral dissertation. Having Curt Stanton tell me the discussion was one of the most enjoyable experiences since his retirement was the icing on the cake and a high point of my career.

Lastly, I would like to end with a story from my first day at work 25 years ago. I came home from work and told my mother that I thought they must put something in the water, because the employees were the nicest people I had ever met and very passionate about OUC. I still feel the same way today. It’s been an honor

14

2

38

and a privilege to work with such a talented group of people, and I thank the OUC family for an incredible journey. Together we made history!

Roseann Harrington, Vice President Marketing, Communications and Community Relations

6

22

64

1875–1922

CHAPTER I:

I N

T H E

B E G I N N I N G

1875 –1922

1875

1901

Orlando is incorporated.

Orlando’s first power plant opens, owned by Judge John M. Cheney and sons.

Construction of original

The Orlando Water

waterworks

and Sewerage Company

is started.

is chartered.

he foundation for what would eventually become the Orlando Utilities Commission

cattle ranching and citrus growing to a thriving center of commerce. Attracted by fertile farm land and warm weather, settlers arrived from all over the country, as well as from abroad. In 1880, the South

is incorporated.

1970 –1989

1990 –2010

P R O V I D I N G W A T E R A N D E L E C T R I C S E R V I C E T O A N E W C I T Y

Central Florida was just beginning to evolve from a rural, agrarian economy based on

Orlando Water Company

1892

1950 –1969

was laid even before the 20th century began. In 1875, when Orlando was incorporated,

1886

1887

1923 –1949

Florida Railroad added Orlando as one of its stops — helping to spur the first of many building and

Actual construction of the original water works — which consisted of a plant and a distribution system — began on March 18, 1887. The source of water was Lake Highland, which at that time was located well outside the Orlando city limits.

In 1889, additional water mains were laid to serve most of the well-settled areas of Orlando with a safe domestic supply and fire protection.

land booms in the Sunshine State. By the turn of the century, Orlando had paved streets, as well as

The additions increased the distribution system

electricity and phone service. In 1908, it was officially dubbed “The City Beautiful.” By the time World

to about 13.5 miles of pipe.

War I broke out, the City had become a popular resort. The war generated additional industrial growth

As a result of the death of Herdic in 1890, a receivership took over the Orlando Water

and real-estate development throughout Florida that lasted through the early ‘20s — creating the need

Company. John M. Cheney, an Orlando attorney

for reliable water and electric infrastructure in the region . . . and setting the stage for the birth of OUC.

at the time, represented the bond holders. The landholders foreclosed the property and turned it over to a new corporation, the Orlando Water

Water for a New City The City of Orlando was incorporated in 1875

June 6, 1892. J.A. Beeber, President of the First Bank of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, representing

by a popular election in which 22 citizens cast

the landholders, was President. Cheney became

1903

1916

their votes. Ten years later, the City received a

Secretary-Treasurer and Managing Director.

charter by action of the Florida Legislature. At

Cheney, who by then had become an

Twenty-four-hour

Orlando’s water system consists

that time, the community’s only source of water

Orlando judge, purchased the water works

electric service begins

of 23 miles of mains and more

was a town well located next to the Orange

in 1893, serving as Secretary-Treasurer and

County Court House at the corner of Central

principal owner. The new company, the Orlando

than 100 fire hydrants.

and Main. On October 5, 1886, the Orlando

Water & Light Company, was granted the right

City Council granted to A.A. Parker and his

by the City of Orlando to pump water from

associates a 10-year franchise to construct,

Lake Highland and Lake Concord to supply

maintain and operate a water works within the

water to the City.

in Orlando.

1922 Judge John M. Cheney proposes a bond issue that would enable the citizens of Orlando to purchase and municipally operate a public utility.

municipality. The Orlando Water Company was incorporated on October 20, 1886 with initial

By 1916, Orlando’s water supply system consisted of 23 miles of mains, which covered

capital of $150,000. Parker, Harry W. Lentz

every part of the City, and more than 100 fire

and Peter Herdic were the incorporators.

hydrants were installed in different parts of

They and their financial backers, who were

the town.

from Huntington and Williamsport,

In 1917, the first filtrated treatment facilities

Pennsylvania, had successfully negotiated

were built near Lake Highland to treat water

franchise arrangements and built water works

obtained from the lake before passing into the

in other Pennsylvania communities as well as

City mains.

in Cairo, Illinois.

Page 2

and Sewerage Company, its charter being dated

Page 3

1875–1922

CHAPTER I:

I N

T H E

B E G I N N I N G

1875 –1922

1875

1901

Orlando is incorporated.

Orlando’s first power plant opens, owned by Judge John M. Cheney and sons.

Construction of original

The Orlando Water

waterworks

and Sewerage Company

is started.

is chartered.

he foundation for what would eventually become the Orlando Utilities Commission

cattle ranching and citrus growing to a thriving center of commerce. Attracted by fertile farm land and warm weather, settlers arrived from all over the country, as well as from abroad. In 1880, the South

is incorporated.

1970 –1989

1990 –2010

P R O V I D I N G W A T E R A N D E L E C T R I C S E R V I C E T O A N E W C I T Y

Central Florida was just beginning to evolve from a rural, agrarian economy based on

Orlando Water Company

1892

1950 –1969

was laid even before the 20th century began. In 1875, when Orlando was incorporated,

1886

1887

1923 –1949

Florida Railroad added Orlando as one of its stops — helping to spur the first of many building and

Actual construction of the original water works — which consisted of a plant and a distribution system — began on March 18, 1887. The source of water was Lake Highland, which at that time was located well outside the Orlando city limits.

In 1889, additional water mains were laid to serve most of the well-settled areas of Orlando with a safe domestic supply and fire protection.

land booms in the Sunshine State. By the turn of the century, Orlando had paved streets, as well as

The additions increased the distribution system

electricity and phone service. In 1908, it was officially dubbed “The City Beautiful.” By the time World

to about 13.5 miles of pipe.

War I broke out, the City had become a popular resort. The war generated additional industrial growth

As a result of the death of Herdic in 1890, a receivership took over the Orlando Water

and real-estate development throughout Florida that lasted through the early ‘20s — creating the need

Company. John M. Cheney, an Orlando attorney

for reliable water and electric infrastructure in the region . . . and setting the stage for the birth of OUC.

at the time, represented the bond holders. The landholders foreclosed the property and turned it over to a new corporation, the Orlando Water

Water for a New City The City of Orlando was incorporated in 1875

June 6, 1892. J.A. Beeber, President of the First Bank of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, representing

by a popular election in which 22 citizens cast

the landholders, was President. Cheney became

1903

1916

their votes. Ten years later, the City received a

Secretary-Treasurer and Managing Director.

charter by action of the Florida Legislature. At

Cheney, who by then had become an

Twenty-four-hour

Orlando’s water system consists

that time, the community’s only source of water

Orlando judge, purchased the water works

electric service begins

of 23 miles of mains and more

was a town well located next to the Orange

in 1893, serving as Secretary-Treasurer and

County Court House at the corner of Central

principal owner. The new company, the Orlando

than 100 fire hydrants.

and Main. On October 5, 1886, the Orlando

Water & Light Company, was granted the right

City Council granted to A.A. Parker and his

by the City of Orlando to pump water from

associates a 10-year franchise to construct,

Lake Highland and Lake Concord to supply

maintain and operate a water works within the

water to the City.

in Orlando.

1922 Judge John M. Cheney proposes a bond issue that would enable the citizens of Orlando to purchase and municipally operate a public utility.

municipality. The Orlando Water Company was incorporated on October 20, 1886 with initial

By 1916, Orlando’s water supply system consisted of 23 miles of mains, which covered

capital of $150,000. Parker, Harry W. Lentz

every part of the City, and more than 100 fire

and Peter Herdic were the incorporators.

hydrants were installed in different parts of

They and their financial backers, who were

the town.

from Huntington and Williamsport,

In 1917, the first filtrated treatment facilities

Pennsylvania, had successfully negotiated

were built near Lake Highland to treat water

franchise arrangements and built water works

obtained from the lake before passing into the

in other Pennsylvania communities as well as

City mains.

in Cairo, Illinois.

Page 2

and Sewerage Company, its charter being dated

Page 3

Orlando Gets First Power Plant At the turn of the century, Judge Cheney and

produce. Water from the water plant and

his sons began construction on an electric

electricity from the power plant were used to

generating plant on Lake Highland, renaming

produce the ice.

their company the Orlando Water & Light

In 1905, the company purchased a coal gas

Company. The power plant opened January 1,

plant and distribution network that had been

1901. Its lone generator, driven by a 150-

in operation since 1889. The gas plant, located

horsepower steam engine, had capacity of only

in the western part of the City, had a capacity

100 kilowatts. Initially, electricity was provided to

of 300,000 cubic feet of gas per day, and the

homes, stores and street lights on a “dark to

distribution network included 18 miles of

midnight” basis.

gas mains.

In 1901, the company was awarded a contract by the City of Orlando to provide 28 street lights

More than 15 years later, in July 1921, Orlando was authorized by the state legislature to issue

“of 2,000 nominal candle power or their

$1.5 million in bonds for purchase or construction

equivalent in incandescent lamps for $2,000 per

of a water and light plant, subject to a referendum

annum.” The City of Orlando previously had

vote. In September of that year, the City made an

granted the Orlando Water & Light Company a

agreement with the Orlando Water & Light

20-year franchise to provide water and electric

Company to buy the electric and water plant, at a

service starting January 1, 1901, and terminating

price to be fixed by a board of three arbiters.

on January 1, 1921.

In 1903, the enterprising Cheney built an ice

By 1922, Orlando’s population had grown to about 10,000 and Judge Cheney — realizing a

plant (with an ice-making capacity of 60 tons per

need for wider services than his company was able

day and the capability to store 300 tons) at the

to supply — urged his friends to work and vote for

Lake Highland site, adjacent to the power and

a $975,000 bond issue to enable the citizens of

water plants. Sold locally and shipped to

Orlando to purchase and municipally operate his

neighboring towns, the ice was used to cool

privately owned utilities. Orlando Utilities

railroad cars and trucks that shipped fruit and

Commission was about to be born.

B R I N G I N G R E L I A B L E E L E C T R I C A N D WAT E R S E RV I C E T O O R L A N D O Judge John M. Cheney, “Founding Father and Visionary”

John M. Cheney

Page 4

Who was John M. Cheney? In the “History

private attorney, Orlando city attorney,

also served as judge for the Orange

of Orange County, Florida” published in

United States attorney for the southern

County juvenile court and recreation

1927 by William Fremont Blackman, Ph.D.,

district of Florida, United States judge

superintendent for the City of Orlando.

LL.D., it is said that “No other citizen of

for the southern district of Florida,

A section of the Dixie Highway in Central

Orange County was more esteemed and

Republican candidate for governor

Florida was officially named the Cheney

beloved than John Cheney.” His resumé

of Florida and Republican candidate

Highway in commemoration of his

was, to say the least, impressive. He was a

for the United States Senate. Cheney

service to Florida.

Page 5

Orlando Gets First Power Plant At the turn of the century, Judge Cheney and

produce. Water from the water plant and

his sons began construction on an electric

electricity from the power plant were used to

generating plant on Lake Highland, renaming

produce the ice.

their company the Orlando Water & Light

In 1905, the company purchased a coal gas

Company. The power plant opened January 1,

plant and distribution network that had been

1901. Its lone generator, driven by a 150-

in operation since 1889. The gas plant, located

horsepower steam engine, had capacity of only

in the western part of the City, had a capacity

100 kilowatts. Initially, electricity was provided to

of 300,000 cubic feet of gas per day, and the

homes, stores and street lights on a “dark to

distribution network included 18 miles of

midnight” basis.

gas mains.

In 1901, the company was awarded a contract by the City of Orlando to provide 28 street lights

More than 15 years later, in July 1921, Orlando was authorized by the state legislature to issue

“of 2,000 nominal candle power or their

$1.5 million in bonds for purchase or construction

equivalent in incandescent lamps for $2,000 per

of a water and light plant, subject to a referendum

annum.” The City of Orlando previously had

vote. In September of that year, the City made an

granted the Orlando Water & Light Company a

agreement with the Orlando Water & Light

20-year franchise to provide water and electric

Company to buy the electric and water plant, at a

service starting January 1, 1901, and terminating

price to be fixed by a board of three arbiters.

on January 1, 1921.

In 1903, the enterprising Cheney built an ice

By 1922, Orlando’s population had grown to about 10,000 and Judge Cheney — realizing a

plant (with an ice-making capacity of 60 tons per

need for wider services than his company was able

day and the capability to store 300 tons) at the

to supply — urged his friends to work and vote for

Lake Highland site, adjacent to the power and

a $975,000 bond issue to enable the citizens of

water plants. Sold locally and shipped to

Orlando to purchase and municipally operate his

neighboring towns, the ice was used to cool

privately owned utilities. Orlando Utilities

railroad cars and trucks that shipped fruit and

Commission was about to be born.

B R I N G I N G R E L I A B L E E L E C T R I C A N D WAT E R S E RV I C E T O O R L A N D O Judge John M. Cheney, “Founding Father and Visionary”

John M. Cheney

Page 4

Who was John M. Cheney? In the “History

private attorney, Orlando city attorney,

also served as judge for the Orange

of Orange County, Florida” published in

United States attorney for the southern

County juvenile court and recreation

1927 by William Fremont Blackman, Ph.D.,

district of Florida, United States judge

superintendent for the City of Orlando.

LL.D., it is said that “No other citizen of

for the southern district of Florida,

A section of the Dixie Highway in Central

Orange County was more esteemed and

Republican candidate for governor

Florida was officially named the Cheney

beloved than John Cheney.” His resumé

of Florida and Republican candidate

Highway in commemoration of his

was, to say the least, impressive. He was a

for the United States Senate. Cheney

service to Florida.

Page 5

1923–1949

CHAPTER II:

T H E

1923 OUC charter is drafted; first Commission meeting held.

N E W

F R O N T I E R

1875 –1922

1924

1936

Lake Ivanhoe water

• OUC moves into its new

plant is placed into service.

1923 –1949

1950 –1969

hen OUC was born, Florida — and Orlando — were at the height

plant was finished, bringing generating capacity

Wall Street and North

of economic prosperity. Hundreds of thousands of people had

to 9 megawatts (MW).

Main Street.

descended on the state during the early ‘20s, lured by windfall

1937

1942

Court decision enables

OUC builds

OUC to improve

Lake Highland

infrastructure without

Service Yard.

customer base. During this time, OUC completed

improvement program to provide the infrastructure for development. Notable

two additions to the Lake Ivanhoe Plant and also

Auditorium (now the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre) in 1926. But, the second half of the “Roaring Twenties” told a different story. Florida’s land boom began to fizzle. Investors pulled out, and the pace of growth slowed. In 1928, the San Felipe-Lake Okeechobee Hurricane cut a swath through the state, leaving widespread destruction — a metaphoric harbinger of what would soon follow. The next year, the Stock

Establishing an Infrastructure

1947

purchase the privately held Orlando Water &

• Curtis H. Stanton becomes

Light Company, they were setting the stage for

When Orlando residents voted in 1923 to

1934 1948

1949

Federal Water Pollution

Lake Highland Plant

Control Act becomes law.

completed.

Orange Avenue, at the south end of the distribution system; the other tank was installed on Washington Street on the system’s east side.

At the time, Lakes Highland and Ivanhoe were OUC’s primary sources of drinking water.

However, dry conditions reported in 1927 lowered

that would provide the infrastructure for growth.

water levels in these lakes, making it necessary to

During that year, a special act of the Florida

tap remote Lake Underhill as an additional supply

Legislature created the Orlando Utilities

source. A 24-inch raw water pipe was constructed

Commission, providing it with full authority to

to connect Lake Underhill to the plant on Lake

operate the water and power plants as a

Ivanhoe. Two filters were added to the Lake

municipal utility. OUC began serving 2,795

Ivanhoe Plant, each with a capacity of 2 MGD,

electric and 2,290 water customers for a total

bringing the total filtration capacity of the plant

investment of $1.5 million.

to 8 MGD.

facilities located on Lake Ivanhoe were just Lake Ivanhoe Plant

consumption was down. The “Old Copeland Tank” was located on Copeland Drive west of

generations of high-quality, reliable utility service

At that time, the new water and electric plant

Page 6

system. The tanks were strategically placed to

The tanks were then refilled at night when

Orlando area.

in just seven years.

amount of water pressure at the extremities of the release water flow that boosted pressure when it

utilities for the

a 224 percent increase

In 1926, OUC built two 250,000-gallon elevated water storage tanks to maintain an acceptable

was excessively low, during times of high use.

25 years of providing

13,000 customers —

downtown Orlando.

and World War II, Orlando persevered — and its fledgling utility grew into a trusted and reliable partner.

• OUC proudly celebrates

OUC installs underground feeder lines with funds from federal government.

opened its first office building located at the intersection of Washington and Main streets in

Market crash of 1929 launched the world into two decades of turmoil. But, through the Great Depression

General Manager of OUC.

OUC has more than

Through the next two decades, the citizenowned utility grew rapidly to serve its expanding

profits from land speculation. To keep up, the City embarked on a costly

City Council approval.

1930

1990 –2010

O U C I S C R E A T E D T O P R O V I D E H I G H – Q U A L I T Y WAT E R A N D E L E C T R I C I T Y

additions to the landscape during that time included the Orlando Public Library in 1923 and the Municipal

First addition to Lake Ivanhoe power plant is completed.

1970 –1989

building at the corner of

• Martin Brown is named General Manager.

1926

MERS CUSTO C I R ELECT RS STOME U 2,795 C R WATE 2,290 ED EES NERAT MPLOY E E G H 0 W 5 DM OUSAN NS 7 TH GALLO ED N O I P L M PU MIL .67 OF WATER

By 1930, Orlando’s population had grown to 27,330, and OUC had more than 13,000

nearing completion. In 1924, the water plant

customers — a 224 percent increase in just seven

was placed into service with a rated capacity of

years. That year, the utility generated more than

4 million gallons per day (MGD). Two years later,

14 million kilowatts (kW) and pumped 814 million

the first addition to the electric portion of the

gallons of water.

Page 7

1923–1949

CHAPTER II:

T H E

1923 OUC charter is drafted; first Commission meeting held.

N E W

F R O N T I E R

1875 –1922

1924

1936

Lake Ivanhoe water

• OUC moves into its new

plant is placed into service.

1923 –1949

1950 –1969

hen OUC was born, Florida — and Orlando — were at the height

plant was finished, bringing generating capacity

Wall Street and North

of economic prosperity. Hundreds of thousands of people had

to 9 megawatts (MW).

Main Street.

descended on the state during the early ‘20s, lured by windfall

1937

1942

Court decision enables

OUC builds

OUC to improve

Lake Highland

infrastructure without

Service Yard.

customer base. During this time, OUC completed

improvement program to provide the infrastructure for development. Notable

two additions to the Lake Ivanhoe Plant and also

Auditorium (now the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre) in 1926. But, the second half of the “Roaring Twenties” told a different story. Florida’s land boom began to fizzle. Investors pulled out, and the pace of growth slowed. In 1928, the San Felipe-Lake Okeechobee Hurricane cut a swath through the state, leaving widespread destruction — a metaphoric harbinger of what would soon follow. The next year, the Stock

Establishing an Infrastructure

1947

purchase the privately held Orlando Water &

• Curtis H. Stanton becomes

Light Company, they were setting the stage for

When Orlando residents voted in 1923 to

1934 1948

1949

Federal Water Pollution

Lake Highland Plant

Control Act becomes law.

completed.

Orange Avenue, at the south end of the distribution system; the other tank was installed on Washington Street on the system’s east side.

At the time, Lakes Highland and Ivanhoe were OUC’s primary sources of drinking water.

However, dry conditions reported in 1927 lowered

that would provide the infrastructure for growth.

water levels in these lakes, making it necessary to

During that year, a special act of the Florida

tap remote Lake Underhill as an additional supply

Legislature created the Orlando Utilities

source. A 24-inch raw water pipe was constructed

Commission, providing it with full authority to

to connect Lake Underhill to the plant on Lake

operate the water and power plants as a

Ivanhoe. Two filters were added to the Lake

municipal utility. OUC began serving 2,795

Ivanhoe Plant, each with a capacity of 2 MGD,

electric and 2,290 water customers for a total

bringing the total filtration capacity of the plant

investment of $1.5 million.

to 8 MGD.

facilities located on Lake Ivanhoe were just Lake Ivanhoe Plant

consumption was down. The “Old Copeland Tank” was located on Copeland Drive west of

generations of high-quality, reliable utility service

At that time, the new water and electric plant

Page 6

system. The tanks were strategically placed to

The tanks were then refilled at night when

Orlando area.

in just seven years.

amount of water pressure at the extremities of the release water flow that boosted pressure when it

utilities for the

a 224 percent increase

In 1926, OUC built two 250,000-gallon elevated water storage tanks to maintain an acceptable

was excessively low, during times of high use.

25 years of providing

13,000 customers —

downtown Orlando.

and World War II, Orlando persevered — and its fledgling utility grew into a trusted and reliable partner.

• OUC proudly celebrates

OUC installs underground feeder lines with funds from federal government.

opened its first office building located at the intersection of Washington and Main streets in

Market crash of 1929 launched the world into two decades of turmoil. But, through the Great Depression

General Manager of OUC.

OUC has more than

Through the next two decades, the citizenowned utility grew rapidly to serve its expanding

profits from land speculation. To keep up, the City embarked on a costly

City Council approval.

1930

1990 –2010

O U C I S C R E A T E D T O P R O V I D E H I G H – Q U A L I T Y WAT E R A N D E L E C T R I C I T Y

additions to the landscape during that time included the Orlando Public Library in 1923 and the Municipal

First addition to Lake Ivanhoe power plant is completed.

1970 –1989

building at the corner of

• Martin Brown is named General Manager.

1926

MERS CUSTO C I R ELECT RS STOME U 2,795 C R WATE 2,290 ED EES NERAT MPLOY E E G H 0 W 5 DM OUSAN NS 7 TH GALLO ED N O I P L M PU MIL .67 OF WATER

By 1930, Orlando’s population had grown to 27,330, and OUC had more than 13,000

nearing completion. In 1924, the water plant

customers — a 224 percent increase in just seven

was placed into service with a rated capacity of

years. That year, the utility generated more than

4 million gallons per day (MGD). Two years later,

14 million kilowatts (kW) and pumped 814 million

the first addition to the electric portion of the

gallons of water.

Page 7

J. Thomas Gurney, author of the original OUC charter.

OUC Charter Drafted, First Meeting Held Drafted by local attorney J. Thomas Gurney, the Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC) charter created a five-member Commission. Four citizens of Orlando were named to serve as Commissioners along with the Mayor of Orlando, who was automatically an ex-officio member of the board. These individuals were to serve without pay and be appointed for staggered four-year terms. They could serve second terms if re-nominated by the Commission.

The Commission was designed to function as a Board of Directors of a corporation. The individuals who framed the OUC charter took every possible precaution to set up the Commission in a manner that would effectively eliminate political pressure and influence.

The first official meeting of the newly formed Orlando Utilities Commission occurred on June 25, 1923 at 10:30 a.m. in the board room of the First National Bank. City Attorney W.B. Crawford asked each member of the Commission to draw a ticket, sight unseen, which established the term of office each new Commissioner would hold. The results were: Judge W.T. Bland, one year; J.F. Ange, two years; L.C. Massey, three years; H.H. Dickson and H.L. Beeman, each four years. It was moved by Ange, and seconded by Massey that the Honorable W.T. Bland be elected President of the Commission for the ensuing year.

Navigating the Great Depression During the Great Depression, the federal government provided funds to help OUC install underground electric feeder lines.

of the General Manager and Assistant General Manager.

A year later, OUC defended and won its

Completed in 1934, this project generated

legal authority to add the equipment and

250 jobs at a time when work was virtually

infrastructure necessary to provide reliable

impossible to find. That year, OUC offered

electric and water service to its customers

the lowest residential electric rates in Florida;

without approval from the Orlando City

in fact, the utility actually reduced electric

Council. In the 1937 Evans case, OUC got the

rates from 8 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh) to

go-ahead to spend $645,000 to build a new

6 cents per kWh in 1934.

turbine at the Lake Ivanhoe Plant.

Throughout the ‘30s, OUC promoted the

The late 1930s saw the addition of another

cost-saving benefits of using electricity with the

elevated water storage tank on Rugby Street

slogan “Cook Electrically and Save Money”—

in College Park and a second Lake Ivanhoe

even offering 120 electric ranges for just

power plant addition that brought OUC’s total

5 cents per month, added to a customer’s bill.

generation capacity to 19 MW.

OUC not only installed the stoves, but also maintained them free of charge.

In 1936, OUC relocated its offices from

In 1936, Martin W. Brown, who began his career as the utility’s first plant engineer, was promoted to General Manager. The following

City Hall to its new office building at Wall and

year, the Commission formally adopted a policy

Main streets in downtown Orlando across the

of keeping the people fully informed about

street from the Southern Bell Telephone

utility operations and “Where the Money Goes”

Company Building and the Orange County

to benefit the taxpayers and the citizens of

Court House. The first floor was occupied by

Orlando. This included the publishing of annual

the cashier, sales and contract department,

reports and informational bulletins on various

credit department, reception room and Offices

subjects of interest to OUC’s citizen-owners.

M A R T I N

W.

B R O W N In the early years, OUC had to

Florida native Martin W. Brown worked his way up through the ranks of the Orlando Utilities Commission on his way to becoming General Manager in 1936. The utility’s first chief engineer, he was promoted to plant superintendent in 1932.

He served as secretary and treasurer of the Municipal Utilities Association of Florida, and during World War II, was secretary of the Florida Power Pool State Defense Council.

spend time and energy to educate customers about the advantages of electricity and promote the use of electric appliances in the home.

Source: 1947-48 Orlando Utilities Commission Reports to the residents of Orlando.

Page 8

Page 9

J. Thomas Gurney, author of the original OUC charter.

OUC Charter Drafted, First Meeting Held Drafted by local attorney J. Thomas Gurney, the Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC) charter created a five-member Commission. Four citizens of Orlando were named to serve as Commissioners along with the Mayor of Orlando, who was automatically an ex-officio member of the board. These individuals were to serve without pay and be appointed for staggered four-year terms. They could serve second terms if re-nominated by the Commission.

The Commission was designed to function as a Board of Directors of a corporation. The individuals who framed the OUC charter took every possible precaution to set up the Commission in a manner that would effectively eliminate political pressure and influence.

The first official meeting of the newly formed Orlando Utilities Commission occurred on June 25, 1923 at 10:30 a.m. in the board room of the First National Bank. City Attorney W.B. Crawford asked each member of the Commission to draw a ticket, sight unseen, which established the term of office each new Commissioner would hold. The results were: Judge W.T. Bland, one year; J.F. Ange, two years; L.C. Massey, three years; H.H. Dickson and H.L. Beeman, each four years. It was moved by Ange, and seconded by Massey that the Honorable W.T. Bland be elected President of the Commission for the ensuing year.

Navigating the Great Depression During the Great Depression, the federal government provided funds to help OUC install underground electric feeder lines.

of the General Manager and Assistant General Manager.

A year later, OUC defended and won its

Completed in 1934, this project generated

legal authority to add the equipment and

250 jobs at a time when work was virtually

infrastructure necessary to provide reliable

impossible to find. That year, OUC offered

electric and water service to its customers

the lowest residential electric rates in Florida;

without approval from the Orlando City

in fact, the utility actually reduced electric

Council. In the 1937 Evans case, OUC got the

rates from 8 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh) to

go-ahead to spend $645,000 to build a new

6 cents per kWh in 1934.

turbine at the Lake Ivanhoe Plant.

Throughout the ‘30s, OUC promoted the

The late 1930s saw the addition of another

cost-saving benefits of using electricity with the

elevated water storage tank on Rugby Street

slogan “Cook Electrically and Save Money”—

in College Park and a second Lake Ivanhoe

even offering 120 electric ranges for just

power plant addition that brought OUC’s total

5 cents per month, added to a customer’s bill.

generation capacity to 19 MW.

OUC not only installed the stoves, but also maintained them free of charge.

In 1936, OUC relocated its offices from

In 1936, Martin W. Brown, who began his career as the utility’s first plant engineer, was promoted to General Manager. The following

City Hall to its new office building at Wall and

year, the Commission formally adopted a policy

Main streets in downtown Orlando across the

of keeping the people fully informed about

street from the Southern Bell Telephone

utility operations and “Where the Money Goes”

Company Building and the Orange County

to benefit the taxpayers and the citizens of

Court House. The first floor was occupied by

Orlando. This included the publishing of annual

the cashier, sales and contract department,

reports and informational bulletins on various

credit department, reception room and Offices

subjects of interest to OUC’s citizen-owners.

M A R T I N

W.

B R O W N In the early years, OUC had to

Florida native Martin W. Brown worked his way up through the ranks of the Orlando Utilities Commission on his way to becoming General Manager in 1936. The utility’s first chief engineer, he was promoted to plant superintendent in 1932.

He served as secretary and treasurer of the Municipal Utilities Association of Florida, and during World War II, was secretary of the Florida Power Pool State Defense Council.

spend time and energy to educate customers about the advantages of electricity and promote the use of electric appliances in the home.

Source: 1947-48 Orlando Utilities Commission Reports to the residents of Orlando.

Page 8

Page 9

1923–1949 The American Red Cross set up a surgical dressing unit at OUC during WWII.

On the Homefront

PROVIDING SAFE,

America entered the Second World War

High-Quality

after the bombing of Pearl Harbor on

created jobs. The state’s citrus industry also

December 7, 1941. As our country fought

began to thrive, fueling growth throughout

for freedom on the battlegrounds of Europe

Central Florida.

and the Pacific, OUC helped on the

DRINKING WATER Orlando Utilities Commission was established on the principle of providing

from the Depression, as defense contracts

To keep pace, OUC embarked mid-decade

homefront — keeping the power on and the

on a major expansion of the water treatment

water flowing for the citizens of Orlando.

and electric generation facilities. The new

And that wasn’t always easy. According to

Lake Highland Plant, containing both electric

Orlando: A Centennial History, in June of

generation and water treatment equipment,

1942, street lights were cut off “when the

would be built west of Lake Highland, south

city faced an acute power shortage due to

of the railroad tracks, directly across from the

lack of oil. Merchants were asked to cut air

existing plant. OUC also constructed a new

safe, high-quality water to its customers. The water system facilities owned

conditioning and display lights, and municipal

water main system that replaced many of the

and operated by the newly formed OUC were described in detail in an

lights were discontinued, with the exception

original mains that were installed beginning

of traffic signals.”

in 1886. A 20-inch main was laid from the

October 13, 1930 newspaper article titled “Orlando Utilities: A Great Success.”

Throughout some of the darkest years in

The following excerpt is from that article and illustrates OUC’s commitment to providing the highest quality water for its customers. he water supply of the City of Orlando is a source of considerable pride and satisfaction to the citizens because of the high quality of the water for domestic and commercial purposes. The water is derived from a chain of fresh water lakes in and adjacent to the City.

The raw water in these lakes is of low mineral content and is classed as a soft water.

The Orlando Utilities Commission has a modern purification plant. The design and operation of this plant is in accord with the most approved water works practice. The plant is supervised by an

‘‘T

experienced water works bacteriologist and chemist, and every effort is made to maintain the highest standards of quality. Orlando has never had an epidemic of typhoid fever or other disease traceable to the water supply.

The plant is pumping close to one billion gallons of water each year (2.7 MGD) and distributing the same through a system consisting of 156 miles of water mains in sizes ranging from 2 to 20 inches upon which there are more than 8,500 customer connections, and 427 municipal fire hydrants.”

to Lake Lucerne. Up to this point, the largest

what would become a legacy of community

water main in the City’s chief artery was

service — opening its doors to the American

10 inches in diameter.

Red Cross, which set up a surgical dressing

With the addition of new infrastructure

unit on the third floor of OUC’s office building.

came the need for a centralized service

One of the first such units in the war effort, it

operations area. In 1942, OUC built the 38,900-

served as the state’s training headquarters for

square-foot Lake Highland Service Yard, which

surgical instructors. More than 250,000

accommodated the new warehouse, meter

dressings were made at OUC, representing

rooms, paint shop, truck sheds and operations

107,447 hours of volunteer effort.

offices. The Yard was constructed on the north

During the war, the economies of Orlando and other Florida cities were able to rebound Lake Highland Service Yard construction circa 1942.

The OUC water pumping process — from low-lift pumps to aerators to settling basins to the high-lift pumps that carried water to the City mains.

Page 10

plant on Lake Ivanhoe down Orange Avenue

this nation’s history, OUC set the stage for

Page 11

shore of Lake Highland, on a private rail siding, adjacent to the Lake Ivanhoe Plant.

1923–1949 The American Red Cross set up a surgical dressing unit at OUC during WWII.

On the Homefront

PROVIDING SAFE,

America entered the Second World War

High-Quality

after the bombing of Pearl Harbor on

created jobs. The state’s citrus industry also

December 7, 1941. As our country fought

began to thrive, fueling growth throughout

for freedom on the battlegrounds of Europe

Central Florida.

and the Pacific, OUC helped on the

DRINKING WATER Orlando Utilities Commission was established on the principle of providing

from the Depression, as defense contracts

To keep pace, OUC embarked mid-decade

homefront — keeping the power on and the

on a major expansion of the water treatment

water flowing for the citizens of Orlando.

and electric generation facilities. The new

And that wasn’t always easy. According to

Lake Highland Plant, containing both electric

Orlando: A Centennial History, in June of

generation and water treatment equipment,

1942, street lights were cut off “when the

would be built west of Lake Highland, south

city faced an acute power shortage due to

of the railroad tracks, directly across from the

lack of oil. Merchants were asked to cut air

existing plant. OUC also constructed a new

safe, high-quality water to its customers. The water system facilities owned

conditioning and display lights, and municipal

water main system that replaced many of the

and operated by the newly formed OUC were described in detail in an

lights were discontinued, with the exception

original mains that were installed beginning

of traffic signals.”

in 1886. A 20-inch main was laid from the

October 13, 1930 newspaper article titled “Orlando Utilities: A Great Success.”

Throughout some of the darkest years in

The following excerpt is from that article and illustrates OUC’s commitment to providing the highest quality water for its customers. he water supply of the City of Orlando is a source of considerable pride and satisfaction to the citizens because of the high quality of the water for domestic and commercial purposes. The water is derived from a chain of fresh water lakes in and adjacent to the City.

The raw water in these lakes is of low mineral content and is classed as a soft water.

The Orlando Utilities Commission has a modern purification plant. The design and operation of this plant is in accord with the most approved water works practice. The plant is supervised by an

‘‘T

experienced water works bacteriologist and chemist, and every effort is made to maintain the highest standards of quality. Orlando has never had an epidemic of typhoid fever or other disease traceable to the water supply.

The plant is pumping close to one billion gallons of water each year (2.7 MGD) and distributing the same through a system consisting of 156 miles of water mains in sizes ranging from 2 to 20 inches upon which there are more than 8,500 customer connections, and 427 municipal fire hydrants.”

to Lake Lucerne. Up to this point, the largest

what would become a legacy of community

water main in the City’s chief artery was

service — opening its doors to the American

10 inches in diameter.

Red Cross, which set up a surgical dressing

With the addition of new infrastructure

unit on the third floor of OUC’s office building.

came the need for a centralized service

One of the first such units in the war effort, it

operations area. In 1942, OUC built the 38,900-

served as the state’s training headquarters for

square-foot Lake Highland Service Yard, which

surgical instructors. More than 250,000

accommodated the new warehouse, meter

dressings were made at OUC, representing

rooms, paint shop, truck sheds and operations

107,447 hours of volunteer effort.

offices. The Yard was constructed on the north

During the war, the economies of Orlando and other Florida cities were able to rebound Lake Highland Service Yard construction circa 1942.

The OUC water pumping process — from low-lift pumps to aerators to settling basins to the high-lift pumps that carried water to the City mains.

Page 10

plant on Lake Ivanhoe down Orange Avenue

this nation’s history, OUC set the stage for

Page 11

shore of Lake Highland, on a private rail siding, adjacent to the Lake Ivanhoe Plant.

1923–1949 Lake Ivanhoe Plant in forefront and construction of Lake Highland Plant behind the facility.

OUC Consumer Accounting Department, 1947.

Forecasting and Funding Growth

Potential Electric and Water Plant in Windermere Post-War Era Positions OUC for the Next Generation

In 1944, faced with growing demand for electricity and water, OUC purchased 65 acres

During the early 1940s, OUC began what would

In the post-war 1940s, America experienced

of land on the southwestern part of town as sites

become a tradition of prudent financial planning

for a new power plant and water treatment facility.

and customer demand forecasting. In 1942, the

The two parcels of property were strategically

utility created cash reserves to pay for a $5 million

located on Lake Down in Windermere, Florida.

plant and property expansion program based

OUC also began purchasing right-of-way for

on a study that looked at future population and

transmission lines and water mains to tie in to

potential consumer requirements. The plan

OUC's existing system.

included increasing generating capacity by

However, because residents opposed using

installing a new steam turbine generator at the Lake Highland property.

the water plant were abandoned and the land

Projecting the need for an increase in water

was sold in 1964. The power plant site was

supply capacity of about 150 percent, the plan

retained for potential future purposes and

also suggested the addition of concrete and

renamed Camp Down.

cast-iron pipes and tubular tunnels to connect

plant had a rated capacity of 16 MGD and

resulted in the pollution of lakes, rivers and

featured highly sophisticated equipment

streams. This prompted Congress to enact

capable of treating raw water, which by 1949

the first major legislation in the country’s

was being withdrawn from Lakes Highland,

history (the Federal Water Pollution Control

Ivanhoe, Concord, Adair and Underhill. The

Act of 1948) to “enhance the quality and value

surface water was used for treatment in the

of our water resources and to establish a

water plant, as well as to cool the electric plant. weathered the nation’s economic collapse, the

as the Clean Water Act, this was seen as the

Great Depression and World War II — was

beginning of government regulation of both

poised to enter a period of rapid growth and

the water and energy industries. In 1949,

change, fueled by a burgeoning population

OUC completed the new Lake Highland Plant.

and driven by Space Age technology.

to be a modern high-pressure facility, having

Camp Down in Windermere, Florida.

a capacity of 25,000 kW. When combined with the existing 19,000 kW, the plant’s total generation capacity grew to 44,000 kW. OUC made adequate provisions, so that additional units could be added at minimum cost, as Orlando grew and demand for electrical energy increased.

Electric units at Lake Ivanhoe.

urtis H. Stanton was born in Key West, Florida. He graduated from the University of Florida in 1940 with a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering degree and was hired by the General Electric Company in Schenectady, New York. He joined Orlando Utilities Commission in 1947 as Assistant General Manager, working for GM Martin Brown.

Shortly thereafter, Brown passed away, and Stanton took the reins. He was just 29.

Heavily recruited by the OUC board from General Electric, Stanton had already developed a reputation as someone who knew how to get things done. He was the perfect person to lead a small utility facing rampant growth.

One of his first duties was the construction of the Lake Highland Plant,

a power and water plant that would come online in 1949. The Indian River Plant in Brevard County followed more than a decade later in 1960.

Stanton remained at the helm of OUC for 35 years, turning the local utility into a powerful player in the electric and water utility industry. A trailblazer whose relationshipbuilding skills enabled him to forge valuable partnerships with organizations both large and small, Stanton was instrumental in forming entities like the Florida Electric Power Coordinating Group (FCG) that benefited not only citizens of Orlando, but people throughout Florida as well. Under his leadership, OUC’s water system was upgraded from surface water to well water, and coal and nuclear power were added to the generation portfolio.

Stanton once said, “In all my years of experience, I can tell you there is nothing louder than a silent power plant.” As a result during his tenure, he made sure that OUC

Page 12

As the decade drew to a close, OUC — having

abatement of water pollution.” Later known

For its time, the power plant was considered

Lakes Underhill, Highland, Ivanhoe, Big Fairview and Little Fairview.

rapid industrial and urban growth, which

national policy for the prevention, control and

the lake as a source of drinking water, plans for

The new Lake Highland water treatment

power plants were built with the best available technology at the time of construction and were among the most efficiently run generation units in the country.

Stanton was active in the local community, as well as in national water and electric trade associations. As president of the American Water Works Association, he represented that group on a visit to President Jimmy Carter in the White House in 1979. He also served as the president of the Orlando Chamber of Commerce and was awarded the prestigious John Young Award from Junior Achievement for distinguishing himself in his field and bringing national acclaim and public notice to Orlando.

Page 13

1923–1949 Lake Ivanhoe Plant in forefront and construction of Lake Highland Plant behind the facility.

OUC Consumer Accounting Department, 1947.

Forecasting and Funding Growth

Potential Electric and Water Plant in Windermere Post-War Era Positions OUC for the Next Generation

In 1944, faced with growing demand for electricity and water, OUC purchased 65 acres

During the early 1940s, OUC began what would

In the post-war 1940s, America experienced

of land on the southwestern part of town as sites

become a tradition of prudent financial planning

for a new power plant and water treatment facility.

and customer demand forecasting. In 1942, the

The two parcels of property were strategically

utility created cash reserves to pay for a $5 million

located on Lake Down in Windermere, Florida.

plant and property expansion program based

OUC also began purchasing right-of-way for

on a study that looked at future population and

transmission lines and water mains to tie in to

potential consumer requirements. The plan

OUC's existing system.

included increasing generating capacity by

However, because residents opposed using

installing a new steam turbine generator at the Lake Highland property.

the water plant were abandoned and the land

Projecting the need for an increase in water

was sold in 1964. The power plant site was

supply capacity of about 150 percent, the plan

retained for potential future purposes and

also suggested the addition of concrete and

renamed Camp Down.

cast-iron pipes and tubular tunnels to connect

plant had a rated capacity of 16 MGD and

resulted in the pollution of lakes, rivers and

featured highly sophisticated equipment

streams. This prompted Congress to enact

capable of treating raw water, which by 1949

the first major legislation in the country’s

was being withdrawn from Lakes Highland,

history (the Federal Water Pollution Control

Ivanhoe, Concord, Adair and Underhill. The

Act of 1948) to “enhance the quality and value

surface water was used for treatment in the

of our water resources and to establish a

water plant, as well as to cool the electric plant. weathered the nation’s economic collapse, the

as the Clean Water Act, this was seen as the

Great Depression and World War II — was

beginning of government regulation of both

poised to enter a period of rapid growth and

the water and energy industries. In 1949,

change, fueled by a burgeoning population

OUC completed the new Lake Highland Plant.

and driven by Space Age technology.

to be a modern high-pressure facility, having

Camp Down in Windermere, Florida.

a capacity of 25,000 kW. When combined with the existing 19,000 kW, the plant’s total generation capacity grew to 44,000 kW. OUC made adequate provisions, so that additional units could be added at minimum cost, as Orlando grew and demand for electrical energy increased.

Electric units at Lake Ivanhoe.

urtis H. Stanton was born in Key West, Florida. He graduated from the University of Florida in 1940 with a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering degree and was hired by the General Electric Company in Schenectady, New York. He joined Orlando Utilities Commission in 1947 as Assistant General Manager, working for GM Martin Brown.

Shortly thereafter, Brown passed away, and Stanton took the reins. He was just 29.

Heavily recruited by the OUC board from General Electric, Stanton had already developed a reputation as someone who knew how to get things done. He was the perfect person to lead a small utility facing rampant growth.

One of his first duties was the construction of the Lake Highland Plant,

a power and water plant that would come online in 1949. The Indian River Plant in Brevard County followed more than a decade later in 1960.

Stanton remained at the helm of OUC for 35 years, turning the local utility into a powerful player in the electric and water utility industry. A trailblazer whose relationshipbuilding skills enabled him to forge valuable partnerships with organizations both large and small, Stanton was instrumental in forming entities like the Florida Electric Power Coordinating Group (FCG) that benefited not only citizens of Orlando, but people throughout Florida as well. Under his leadership, OUC’s water system was upgraded from surface water to well water, and coal and nuclear power were added to the generation portfolio.

Stanton once said, “In all my years of experience, I can tell you there is nothing louder than a silent power plant.” As a result during his tenure, he made sure that OUC

Page 12

As the decade drew to a close, OUC — having

abatement of water pollution.” Later known

For its time, the power plant was considered

Lakes Underhill, Highland, Ivanhoe, Big Fairview and Little Fairview.

rapid industrial and urban growth, which

national policy for the prevention, control and

the lake as a source of drinking water, plans for

The new Lake Highland water treatment

power plants were built with the best available technology at the time of construction and were among the most efficiently run generation units in the country.

Stanton was active in the local community, as well as in national water and electric trade associations. As president of the American Water Works Association, he represented that group on a visit to President Jimmy Carter in the White House in 1979. He also served as the president of the Orlando Chamber of Commerce and was awarded the prestigious John Young Award from Junior Achievement for distinguishing himself in his field and bringing national acclaim and public notice to Orlando.

Page 13

RS STOME U C C ECTRI ERS 0 EL 0 6 USTOM , C 2 2 R E T 3 WA YEES 19,77 EMPLO 0 0 MWH 2 LLIONTED I M 1.4 GENERA NS GALLOPED N O I M L U L 3 BI WATER P OF

CHAPTER III:

A M E R I C A

1955

T O

T H E

1956

• Indian River Plant, Unit 2 is completed.

• OUC begins burying power lines and replacing overhead lines with underground ones, along Colonial Drive, west to Texas Avenue.

request with the Atomic Energy

• OUC employee newsletter, the Spark &

Commission to join

Splash, debuts.

a study of the

M O O N

1964

• OUC files a

• Air Pollution Control Act of 1955 is enacted.

R A C E S

1950 –1969

1970 –1989

1990 –2010

O U C S E T S S I G H T S O N T E C H N O L O G Y, R E L I A B I L I T Y ollowing World War II, Florida was recognized as the last of the Eastern frontier states. By 1950, as Orlando’s population swelled to 51,826 (officially becoming a “metropolitan area”), the City had become the region’s financial,

business and residential growth. As America raced to the moon, OUC began to focus on new types of fuel and sources of water. The new Orlando Army Air Base and the arrival of the

powered generators.

OUC switches from surface water to well water from Floridan Aquifer.

1923 –1949

retail and transportation hub. Office buildings and shopping centers were built to support

possibilities of using nuclear-

1957

1875 –1922

• Glenn L. Martin Company decides to build missile facility

1966

research and production. As demand rose, OUC began a tradition of focusing on reliability

OUC installs first data processing system, the IBM-360.

and investing in new technology.

Glenn L. Martin Company in 1956 also put Central Florida on the map as a center for military Photo ASII-40-5875 Courtesy of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration

in southwest Orlando.

1967

Setting Standards for the Future: OUC Pioneers Static Shield Wire

• OUC develops Handbook, formalizing employee policies.

1958

• Interstate 4 opens in Orlando,

Additions to the Lake

providing access to new areas

Highland Plant go into

of development in the northern

operation.

and southern regions of Orange County.

1960

• Air Quality Act of 1967 is enacted.

OUC always understood the importance of reliability — but during the 1950s, the utility

Although shield wire was commonly used

aggressively took this commitment to the next

for this purpose on transmission lines, its

level, investing in new technology that would

application on distribution systems was limited.

set standards for the future.

After an OUC study showed the process to be

For example, OUC was one of the first

the OUC system — improving reliability in

protect its distribution system against lightning

“the lightning capital of the United States.”

goes online.

1968 OUC opens new

• Clean Air Act of 1963 is enacted.

Administration Building

• 230,000-volt tie “interconnects”

and Customer Service Center.

OUC and FPL.

Page 14

effective, it became standard design throughout

utilities in the state to use static shield wire to

Indian River Plant

1963

strikes — a cause of frequent power outages.

Page 15

RS STOME U C C ECTRI ERS 0 EL 0 6 USTOM , C 2 2 R E T 3 WA YEES 19,77 EMPLO 0 0 MWH 2 LLIONTED I M 1.4 GENERA NS GALLOPED N O I M L U L 3 BI WATER P OF

CHAPTER III:

A M E R I C A

1955

T O

T H E

1956

• Indian River Plant, Unit 2 is completed.

• OUC begins burying power lines and replacing overhead lines with underground ones, along Colonial Drive, west to Texas Avenue.

request with the Atomic Energy

• OUC employee newsletter, the Spark &

Commission to join

Splash, debuts.

a study of the

M O O N

1964

• OUC files a

• Air Pollution Control Act of 1955 is enacted.

R A C E S

1950 –1969

1970 –1989

1990 –2010

O U C S E T S S I G H T S O N T E C H N O L O G Y, R E L I A B I L I T Y ollowing World War II, Florida was recognized as the last of the Eastern frontier states. By 1950, as Orlando’s population swelled to 51,826 (officially becoming a “metropolitan area”), the City had become the region’s financial,

business and residential growth. As America raced to the moon, OUC began to focus on new types of fuel and sources of water. The new Orlando Army Air Base and the arrival of the

powered generators.

OUC switches from surface water to well water from Floridan Aquifer.

1923 –1949

retail and transportation hub. Office buildings and shopping centers were built to support

possibilities of using nuclear-

1957

1875 –1922

• Glenn L. Martin Company decides to build missile facility

1966

research and production. As demand rose, OUC began a tradition of focusing on reliability

OUC installs first data processing system, the IBM-360.

and investing in new technology.

Glenn L. Martin Company in 1956 also put Central Florida on the map as a center for military Photo ASII-40-5875 Courtesy of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration

in southwest Orlando.

1967

Setting Standards for the Future: OUC Pioneers Static Shield Wire

• OUC develops Handbook, formalizing employee policies.

1958

• Interstate 4 opens in Orlando,

Additions to the Lake

providing access to new areas

Highland Plant go into

of development in the northern

operation.

and southern regions of Orange County.

1960

• Air Quality Act of 1967 is enacted.

OUC always understood the importance of reliability — but during the 1950s, the utility

Although shield wire was commonly used

aggressively took this commitment to the next

for this purpose on transmission lines, its

level, investing in new technology that would

application on distribution systems was limited.

set standards for the future.

After an OUC study showed the process to be

For example, OUC was one of the first

the OUC system — improving reliability in

protect its distribution system against lightning

“the lightning capital of the United States.”

goes online.

1968 OUC opens new

• Clean Air Act of 1963 is enacted.

Administration Building

• 230,000-volt tie “interconnects”

and Customer Service Center.

OUC and FPL.

Page 14

effective, it became standard design throughout

utilities in the state to use static shield wire to

Indian River Plant

1963

strikes — a cause of frequent power outages.

Page 15

Commitment to Facilitating Growth: T H E

G L E N N

L .

M A R T I N

In 1956, when the Glenn L. Martin Company decided to locate a large missile facility in southwest Orlando, OUC worked to provide the infrastructure needed to support the addition of this new company to our community.

“We found out where the Glenn Martin Company was going to locate about a week before it was publically announced. In those days, whoever had lines closest served the customer. So we got around there close enough. We also had the advantage of providing water in addition to electricity, which was a big plus for Martin. We agreed to build them a separate water plant, because they were too far away from our water lines. And we actually dug wells and put in a small water treatment plant.”

– Curt Stanton OUC General Manager at the time The Martin facility, which would eventually employ thousands of people to manufacture missiles and other hardware for the U.S. military, became a major player in the growth that occurred in southwest Orange County during the 1950s and 1960s. The defense plant itself occupied hundreds of acres of land,

C O M PA N Y

and the company also purchased thousands of additional acres in southwest Orange County, which were developed into large commercial and “We were serving Martin industrial tracts, such as initially with 12 kV (12,000 Orlando Central Park. volts). It was coming all the In tandem with the way from the Lake Highland construction of the Plant. Boy, that is a long defense plant and the haul for that kind of load other properties, large residential neighborhoods for one circuit. So that’s why there was this impetus also sprung up. The new for us to immediately go out OUC Martin Plant there with 115 kV and put in provided water supply a substation.” for the new defense facility and the ancillary – Lou Stone developments that Plant Engineer at the time accompanied it.

During this time, the Pine Hills area, located eight miles north of the defense plant, also began to undergo extensive residential and associated commercial development to accommodate many of the plant employees. To support this new growth area, OUC built the Pine Hills Water Plant in 1958 and installed distribution mains to deliver water to customers living in this unincorporated area of Orange County. Because the Martin Plant was located too far from existing lines, OUC built a dedicated water treatment plant to serve the facility and extended a 115 kilovolt (kV) line to provide electric service.

Beneath the Surface: Drawing Water from a New Source — the Floridan Aquifer To provide a safe and reliable drinking water supply for its customers, OUC began in 1957 to

service area and interconnected by means of

switch from surface water to well water drawn

transmission pipes.

from the Floridan Aquifer.

As demand increased, withdrawals from the

OUC converts from surface to well water.

This new concept would provide OUC customers with an extremely reliable and

lakes dropped water levels to unacceptable

operationally efficient water system.

limits, especially during years when rainfall

Water from the aquifer also offered other

was very low. In addition, the quality of the

advantages: It was high quality compared

raw water pumped from the lakes required

to lake water, requiring less extensive and

extensive coagulation/filtration treatment,

less costly treatment; and it was plentiful,

which was very costly.

This shift to groundwater meant that plants

eliminating the environmental and aesthetic problems that were caused when lakes

could be located anywhere in the service area,

began to be over-pumped beyond their

because wells could be drilled down to the

sustainable yield.

aquifer at any location. Thus, water plants could

Orlando Utilities Commission, led by GM Curt Stanton, touring new Martin Water Plant, 1958.

In 1957, OUC presented the City of Orlando with the Lake Eola fountain. Originally the idea of Linton E. Allen, then President of the First National Bank (now SunTrust), the City landmark was first called the “Centennial Fountain” but was renamed the “Linton E. Allen Memorial Fountain” after the community leader’s death.

Page 16

be spread out, strategically located within the

Page 17

Commitment to Facilitating Growth: T H E

G L E N N

L .

M A R T I N

In 1956, when the Glenn L. Martin Company decided to locate a large missile facility in southwest Orlando, OUC worked to provide the infrastructure needed to support the addition of this new company to our community.

“We found out where the Glenn Martin Company was going to locate about a week before it was publically announced. In those days, whoever had lines closest served the customer. So we got around there close enough. We also had the advantage of providing water in addition to electricity, which was a big plus for Martin. We agreed to build them a separate water plant, because they were too far away from our water lines. And we actually dug wells and put in a small water treatment plant.”

– Curt Stanton OUC General Manager at the time The Martin facility, which would eventually employ thousands of people to manufacture missiles and other hardware for the U.S. military, became a major player in the growth that occurred in southwest Orange County during the 1950s and 1960s. The defense plant itself occupied hundreds of acres of land,

C O M PA N Y

and the company also purchased thousands of additional acres in southwest Orange County, which were developed into large commercial and “We were serving Martin industrial tracts, such as initially with 12 kV (12,000 Orlando Central Park. volts). It was coming all the In tandem with the way from the Lake Highland construction of the Plant. Boy, that is a long defense plant and the haul for that kind of load other properties, large residential neighborhoods for one circuit. So that’s why there was this impetus also sprung up. The new for us to immediately go out OUC Martin Plant there with 115 kV and put in provided water supply a substation.” for the new defense facility and the ancillary – Lou Stone developments that Plant Engineer at the time accompanied it.

During this time, the Pine Hills area, located eight miles north of the defense plant, also began to undergo extensive residential and associated commercial development to accommodate many of the plant employees. To support this new growth area, OUC built the Pine Hills Water Plant in 1958 and installed distribution mains to deliver water to customers living in this unincorporated area of Orange County. Because the Martin Plant was located too far from existing lines, OUC built a dedicated water treatment plant to serve the facility and extended a 115 kilovolt (kV) line to provide electric service.

Beneath the Surface: Drawing Water from a New Source — the Floridan Aquifer To provide a safe and reliable drinking water supply for its customers, OUC began in 1957 to

service area and interconnected by means of

switch from surface water to well water drawn

transmission pipes.

from the Floridan Aquifer.

As demand increased, withdrawals from the

OUC converts from surface to well water.

This new concept would provide OUC customers with an extremely reliable and

lakes dropped water levels to unacceptable

operationally efficient water system.

limits, especially during years when rainfall

Water from the aquifer also offered other

was very low. In addition, the quality of the

advantages: It was high quality compared

raw water pumped from the lakes required

to lake water, requiring less extensive and

extensive coagulation/filtration treatment,

less costly treatment; and it was plentiful,

which was very costly.

This shift to groundwater meant that plants

eliminating the environmental and aesthetic problems that were caused when lakes

could be located anywhere in the service area,

began to be over-pumped beyond their

because wells could be drilled down to the

sustainable yield.

aquifer at any location. Thus, water plants could

Orlando Utilities Commission, led by GM Curt Stanton, touring new Martin Water Plant, 1958.

In 1957, OUC presented the City of Orlando with the Lake Eola fountain. Originally the idea of Linton E. Allen, then President of the First National Bank (now SunTrust), the City landmark was first called the “Centennial Fountain” but was renamed the “Linton E. Allen Memorial Fountain” after the community leader’s death.

Page 16

be spread out, strategically located within the

Page 17

he 1960s saw advancements in transmitting and pooling electricity. Load dispatchers used the economic loading slide rule, which was the first analog computer at OUC. This helped them determine which units were the most “economical” to run during certain periods of time, based on factors like fuel cost and transmission availability.

Larger, More Efficient Lake Highland Units Come Online In 1958 — after the larger, more efficient

for peaking service. At the time of their

Lake Highland Plant went into operation and

installation, these units were the largest

the Lake Ivanhoe Plant was taken offline —

peaking gas turbines in the world.

the OUC electric system grew rapidly. In just

General Manager Curt Stanton and Plant

one year, load increased 25 percent. In fact,

Engineer Harry Luff co-authored a technical

backup generation to cover the loss of units. For that reason,

OUC was expanding so quickly that its

paper on operation and maintenance of

interconnections provided OUC the ability to connect with

engineering firm recommended installing two

these turbines, which was presented to the

other utilities and back each other up.

gas turbines, in addition to the existing steam

American Society of Mechanical Engineers

units, at the Lake Highland Plant to be used

Gas Turbine Conference in 1961.

Utilities stood on their own and had to have enough

Interconnections were established with Florida Power

Harry Luff, Curt Stanton, Ted Pope.

Corporation in Orlando and later with Florida Power & Light (FPL) on the East Coast near the new plant site on the Indian River.

At 2:46 p.m. on October 15, 1963, a 230,000-volt tie between OUC and FPL was energized at the Commission’s Indian River Plant by Curt Stanton, Executive Vice President and GM of OUC, and Alan Wright, Vice President of FPL. “The energizing of this tie represents the completion of another phase of the Orlando Utilities’ overall expansion

OUC Conducts First Long-Range Planning Study As OUC’s service territory continued to

transmission lines that would loop around

expand, the utility undertook the first long-range

Orlando. All recommendations were approved

planning study of its electric system with outside

by the Commission.

engineering firm Black and Veatch to evaluate the system and establish a plan for facilitating growth.

In 1961, the high-voltage transmission loop around the Orlando area was completed —

program to strengthen and increase the capability of its

To increase system reliability, Black and

expanding system,” Stanton said. “This new tie offers a

Veatch recommended that OUC establish

interconnections with other power systems. And

further source of supply of energy in the event of power

interconnections with other power systems,

in 1964, OUC began burying power lines and

failure and increases the total tie capacity to 350,000 kW.”

select a site for a new power plant and install

replacing overhead lines with underground utilities

(Orlando Sentinel, October 16, 1963)

a new generating unit. The study also revealed

along Colonial Drive west to Texas Avenue.

placing OUC in a strong position to add more

the need for new substations and 115 kV

Indian River Plant Hailed as “Marvel of Efficiency and Modern Technology”

Living Better . . .

Electrically

In 1960, a new generating plant was designed

reported to have been the largest single project

at the time: “Working to keep electricity your

and constructed in Brevard County along the Indian

money-wise in OUC history (OUC Today, Indian

B.E.S.T. value!”

River. Aptly named the Indian River Plant (IRP), this

River Anniversary Issue, Vol. XXI, No. 1, 1985).

oil- and gas-fired unit was more than twice the size

When IRP opened, local media hailed it as a

provided two strategic advantages: an unlimited

marvel of efficiency and modern technology. With

supply of cooling water for the steam condensers

a nameplate rating of 78.5 MW and the capability

and water transportation for fuel oil deliveries from

system was closed for the first time at 11:53 p.m.

to produce more than 90 MW under peak load

nearby Port Canaveral.

on February 20, 1960. One thousand people

conditions, its generators would power growth in

braved bad weather to attend the dedication of

the area — producing energy at a cost of two cents

oil via Port Canaveral — occurred four years

the new plant, located halfway between Titusville

per kilowatt hour, the lowest price in the history of

later after the completion of the 205-MW Unit 2

and Cocoa. Built at a cost of $16 million, IRP was

the utility, clearly supporting OUC Today’s slogan

at IRP.

of the largest unit at the Lake Highland Plant.

The switch connecting IRP to OUC’s electric

As part of a national campaign launched by the electric industry, OUC participated in the Gold Medallion Home program, which touted the built-in advantages of “living better electrically.” Dwellings that were awarded this seal used “low-cost electricity” exclusively for “winter heat, summer cooling, year-around cooking and water-heating, as well as for light and power.”

Page 18

The plant’s location along the Indian River

Page 19

That milestone — the first barge delivery of

he 1960s saw advancements in transmitting and pooling electricity. Load dispatchers used the economic loading slide rule, which was the first analog computer at OUC. This helped them determine which units were the most “economical” to run during certain periods of time, based on factors like fuel cost and transmission availability.

Larger, More Efficient Lake Highland Units Come Online In 1958 — after the larger, more efficient

for peaking service. At the time of their

Lake Highland Plant went into operation and

installation, these units were the largest

the Lake Ivanhoe Plant was taken offline —

peaking gas turbines in the world.

the OUC electric system grew rapidly. In just

General Manager Curt Stanton and Plant

one year, load increased 25 percent. In fact,

Engineer Harry Luff co-authored a technical

backup generation to cover the loss of units. For that reason,

OUC was expanding so quickly that its

paper on operation and maintenance of

interconnections provided OUC the ability to connect with

engineering firm recommended installing two

these turbines, which was presented to the

other utilities and back each other up.

gas turbines, in addition to the existing steam

American Society of Mechanical Engineers

units, at the Lake Highland Plant to be used

Gas Turbine Conference in 1961.

Utilities stood on their own and had to have enough

Interconnections were established with Florida Power

Harry Luff, Curt Stanton, Ted Pope.

Corporation in Orlando and later with Florida Power & Light (FPL) on the East Coast near the new plant site on the Indian River.

At 2:46 p.m. on October 15, 1963, a 230,000-volt tie between OUC and FPL was energized at the Commission’s Indian River Plant by Curt Stanton, Executive Vice President and GM of OUC, and Alan Wright, Vice President of FPL. “The energizing of this tie represents the completion of another phase of the Orlando Utilities’ overall expansion

OUC Conducts First Long-Range Planning Study As OUC’s service territory continued to

transmission lines that would loop around

expand, the utility undertook the first long-range

Orlando. All recommendations were approved

planning study of its electric system with outside

by the Commission.

engineering firm Black and Veatch to evaluate the system and establish a plan for facilitating growth.

In 1961, the high-voltage transmission loop around the Orlando area was completed —

program to strengthen and increase the capability of its

To increase system reliability, Black and

expanding system,” Stanton said. “This new tie offers a

Veatch recommended that OUC establish

interconnections with other power systems. And

further source of supply of energy in the event of power

interconnections with other power systems,

in 1964, OUC began burying power lines and

failure and increases the total tie capacity to 350,000 kW.”

select a site for a new power plant and install

replacing overhead lines with underground utilities

(Orlando Sentinel, October 16, 1963)

a new generating unit. The study also revealed

along Colonial Drive west to Texas Avenue.

placing OUC in a strong position to add more

the need for new substations and 115 kV

Indian River Plant Hailed as “Marvel of Efficiency and Modern Technology”

Living Better . . .

Electrically

In 1960, a new generating plant was designed

reported to have been the largest single project

at the time: “Working to keep electricity your

and constructed in Brevard County along the Indian

money-wise in OUC history (OUC Today, Indian

B.E.S.T. value!”

River. Aptly named the Indian River Plant (IRP), this

River Anniversary Issue, Vol. XXI, No. 1, 1985).

oil- and gas-fired unit was more than twice the size

When IRP opened, local media hailed it as a

provided two strategic advantages: an unlimited

marvel of efficiency and modern technology. With

supply of cooling water for the steam condensers

a nameplate rating of 78.5 MW and the capability

and water transportation for fuel oil deliveries from

system was closed for the first time at 11:53 p.m.

to produce more than 90 MW under peak load

nearby Port Canaveral.

on February 20, 1960. One thousand people

conditions, its generators would power growth in

braved bad weather to attend the dedication of

the area — producing energy at a cost of two cents

oil via Port Canaveral — occurred four years

the new plant, located halfway between Titusville

per kilowatt hour, the lowest price in the history of

later after the completion of the 205-MW Unit 2

and Cocoa. Built at a cost of $16 million, IRP was

the utility, clearly supporting OUC Today’s slogan

at IRP.

of the largest unit at the Lake Highland Plant.

The switch connecting IRP to OUC’s electric

As part of a national campaign launched by the electric industry, OUC participated in the Gold Medallion Home program, which touted the built-in advantages of “living better electrically.” Dwellings that were awarded this seal used “low-cost electricity” exclusively for “winter heat, summer cooling, year-around cooking and water-heating, as well as for light and power.”

Page 18

The plant’s location along the Indian River

Page 19

That milestone — the first barge delivery of

Environmental Regulations Groundbreaking for the OUC Administration Building.

In the ‘50s and ‘60s, the federal government enacted environmental legislation that would have a lasting effect on public utilities.

The Air Pollution Control Act of 1955 — the first federal legislation involving air pollution — funded research for scope and sources of air pollution.

The Clean Air Act of 1963 was the first federal legislation regarding air pollution control. It authorized the development of a national program to address air pollution-related environmental problems and authorized research into techniques to minimize air pollution.

OUC Helps Support City Services In 1966, OUC transferred $4.18 million to

sewerage and sanitary facilities, street paving,

the City of Orlando, which amounted to more

cleaning and lighting, parks and playgrounds,

than 50 percent of the City’s operating

traffic engineering, airport operation, health

budget. Power and water contributions

department services and many more

helped provide police and fire protection,

community services.

In 1968, the Florida State Board of Health

Mapping a System of Pipes, Power Lines, Plants and Substations One of the most significant accomplishments

The Air Quality Act of 1967 authorized enforcement procedures for air pollution problems involving interstate transport of pollutants and authorized expanded research activities.

OUC Water Department Chosen Best in State populations of more than 25,000, the state

chose OUC’s water department as the best

board of field sanitary engineers judged the

large-city operation in the state for the previous

Orlando plant tops in product quality, employee

three years. After inspecting private and

professionalism, preventive maintenance, safety,

municipal facilities serving areas with

cleanliness and emergency planning.

OUC Opens New Administration Building

easily. It needed not only the appropriate

On April 18, 1968, OUC opened its new,

of the late 1960s was the improvement of

technology, but also required that people

eight-story, $3 million Administration Building

Building will give the Commission a greater

OUC’s electric mapping system. Up to that

change longstanding habits.

and Customer Service Center at the corner of

operational capacity, a needed capacity

time, most of the feeder circuits and electrical

The mapping system process was continually

Manager, “The new Administration

Orange Avenue and Anderson Street. The

with the advent of Disney World, Florida

switching capabilities had resided in the minds

upgraded and improved as time and technology

new facility, which would serve as OUC’s

Technological University and the new Naval

of a few people and hard copies of maps. But,

advanced to the point where even field

home in downtown Orlando for the next 40

Training Center. These additions to our

as OUC grew, better documentation was

personnel have access to mapping and

years, housed all of the Commission’s

economy will put increasing demands upon

needed. This process, however, did not come

switching procedures via portable computers.

administrative personnel, as well as business

OUC to supply efficient, low-cost electric

and accounting divisions.

and water services to a wide variety of new

According to Curtis H. Stanton, OUC Executive Vice President and General

Information Technology: From Spiral Notebooks to Mainframes Logging information into spiral notebooks was standard procedure when OUC first began operations in 1923. In 1966, that all changed, as the utility installed the first stage of its new $600,000 data processing system. The basic units of the new system, the IBM-360, were installed on the seventh floor of City Hall until the Commission’s new building was complete.

B.L. Cording, OUC data processing division director, told the Orlando Morning Sentinel that “the IBM-360 is a vast, powerful system that will simplify OUC’s programming effort and will allow maximum utilization of equipment and provide continuous availability of necessary information.”

(Orlando Sentinel, 1966)

Page 20

Page 21

industries, businesses, public institutions and residential areas.”

Environmental Regulations Groundbreaking for the OUC Administration Building.

In the ‘50s and ‘60s, the federal government enacted environmental legislation that would have a lasting effect on public utilities.

The Air Pollution Control Act of 1955 — the first federal legislation involving air pollution — funded research for scope and sources of air pollution.

The Clean Air Act of 1963 was the first federal legislation regarding air pollution control. It authorized the development of a national program to address air pollution-related environmental problems and authorized research into techniques to minimize air pollution.

OUC Helps Support City Services In 1966, OUC transferred $4.18 million to

sewerage and sanitary facilities, street paving,

the City of Orlando, which amounted to more

cleaning and lighting, parks and playgrounds,

than 50 percent of the City’s operating

traffic engineering, airport operation, health

budget. Power and water contributions

department services and many more

helped provide police and fire protection,

community services.

In 1968, the Florida State Board of Health

Mapping a System of Pipes, Power Lines, Plants and Substations One of the most significant accomplishments

The Air Quality Act of 1967 authorized enforcement procedures for air pollution problems involving interstate transport of pollutants and authorized expanded research activities.

OUC Water Department Chosen Best in State populations of more than 25,000, the state

chose OUC’s water department as the best

board of field sanitary engineers judged the

large-city operation in the state for the previous

Orlando plant tops in product quality, employee

three years. After inspecting private and

professionalism, preventive maintenance, safety,

municipal facilities serving areas with

cleanliness and emergency planning.

OUC Opens New Administration Building

easily. It needed not only the appropriate

On April 18, 1968, OUC opened its new,

of the late 1960s was the improvement of

technology, but also required that people

eight-story, $3 million Administration Building

Building will give the Commission a greater

OUC’s electric mapping system. Up to that

change longstanding habits.

and Customer Service Center at the corner of

operational capacity, a needed capacity

time, most of the feeder circuits and electrical

The mapping system process was continually

Manager, “The new Administration

Orange Avenue and Anderson Street. The

with the advent of Disney World, Florida

switching capabilities had resided in the minds

upgraded and improved as time and technology

new facility, which would serve as OUC’s

Technological University and the new Naval

of a few people and hard copies of maps. But,

advanced to the point where even field

home in downtown Orlando for the next 40

Training Center. These additions to our

as OUC grew, better documentation was

personnel have access to mapping and

years, housed all of the Commission’s

economy will put increasing demands upon

needed. This process, however, did not come

switching procedures via portable computers.

administrative personnel, as well as business

OUC to supply efficient, low-cost electric

and accounting divisions.

and water services to a wide variety of new

According to Curtis H. Stanton, OUC Executive Vice President and General

Information Technology: From Spiral Notebooks to Mainframes Logging information into spiral notebooks was standard procedure when OUC first began operations in 1923. In 1966, that all changed, as the utility installed the first stage of its new $600,000 data processing system. The basic units of the new system, the IBM-360, were installed on the seventh floor of City Hall until the Commission’s new building was complete.

B.L. Cording, OUC data processing division director, told the Orlando Morning Sentinel that “the IBM-360 is a vast, powerful system that will simplify OUC’s programming effort and will allow maximum utilization of equipment and provide continuous availability of necessary information.”

(Orlando Sentinel, 1966)

Page 20

Page 21

industries, businesses, public institutions and residential areas.”

MERS CUSTO C I R T EC RS 7 EL STOME U C 59,98 R TE 5 WA 52,58 YEES TED EMPLO ENERA G 0 H 4 W 7 ON M S OF MILLI 4 .

ALLON 1 G N O BILLI MPED 9.6 WATER PU

CHAPTER IV:

A

B A L A N C I N G

A C T

1971

1980

1981

OUC develops its first Administrative Policy Manual,

• Charles J. Hawkins is

Grace Lindblom is elected first

elected first African-

female OUC Board President.

written by Assistant General Manager Harry Luff.

1973

1976

New computer-based

OUC lays off 39 employees

control center goes into

due to rate pressures resulting

operation at OUC’s

from the fuel crunch. This

Lake Highland Plant.

was the only layoff in the

UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH AND GROUNDBREAKING EN VIRON M EN TA L R EGU L AT ION rom an energy crisis . . . to a heat wave and drought . . .

1980s marked a period of both turbulence and growth for

Orlando became the No. 1 destination for relocation in Florida, and the

1984 • OUC begins Home

the energy and water industries. It was a perfect storm for brewing

utility grew its customer base by a record 41 percent. In that same time

sweeping environmental regulation, including the establishment of

period, OUC’s assets rose from $245 million to $1.2 billion as

the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

infrastructure was added to meet customers’ needs.

Thanks to the opening of Walt Disney World® in 1971, Central Florida

Energy Audit

1983 • On October 31, Curt

also became the nation’s top tourist destination; and Orlando

program.

International Airport grew to one of the busiest in the world. With

• Lake Highland

increased development came a heightened urgency to find new ways

Plant is retired.

to move data and communicate. As a result, this time period would see major developments in information technology as the world moved

Stanton retires at age 65.

from mainframes to desktop computers.

• Harry Luff is promoted to GM. • OUC acquires Dr. Phillips Water System.

original group, 13 employees were later rehired.

In the midst of such transformative change, OUC faced a balancing

1986

act. To accommodate rapid growth, new environmental regulations

• GM Harry Luff retires;

power plants, established energy and water partnerships, and

and the need for fuel diversity, the utility added a series of new

Ted Pope is named

significantly increased its water operation through acquisition of the

General Manager.

Dr. Phillips Utilities, which served customers in southwest Orange County near the soon-to-be tourism corridor. OUC — like the region

• OUC launches “Proud

it served — was laying a foundation for the future. At the same time,

to Serve Y.O.U.”

1978 OUC helps launch the Florida Municipal Power Agency (FMPA) – a non-profit, joint action public agency formed by 30 municipal electric utilities.

For OUC, this era marked a period of historic expansion that would

OUC Board.

system plants.

company’s history. Of the

it proved to be one of the strongest municipal utilities in the nation by

employee initiative.

1987 • Stanton Energy Center begins commercial operation.

• OUC introduces the use of

being the first to receive an “AAA” rating on its bonds from a major rating agency in 1989.

1988 OUC opens first enclosed substation on Robinson Street Copyright 1971 Gary Gimee

mainframe computing.

Page 22

1990 –2010

continue for more than three decades. Between 1978 and 1988,

50th anniversary.

1974

1970 –1989

to a more competitive business climate, the 1970s and

purchases five water

Commission celebrates

1950 –1969

American President of • OUC Water Operations

Orlando Utilities

1923 –1949

1875 –1922

in Downtown Orlando.

Pictured left: In 1971, Walt Disney World® opened and Central Florida became home to the largest theme park in the world with hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Although Disney World was not inside OUC’s service territory, the park acted as a catalyst for growth throughout the region. From hotels and restaurants to accommodate tourists to homes for Disney employees, the demand for OUC power and water grew rapidly as a result of the park’s opening.

Page 23

MERS CUSTO C I R T EC RS 7 EL STOME U C 59,98 R TE 5 WA 52,58 YEES TED EMPLO ENERA G 0 H 4 W 7 ON M S OF MILLI 4 .

ALLON 1 G N O BILLI MPED 9.6 WATER PU

CHAPTER IV:

A

B A L A N C I N G

A C T

1971

1980

1981

OUC develops its first Administrative Policy Manual,

• Charles J. Hawkins is

Grace Lindblom is elected first

elected first African-

female OUC Board President.

written by Assistant General Manager Harry Luff.

1973

1976

New computer-based

OUC lays off 39 employees

control center goes into

due to rate pressures resulting

operation at OUC’s

from the fuel crunch. This

Lake Highland Plant.

was the only layoff in the

UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH AND GROUNDBREAKING EN VIRON M EN TA L R EGU L AT ION rom an energy crisis . . . to a heat wave and drought . . .

1980s marked a period of both turbulence and growth for

Orlando became the No. 1 destination for relocation in Florida, and the

1984 • OUC begins Home

the energy and water industries. It was a perfect storm for brewing

utility grew its customer base by a record 41 percent. In that same time

sweeping environmental regulation, including the establishment of

period, OUC’s assets rose from $245 million to $1.2 billion as

the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

infrastructure was added to meet customers’ needs.

Thanks to the opening of Walt Disney World® in 1971, Central Florida

Energy Audit

1983 • On October 31, Curt

also became the nation’s top tourist destination; and Orlando

program.

International Airport grew to one of the busiest in the world. With

• Lake Highland

increased development came a heightened urgency to find new ways

Plant is retired.

to move data and communicate. As a result, this time period would see major developments in information technology as the world moved

Stanton retires at age 65.

from mainframes to desktop computers.

• Harry Luff is promoted to GM. • OUC acquires Dr. Phillips Water System.

original group, 13 employees were later rehired.

In the midst of such transformative change, OUC faced a balancing

1986

act. To accommodate rapid growth, new environmental regulations

• GM Harry Luff retires;

power plants, established energy and water partnerships, and

and the need for fuel diversity, the utility added a series of new

Ted Pope is named

significantly increased its water operation through acquisition of the

General Manager.

Dr. Phillips Utilities, which served customers in southwest Orange County near the soon-to-be tourism corridor. OUC — like the region

• OUC launches “Proud

it served — was laying a foundation for the future. At the same time,

to Serve Y.O.U.”

1978 OUC helps launch the Florida Municipal Power Agency (FMPA) – a non-profit, joint action public agency formed by 30 municipal electric utilities.

For OUC, this era marked a period of historic expansion that would

OUC Board.

system plants.

company’s history. Of the

it proved to be one of the strongest municipal utilities in the nation by

employee initiative.

1987 • Stanton Energy Center begins commercial operation.

• OUC introduces the use of

being the first to receive an “AAA” rating on its bonds from a major rating agency in 1989.

1988 OUC opens first enclosed substation on Robinson Street Copyright 1971 Gary Gimee

mainframe computing.

Page 22

1990 –2010

continue for more than three decades. Between 1978 and 1988,

50th anniversary.

1974

1970 –1989

to a more competitive business climate, the 1970s and

purchases five water

Commission celebrates

1950 –1969

American President of • OUC Water Operations

Orlando Utilities

1923 –1949

1875 –1922

in Downtown Orlando.

Pictured left: In 1971, Walt Disney World® opened and Central Florida became home to the largest theme park in the world with hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Although Disney World was not inside OUC’s service territory, the park acted as a catalyst for growth throughout the region. From hotels and restaurants to accommodate tourists to homes for Disney employees, the demand for OUC power and water grew rapidly as a result of the park’s opening.

Page 23

Unprecedentedl Environmenta Regulations New Standards for Clean Air and Water From 1970 to 1989, the nation and Florida, in particular, experienced some of the most

and protection of our waterways from pollution.

The EPA was given authority to set standards and

sweeping environmental regulation in history —

oversee the state and local water suppliers who

impacting everything from the air we breathe

implement those standards.

and water we drink to the way water pollution is

In 1972, as a record heat wave hit Florida,

monitored and large-scale power generation

emergency power cutbacks were invoked for at

projects are approved.

least 350 industries statewide, and a waiver was

On the electric side, the establishment of

granted for generating-plant pollution standards.

the Clean Air Act resulted in a major shift in

Orlando remained one of the few areas in the

the government’s role in air pollution control,

state able to operate with power reserves and to

significantly expanding its enforcement authority.

sell power to electricity-poor regions. Power

As a result of increased monitoring requirements,

consumption in Orlando was 350,000 kW, leaving

the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

OUC with 40,000 kW to market.

was formed to consolidate all environmental

As a result of increased demand and the need

regulations and policies governing air, water

to expedite power plant projects through the

and land under one agency.

permitting process, the Florida Electric Power

On the water side, the amendment of the

Plant Siting Act (PPSA) was passed in 1973,

Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1948 and

creating a centralized process for licensing large

the enactment of the Safe Drinking Water Act set

power plant projects.

new standards for ensuring drinking water quality

From 1970 to 1989, more major environmental legislation was passed in the United States than in all the years before and after . . . combined.

Much of the regulation was geared to clean water and clean air — and, as such, it had a profound effect on utility companies. Following is a summary of those laws.

• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was established in 1970 to consolidate into one agency a variety of federal research, monitoring, standardsetting and enforcement activities to ensure environmental protection. EPA's mission is to protect human health and to safeguard the natural environment — air, water and land.

• The Clean Air Act of 1970 (CAA) resulted in a major shift in the federal government's role in air pollution control. This legislation authorized the development of comprehensive federal and state regulations to limit emissions from both stationary (industrial) and mobile sources. The enforcement authority was substantially expanded.

• 1972 Amendments to the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1948 were approved. Growing public awareness and concern for controlling water pollution led to sweeping

Page 24

amendments to the original law.

New amendments to the Water Pollution Control Act changed the thrust of enforcement of water quality standards, regulating the amount of pollutants in a given body of water, effluent limitations, and the amount of pollutants being discharged from particular point sources.

• The Florida Electric Power Plant Siting Act of 1973 (PPSA, ss. 403.501-.518) established the state’s centralized process for licensing large power plants via one certification that replaces local and state permits. Local governments and state agencies within whose jurisdiction the power plant is to be built participate in the process. Certification addresses permitting, land use and zoning, and property interests.

• The Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974 (SDWA) was enacted by Congress to protect the country’s public drinking water supply and ensure the quality of Americans’ drinking water. Under SDWA, the EPA sets drinking water standards and oversees the states, localities and water suppliers who implement those standards.

• 1977 Amendments to the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1948 (now referred to as the Clean Water Act), established the basic structure for

Page 25

regulating pollutants discharged into the waters of the U.S., giving EPA the authority to implement pollution-control programs such as setting wastewater standards for industry.

• 1977 Amendments to the Clean Air Act of 1970 set major permit review requirements to ensure attainment and maintenance of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) established under the CAA of 1970.

• 1981 Amendments to the Clean Water Act streamlined the municipal construction grants process, improving the capabilities of treatment plants built under the program.

• 1986 Amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act required a number of actions to protect drinking water and its sources: rivers, lakes, reservoirs, springs and groundwater wells.

• 1987 Amendments to the Clean Water Act phased out the construction grants program, replacing it with the State Water Pollution Control Revolving Fund, more commonly known as the Clean Water State Revolving Fund. This new funding strategy addressed water quality needs by building on EPA-state partnerships.

Unprecedentedl Environmenta Regulations New Standards for Clean Air and Water From 1970 to 1989, the nation and Florida, in particular, experienced some of the most

and protection of our waterways from pollution.

The EPA was given authority to set standards and

sweeping environmental regulation in history —

oversee the state and local water suppliers who

impacting everything from the air we breathe

implement those standards.

and water we drink to the way water pollution is

In 1972, as a record heat wave hit Florida,

monitored and large-scale power generation

emergency power cutbacks were invoked for at

projects are approved.

least 350 industries statewide, and a waiver was

On the electric side, the establishment of

granted for generating-plant pollution standards.

the Clean Air Act resulted in a major shift in

Orlando remained one of the few areas in the

the government’s role in air pollution control,

state able to operate with power reserves and to

significantly expanding its enforcement authority.

sell power to electricity-poor regions. Power

As a result of increased monitoring requirements,

consumption in Orlando was 350,000 kW, leaving

the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

OUC with 40,000 kW to market.

was formed to consolidate all environmental

As a result of increased demand and the need

regulations and policies governing air, water

to expedite power plant projects through the

and land under one agency.

permitting process, the Florida Electric Power

On the water side, the amendment of the

Plant Siting Act (PPSA) was passed in 1973,

Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1948 and

creating a centralized process for licensing large

the enactment of the Safe Drinking Water Act set

power plant projects.

new standards for ensuring drinking water quality

From 1970 to 1989, more major environmental legislation was passed in the United States than in all the years before and after . . . combined.

Much of the regulation was geared to clean water and clean air — and, as such, it had a profound effect on utility companies. Following is a summary of those laws.

• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was established in 1970 to consolidate into one agency a variety of federal research, monitoring, standardsetting and enforcement activities to ensure environmental protection. EPA's mission is to protect human health and to safeguard the natural environment — air, water and land.

• The Clean Air Act of 1970 (CAA) resulted in a major shift in the federal government's role in air pollution control. This legislation authorized the development of comprehensive federal and state regulations to limit emissions from both stationary (industrial) and mobile sources. The enforcement authority was substantially expanded.

• 1972 Amendments to the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1948 were approved. Growing public awareness and concern for controlling water pollution led to sweeping

Page 24

amendments to the original law.

New amendments to the Water Pollution Control Act changed the thrust of enforcement of water quality standards, regulating the amount of pollutants in a given body of water, effluent limitations, and the amount of pollutants being discharged from particular point sources.

• The Florida Electric Power Plant Siting Act of 1973 (PPSA, ss. 403.501-.518) established the state’s centralized process for licensing large power plants via one certification that replaces local and state permits. Local governments and state agencies within whose jurisdiction the power plant is to be built participate in the process. Certification addresses permitting, land use and zoning, and property interests.

• The Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974 (SDWA) was enacted by Congress to protect the country’s public drinking water supply and ensure the quality of Americans’ drinking water. Under SDWA, the EPA sets drinking water standards and oversees the states, localities and water suppliers who implement those standards.

• 1977 Amendments to the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1948 (now referred to as the Clean Water Act), established the basic structure for

Page 25

regulating pollutants discharged into the waters of the U.S., giving EPA the authority to implement pollution-control programs such as setting wastewater standards for industry.

• 1977 Amendments to the Clean Air Act of 1970 set major permit review requirements to ensure attainment and maintenance of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) established under the CAA of 1970.

• 1981 Amendments to the Clean Water Act streamlined the municipal construction grants process, improving the capabilities of treatment plants built under the program.

• 1986 Amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act required a number of actions to protect drinking water and its sources: rivers, lakes, reservoirs, springs and groundwater wells.

• 1987 Amendments to the Clean Water Act phased out the construction grants program, replacing it with the State Water Pollution Control Revolving Fund, more commonly known as the Clean Water State Revolving Fund. This new funding strategy addressed water quality needs by building on EPA-state partnerships.

Florida Electric Power Coordinating Group Formed; Utilities Work Together to Lower Power Costs through Economic Dispatch In 1972, the Florida Electric Power

OUC celebrated its Golden Anniversary.

Those close to the negotiations felt that

Coordinating Group, Inc. (FCG) was formed

Curt Stanton’s relationship with Marshall

to promote coordinated facilities, planning

McDonald, the CEO of Florida Power & Light

and transmission studies of all electric utilities

(FPL), was key to the successful establishment

in the state — including those that were

of FCG. Stanton and McDonald had known

investor-owned, as well as rural electric

each other since college. The trust between

cooperatives and municipals. Although it

the two men — one representing the largest

was initially difficult to get an organization

investor-owned utility and the other, the

of competing utilities off the ground, FCG

second largest municipal utility in the

ultimately became a highly successful

state — allowed the parties to put their

endeavor, benefiting all Florida electric

differences aside and work together in the

customers by lowering power costs. This

best interest of Floridians. This was the first

was accomplished through the economic

step toward creating a central economic

dispatch of generating units and the

dispatch where utilities coordinated outages

establishment of power interchange

and had a means of utilizing the most

brokering, which effectively achieved the

economical and efficient units first. It also

objectives of a formal power pool without

enabled OUC to monitor transmission

formal binding contracts.

capacity and plan for growth.

OUC Instrumental in Creating Power-Brokering Software Programs A leader in the region since interconnecting

Going live in February 1979, it ran at 20 minutes

with other utilities in 1960, OUC was involved

before the hour, giving utilities a 40-minute

in a joint study with FCG to look at developing

window to input quotes. The program would

a power-brokering system that would allow

print out a schedule for the next hour, matching

utilities to make decisions on buying and

the needs of the utilities to the available

selling power based on an hourly market. Prior

generation. Washburn said the new system

to the study, all transactions were conducted

met with great response, and Florida utilities

over the phone between utilities, and there

saw an annual savings that ranged from

was no centralized information or level playing

$20 million to $40 million.

field. An FCG study found that conducting more transactions in the State of Florida on

the 1990s when, in the face of deregulation, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

and implemented a new software system to

OUC Centralizes Water Operation Monitoring and Control

The power-brokering system was used until

an hourly basis would benefit the state.

FCG and OUC's Tom Washburn developed

At OUC’s Lake Highland Water Treatment Plant, an operator could control water supply for more than 200,000 people in the Greater Orlando area from one console.

(FERC) mandated that all utilities use the centralized Open Access Same-Time

enable hourly transactions. Called General

Information System (OASIS), an Internet-

Electric Time Sharing, the program utilized a

based system for obtaining services related to

server in Bethesda, Maryland, that was

electric power transmission in North America.

connected to each of the Florida utilities.

Page 26

OUC’s Tom Washburn (left) developed and implemented a software system to enable hourly power-brokering transactions.

In 1974, a new computer-based control center was placed into operation at the Lake Highland Plant. Using the latest computer technology, OUC continued to monitor and control all water plants from this one centralized location. Featuring a console with monitors, the new center enabled a single operator to view the operational status of all OUC plants

and elevated tanks, as well as switches to turn pumps and equipment on and off.

New software facilitated monitoring and control functionality, and collected and stored historical data that could be used to prepare reports and analyze the operation of the system. The control center was staffed with an operator 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Page 27

Florida Electric Power Coordinating Group Formed; Utilities Work Together to Lower Power Costs through Economic Dispatch In 1972, the Florida Electric Power

OUC celebrated its Golden Anniversary.

Those close to the negotiations felt that

Coordinating Group, Inc. (FCG) was formed

Curt Stanton’s relationship with Marshall

to promote coordinated facilities, planning

McDonald, the CEO of Florida Power & Light

and transmission studies of all electric utilities

(FPL), was key to the successful establishment

in the state — including those that were

of FCG. Stanton and McDonald had known

investor-owned, as well as rural electric

each other since college. The trust between

cooperatives and municipals. Although it

the two men — one representing the largest

was initially difficult to get an organization

investor-owned utility and the other, the

of competing utilities off the ground, FCG

second largest municipal utility in the

ultimately became a highly successful

state — allowed the parties to put their

endeavor, benefiting all Florida electric

differences aside and work together in the

customers by lowering power costs. This

best interest of Floridians. This was the first

was accomplished through the economic

step toward creating a central economic

dispatch of generating units and the

dispatch where utilities coordinated outages

establishment of power interchange

and had a means of utilizing the most

brokering, which effectively achieved the

economical and efficient units first. It also

objectives of a formal power pool without

enabled OUC to monitor transmission

formal binding contracts.

capacity and plan for growth.

OUC Instrumental in Creating Power-Brokering Software Programs A leader in the region since interconnecting

Going live in February 1979, it ran at 20 minutes

with other utilities in 1960, OUC was involved

before the hour, giving utilities a 40-minute

in a joint study with FCG to look at developing

window to input quotes. The program would

a power-brokering system that would allow

print out a schedule for the next hour, matching

utilities to make decisions on buying and

the needs of the utilities to the available

selling power based on an hourly market. Prior

generation. Washburn said the new system

to the study, all transactions were conducted

met with great response, and Florida utilities

over the phone between utilities, and there

saw an annual savings that ranged from

was no centralized information or level playing

$20 million to $40 million.

field. An FCG study found that conducting more transactions in the State of Florida on

the 1990s when, in the face of deregulation, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

and implemented a new software system to

OUC Centralizes Water Operation Monitoring and Control

The power-brokering system was used until

an hourly basis would benefit the state.

FCG and OUC's Tom Washburn developed

At OUC’s Lake Highland Water Treatment Plant, an operator could control water supply for more than 200,000 people in the Greater Orlando area from one console.

(FERC) mandated that all utilities use the centralized Open Access Same-Time

enable hourly transactions. Called General

Information System (OASIS), an Internet-

Electric Time Sharing, the program utilized a

based system for obtaining services related to

server in Bethesda, Maryland, that was

electric power transmission in North America.

connected to each of the Florida utilities.

Page 26

OUC’s Tom Washburn (left) developed and implemented a software system to enable hourly power-brokering transactions.

In 1974, a new computer-based control center was placed into operation at the Lake Highland Plant. Using the latest computer technology, OUC continued to monitor and control all water plants from this one centralized location. Featuring a console with monitors, the new center enabled a single operator to view the operational status of all OUC plants

and elevated tanks, as well as switches to turn pumps and equipment on and off.

New software facilitated monitoring and control functionality, and collected and stored historical data that could be used to prepare reports and analyze the operation of the system. The control center was staffed with an operator 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Page 27

The Naval Training Center was OUC’s largest customer in 1980.

Energy Crisis Fuels Need for Fuel Diversity; Nuclear Energy and Coal Enter the Mix From an energy and economic standpoint, the 1970s were in perpetual crisis. In October of 1973 — as a result of the Yom Kippur war that had begun earlier in the month — the Organization of the

jointly owned generation. And, it was an important to obtain economies of scale and increased plant efficiency that would not have been possible with either system acting alone.

The joint venture required OUC to build a

quadrupled. Those events, coupled with mounting

transmission line from Orlando to Lakeland —

instability in the Middle East, prompted the U.S. to

not only allowing the two entities to partner, but

take a number of initiatives to reduce dependence

also providing access to Tampa Electric’s Lakeland-

on foreign oil.

to-Tampa transmission lines, thus opening up that

In Orlando, the fuel crunch prompted OUC to

route for power sales. The McIntosh plant would

turn off building lights at night and the City to

come online in 1981, providing OUC with 134 MW

cancel Christmas lighting. The energy crisis also

of coal-fired generation.

brought about large increases in the cost of fuel oil and gas for OUC’s plants. It became increasingly clear that, going forward, the utility should do everything possible to obtain diversity in its fuel supply by moving to nuclear and coal, which would

OUC Invests in Nuclear Generation To further diversify its fuel mix, in 1977, OUC

provide fuel flexibility and enable OUC to use the

bought a 1.6 percent interest in its first nuclear

most economical source of fuel at any given time.

project: the Crystal River 3 Nuclear Plant. Three

With that in mind, negotiations began with

years later, the utility agreed to buy a 6 percent

Florida Power Corp. and Florida Power & Light

interest in the St. Lucie 2 nuclear generating

Co. (FPL) for small ownership interest in nuclear

plant being built by FPL. OUC received about

plants that were under construction.

48 MW from the plant, which would come online

In 1977, OUC made its first foray into coal by

Page 28

of Florida that non-contiguous electric systems

embargo on oil exports to the United States.

cut production. By 1974, the price of oil had

capital needs and study the impact of major system expansion on rates. The utility also began to enlist financial experts to assist the organization in obtaining the lowest possible interest rates on new bond issues and refinancing older bonds.

generating station. It was the first time in the history

milestone because it enabled two smaller systems

in oil prices and was accompanied by a decision to

With the help of an accounting firm, an electric and water rate-making system was established that allowed OUC to strike a balance between financing growth and providing affordable rates.

As an outgrowth of these activities, OUC began using corporate financial modeling to forecast long-range

the McIntosh Unit 3 Power Plant, a coal-fired

Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) declared an The embargo swiftly was followed by a steep hike

As the demand for new water and electric production increased, so did the need for funds to finance these projects.

In the early ‘70s, OUC began to evaluate its financial operations from cash flow management and rate making to how it financed investments in infrastructure.

becoming co-owners with the City of Lakeland on

I

n 1979, Orange County Circuit Judge William C. Gridley ruled that OUC’s rates are “fair and conscientious and openly set.” The ruling was in response to a class action suit by Rosalind Holding Co. alleging that the Commission had overcharged customers since 1970. An appeals court upheld the 1979 ruling on the Rosalind Case and fairness of OUC’s rates.

in 1983.

Charles J. Hawkins became the first black President of the OUC Board. According to the June 8, 1980 issue of Florida Magazine, he is believed to be the first AfricanAmerican in the U.S. to become head of a major utilities commission.

Grace Lindblom was elected as the first female OUC Board President in 1981, becoming the first woman to head a utility in the state.

Page 29

The Naval Training Center was OUC’s largest customer in 1980.

Energy Crisis Fuels Need for Fuel Diversity; Nuclear Energy and Coal Enter the Mix From an energy and economic standpoint, the 1970s were in perpetual crisis. In October of 1973 — as a result of the Yom Kippur war that had begun earlier in the month — the Organization of the

jointly owned generation. And, it was an important to obtain economies of scale and increased plant efficiency that would not have been possible with either system acting alone.

The joint venture required OUC to build a

quadrupled. Those events, coupled with mounting

transmission line from Orlando to Lakeland —

instability in the Middle East, prompted the U.S. to

not only allowing the two entities to partner, but

take a number of initiatives to reduce dependence

also providing access to Tampa Electric’s Lakeland-

on foreign oil.

to-Tampa transmission lines, thus opening up that

In Orlando, the fuel crunch prompted OUC to

route for power sales. The McIntosh plant would

turn off building lights at night and the City to

come online in 1981, providing OUC with 134 MW

cancel Christmas lighting. The energy crisis also

of coal-fired generation.

brought about large increases in the cost of fuel oil and gas for OUC’s plants. It became increasingly clear that, going forward, the utility should do everything possible to obtain diversity in its fuel supply by moving to nuclear and coal, which would

OUC Invests in Nuclear Generation To further diversify its fuel mix, in 1977, OUC

provide fuel flexibility and enable OUC to use the

bought a 1.6 percent interest in its first nuclear

most economical source of fuel at any given time.

project: the Crystal River 3 Nuclear Plant. Three

With that in mind, negotiations began with

years later, the utility agreed to buy a 6 percent

Florida Power Corp. and Florida Power & Light

interest in the St. Lucie 2 nuclear generating

Co. (FPL) for small ownership interest in nuclear

plant being built by FPL. OUC received about

plants that were under construction.

48 MW from the plant, which would come online

In 1977, OUC made its first foray into coal by

Page 28

of Florida that non-contiguous electric systems

embargo on oil exports to the United States.

cut production. By 1974, the price of oil had

capital needs and study the impact of major system expansion on rates. The utility also began to enlist financial experts to assist the organization in obtaining the lowest possible interest rates on new bond issues and refinancing older bonds.

generating station. It was the first time in the history

milestone because it enabled two smaller systems

in oil prices and was accompanied by a decision to

With the help of an accounting firm, an electric and water rate-making system was established that allowed OUC to strike a balance between financing growth and providing affordable rates.

As an outgrowth of these activities, OUC began using corporate financial modeling to forecast long-range

the McIntosh Unit 3 Power Plant, a coal-fired

Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) declared an The embargo swiftly was followed by a steep hike

As the demand for new water and electric production increased, so did the need for funds to finance these projects.

In the early ‘70s, OUC began to evaluate its financial operations from cash flow management and rate making to how it financed investments in infrastructure.

becoming co-owners with the City of Lakeland on

I

n 1979, Orange County Circuit Judge William C. Gridley ruled that OUC’s rates are “fair and conscientious and openly set.” The ruling was in response to a class action suit by Rosalind Holding Co. alleging that the Commission had overcharged customers since 1970. An appeals court upheld the 1979 ruling on the Rosalind Case and fairness of OUC’s rates.

in 1983.

Charles J. Hawkins became the first black President of the OUC Board. According to the June 8, 1980 issue of Florida Magazine, he is believed to be the first AfricanAmerican in the U.S. to become head of a major utilities commission.

Grace Lindblom was elected as the first female OUC Board President in 1981, becoming the first woman to head a utility in the state.

Page 29

Expanding OUC’s Water System through Acquisition The most significant change to the OUC water

OUC Develops Programs to Encourage Customer Conservation As a result of the energy crisis and drought

Bay Hill, a prominent residential development

As a result of the new structure, high energy

operations that occurred during the 1980s was

surrounding Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Golf

of the previous decade, conservation played

the purchase of five developer-built water system

Club, and Orange Tree, a residential/golf

a prominent role in the 1980s. To help reduce

plants from Orange County in 1980 and the

course community, were two of the premier

Florida’s dependency on foreign oil, the state

program — and it was a resounding success.

acquisition of the Dr. Phillips water system in

developments in the Dr. Phillips area

ordered utilities to conduct programs to lower

On the first day, more than 300 customers

1983. Through the Dr. Phillips purchase, OUC

acquired by OUC.

power consumption. In response, OUC

swamped OUC with requests for audits

developed numerous conservation initiatives,

(Orlando Sentinel, May 3, 1984). In addition to

users were charged a higher rate.

In 1984, OUC began its Home Energy Audit

added 12 square miles of new service territory

“Orlando Utilities Commission has a long

along with an established customer base and

and enviable record of good management and

which served as the foundation of OUC’s

waiving the usual $15 fee, the program paid

existing water system infrastructure. The Dr.

outstanding service to its customers at

energy and water conservation efforts. Most

$5 to customers who had audits. OUC also

Phillips water system was owned and operated

reasonable rates. We are confident that the

have been expanded over the years and are

gave participants a one-time $10 credit for

by Dr. Phillips Utilities, a private company formed

Dr. Phillips community will be assured of the

still in place today.

buying energy-efficient appliances and a free

to provide water and wastewater service to an

proper attention to their needs by the Orlando

During this period, OUC revamped its

water-heater jacket, which saved them about

area in southwest Orange County that started to

Utilities Commission,” said H.E. Johnson,

rate structure for energy use to encourage

be developed in the early 1960s, as citrus groves

president of the Howard Phillips Fund, owner

conservation as part of a state-mandated plan.

gave way to residential homes and shopping

of all the utilities’ stock (The Times [Winter

Prior to this time, high energy users received

Home Energy Fix-up Program for homeowners

centers. The Dr. Phillips name was linked to the

Garden], March 10, 1983).

a discounted rate because it cost OUC less

who could not afford to make the minor repairs

to generate large amounts of electricity.

and improvements needed to save energy.

area in recognition of a man who was a pioneer

As OUC expanded its water system,

in the Central Florida citrus industry and grew

it also had to contend with severe water

citrus on the land before it was sold to developers.

shortages that plagued the region. Orange

The newly acquired area was bordered on

restriction, and the St. Johns River Water

east by Turkey Lake Road, on the north by

Management District also imposed mandatory

Conroy-Windermere Road, and on the south

water restrictions in Osceola, Volusia, Seminole,

by a westerly extension of State Road 528.

Brevard and Indian River counties.

Harry Luff: “Architect of OUC Financial Systems” General Manager (1983–1986) arry Luff had a distinguished 40-year career at Orlando Utilities Commission. With an engineering degree from Brown University, Luff began his tenure at OUC in 1946 at the bottom — chipping slag off the boilers. He worked numerous positions in the plant where his familiarity with the operation of complex steam power plants and his ability to effectively analyze problems caused management to take notice. His attention to detail and ability to develop systems, processes and programs to solve problems catapulted him through the ranks — first as head of the electric operations department, then as Assistant

H

In 1984, OUC won the first of many “Outstanding Water Treatment Plant Awards” from the American Water Works Association (AWWA). The award applied to all nine treatment plants. AWWA cited the OUC system for high water quality standards that exceed state and federal standards and leadership in planning, introducing and implementing new treatment and operations techniques.

Page 30

In 1985, OUC introduced a Low Income

County invoked a 15 percent voluntary water

the west by the Butler Chain of Lakes, on the

OUC Wins Coveted Water Award

$2 a month off their electric bill.

General Manager in 1967 and finally as General Manager in 1983.

However, it was Luff’s financial acumen that enabled OUC to fund rapid expansion and investment in new technology.

Curt Stanton remembers meeting Luff: “First time I ever saw him, he was crawling out of the boiler with an old sailor hat on, and I tell you he looked like . . . he was just covered with coal.“ Stanton soon learned that Luff’s willingness to roll up his sleeves and get into the nitty-gritty details would become a tremendous asset to OUC.

“In July 1967, Curt Stanton asked me to be his assistant general manager,” Luff recalled. “I wasn’t sure what my duties would be, but Curt assured me he had a lot of special assignments in mind. As it turned out, there were more assignments than I could handle alone. I assembled a strong team that developed the first cashflow diagrams ever used at OUC and a new depreciation system.

We established formulas for fair payments to the City and County, as well as an electric and water ratemaking system. As an outgrowth of

Page 31

these activities, we established a basis for using corporate financial modeling for long-range financial planning to study the impact of major system expansion on rates.

Curt assigned us to work with bond issues and underwriters handling the finances for major plant additions.

We found out the real issues that impact rates. It was a shock for a past plant engineer who thought that plant efficiency was everything in holding down rates to find out how many millions of dollars could be saved through sharp management of financing. In a highly capital-intensive business like electric utilities, the amount that can be saved is awesome.”

Expanding OUC’s Water System through Acquisition The most significant change to the OUC water

OUC Develops Programs to Encourage Customer Conservation As a result of the energy crisis and drought

Bay Hill, a prominent residential development

As a result of the new structure, high energy

operations that occurred during the 1980s was

surrounding Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Golf

of the previous decade, conservation played

the purchase of five developer-built water system

Club, and Orange Tree, a residential/golf

a prominent role in the 1980s. To help reduce

plants from Orange County in 1980 and the

course community, were two of the premier

Florida’s dependency on foreign oil, the state

program — and it was a resounding success.

acquisition of the Dr. Phillips water system in

developments in the Dr. Phillips area

ordered utilities to conduct programs to lower

On the first day, more than 300 customers

1983. Through the Dr. Phillips purchase, OUC

acquired by OUC.

power consumption. In response, OUC

swamped OUC with requests for audits

developed numerous conservation initiatives,

(Orlando Sentinel, May 3, 1984). In addition to

users were charged a higher rate.

In 1984, OUC began its Home Energy Audit

added 12 square miles of new service territory

“Orlando Utilities Commission has a long

along with an established customer base and

and enviable record of good management and

which served as the foundation of OUC’s

waiving the usual $15 fee, the program paid

existing water system infrastructure. The Dr.

outstanding service to its customers at

energy and water conservation efforts. Most

$5 to customers who had audits. OUC also

Phillips water system was owned and operated

reasonable rates. We are confident that the

have been expanded over the years and are

gave participants a one-time $10 credit for

by Dr. Phillips Utilities, a private company formed

Dr. Phillips community will be assured of the

still in place today.

buying energy-efficient appliances and a free

to provide water and wastewater service to an

proper attention to their needs by the Orlando

During this period, OUC revamped its

water-heater jacket, which saved them about

area in southwest Orange County that started to

Utilities Commission,” said H.E. Johnson,

rate structure for energy use to encourage

be developed in the early 1960s, as citrus groves

president of the Howard Phillips Fund, owner

conservation as part of a state-mandated plan.

gave way to residential homes and shopping

of all the utilities’ stock (The Times [Winter

Prior to this time, high energy users received

Home Energy Fix-up Program for homeowners

centers. The Dr. Phillips name was linked to the

Garden], March 10, 1983).

a discounted rate because it cost OUC less

who could not afford to make the minor repairs

to generate large amounts of electricity.

and improvements needed to save energy.

area in recognition of a man who was a pioneer

As OUC expanded its water system,

in the Central Florida citrus industry and grew

it also had to contend with severe water

citrus on the land before it was sold to developers.

shortages that plagued the region. Orange

The newly acquired area was bordered on

restriction, and the St. Johns River Water

east by Turkey Lake Road, on the north by

Management District also imposed mandatory

Conroy-Windermere Road, and on the south

water restrictions in Osceola, Volusia, Seminole,

by a westerly extension of State Road 528.

Brevard and Indian River counties.

Harry Luff: “Architect of OUC Financial Systems” General Manager (1983–1986) arry Luff had a distinguished 40-year career at Orlando Utilities Commission. With an engineering degree from Brown University, Luff began his tenure at OUC in 1946 at the bottom — chipping slag off the boilers. He worked numerous positions in the plant where his familiarity with the operation of complex steam power plants and his ability to effectively analyze problems caused management to take notice. His attention to detail and ability to develop systems, processes and programs to solve problems catapulted him through the ranks — first as head of the electric operations department, then as Assistant

H

In 1984, OUC won the first of many “Outstanding Water Treatment Plant Awards” from the American Water Works Association (AWWA). The award applied to all nine treatment plants. AWWA cited the OUC system for high water quality standards that exceed state and federal standards and leadership in planning, introducing and implementing new treatment and operations techniques.

Page 30

In 1985, OUC introduced a Low Income

County invoked a 15 percent voluntary water

the west by the Butler Chain of Lakes, on the

OUC Wins Coveted Water Award

$2 a month off their electric bill.

General Manager in 1967 and finally as General Manager in 1983.

However, it was Luff’s financial acumen that enabled OUC to fund rapid expansion and investment in new technology.

Curt Stanton remembers meeting Luff: “First time I ever saw him, he was crawling out of the boiler with an old sailor hat on, and I tell you he looked like . . . he was just covered with coal.“ Stanton soon learned that Luff’s willingness to roll up his sleeves and get into the nitty-gritty details would become a tremendous asset to OUC.

“In July 1967, Curt Stanton asked me to be his assistant general manager,” Luff recalled. “I wasn’t sure what my duties would be, but Curt assured me he had a lot of special assignments in mind. As it turned out, there were more assignments than I could handle alone. I assembled a strong team that developed the first cashflow diagrams ever used at OUC and a new depreciation system.

We established formulas for fair payments to the City and County, as well as an electric and water ratemaking system. As an outgrowth of

Page 31

these activities, we established a basis for using corporate financial modeling for long-range financial planning to study the impact of major system expansion on rates.

Curt assigned us to work with bond issues and underwriters handling the finances for major plant additions.

We found out the real issues that impact rates. It was a shock for a past plant engineer who thought that plant efficiency was everything in holding down rates to find out how many millions of dollars could be saved through sharp management of financing. In a highly capital-intensive business like electric utilities, the amount that can be saved is awesome.”

Advancements in Technology from the Meter to the Desktop

OUC and Orange Looking to the “Futures” County Enter into Water Ahead of the curve, OUC looked not only at what type of fuel it was buying, but also Territorial Agreement how the fuel was purchased. In 1986, OUC Hand-held mini-computers used by meter readers were placed in a console where data was downloaded to PCs and then into the mainframe for billing.

t er s Reading Mheen and Now T

r eter Reade d its first M re o n o h C a U g te m In 1985, O eter readin m e th r, a e nd r. That y n electric a of the Yea f 2.6 millio o l ta to a ad te books manually re all into rou m e th g in rs, logg g system water mete eter readin m ic n o tr c n ele ployees by hand. A abling em n e , 7 8 9 1 mented in puters) to was imple (microcom s e ic v e d dheld n the spot. to use han ck usage o e h -c le b u do was able record and to process s y a d e k e sed to ta erred to th Data that u and transf r u o h n a sult, ed in ay. As a re to be load the next d g in ill b r fo ad more mainframe e able to re b ld u o w r r reade .9 percent each mete ieving a 99 h c a — th on rply meters a m gs and sha first readin n o y c ra u rate of acc -reads. reducing re

PCs Bring Information to the Desktop Change swept through every aspect of OUC

record research efficiency in Customer

during the late ‘80s as it initiated measures to

Accounting and sped up the estimating

keep up with advancements in technology and

process for engineering staff.

the economy while staying ahead of growth.

The impact of PCs became even more

From 1985 to 1988, the number of personal

profound when, in January 1988, a new

computers (PCs) at OUC grew from eight to

4381 IBM mainframe computer was installed and

135. Local area networks (LANs) were installed

connected to the LANs. Data communications

to link groups of PC users, giving them easier

capabilities emanating from the mainframe

access to more information and letting them

were also expanded to outlying facilities via

share expensive equipment.

OUC’s existing microwave/fiber optics

By expanding employees’ capabilities, networked PCs impacted every facet of OUC.

communications networks.

These developments vastly accelerated

Purchasing and Materials Management was

the progress toward an integrated office

able to convert from a manual system to a

information system. As a result of the rapid

completely automated one. Computer Aided

deployment of computers, the Micro-

Design programs sharply reduced time

Computer Support Department was formed

needed to prepare drawings of complex

to help manage the new computer network

underground and water installations.

and the flow of information.

On February 13, 1985, OUC and Orange County entered into a territorial agreement (Agreement W-85-2), which established separate water service territories for each utility. Its stated purpose was to avoid duplication of water service facilities, as well as to eliminate needless and wasteful expenditures of capital and water resources.

Under the terms of the agreement, a boundary was established to define and separate the OUC water service area from that of Orange County Utilities. The agreement also provided that the boundary could be adjusted in the future with the mutual consent of both parties.

The territorial agreement made it easier for both utilities not only to plan for growth, but also to expand their systems to serve the rapidly increasing number of new residential and commercial developments that were being built in the county at the time.

became one of the only utilities in the United States to use energy futures to help manage the risk of price volatility in fuel markets. This innovative strategy of hedging oil and gas prices enabled OUC to keep fuel costs in check.

The Charter and OUC In 1986, the Florida Legislature unanimously

Making Water “Better Than It Has to Be” In 1986, amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act more than tripled OUC’s reporting requirements for water quality analyses. As a

approved significant revisions to the OUC charter.

result, Water Operations installed a $200,000 mass

Specific language was added to more clearly

spectrometer in the Water Quality Lab to conduct

define the Commission’s authority to issue

all of the new tests required by law.

revenue bonds to finance or refinance debt.

Although OUC’s own chemical and biological

The makeup of the Commission also was altered

testing — as well as that of private and

to ensure that at least one member of the board

government labs — confirmed that the utility’s

was an OUC customer living outside the City of

water was much higher in quality than both federal

Orlando in the unincorporated area of Orange

and state laws required, Water Operations made

County served by OUC.

a “quality decision” to surpass its own high treatment standards to ensure that OUC’s water continues to be “better than it has to be.”

Ted Pope: “Public Servant and Utility Advocate”

Microcomputer capabilities increased

General Manager (1986–1992) lthough OUC conducted a nationwide search in 1984 for a new assistant general manager, they found their candidate right in their own backyard: Sanford native Theodore “Ted” Pope. A University of Florida graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Engineering and a Master of Business Administration, Pope had joined OUC in 1959 as part of the Indian River Plant (IRP) start-up team. By 1970, he became assistant manager of electric operations at IRP. Two years later, he was named

A For OUC, 1987 kicked off an information era with the deployment of personal computers on desktops. Two years later, the Micro-Computer Support Department was formed to help employees manage their information technology needs.

Page 32

manager of water operations. Having served with distinction in key management positions in both facets of OUC’s business, Pope’s background made him uniquely qualified to take over the utility’s top spot as General Manager in 1986.

Known as an innovator, Pope was also a facilitator of change at OUC — streamlining, modernizing and improving operations and service.

Committed to public power, he strongly supported forming coalitions with other municipal utilities so that they all remained viable, competitive alternatives to investor-owned utilities.

Throughout his career, Pope earned many state and national honors for OUC from the electric and water industries. The American Water Works Association (AWWA) awarded him its highest honors for his leadership role in transforming

Page 33

the AWWA’s research foundation from a $60,000-a-year agency to a $4 million-a-year center of applied research.

Featured in Who’s Who in Frontiers of Science and Technology, Pope authored and presented many papers pertaining to both the electric and water utility industries.

He also invented a new water purification process that was patented and used by OUC to remove hydrogen sulfide.

In 1990, AWWA recognized Pope with its Distinguished Public Service Award.

Advancements in Technology from the Meter to the Desktop

OUC and Orange Looking to the “Futures” County Enter into Water Ahead of the curve, OUC looked not only at what type of fuel it was buying, but also Territorial Agreement how the fuel was purchased. In 1986, OUC Hand-held mini-computers used by meter readers were placed in a console where data was downloaded to PCs and then into the mainframe for billing.

t er s Reading Mheen and Now T

r eter Reade d its first M re o n o h C a U g te m In 1985, O eter readin m e th r, a e nd r. That y n electric a of the Yea f 2.6 millio o l ta to a ad te books manually re all into rou m e th g in rs, logg g system water mete eter readin m ic n o tr c n ele ployees by hand. A abling em n e , 7 8 9 1 mented in puters) to was imple (microcom s e ic v e d dheld n the spot. to use han ck usage o e h -c le b u do was able record and to process s y a d e k e sed to ta erred to th Data that u and transf r u o h n a sult, ed in ay. As a re to be load the next d g in ill b r fo ad more mainframe e able to re b ld u o w r r reade .9 percent each mete ieving a 99 h c a — th on rply meters a m gs and sha first readin n o y c ra u rate of acc -reads. reducing re

PCs Bring Information to the Desktop Change swept through every aspect of OUC

record research efficiency in Customer

during the late ‘80s as it initiated measures to

Accounting and sped up the estimating

keep up with advancements in technology and

process for engineering staff.

the economy while staying ahead of growth.

The impact of PCs became even more

From 1985 to 1988, the number of personal

profound when, in January 1988, a new

computers (PCs) at OUC grew from eight to

4381 IBM mainframe computer was installed and

135. Local area networks (LANs) were installed

connected to the LANs. Data communications

to link groups of PC users, giving them easier

capabilities emanating from the mainframe

access to more information and letting them

were also expanded to outlying facilities via

share expensive equipment.

OUC’s existing microwave/fiber optics

By expanding employees’ capabilities, networked PCs impacted every facet of OUC.

communications networks.

These developments vastly accelerated

Purchasing and Materials Management was

the progress toward an integrated office

able to convert from a manual system to a

information system. As a result of the rapid

completely automated one. Computer Aided

deployment of computers, the Micro-

Design programs sharply reduced time

Computer Support Department was formed

needed to prepare drawings of complex

to help manage the new computer network

underground and water installations.

and the flow of information.

On February 13, 1985, OUC and Orange County entered into a territorial agreement (Agreement W-85-2), which established separate water service territories for each utility. Its stated purpose was to avoid duplication of water service facilities, as well as to eliminate needless and wasteful expenditures of capital and water resources.

Under the terms of the agreement, a boundary was established to define and separate the OUC water service area from that of Orange County Utilities. The agreement also provided that the boundary could be adjusted in the future with the mutual consent of both parties.

The territorial agreement made it easier for both utilities not only to plan for growth, but also to expand their systems to serve the rapidly increasing number of new residential and commercial developments that were being built in the county at the time.

became one of the only utilities in the United States to use energy futures to help manage the risk of price volatility in fuel markets. This innovative strategy of hedging oil and gas prices enabled OUC to keep fuel costs in check.

The Charter and OUC In 1986, the Florida Legislature unanimously

Making Water “Better Than It Has to Be” In 1986, amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act more than tripled OUC’s reporting requirements for water quality analyses. As a

approved significant revisions to the OUC charter.

result, Water Operations installed a $200,000 mass

Specific language was added to more clearly

spectrometer in the Water Quality Lab to conduct

define the Commission’s authority to issue

all of the new tests required by law.

revenue bonds to finance or refinance debt.

Although OUC’s own chemical and biological

The makeup of the Commission also was altered

testing — as well as that of private and

to ensure that at least one member of the board

government labs — confirmed that the utility’s

was an OUC customer living outside the City of

water was much higher in quality than both federal

Orlando in the unincorporated area of Orange

and state laws required, Water Operations made

County served by OUC.

a “quality decision” to surpass its own high treatment standards to ensure that OUC’s water continues to be “better than it has to be.”

Ted Pope: “Public Servant and Utility Advocate”

Microcomputer capabilities increased

General Manager (1986–1992) lthough OUC conducted a nationwide search in 1984 for a new assistant general manager, they found their candidate right in their own backyard: Sanford native Theodore “Ted” Pope. A University of Florida graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Engineering and a Master of Business Administration, Pope had joined OUC in 1959 as part of the Indian River Plant (IRP) start-up team. By 1970, he became assistant manager of electric operations at IRP. Two years later, he was named

A For OUC, 1987 kicked off an information era with the deployment of personal computers on desktops. Two years later, the Micro-Computer Support Department was formed to help employees manage their information technology needs.

Page 32

manager of water operations. Having served with distinction in key management positions in both facets of OUC’s business, Pope’s background made him uniquely qualified to take over the utility’s top spot as General Manager in 1986.

Known as an innovator, Pope was also a facilitator of change at OUC — streamlining, modernizing and improving operations and service.

Committed to public power, he strongly supported forming coalitions with other municipal utilities so that they all remained viable, competitive alternatives to investor-owned utilities.

Throughout his career, Pope earned many state and national honors for OUC from the electric and water industries. The American Water Works Association (AWWA) awarded him its highest honors for his leadership role in transforming

Page 33

the AWWA’s research foundation from a $60,000-a-year agency to a $4 million-a-year center of applied research.

Featured in Who’s Who in Frontiers of Science and Technology, Pope authored and presented many papers pertaining to both the electric and water utility industries.

He also invented a new water purification process that was patented and used by OUC to remove hydrogen sulfide.

In 1990, AWWA recognized Pope with its Distinguished Public Service Award.

Ken Ksionek (left), Director of SEC Construction, and Gerald Hardage, Managing Director of the Stanton Energy Center project.

The Curtis H. Stanton Energy Center: The Best Available Environmental Control Technology at the Time of Construction The process to build the Curtis H. Stanton Energy Center (SEC) began in 1980 when OUC completed a plant site selection study and decided to proceed with certification of construction for a 436-MW pulverized coal power plant at the 3,280-acre site, 12 miles southeast of Orlando in rural east Orange County. The site was licensed for a total capacity of 2,000 MW. The plant was powered by a steam turbine generator from Westinghouse Electric Corporation.

In 1981, the Public Service Commission (PSC) unanimously approved the $516 million coal-burning power plant proposed by OUC. As part of the permit, OUC committed that two-thirds of the site would be dedicated as

Providing Power from Orlando to Key West SEC was a joint venture among OUC (68.6 percent), Kissimmee Utility Authority (4.8 percent) and the Florida Municipal Power Agency (26.6 percent). The FMPA included Vero Beach, Fort Pierce, Starke, Lake Worth, Homestead, Leesburg, Ocala, Bushnell, Jacksonville Beach, Green Cove Springs and Key West.

Construction of the plant reduced OUC’s oil consumption by about 3.8 million barrels a year, an initial savings projected at $10 million. SEC Unit 1 was equipped with electrostatic precipitators and limestone scrubbers for air quality control.

a natural preserve for the protection of the red-cockaded woodpecker, at the time an endangered species.

“I’m just delighted,” said then Orlando Mayor Bill Frederick. “It’s a very important decision for the City and one that we anxiously awaited. It means a lot to the ratepayers of the City.” (Orlando Sentinel, August 15, 1981).

Partnering with Orange County A nearby Orange County Wastewater Treatment facility provided the water necessary for plant cooling and enabled Stanton to be a “zero discharge” facility.

This innovative process for using sewage effluent in the natural draft cooling towers

benefitted both OUC and Orange County.

claimed that OUC was trying to slip

Up until then, the disposition of sewage

ecologically disastrous design changes past

effluent was a costly environmental problem

the Florida Department of Environmental

for Orange County, and the use of sewage

Regulation and plant opponents. In addition,

effluent by Stanton was an important part

cities along the most “practical route” for

of the solution. In addition, the Orange

trains hauling coal to Stanton (DeLand,

County landfill next door to the plant had

Sanford, Longwood, Altamonte Springs,

the potential for utilizing landfill gas or

Maitland and Winter Park) sent telegrams

refuse for future power generation purposes.

and passed resolutions protesting the trains coming through their towns.

Innovative M/WBE Participation Program The project also was notable at the time for its considerable participation of Minority/

Officials said they were worried about coal dust and traffic jams (Orlando Sentinel, December 12, 1982).

But the protests were silenced in 1984,

Woman-Owned Business Enterprises that

as Orlando voters showed strong support for

doubled the rate of any similar construction

the coal-fired power plant, overwhelmingly

project in Florida. The record participation

rejecting (13,838 to

was the result of meeting an aggressive

7,557) a court-ordered

minority hiring policy that had been

referendum that

established when the project began.

opponents claimed

Through a Minority Participation Board

could have stopped

and the addition of a minority employment

the project. In what

coordinator, special recruitment and skills

was referred to as the

training courses were established —

“Vote No to Vote Yes”

the first of their kind in Florida.

campaign, the wording on the ballot required a “no” vote to indicate support

Overcoming Consumer Concerns

for the plant.

Of course, the proposed power plant was not without its detractors. In March 1982, the Sierra Club, an environmental group,

On May 12, 1987 at 2:14:56 p.m., Assistant General Manager Lou Stone — who had been present at the birth of every new OUC power plant since 1949 — flipped the switch at the Stanton Energy Center to begin initial synchronization that allowed SEC to produce power for the first time.

The Saturday before the startup, retired General Manager Curt Stanton was on hand to “roll the turbine.” SEC went commercial on July 1, 1987 — on schedule and under budget.

Page 34

Page 35

Ken Ksionek (left), Director of SEC Construction, and Gerald Hardage, Managing Director of the Stanton Energy Center project.

The Curtis H. Stanton Energy Center: The Best Available Environmental Control Technology at the Time of Construction The process to build the Curtis H. Stanton Energy Center (SEC) began in 1980 when OUC completed a plant site selection study and decided to proceed with certification of construction for a 436-MW pulverized coal power plant at the 3,280-acre site, 12 miles southeast of Orlando in rural east Orange County. The site was licensed for a total capacity of 2,000 MW. The plant was powered by a steam turbine generator from Westinghouse Electric Corporation.

In 1981, the Public Service Commission (PSC) unanimously approved the $516 million coal-burning power plant proposed by OUC. As part of the permit, OUC committed that two-thirds of the site would be dedicated as

Providing Power from Orlando to Key West SEC was a joint venture among OUC (68.6 percent), Kissimmee Utility Authority (4.8 percent) and the Florida Municipal Power Agency (26.6 percent). The FMPA included Vero Beach, Fort Pierce, Starke, Lake Worth, Homestead, Leesburg, Ocala, Bushnell, Jacksonville Beach, Green Cove Springs and Key West.

Construction of the plant reduced OUC’s oil consumption by about 3.8 million barrels a year, an initial savings projected at $10 million. SEC Unit 1 was equipped with electrostatic precipitators and limestone scrubbers for air quality control.

a natural preserve for the protection of the red-cockaded woodpecker, at the time an endangered species.

“I’m just delighted,” said then Orlando Mayor Bill Frederick. “It’s a very important decision for the City and one that we anxiously awaited. It means a lot to the ratepayers of the City.” (Orlando Sentinel, August 15, 1981).

Partnering with Orange County A nearby Orange County Wastewater Treatment facility provided the water necessary for plant cooling and enabled Stanton to be a “zero discharge” facility.

This innovative process for using sewage effluent in the natural draft cooling towers

benefitted both OUC and Orange County.

claimed that OUC was trying to slip

Up until then, the disposition of sewage

ecologically disastrous design changes past

effluent was a costly environmental problem

the Florida Department of Environmental

for Orange County, and the use of sewage

Regulation and plant opponents. In addition,

effluent by Stanton was an important part

cities along the most “practical route” for

of the solution. In addition, the Orange

trains hauling coal to Stanton (DeLand,

County landfill next door to the plant had

Sanford, Longwood, Altamonte Springs,

the potential for utilizing landfill gas or

Maitland and Winter Park) sent telegrams

refuse for future power generation purposes.

and passed resolutions protesting the trains coming through their towns.

Innovative M/WBE Participation Program The project also was notable at the time for its considerable participation of Minority/

Officials said they were worried about coal dust and traffic jams (Orlando Sentinel, December 12, 1982).

But the protests were silenced in 1984,

Woman-Owned Business Enterprises that

as Orlando voters showed strong support for

doubled the rate of any similar construction

the coal-fired power plant, overwhelmingly

project in Florida. The record participation

rejecting (13,838 to

was the result of meeting an aggressive

7,557) a court-ordered

minority hiring policy that had been

referendum that

established when the project began.

opponents claimed

Through a Minority Participation Board

could have stopped

and the addition of a minority employment

the project. In what

coordinator, special recruitment and skills

was referred to as the

training courses were established —

“Vote No to Vote Yes”

the first of their kind in Florida.

campaign, the wording on the ballot required a “no” vote to indicate support

Overcoming Consumer Concerns

for the plant.

Of course, the proposed power plant was not without its detractors. In March 1982, the Sierra Club, an environmental group,

On May 12, 1987 at 2:14:56 p.m., Assistant General Manager Lou Stone — who had been present at the birth of every new OUC power plant since 1949 — flipped the switch at the Stanton Energy Center to begin initial synchronization that allowed SEC to produce power for the first time.

The Saturday before the startup, retired General Manager Curt Stanton was on hand to “roll the turbine.” SEC went commercial on July 1, 1987 — on schedule and under budget.

Page 34

Page 35

Managing OUC’s Most Valuable Resource: Employees The ‘80s brought changes in the way OUC

community it served. This effort to attract, retain and

handled human resources. A Benefits Division was

promote a diverse group of talented employees

created to deal with escalating benefits expenses

helped OUC further strengthen its role as a

and implement cost containment measures like

community leader. Later, OUC would extend this

the Preferred Provider Organization program. In

diversification effort to include Minority/Women-

addition, OUC’s Risk Management Division instituted

Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBE) vendors.

a self-insurance program to cover Workers’

training and safety programs for employees —

Liability to hold down these insurance costs.

in the classroom and in the field — to ensure that

At the same time, OUC embarked on a mission

Record Cold Prompts OUC to Begin Plans for a Second SEC Unit

OUC also continued to provide comprehensive

Compensation, General Liability and Automobile

to diversify its workforce to better reflect the

The dancing lights and waters of the fountain in Lake Eola became a symbol of Orlando’s renaissance in the 1980s. Originally gifted to the City by OUC, the fountain was out of operation for a decade, but came to life again in 1988, thanks to OUC and its maintenance division.

they had the proper skills and training to perform their jobs safely and effectively.

The Power of Municipalities Pooling Their Resources Already a pacesetter in joint action, OUC set

Three days of sub-freezing temperatures

Nonetheless, the record-breaking cold

during December 1989 sent shivers down the

snap and the havoc it wreaked across the state

spines of many Floridians. Much of the state

prompted forward-thinking OUC to plan for

reeled under the effect of rolling blackouts and

the future and move ahead with building a

outages. OUC, however, weathered one of

second coal-fired unit at Stanton Energy

the biggest chills of the century with remarkably

Center. The unit was expected to cost

few hitches. During this frigid test of reliability,

$515 million and begin operation in 1996.

86 percent of OUC’s customers never

The goal was to replicate the first plant,

experienced any service interruptions.

which was considered one of the cleanest coal-burning plants in the nation.

On July 1, 1988, the Florida Municipal Power

another new precedent in 1986 when it began

Pool (FMPP) began operation as the state’s first

selling wholesale electric power and provided

fully integrated municipal electric power pool.

total dispatching services to the Florida Municipal

OUC continues to operate what is now called the

Power Agency (FMPA) for five members including

FMPP Energy Control Center and Florida Energy

Leesburg, Jacksonville Beach, Ocala, Green Cove

Marketing (FEM) and is responsible for the

Substation was OUC’s “urban solution to

Springs and Bushnell. This made OUC the first in

dispatching of the pool's generating resources

growth.” To keep up with the phenomenal

the state, and possibly the nation, to provide total

in the most economical manner. Over the course

building boom that occurred in the ‘80s,

dispatching services to other electric utilities that

of its 22-year existence, the pool has saved

OUC constructed a high-capacity, three-story,

were completely non-contiguous, both electrically

participating municipalities millions of dollars

gas-insulated substation.

and geographically.

in energy costs.

Enclosed Substation Downtown Built in 1987, the Robinson Electrical

The substation utilized a small footprint with the majority of the equipment enclosed in an architecturally designed building —

Lou Stone: “Father of Reliability Measurement”

a first for Central Florida and only the second of its kind in the state.

Assistant General Manager (1986–1989) Rollins College graduate with a degree in Chemistry, Lou Stone joined Orlando Utilities Commission in 1949 and retired in 1989. During his 40 years at OUC, he rose from a water laboratory chemist to the role of assistant general manager. Dubbed OUC’s “dean of electric generation,” Stone served as head of electric operations from 1967 to 1986 and is known as an expert in power plant operations and electric reliability measurement.

Stone’s passion for reliability started early in his career, at a time when OUC’s only source of power was the old 18-MW

A

Lake Ivanhoe Plant.

Hired as part of the group that would bring the new Lake Highland Plant online, Stone developed a system to train operators to effectively start up a “dark plant.” He went on to become the first Superintendent of the Indian River Plant. When it came time to design the Stanton Energy Center (SEC), Stone was named head of electric operations — and he committed to making SEC the cleanest, most reliable coal-fired power plant in the country.

“The legacy of which I am probably the proudest is the one in which I was the architect and creator of the use of reliability in customer service,” Stone said.

When Stone took over OUC’s electric operations, he realized that there was no standardized method of measuring customer reliability. Every power system calculated it differently — from counting the number of service calls . . . to feeder outages . . . to storm-caused outages. All of these determined only how a utility compared to its own previous

Page 36

performance — not how it stacked up against other utilities.

“I began an extensive study for creating a methodology that could be utilized by any utility,” Stone said. “Ultimately, I formulated such a mathematical model.

Through OUC’s participation in the FCG (Florida Electric Power Coordinating Group), our representatives were able to start reporting reliability using the methodology I developed. It was adopted by the Florida Public Service Commission with only minor alterations.”

Taking n Conservatio into the Classroom

For decades, OUC has offered a wide range of programs designed to help customers of all ages use energy and water safely and wisely.

During the 1980s, as part of its Educational Outreach Program, the utility took electric, water and safety classroom presentations to as many as 5,000 students a year in Orange County Public Schools. At left, OUC’s Joanne (Wheeler) Silva and puppet “OUCH the Outlet” teamed up to teach youngsters at Richmond Heights Elementary about conservation.

Page 37

Managing OUC’s Most Valuable Resource: Employees The ‘80s brought changes in the way OUC

community it served. This effort to attract, retain and

handled human resources. A Benefits Division was

promote a diverse group of talented employees

created to deal with escalating benefits expenses

helped OUC further strengthen its role as a

and implement cost containment measures like

community leader. Later, OUC would extend this

the Preferred Provider Organization program. In

diversification effort to include Minority/Women-

addition, OUC’s Risk Management Division instituted

Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBE) vendors.

a self-insurance program to cover Workers’

training and safety programs for employees —

Liability to hold down these insurance costs.

in the classroom and in the field — to ensure that

At the same time, OUC embarked on a mission

Record Cold Prompts OUC to Begin Plans for a Second SEC Unit

OUC also continued to provide comprehensive

Compensation, General Liability and Automobile

to diversify its workforce to better reflect the

The dancing lights and waters of the fountain in Lake Eola became a symbol of Orlando’s renaissance in the 1980s. Originally gifted to the City by OUC, the fountain was out of operation for a decade, but came to life again in 1988, thanks to OUC and its maintenance division.

they had the proper skills and training to perform their jobs safely and effectively.

The Power of Municipalities Pooling Their Resources Already a pacesetter in joint action, OUC set

Three days of sub-freezing temperatures

Nonetheless, the record-breaking cold

during December 1989 sent shivers down the

snap and the havoc it wreaked across the state

spines of many Floridians. Much of the state

prompted forward-thinking OUC to plan for

reeled under the effect of rolling blackouts and

the future and move ahead with building a

outages. OUC, however, weathered one of

second coal-fired unit at Stanton Energy

the biggest chills of the century with remarkably

Center. The unit was expected to cost

few hitches. During this frigid test of reliability,

$515 million and begin operation in 1996.

86 percent of OUC’s customers never

The goal was to replicate the first plant,

experienced any service interruptions.

which was considered one of the cleanest coal-burning plants in the nation.

On July 1, 1988, the Florida Municipal Power

another new precedent in 1986 when it began

Pool (FMPP) began operation as the state’s first

selling wholesale electric power and provided

fully integrated municipal electric power pool.

total dispatching services to the Florida Municipal

OUC continues to operate what is now called the

Power Agency (FMPA) for five members including

FMPP Energy Control Center and Florida Energy

Leesburg, Jacksonville Beach, Ocala, Green Cove

Marketing (FEM) and is responsible for the

Substation was OUC’s “urban solution to

Springs and Bushnell. This made OUC the first in

dispatching of the pool's generating resources

growth.” To keep up with the phenomenal

the state, and possibly the nation, to provide total

in the most economical manner. Over the course

building boom that occurred in the ‘80s,

dispatching services to other electric utilities that

of its 22-year existence, the pool has saved

OUC constructed a high-capacity, three-story,

were completely non-contiguous, both electrically

participating municipalities millions of dollars

gas-insulated substation.

and geographically.

in energy costs.

Enclosed Substation Downtown Built in 1987, the Robinson Electrical

The substation utilized a small footprint with the majority of the equipment enclosed in an architecturally designed building —

Lou Stone: “Father of Reliability Measurement”

a first for Central Florida and only the second of its kind in the state.

Assistant General Manager (1986–1989) Rollins College graduate with a degree in Chemistry, Lou Stone joined Orlando Utilities Commission in 1949 and retired in 1989. During his 40 years at OUC, he rose from a water laboratory chemist to the role of assistant general manager. Dubbed OUC’s “dean of electric generation,” Stone served as head of electric operations from 1967 to 1986 and is known as an expert in power plant operations and electric reliability measurement.

Stone’s passion for reliability started early in his career, at a time when OUC’s only source of power was the old 18-MW

A

Lake Ivanhoe Plant.

Hired as part of the group that would bring the new Lake Highland Plant online, Stone developed a system to train operators to effectively start up a “dark plant.” He went on to become the first Superintendent of the Indian River Plant. When it came time to design the Stanton Energy Center (SEC), Stone was named head of electric operations — and he committed to making SEC the cleanest, most reliable coal-fired power plant in the country.

“The legacy of which I am probably the proudest is the one in which I was the architect and creator of the use of reliability in customer service,” Stone said.

When Stone took over OUC’s electric operations, he realized that there was no standardized method of measuring customer reliability. Every power system calculated it differently — from counting the number of service calls . . . to feeder outages . . . to storm-caused outages. All of these determined only how a utility compared to its own previous

Page 36

performance — not how it stacked up against other utilities.

“I began an extensive study for creating a methodology that could be utilized by any utility,” Stone said. “Ultimately, I formulated such a mathematical model.

Through OUC’s participation in the FCG (Florida Electric Power Coordinating Group), our representatives were able to start reporting reliability using the methodology I developed. It was adopted by the Florida Public Service Commission with only minor alterations.”

Taking n Conservatio into the Classroom

For decades, OUC has offered a wide range of programs designed to help customers of all ages use energy and water safely and wisely.

During the 1980s, as part of its Educational Outreach Program, the utility took electric, water and safety classroom presentations to as many as 5,000 students a year in Orange County Public Schools. At left, OUC’s Joanne (Wheeler) Silva and puppet “OUCH the Outlet” teamed up to teach youngsters at Richmond Heights Elementary about conservation.

Page 37

IN 1990

RS STOME U C C ECTRI ERS 1 EL 5 4 , 7 USTOM 1 C 1 R E T 4 WA 98,59 YEES TED EMPLO ENERA G 9 H 6 W 1,0 ON M S OF MILLI ALLON 4.8 G N O BILLI UMPED 28.4 WATER P

CHAPTER V:

U P S

A N D

1990 which later became Universal Orlando® Resort.

• PROUD Community Volunteer program launches.

• Sky Lake Water Plant opens.

Original Lake

• Stanton Energy Center

Ivanhoe Plant

Unit 2 comes online.

reborn as the Dr. Phillips

• Gold Ring Home

Performing Arts Center.

program begins.

1997

• OUC and

St. Cloud enter 25-year • Southwest Water Plant opens. on first

drinking water.

• SEC A goes commercial.

“The Greenest

and the turbulence made forecasting and planning a challenge, to say the

add more than 1,000 MW of generation. To meet the needs of OUC’s

least. High points — including the opening of Universal Studios® Florida, and

expanding customer base, two operations facilities — the Pershing and

a boom in residential and commercial construction — were followed by

Gardenia Centers — were opened along with Reliable Plaza, a new customer

precipitous lows: back-to-back-to-back hurricanes, terrorist attacks on our

service and administration building. OUC also focused on the region’s water

nation, the bursting of the real-estate bubble and severe

needs with Water Project 2000, which was designed to

economic recession. But, through it all, one thing was

upgrade and expand potable water systems by treating

certain: OUC’s strong financial foundation and steady

drinking water with ozone. By the turn of the century,

hand allowed the utility to live up to its name.

OUC had taken proactive steps to prepare for

Although economic conditions at home and the Persian

competition, launching new profit centers such as

Building in Downtown

Gulf crisis abroad clouded the dawn of the 1990s, long-term

Orlando,” opens.

projections for Metro Orlando remained bright with the promise of continued

OUCooling and OUConvenient Lighting.

In 1998, the utility celebrated its 75th anniversary — formalizing a

growth. The region was often in the national spotlight, cited by numerous

commitment to provide the highest level of service to customers by making

publications for having an excellent climate for business. As the decade

reliability part of its name. Orlando Utilities Commission became OUC —

progressed and the economy rebounded, advances in telecommunications

The Reliable One. That mantra has become a compass that not only guides

and computer networking marked the advent of the “dot.com” era —

operational decisions, but also reinforces OUC’s pledge to keep the power

and deregulation of the utility industry loomed.

on and the water flowing . . . even in the face of Mother Nature’s most severe threats.

Orange County Convention Center.

• OUC begins burning methane gas from Orange

water plant.

County landfill.

Indian River steam units sold.

to support a booming population and diversify its portfolio, the utility would

switch on a 1-MW solar array at

The Reliable One.

chilled

1999

In 1990, OUC added its largest customer, Universal Studios® Florida,

OUC would power. Central Florida was particularly affected —

OUC and Orange County flip the

• OUC becomes

T H R O U G H E V E R – C H A N G I N G T I M E S, O U C R E M A I N S “T H E R E L I A B L E O N E”

AWWA Award for best

2009

75 anniversary.

2010 • SEC B comes

2000

online in February.

OUConvenient Lighting

• POWER and

and OUConsumption

Green Neighborhood programs begin.

launch.

Page 38

1990 –2010

which later became Universal Orlando® Resort. Over the next two decades,

Central Florida.

th

1970 –1989

and downs and twists and turns that rivaled the roller coasters

Reliable Plaza,

Consumptive Use Permit.

1950 –1969

receives

• Three hurricanes hit • OUC gets 20-year

1923 –1949

rom 1990 to 2010, the economy experienced a period of ups

2008

• OUC celebrates

• OUC begins construction

• OUC

2004

1998

Interlocal Agreement.

2003

OUC receives “Outstanding Distribution Award and Water Conservation Award for Excellence” from AWWA.

Universal Studios® Florida,

1996

1875 –1922

2002

• OUC adds its largest customer,

1992

D O W N S

Page 39

IN 1990

RS STOME U C C ECTRI ERS 1 EL 5 4 , 7 USTOM 1 C 1 R E T 4 WA 98,59 YEES TED EMPLO ENERA G 9 H 6 W 1,0 ON M S OF MILLI ALLON 4.8 G N O BILLI UMPED 28.4 WATER P

CHAPTER V:

U P S

A N D

1990 which later became Universal Orlando® Resort.

• PROUD Community Volunteer program launches.

• Sky Lake Water Plant opens.

Original Lake

• Stanton Energy Center

Ivanhoe Plant

Unit 2 comes online.

reborn as the Dr. Phillips

• Gold Ring Home

Performing Arts Center.

program begins.

1997

• OUC and

St. Cloud enter 25-year • Southwest Water Plant opens. on first

drinking water.

• SEC A goes commercial.

“The Greenest

and the turbulence made forecasting and planning a challenge, to say the

add more than 1,000 MW of generation. To meet the needs of OUC’s

least. High points — including the opening of Universal Studios® Florida, and

expanding customer base, two operations facilities — the Pershing and

a boom in residential and commercial construction — were followed by

Gardenia Centers — were opened along with Reliable Plaza, a new customer

precipitous lows: back-to-back-to-back hurricanes, terrorist attacks on our

service and administration building. OUC also focused on the region’s water

nation, the bursting of the real-estate bubble and severe

needs with Water Project 2000, which was designed to

economic recession. But, through it all, one thing was

upgrade and expand potable water systems by treating

certain: OUC’s strong financial foundation and steady

drinking water with ozone. By the turn of the century,

hand allowed the utility to live up to its name.

OUC had taken proactive steps to prepare for

Although economic conditions at home and the Persian

competition, launching new profit centers such as

Building in Downtown

Gulf crisis abroad clouded the dawn of the 1990s, long-term

Orlando,” opens.

projections for Metro Orlando remained bright with the promise of continued

OUCooling and OUConvenient Lighting.

In 1998, the utility celebrated its 75th anniversary — formalizing a

growth. The region was often in the national spotlight, cited by numerous

commitment to provide the highest level of service to customers by making

publications for having an excellent climate for business. As the decade

reliability part of its name. Orlando Utilities Commission became OUC —

progressed and the economy rebounded, advances in telecommunications

The Reliable One. That mantra has become a compass that not only guides

and computer networking marked the advent of the “dot.com” era —

operational decisions, but also reinforces OUC’s pledge to keep the power

and deregulation of the utility industry loomed.

on and the water flowing . . . even in the face of Mother Nature’s most severe threats.

Orange County Convention Center.

• OUC begins burning methane gas from Orange

water plant.

County landfill.

Indian River steam units sold.

to support a booming population and diversify its portfolio, the utility would

switch on a 1-MW solar array at

The Reliable One.

chilled

1999

In 1990, OUC added its largest customer, Universal Studios® Florida,

OUC would power. Central Florida was particularly affected —

OUC and Orange County flip the

• OUC becomes

T H R O U G H E V E R – C H A N G I N G T I M E S, O U C R E M A I N S “T H E R E L I A B L E O N E”

AWWA Award for best

2009

75 anniversary.

2010 • SEC B comes

2000

online in February.

OUConvenient Lighting

• POWER and

and OUConsumption

Green Neighborhood programs begin.

launch.

Page 38

1990 –2010

which later became Universal Orlando® Resort. Over the next two decades,

Central Florida.

th

1970 –1989

and downs and twists and turns that rivaled the roller coasters

Reliable Plaza,

Consumptive Use Permit.

1950 –1969

receives

• Three hurricanes hit • OUC gets 20-year

1923 –1949

rom 1990 to 2010, the economy experienced a period of ups

2008

• OUC celebrates

• OUC begins construction

• OUC

2004

1998

Interlocal Agreement.

2003

OUC receives “Outstanding Distribution Award and Water Conservation Award for Excellence” from AWWA.

Universal Studios® Florida,

1996

1875 –1922

2002

• OUC adds its largest customer,

1992

D O W N S

Page 39

Launched in 1990, “Yagottawannadoit” — symbolized by mascot O.U. Toucan — was the theme of OUC’s employee incentive program, which was designed to improve productivity, teamwork and problem solving.

A Technology Tsunami

Keeping It Clean In 1990, the last major changes to the Clean Air

(e.g., performance-based standards and emissions

The tidal wave of technology advancements that

the existing mainframe system first installed in the

trading) to address environmental problems.

characterized the 1990s swept through OUC, too,

1960s. During this period, the utility developed a new

pollution problems such as acid rain, smog, carbon

OUC met the new requirements with ease:

as the utility “tooled up for tomorrow.”

Customer Information Reporting and Tracking System

monoxide and particulate matter. The amendments

Its power plants were already operating at levels

To run the electric and

encouraged, for the first time, the use of market-

significantly lower than the limits in the Clean Air

water systems reliably, safely

based principles and other innovative approaches

Act Amendments.

and efficiently, OUC used its

accounts. OUC also provided

own microwave Information

certain billing services for the

Highway, touching almost

city, county and state that

every facet of its operations —

would benefit from the new

people, plants, power lines,

system. CIMART provided

Act of 1970 were enacted — targeting urban air

Sky Lake Water Plant Comes Online In 1990, the Sky Lake Water Plant, OUC’s 10th

carbon/chlorine process instead of aeration to

water treatment plant, became operational to

enhance taste and eliminate odor. The process was

provide water to the southern part of the service

developed by OUC’s Ted Pope and Dick Dunham.

territory. Rated at 24 MGD, Sky Lake was the

Sky Lake came online just as Water Operations

second OUC plant to use the utility’s patented

surpassed the 100,000 active meters mark.

pipelines, substations, mobile radios, phones, faxes,

(CIMART) to meet billing

OUC replaced its mainframe with a new computer that was slightly larger than a desktop PC.

computers, machines and remote terminal units.

OUC began “right-sizing” computer operations, developing PC-based systems and software to replace

summary billing, direct debits and remote meter reading.

A similar program called Project Estimating and Scheduling (PETS) was utilized for capital improvement and construction projects.

PROUD to Serve To encourage employees to “pay their civic dues,” OUC launched its PROUD Community Volunteer program in 1990. In addition to recognizing employees for volunteer efforts, the program provided $2 for every hour donated to an eligible non-profit organization up to $200. More than $2,000 was donated to community organizations. In just two years after the program began, employee participation in volunteer activities doubled.

In 1991, OUC completed the most extensive five-year program in its history to improve and expand its transmission and distribution (T&D) system — adding nearly $200 million in new or upgraded T&D facilities and equipment. In that time, the utility increased its primary circuit miles 27 percent to 1,246 miles and grew its capacity 23 percent to 1.8 million kV. But those statistics tell only half the story. They do not reflect the magnitude of the ongoing process of upgrading or replacing older infrastructure, modernizing or relocating equipment because of street and highway projects, and streetscaping projects that required undergrounding power lines, as well as enhancing and improving overhead systems. In 1991 alone, OUC upgraded underground systems in 10 older subdivisions to improve reliability.

Ten new distribution feeder circuits were installed, the highest number in one year in OUC history.

The system would eventually be expanded to include 29 substations, 338 circuit miles of transmission and 1,884 circuit miles of distribution, more than 60 percent of which is underground.

Page 40

General Manager (1992–1994)

needs for 225,000 customer

OUC’s Sky Lake Water Plant.

OUC Expands Transmission and Distribution System

Troy Todd: “Champion of Community Outreach”

Page 41

Troy Todd, a graduate of Virginia Polytechnical Institute, came to OUC from United Telephone (Sprint) where he was the CEO and former Vice President of Human Resources. A champion of “giving back,” Todd increased OUC’s involvement in the community. Under his leadership, OUC created the Community Relations area and organized employee “Community Crews” volunteer involvement efforts.

Todd was passionate about transparency. During his tenure, OUC enhanced internal audit policies and instituted stricter ethics and purchasing policies to improve accountability and transparency.

General Manager Bob Haven said of his predecessor, “Troy Todd will be remembered and appreciated for his leadership in launching initiatives that helped OUC remain competitive and in helping defeat an attempt to freeze municipal electric utilities’ service territories.”

Launched in 1990, “Yagottawannadoit” — symbolized by mascot O.U. Toucan — was the theme of OUC’s employee incentive program, which was designed to improve productivity, teamwork and problem solving.

A Technology Tsunami

Keeping It Clean In 1990, the last major changes to the Clean Air

(e.g., performance-based standards and emissions

The tidal wave of technology advancements that

the existing mainframe system first installed in the

trading) to address environmental problems.

characterized the 1990s swept through OUC, too,

1960s. During this period, the utility developed a new

pollution problems such as acid rain, smog, carbon

OUC met the new requirements with ease:

as the utility “tooled up for tomorrow.”

Customer Information Reporting and Tracking System

monoxide and particulate matter. The amendments

Its power plants were already operating at levels

To run the electric and

encouraged, for the first time, the use of market-

significantly lower than the limits in the Clean Air

water systems reliably, safely

based principles and other innovative approaches

Act Amendments.

and efficiently, OUC used its

accounts. OUC also provided

own microwave Information

certain billing services for the

Highway, touching almost

city, county and state that

every facet of its operations —

would benefit from the new

people, plants, power lines,

system. CIMART provided

Act of 1970 were enacted — targeting urban air

Sky Lake Water Plant Comes Online In 1990, the Sky Lake Water Plant, OUC’s 10th

carbon/chlorine process instead of aeration to

water treatment plant, became operational to

enhance taste and eliminate odor. The process was

provide water to the southern part of the service

developed by OUC’s Ted Pope and Dick Dunham.

territory. Rated at 24 MGD, Sky Lake was the

Sky Lake came online just as Water Operations

second OUC plant to use the utility’s patented

surpassed the 100,000 active meters mark.

pipelines, substations, mobile radios, phones, faxes,

(CIMART) to meet billing

OUC replaced its mainframe with a new computer that was slightly larger than a desktop PC.

computers, machines and remote terminal units.

OUC began “right-sizing” computer operations, developing PC-based systems and software to replace

summary billing, direct debits and remote meter reading.

A similar program called Project Estimating and Scheduling (PETS) was utilized for capital improvement and construction projects.

PROUD to Serve To encourage employees to “pay their civic dues,” OUC launched its PROUD Community Volunteer program in 1990. In addition to recognizing employees for volunteer efforts, the program provided $2 for every hour donated to an eligible non-profit organization up to $200. More than $2,000 was donated to community organizations. In just two years after the program began, employee participation in volunteer activities doubled.

In 1991, OUC completed the most extensive five-year program in its history to improve and expand its transmission and distribution (T&D) system — adding nearly $200 million in new or upgraded T&D facilities and equipment. In that time, the utility increased its primary circuit miles 27 percent to 1,246 miles and grew its capacity 23 percent to 1.8 million kV. But those statistics tell only half the story. They do not reflect the magnitude of the ongoing process of upgrading or replacing older infrastructure, modernizing or relocating equipment because of street and highway projects, and streetscaping projects that required undergrounding power lines, as well as enhancing and improving overhead systems. In 1991 alone, OUC upgraded underground systems in 10 older subdivisions to improve reliability.

Ten new distribution feeder circuits were installed, the highest number in one year in OUC history.

The system would eventually be expanded to include 29 substations, 338 circuit miles of transmission and 1,884 circuit miles of distribution, more than 60 percent of which is underground.

Page 40

General Manager (1992–1994)

needs for 225,000 customer

OUC’s Sky Lake Water Plant.

OUC Expands Transmission and Distribution System

Troy Todd: “Champion of Community Outreach”

Page 41

Troy Todd, a graduate of Virginia Polytechnical Institute, came to OUC from United Telephone (Sprint) where he was the CEO and former Vice President of Human Resources. A champion of “giving back,” Todd increased OUC’s involvement in the community. Under his leadership, OUC created the Community Relations area and organized employee “Community Crews” volunteer involvement efforts.

Todd was passionate about transparency. During his tenure, OUC enhanced internal audit policies and instituted stricter ethics and purchasing policies to improve accountability and transparency.

General Manager Bob Haven said of his predecessor, “Troy Todd will be remembered and appreciated for his leadership in launching initiatives that helped OUC remain competitive and in helping defeat an attempt to freeze municipal electric utilities’ service territories.”

OUC’s bulk sales and interchange activities escalated dramatically in the ‘80s and so did the role of its sophisticated load dispatch/energy control center, located at the Pershing Operations Center.

OUC Opens Pershing and Gardenia Operations Centers In 1992, OUC opened the Pershing Operations Center to serve the east part of town. Its counterpart on the west side, the

and water systems, all 24-hour operations

Gardenia Center, opened one year later.

except at power plants, fleet service facilities

Both facilities were built to replace the small,

and the utility’s third customer service center

antiquated water and electric operations/

(including drive-through lanes).

maintenance facilities located on the north

The 22-acre Gardenia Operations Center

side of Lake Highland. Costing a combined

was completed in the fall of 1993 and

$37 million, they were constructed to meet

housed OUC’s Water Quality Lab, internal

OUC’s space needs for up to 20 years.

audit, warehouse, fleet, water distribution,

The 48-acre Pershing complex contained OUC’s computer “nerve centers” for electric

PUTTING RELIABILITY TO THE TEST

revenue protection, water and meter testing, and security.

Helping Victims of Hurricane Andrew. During the

Saturday, March 13, the “Storm

1990s, Mother Nature was on the warpath. In the

of the Century” brought 18

summer of 1992, Hurricane Andrew — one of the

hours of near-hurricane strength

deadliest, costliest and most devastating storms in

gusts, causing outages as fast

Gardenia Operations Center.

Combustion Turbines Added to Indian River Plant

U.S. history — ravaged South

as OUC employees restored

Florida. In the face of that

service. Nearly 30,000

emergency, OUC and its

customers lost power, but by

employees responded quickly.

midday Sunday, service was fully restored.

In November 1992, OUC added a pair of

Swift Response to Erin’s Fury. In the early morning

Within two days, volunteers

combustion turbine units at the Indian River

had filled 10,000 one-gallon

hours of August 2, 1995, Hurricane Erin roared through

Plant (IRP). With three steam generating units

bottles of pure OUC water

Florida, creating a level of service interruption that

and two small 35-MW combustion turbine units

and sent them to the disaster

eclipsed both the Christmas freeze of 1989 and the 1993

in place since 1989, IRP represented 57 percent

area. A week later, nearly

“Storm of the Century.” While no damage was done to

60 linemen, engineers and

any OUC generation or transmission facilities, Erin’s

other workers were

90-mph winds knocked out power to 37 main distribution

of OUC’s total generating capacity. All IRP units operated on either oil or natural gas, a flexibility that enabled the utility to take advantage of market conditions and buy fuel cheaper than other utilities. IRP was also valuable to OUC as a source of substantial revenue from bulk power sales.

dispatched south to help the City of Homestead

feeders — and 52,500 OUC customers experienced

rebuild its electric system.

some interruption in service in the wake of the storm.

The Storm of the Century. In March 1993, a rare, severe wind storm struck much of Florida. Blasting

Erin’s impact was greater than the total average outage time experienced in the previous four years.

Orlando with 62-mile-per-hour winds at 12:30 a.m.,

Charged up about using energy wisely and reducing harmful auto emissions, OUC

Fueling Growth: OUC Expands Service Area to Include Lake Nona In 1994 and 1995, OUC expanded its water

by about 20 square miles. Initially, the impact was

such as those in Lake Nona, to the community.

tested its first electric-powered vehicles in

and electric service area to include the new

small — adding just 73 new water customers and

Then Orlando Mayor Glenda E. Hood said,

Lake Nona community. The area located

287 electric customers. However, the potential

“As Orlando continues to compete both

1993 — taking its conservation program

southeast of the Orlando International Airport

was tremendous, and the gamble wound up paying

domestically and internationally for business,

was slated to become a major center for

off. As a result of the agreement, OUC gained a

a strong, financially sound and well-positioned

“on the road” in a minivan outfitted with

economic development in the region.

community that would become home to a Medical

utility is vital for economic development. You

City housing the University of Central Florida

cannot have growth without a utility that can

rooftop solar panels.

25-year territorial agreement for a 30-square-mile

Medical School, Burnham Institute, Veterans

provide reliable electricity, quality water and

area at Lake Nona. Then in 1995, OUC and Florida

Hospital and Nemours Children’s Hospital.

competitive rates to attract industry and

In 1994, OUC and Orange County signed a new

Power Corp. signed a new 10-year territorial agreement that expanded the electric service area

Page 42

OUC’s reputation was critical to the City of Orlando’s ability to attract new businesses,

Page 43

encourage residential development.”

OUC’s bulk sales and interchange activities escalated dramatically in the ‘80s and so did the role of its sophisticated load dispatch/energy control center, located at the Pershing Operations Center.

OUC Opens Pershing and Gardenia Operations Centers In 1992, OUC opened the Pershing Operations Center to serve the east part of town. Its counterpart on the west side, the

and water systems, all 24-hour operations

Gardenia Center, opened one year later.

except at power plants, fleet service facilities

Both facilities were built to replace the small,

and the utility’s third customer service center

antiquated water and electric operations/

(including drive-through lanes).

maintenance facilities located on the north

The 22-acre Gardenia Operations Center

side of Lake Highland. Costing a combined

was completed in the fall of 1993 and

$37 million, they were constructed to meet

housed OUC’s Water Quality Lab, internal

OUC’s space needs for up to 20 years.

audit, warehouse, fleet, water distribution,

The 48-acre Pershing complex contained OUC’s computer “nerve centers” for electric

PUTTING RELIABILITY TO THE TEST

revenue protection, water and meter testing, and security.

Helping Victims of Hurricane Andrew. During the

Saturday, March 13, the “Storm

1990s, Mother Nature was on the warpath. In the

of the Century” brought 18

summer of 1992, Hurricane Andrew — one of the

hours of near-hurricane strength

deadliest, costliest and most devastating storms in

gusts, causing outages as fast

Gardenia Operations Center.

Combustion Turbines Added to Indian River Plant

U.S. history — ravaged South

as OUC employees restored

Florida. In the face of that

service. Nearly 30,000

emergency, OUC and its

customers lost power, but by

employees responded quickly.

midday Sunday, service was fully restored.

In November 1992, OUC added a pair of

Swift Response to Erin’s Fury. In the early morning

Within two days, volunteers

combustion turbine units at the Indian River

had filled 10,000 one-gallon

hours of August 2, 1995, Hurricane Erin roared through

Plant (IRP). With three steam generating units

bottles of pure OUC water

Florida, creating a level of service interruption that

and two small 35-MW combustion turbine units

and sent them to the disaster

eclipsed both the Christmas freeze of 1989 and the 1993

in place since 1989, IRP represented 57 percent

area. A week later, nearly

“Storm of the Century.” While no damage was done to

60 linemen, engineers and

any OUC generation or transmission facilities, Erin’s

other workers were

90-mph winds knocked out power to 37 main distribution

of OUC’s total generating capacity. All IRP units operated on either oil or natural gas, a flexibility that enabled the utility to take advantage of market conditions and buy fuel cheaper than other utilities. IRP was also valuable to OUC as a source of substantial revenue from bulk power sales.

dispatched south to help the City of Homestead

feeders — and 52,500 OUC customers experienced

rebuild its electric system.

some interruption in service in the wake of the storm.

The Storm of the Century. In March 1993, a rare, severe wind storm struck much of Florida. Blasting

Erin’s impact was greater than the total average outage time experienced in the previous four years.

Orlando with 62-mile-per-hour winds at 12:30 a.m.,

Charged up about using energy wisely and reducing harmful auto emissions, OUC

Fueling Growth: OUC Expands Service Area to Include Lake Nona In 1994 and 1995, OUC expanded its water

by about 20 square miles. Initially, the impact was

such as those in Lake Nona, to the community.

tested its first electric-powered vehicles in

and electric service area to include the new

small — adding just 73 new water customers and

Then Orlando Mayor Glenda E. Hood said,

Lake Nona community. The area located

287 electric customers. However, the potential

“As Orlando continues to compete both

1993 — taking its conservation program

southeast of the Orlando International Airport

was tremendous, and the gamble wound up paying

domestically and internationally for business,

was slated to become a major center for

off. As a result of the agreement, OUC gained a

a strong, financially sound and well-positioned

“on the road” in a minivan outfitted with

economic development in the region.

community that would become home to a Medical

utility is vital for economic development. You

City housing the University of Central Florida

cannot have growth without a utility that can

rooftop solar panels.

25-year territorial agreement for a 30-square-mile

Medical School, Burnham Institute, Veterans

provide reliable electricity, quality water and

area at Lake Nona. Then in 1995, OUC and Florida

Hospital and Nemours Children’s Hospital.

competitive rates to attract industry and

In 1994, OUC and Orange County signed a new

Power Corp. signed a new 10-year territorial agreement that expanded the electric service area

Page 42

OUC’s reputation was critical to the City of Orlando’s ability to attract new businesses,

Page 43

encourage residential development.”

About 5,000 visitors came to SEC for the Unit 2 dedication. The three-day celebration included a public open house that drew 3,500; a train ride for nearly 100 civic and political leaders; a “power breakfast” for 300 civic, industry, and electric utility leaders; and a picnic for more than 1,000 employees and family members.

OUC’s Southwest Water Plant opened in 1997.

Water Project 2000. . .Laying the Groundwork for Improved Quality For OUC’s Water Business Unit, Water Project 2000 was the story of the century. The most

began commercial operation on June 1, 1996, on time and $62 million under the original budget of $522 million. At 425 MW, it was the first pulverized coal unit of its size in the nation to use Selective Catalytic Reduction to remove nitrogen oxide from the flue gas — meeting and exceeding all federal regulations for air quality.

A Safe Work Environment Employing about 5,600 people on site during 39 months of construction, Stanton 2 was one of the safest such construction projects in the nation, earning the STAR award from the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

OUC's aggressive safety program saved about $10 million in insurance premiums.

Like the first unit, Stanton 2 was jointly owned.

As majority owner/operator, OUC retained 72 percent of Unit 2. The Florida Municipal Power Agency owned 28 percent on behalf of the following cities: Bushnell, Clewiston, Fort Pierce, Green Cove Springs, Homestead, Jacksonville Beach, Key West, Kissimmee, Ocala, Leesburg, Starke, St. Cloud and Vero Beach.

A Commitment to Maximizing Participation and Diversity From the onset, the Stanton 2 Project Team was committed to maximizing Central Florida participation and ensuring a diverse workforce.

The team established a proactive multi-faceted M/ WBE outreach program with a full-time coordinator hired to run the program. The project achieved its objectives with approximately

70 percent of the craft workforce coming from the

Bob Haven, Water Project 2000 was the largest

Kirkman, Sky Lake and Pine Hills to ozone. The

capital program, in terms of scope and investment,

new operation converted the system to an ozone

ever undertaken by the Commission to replace and

water treatment process, which significantly

upgrade water infrastructure. The monies budgeted

closing five outdated water plants —

reduced the amount of chlorine used in treatment

for the endeavor totaled $164.3 million and required

Martin, Dr. Phillips, Kuhl, Primrose

and completely removed hydrogen sulfide —

five 10 percent water rate increases over a five-year

a harmless, naturally occurring compound that

period. The entire program was aggressively

building three larger plants and

gives water an unpleasant taste and odor. The

scheduled to be completed in five years between

converting four existing plants

program also expanded and improved pipelines

1995 and 2000, which enabled all OUC water

to the ozone treatment process.

and modernized the computer control system so

customers to enjoy the benefits as soon as possible,

As part of the effort, OUC built

that all water plants could be operated remotely.

and at about the same time.

Central Florida region, and 30 percent minorities and women. In addition, 37 percent of the more

Delivering H2OUC to the Tap

than $60 million in subcontracts, supplies and permanent plant material was awarded to

OUC’s first ozone treatment plant began

minority and women-owned business enterprises.

treatment, OUC took the technology to a new

operation in the spring of 1997, delivering a new

level. It was the first utility to master control of the

without goals but rather by proactive contractor

“product” called H2OUC — ozone-treated water

sophisticated ozone water treatment system from

commitments and by OUC hosting M/ WBE

that tasted as good or better than bottled water

a remote facility with no full-time staff at the plant.

forums during the bidding stages.

but cost much less. The new $30 million Southwest

An innovative partnership with the Florida DEP and

plant had a capacity of 30 MGD and replaced two

installing a highly sophisticated computer-based

older, less reliable plants: Martin and Dr. Phillips.

control system as part of Water Project 2000 made

Although ozone had long been used for water

this possible.

The M/ WBE participation was accomplished

To leave a lasting legacy, a Community Service Council comprising representatives from OUC, Black & Veatch and project contractors undertook a variety of volunteer community

OUC branded H2OUC and launched a full-scale marketing campaign around it.

projects, including the renovation of an American Red Cross Disaster Relief trailer and

Bob Haven: “Water Industry Visionary”

construction of a park for the Metropolitan Orlando Urban League.

General Manager (1994–2004) ob Haven came to OUC on July 1, 1994 and passed away while in office in 2004.

He brought with him decades of water industry and city government experience. A graduate of George Washington University, Haven arrived in Orlando in August 1981 as Central Florida was experiencing tremendous growth. During his tenure at the City of Orlando, he undertook some of the City’s largest projects, first as Director of Public Works and then as Chief Administrative Officer. He was the leading force behind the Orlando Arena, a major renovation of the Citrus Bowl, Lake Eola improvements, the new City Hall, Conserv I and Conserv II, and other projects estimated to cost $1 billion.

Haven was passionate about providing the highest quality water. At OUC, he spearheaded the most extensive water system upgrade in the

B

Launching OUC — The Reliable One In celebration of its 75th anniversary, Orlando Utilities Commission officially made service reliability part of its name . . . becoming OUC — The Reliable One in 1998.

During the branding process, the utility conducted extensive research to determine what was most important to its customers. When asked in focus groups what came to mind when they thought of OUC, the responses were consistent: OUC was the reliable utility.

Many still remembered the Christmas freeze of 1989, when their electricity remained on, while other Central Florida electric utilities instituted rolling brownouts due to power supply shortages. More than 12 years later, the OUC brand remains strong — as does the promise to provide the highest level of reliability to customers.

Page 44

and Southwest plants, and converted Conway,

comprehensive effort to expand and

and Lake Highland — in favor of

The Curtis H. Stanton Energy Center Unit 2

Largely conceived by General Manager and CEO

modernize the water system infrastructure in OUC’s history called for

Stanton Energy Center Unit 2 Comes Online in 1996

a new Lake Highland plant, as well as the Southeast

utility’s history. Water Project 2000 mapped out a plan to convert OUC’s water treatment to ozone, the strongest disinfectant available.

The new water product was well received by customers and branded H2OUC — “great tasting water straight from the tap.”

Haven maintained OUC’s commitment to electric reliability — and under his management, the utility branded itself “OUC — The Reliable One.” The tagline is still used today, reinforcing the commitment to providing customers with the highest level of reliability. Under Haven’s leadership, OUC’s electric reliability was recognized as the best in the Southeastern U.S. Dogged in his pursuit of adding new customer programs that met the needs of large commercial customers and developers, Haven led the creation of OUCooling, a chilled water business, and OUConvenient Lighting, a

Page 45

commercial lighting program. While he was at the helm, the utility also expanded its operation to include the City of St. Cloud in Osceola County, adding 150 square miles to OUC’s service territory.

Haven passed away on February 29, 2004. Before his death, he led the efforts to negotiate a 20-year Consumptive Use Permit agreement among OUC, Orange County and the St. Johns and South Florida Water Management Districts.

“Bob’s water-industry expertise and tireless commitment laid the foundation for this crucial step in regional cooperation,” said OUC Commission Board President Tommy Boroughs. “Bob would be very pleased.”

About 5,000 visitors came to SEC for the Unit 2 dedication. The three-day celebration included a public open house that drew 3,500; a train ride for nearly 100 civic and political leaders; a “power breakfast” for 300 civic, industry, and electric utility leaders; and a picnic for more than 1,000 employees and family members.

OUC’s Southwest Water Plant opened in 1997.

Water Project 2000. . .Laying the Groundwork for Improved Quality For OUC’s Water Business Unit, Water Project 2000 was the story of the century. The most

began commercial operation on June 1, 1996, on time and $62 million under the original budget of $522 million. At 425 MW, it was the first pulverized coal unit of its size in the nation to use Selective Catalytic Reduction to remove nitrogen oxide from the flue gas — meeting and exceeding all federal regulations for air quality.

A Safe Work Environment Employing about 5,600 people on site during 39 months of construction, Stanton 2 was one of the safest such construction projects in the nation, earning the STAR award from the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

OUC's aggressive safety program saved about $10 million in insurance premiums.

Like the first unit, Stanton 2 was jointly owned.

As majority owner/operator, OUC retained 72 percent of Unit 2. The Florida Municipal Power Agency owned 28 percent on behalf of the following cities: Bushnell, Clewiston, Fort Pierce, Green Cove Springs, Homestead, Jacksonville Beach, Key West, Kissimmee, Ocala, Leesburg, Starke, St. Cloud and Vero Beach.

A Commitment to Maximizing Participation and Diversity From the onset, the Stanton 2 Project Team was committed to maximizing Central Florida participation and ensuring a diverse workforce.

The team established a proactive multi-faceted M/ WBE outreach program with a full-time coordinator hired to run the program. The project achieved its objectives with approximately

70 percent of the craft workforce coming from the

Bob Haven, Water Project 2000 was the largest

Kirkman, Sky Lake and Pine Hills to ozone. The

capital program, in terms of scope and investment,

new operation converted the system to an ozone

ever undertaken by the Commission to replace and

water treatment process, which significantly

upgrade water infrastructure. The monies budgeted

closing five outdated water plants —

reduced the amount of chlorine used in treatment

for the endeavor totaled $164.3 million and required

Martin, Dr. Phillips, Kuhl, Primrose

and completely removed hydrogen sulfide —

five 10 percent water rate increases over a five-year

a harmless, naturally occurring compound that

period. The entire program was aggressively

building three larger plants and

gives water an unpleasant taste and odor. The

scheduled to be completed in five years between

converting four existing plants

program also expanded and improved pipelines

1995 and 2000, which enabled all OUC water

to the ozone treatment process.

and modernized the computer control system so

customers to enjoy the benefits as soon as possible,

As part of the effort, OUC built

that all water plants could be operated remotely.

and at about the same time.

Central Florida region, and 30 percent minorities and women. In addition, 37 percent of the more

Delivering H2OUC to the Tap

than $60 million in subcontracts, supplies and permanent plant material was awarded to

OUC’s first ozone treatment plant began

minority and women-owned business enterprises.

treatment, OUC took the technology to a new

operation in the spring of 1997, delivering a new

level. It was the first utility to master control of the

without goals but rather by proactive contractor

“product” called H2OUC — ozone-treated water

sophisticated ozone water treatment system from

commitments and by OUC hosting M/ WBE

that tasted as good or better than bottled water

a remote facility with no full-time staff at the plant.

forums during the bidding stages.

but cost much less. The new $30 million Southwest

An innovative partnership with the Florida DEP and

plant had a capacity of 30 MGD and replaced two

installing a highly sophisticated computer-based

older, less reliable plants: Martin and Dr. Phillips.

control system as part of Water Project 2000 made

Although ozone had long been used for water

this possible.

The M/ WBE participation was accomplished

To leave a lasting legacy, a Community Service Council comprising representatives from OUC, Black & Veatch and project contractors undertook a variety of volunteer community

OUC branded H2OUC and launched a full-scale marketing campaign around it.

projects, including the renovation of an American Red Cross Disaster Relief trailer and

Bob Haven: “Water Industry Visionary”

construction of a park for the Metropolitan Orlando Urban League.

General Manager (1994–2004) ob Haven came to OUC on July 1, 1994 and passed away while in office in 2004.

He brought with him decades of water industry and city government experience. A graduate of George Washington University, Haven arrived in Orlando in August 1981 as Central Florida was experiencing tremendous growth. During his tenure at the City of Orlando, he undertook some of the City’s largest projects, first as Director of Public Works and then as Chief Administrative Officer. He was the leading force behind the Orlando Arena, a major renovation of the Citrus Bowl, Lake Eola improvements, the new City Hall, Conserv I and Conserv II, and other projects estimated to cost $1 billion.

Haven was passionate about providing the highest quality water. At OUC, he spearheaded the most extensive water system upgrade in the

B

Launching OUC — The Reliable One In celebration of its 75th anniversary, Orlando Utilities Commission officially made service reliability part of its name . . . becoming OUC — The Reliable One in 1998.

During the branding process, the utility conducted extensive research to determine what was most important to its customers. When asked in focus groups what came to mind when they thought of OUC, the responses were consistent: OUC was the reliable utility.

Many still remembered the Christmas freeze of 1989, when their electricity remained on, while other Central Florida electric utilities instituted rolling brownouts due to power supply shortages. More than 12 years later, the OUC brand remains strong — as does the promise to provide the highest level of reliability to customers.

Page 44

and Southwest plants, and converted Conway,

comprehensive effort to expand and

and Lake Highland — in favor of

The Curtis H. Stanton Energy Center Unit 2

Largely conceived by General Manager and CEO

modernize the water system infrastructure in OUC’s history called for

Stanton Energy Center Unit 2 Comes Online in 1996

a new Lake Highland plant, as well as the Southeast

utility’s history. Water Project 2000 mapped out a plan to convert OUC’s water treatment to ozone, the strongest disinfectant available.

The new water product was well received by customers and branded H2OUC — “great tasting water straight from the tap.”

Haven maintained OUC’s commitment to electric reliability — and under his management, the utility branded itself “OUC — The Reliable One.” The tagline is still used today, reinforcing the commitment to providing customers with the highest level of reliability. Under Haven’s leadership, OUC’s electric reliability was recognized as the best in the Southeastern U.S. Dogged in his pursuit of adding new customer programs that met the needs of large commercial customers and developers, Haven led the creation of OUCooling, a chilled water business, and OUConvenient Lighting, a

Page 45

commercial lighting program. While he was at the helm, the utility also expanded its operation to include the City of St. Cloud in Osceola County, adding 150 square miles to OUC’s service territory.

Haven passed away on February 29, 2004. Before his death, he led the efforts to negotiate a 20-year Consumptive Use Permit agreement among OUC, Orange County and the St. Johns and South Florida Water Management Districts.

“Bob’s water-industry expertise and tireless commitment laid the foundation for this crucial step in regional cooperation,” said OUC Commission Board President Tommy Boroughs. “Bob would be very pleased.”

In 2007, OUC and St. Cloud marked a decade-long relationship.

A New Power Partnership: OUC and the City of St. Cloud In a precedent-setting move, OUC entered

serve as the foundation for their partnership

into a 25-year Interlocal Agreement with its

moving forward:

neighbor, the City of St. Cloud, to manage,

• Reliability: OUC promised to make significant improvements in the reliability of electric service.

operate and maintain the City’s electric system.

The agreement, which became effective May 1, 1997, was the first of its kind in the state.

With vast tracts of undeveloped land, St. Cloud understood that it was on the threshold of tremendous growth — but that it would take an investment in infrastructure and competitive rates to realize that potential.

With that in mind, St. Cloud looked to OUC, with its long record of outstanding service and affordable rates. The two entered a long-term agreement, identifying five areas that would

• Rates: OUC promised to lower the electric rates of St. Cloud customers.

• Retention: OUC agreed to hire the St. Cloud utility employees.

• Return: OUC agreed to provide regular payments to the City of St. Cloud based on revenue growth.

• Representation: Both partners formed a contract committee to oversee the longterm agreement.

Over the years, OUC kept its promises, continuing to provide clean, affordable, reliable power to St. Cloud and serving as a community partner to help make the City strong and prosperous.

OUC’s Downtown Chiller Plant.

A new business venture that generated additional revenues, OUCooling brought its first

OUC LAUNCHES

OUC took over the Convention Center’s existing

central chiller plant online in 1997. The 6,600-ton-

chillers, linking them to the OUCooling plant at

capacity facility was built for Lockheed Martin’s

nearby Lockheed Martin and saving Orange

Electronics & Missiles Company and served

County about $10 million by avoiding expansion.

11 buildings on the 300-acre complex.

Initially, OUC teamed up with Trigen-Cinergy

In February of 1998, OUCooling began the

Solutions to create the chilled water business,

operation of its first downtown facility. The plant

but the partnership ended in 2004.

was the first step in the creation of a downtown

Page 46

convention complexes. Under the agreement,

In 2009, thanks in part to OUC’s efforts, chilled

loop that would circulate chilled water through

OUCooling signed a 20-year contract to

water qualified for LEED (Leadership in Energy

underground pipes — eventually serving OUC’s

pump chilled water for the air conditioning

and Environmental Design) certification points.

administration building, City Hall, CNL Center,

at the Orange County Convention Center,

As of 2010, OUC had eight chiller plants,

Lincoln Tower and the Amway Center.

one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing

Page 47

with a cooling capacity of about 50,000 tons.

In 2007, OUC and St. Cloud marked a decade-long relationship.

A New Power Partnership: OUC and the City of St. Cloud In a precedent-setting move, OUC entered

serve as the foundation for their partnership

into a 25-year Interlocal Agreement with its

moving forward:

neighbor, the City of St. Cloud, to manage,

• Reliability: OUC promised to make significant improvements in the reliability of electric service.

operate and maintain the City’s electric system.

The agreement, which became effective May 1, 1997, was the first of its kind in the state.

With vast tracts of undeveloped land, St. Cloud understood that it was on the threshold of tremendous growth — but that it would take an investment in infrastructure and competitive rates to realize that potential.

With that in mind, St. Cloud looked to OUC, with its long record of outstanding service and affordable rates. The two entered a long-term agreement, identifying five areas that would

• Rates: OUC promised to lower the electric rates of St. Cloud customers.

• Retention: OUC agreed to hire the St. Cloud utility employees.

• Return: OUC agreed to provide regular payments to the City of St. Cloud based on revenue growth.

• Representation: Both partners formed a contract committee to oversee the longterm agreement.

Over the years, OUC kept its promises, continuing to provide clean, affordable, reliable power to St. Cloud and serving as a community partner to help make the City strong and prosperous.

OUC’s Downtown Chiller Plant.

A new business venture that generated additional revenues, OUCooling brought its first

OUC LAUNCHES

OUC took over the Convention Center’s existing

central chiller plant online in 1997. The 6,600-ton-

chillers, linking them to the OUCooling plant at

capacity facility was built for Lockheed Martin’s

nearby Lockheed Martin and saving Orange

Electronics & Missiles Company and served

County about $10 million by avoiding expansion.

11 buildings on the 300-acre complex.

Initially, OUC teamed up with Trigen-Cinergy

In February of 1998, OUCooling began the

Solutions to create the chilled water business,

operation of its first downtown facility. The plant

but the partnership ended in 2004.

was the first step in the creation of a downtown

Page 46

convention complexes. Under the agreement,

In 2009, thanks in part to OUC’s efforts, chilled

loop that would circulate chilled water through

OUCooling signed a 20-year contract to

water qualified for LEED (Leadership in Energy

underground pipes — eventually serving OUC’s

pump chilled water for the air conditioning

and Environmental Design) certification points.

administration building, City Hall, CNL Center,

at the Orange County Convention Center,

As of 2010, OUC had eight chiller plants,

Lincoln Tower and the Amway Center.

one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing

Page 47

with a cooling capacity of about 50,000 tons.

OUC Sells Indian River Plant Steam Units, Diversifying the Generation Portfolio Negotiating the sale of the Indian River

looming in the future, OUC analyzed its

Plant steam units in 1999 signaled an

power generation facilities and other assets

important new direction for OUC. By selling

to determine how best to use them over

the steam units, but continuing to purchase

the short and long terms.

their power, the facility generated additional

In response to feedback from commercial customers, OUConsumption Online was developed to satisfy the need for easy access to online energy load data.

OUC sold the Indian River steam units

cash to invest in newer, cleaner technology.

to Reliant Energy for $205 million in cash,

The transaction was the first in a series of

a four-year agreement to purchase power

strategic moves in an asset restructuring plan

from the facility and an additional four-year

that called for diversifying the utility’s power

power purchase option. OUC maintained

resource portfolio and investing in more

ownership of the four combustion turbines

modern facilities. With market deregulation

at the plant.

OUC CONVENIENT LIGHTING BEGINS OPERATION In the fall of 2000, OUC flipped the switch

lighting solutions, customers could keep their

established to provide complete outdoor

electric and maintenance costs down.

lighting services for a wide spectrum of

OUC Begins Generating Electricity from Landfill Gas

for a monthly service fee. With OUC’s efficient

on OUConvenient Lighting, a new division

As part of this new venture, the lighting

commercial applications —

division entered a 10-year

from industrial parks to

contract with the City of

sports complexes to

Orlando to provide

residential developments.

complete installation and

The division was a

maintenance of the Citrus

natural fit, pairing OUC’s

Bowl’s field lighting —

On April 1, 1998, the Stanton Energy

the landfill and piped to SEC where it is

The gas from the landfill produces close

reputation for reliability with area businesses’

replacing the stadium’s old lights with higher

Center (SEC) began burning landfill gas

co-fired with coal. In addition to helping

to 100,000 megawatt hours of reduced-

need to install and maintain street lights and

output, energy-efficient ones. The project

from the Orange County landfill. One

reduce greenhouse gas emissions from

emissions power — offsetting about

exterior lighting on their properties. Under

increased the facility’s brightness and

44,000 tons of coal each year.

the program, OUC purchased, installed and

reduced energy costs, while using only half

maintained the lighting fixtures and lamps

as many fixtures.

of the largest and longest-running efforts

the landfill, the 12-MW green energy

of its kind in the state, the OUC Landfill

program displaces more than three

Looking to the future, OUC and Orange

Project is an economical renewable

percent of the fossil fuel required for

County have signed new agreements for

source of energy that is also reliable and

SEC Units 1 and 2, and provides enough

future landfill projects — expanding

sustainable. Methane gas is captured from

electricity every day for 10,000 homes.

capacity to 22 MW.

Page 48

Page 49

OUC Sells Indian River Plant Steam Units, Diversifying the Generation Portfolio Negotiating the sale of the Indian River

looming in the future, OUC analyzed its

Plant steam units in 1999 signaled an

power generation facilities and other assets

important new direction for OUC. By selling

to determine how best to use them over

the steam units, but continuing to purchase

the short and long terms.

their power, the facility generated additional

In response to feedback from commercial customers, OUConsumption Online was developed to satisfy the need for easy access to online energy load data.

OUC sold the Indian River steam units

cash to invest in newer, cleaner technology.

to Reliant Energy for $205 million in cash,

The transaction was the first in a series of

a four-year agreement to purchase power

strategic moves in an asset restructuring plan

from the facility and an additional four-year

that called for diversifying the utility’s power

power purchase option. OUC maintained

resource portfolio and investing in more

ownership of the four combustion turbines

modern facilities. With market deregulation

at the plant.

OUC CONVENIENT LIGHTING BEGINS OPERATION In the fall of 2000, OUC flipped the switch

lighting solutions, customers could keep their

established to provide complete outdoor

electric and maintenance costs down.

lighting services for a wide spectrum of

OUC Begins Generating Electricity from Landfill Gas

for a monthly service fee. With OUC’s efficient

on OUConvenient Lighting, a new division

As part of this new venture, the lighting

commercial applications —

division entered a 10-year

from industrial parks to

contract with the City of

sports complexes to

Orlando to provide

residential developments.

complete installation and

The division was a

maintenance of the Citrus

natural fit, pairing OUC’s

Bowl’s field lighting —

On April 1, 1998, the Stanton Energy

the landfill and piped to SEC where it is

The gas from the landfill produces close

reputation for reliability with area businesses’

replacing the stadium’s old lights with higher

Center (SEC) began burning landfill gas

co-fired with coal. In addition to helping

to 100,000 megawatt hours of reduced-

need to install and maintain street lights and

output, energy-efficient ones. The project

from the Orange County landfill. One

reduce greenhouse gas emissions from

emissions power — offsetting about

exterior lighting on their properties. Under

increased the facility’s brightness and

44,000 tons of coal each year.

the program, OUC purchased, installed and

reduced energy costs, while using only half

maintained the lighting fixtures and lamps

as many fixtures.

of the largest and longest-running efforts

the landfill, the 12-MW green energy

of its kind in the state, the OUC Landfill

program displaces more than three

Looking to the future, OUC and Orange

Project is an economical renewable

percent of the fossil fuel required for

County have signed new agreements for

source of energy that is also reliable and

SEC Units 1 and 2, and provides enough

future landfill projects — expanding

sustainable. Methane gas is captured from

electricity every day for 10,000 homes.

capacity to 22 MW.

Page 48

Page 49

OUC became the title sponsor of the OUC Half Marathon & 5K in downtown Orlando in 1999, a tradition that would continue for the next decade. Putting its own twist on the race that first started in 1976, OUC tapped fire hydrants to provide runners with refreshing H2OUC.

Part of the Downtown Skyline Over the decades, OUC has powered the City of Orlando and provided one of the few constants in the City’s oft-changing skyline.

Orlando Welcomes New Millennium

2005 as then-Governor Jeb Bush called for

With lasers and fireworks from Sydney,

statewide conservation.

Australia, to Orlando’s Lake Eola, cities around

As OUC moved from the Administration

the globe greeted the new millennium with a

From 1968 until 2001, the four-sided lit

Building to its new home in Reliable Plaza

flash — but without so much as a flicker of

Orlando Utilities sign atop the Administration

in 2008, the neon sign was removed from

their electric power grids. The rollover in the

Building stood like a beacon at the south end

the old building, cleaned and renovated

U.S. and Canada was monitored closely by the

of Orange Avenue. It went dark only briefly

before being relocated to the new facility.

North American Electricity Reliability Council,

in 1979 in recognition of the oil embargo.

In keeping with the energy and water

which reported that no Y2K events affected

efficiency of Reliable Plaza and OUC’s support

electricity production, transmission or delivery.

In 2001, the original sign was replaced with a new neon blue and green OUC logo

of water conservation, the familiar droplet

featuring a light bulb and faucet. OUC would

from the faucet was removed from the sign

deployed to strategic locations stood by as

turn out the lights on the sign once more in

and the logo.

the year 2000 began. All eyes were on critical

At OUC, nearly 300 employees who were

power, water and information management systems, but none had problems adjusting to the date change. OUC’s success was attributed to thousands of hours of work over the prior 2.5 years, including the implementation of a Y2K initiative.

In 2001, OUC launched a print advertising campaign to help recruit a diverse workforce.

Fuel Diversity: Stanton A and B Natural Gas Generating Units Come Online steam generators and a steam turbine, which

begin commercial operation in 2010;

went commercial on October 1, 2003. The

however, the gasification component was

efficient and environmentally advanced unit

cancelled in 2007 due to environmental

was a joint development project among

regulation uncertainty. OUC and Southern

OUC, Southern Company, the Florida

Company proceeded with the construction

Municipal Power Agency (FMPA) and

of a 300-MW combined-cycle natural gas

Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA). The unit

plant. The unit came online in February 2010

was built north of the two existing coal units

and is owned and operated by OUC.

on 60 acres of the 3,280-acre Stanton Energy Center site.

OUC and partner Southern Company An important aspect of OUC’s generation

Page 50

received a U.S. Department of Energy Grant

asset restructuring plan was to invest in

for Clean Coal project in 2004. The grant

clean, modern technology that provided fuel

was awarded to help build a $557 million,

diversity. The Stanton A and B units provide

285-MW advanced coal gasification facility

a combined 933 MWs of clean generation.

at SEC as part of the department’s Clean

Stanton A is a 633-MW, natural gas-fired

Coal Power Initiative. The project was

combined-cycle unit with heat-recovery

expected to break ground in 2007 and

Page 51

OUC became the title sponsor of the OUC Half Marathon & 5K in downtown Orlando in 1999, a tradition that would continue for the next decade. Putting its own twist on the race that first started in 1976, OUC tapped fire hydrants to provide runners with refreshing H2OUC.

Part of the Downtown Skyline Over the decades, OUC has powered the City of Orlando and provided one of the few constants in the City’s oft-changing skyline.

Orlando Welcomes New Millennium

2005 as then-Governor Jeb Bush called for

With lasers and fireworks from Sydney,

statewide conservation.

Australia, to Orlando’s Lake Eola, cities around

As OUC moved from the Administration

the globe greeted the new millennium with a

From 1968 until 2001, the four-sided lit

Building to its new home in Reliable Plaza

flash — but without so much as a flicker of

Orlando Utilities sign atop the Administration

in 2008, the neon sign was removed from

their electric power grids. The rollover in the

Building stood like a beacon at the south end

the old building, cleaned and renovated

U.S. and Canada was monitored closely by the

of Orange Avenue. It went dark only briefly

before being relocated to the new facility.

North American Electricity Reliability Council,

in 1979 in recognition of the oil embargo.

In keeping with the energy and water

which reported that no Y2K events affected

efficiency of Reliable Plaza and OUC’s support

electricity production, transmission or delivery.

In 2001, the original sign was replaced with a new neon blue and green OUC logo

of water conservation, the familiar droplet

featuring a light bulb and faucet. OUC would

from the faucet was removed from the sign

deployed to strategic locations stood by as

turn out the lights on the sign once more in

and the logo.

the year 2000 began. All eyes were on critical

At OUC, nearly 300 employees who were

power, water and information management systems, but none had problems adjusting to the date change. OUC’s success was attributed to thousands of hours of work over the prior 2.5 years, including the implementation of a Y2K initiative.

In 2001, OUC launched a print advertising campaign to help recruit a diverse workforce.

Fuel Diversity: Stanton A and B Natural Gas Generating Units Come Online steam generators and a steam turbine, which

begin commercial operation in 2010;

went commercial on October 1, 2003. The

however, the gasification component was

efficient and environmentally advanced unit

cancelled in 2007 due to environmental

was a joint development project among

regulation uncertainty. OUC and Southern

OUC, Southern Company, the Florida

Company proceeded with the construction

Municipal Power Agency (FMPA) and

of a 300-MW combined-cycle natural gas

Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA). The unit

plant. The unit came online in February 2010

was built north of the two existing coal units

and is owned and operated by OUC.

on 60 acres of the 3,280-acre Stanton Energy Center site.

OUC and partner Southern Company An important aspect of OUC’s generation

Page 50

received a U.S. Department of Energy Grant

asset restructuring plan was to invest in

for Clean Coal project in 2004. The grant

clean, modern technology that provided fuel

was awarded to help build a $557 million,

diversity. The Stanton A and B units provide

285-MW advanced coal gasification facility

a combined 933 MWs of clean generation.

at SEC as part of the department’s Clean

Stanton A is a 633-MW, natural gas-fired

Coal Power Initiative. The project was

combined-cycle unit with heat-recovery

expected to break ground in 2007 and

Page 51

OUC crews laid electric cable underground to power Orlando’s growing medical city.

A Decade of Reliability “The Reliable One” was benchmarked as the most reliable utility in the Southeast region in 2002, 2003, 2006 and 2007 and in the state

In addition, OUC’s generation units are among the most reliable in the nation.

decade, PA Consulting Group recognized

Generation reliability performance is measured

OUC as the winner of the Southeast region

by an Equivalent Forced Outage Rate (EFOR)

ReliabilityOne™ award, which is given annually

that measures unplanned outages, not

to the utilities that have excelled in delivering

scheduled ones. In 2010, the national average

reliable electric service to their customers.

for unplanned outages was about 8 percent; however, Stanton Energy Center’s coal-fired

National/Regional Events Affect Power Industry Northeast Blackout of 2003 On August 14, 2003, shortly after 2 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, a highvoltage power line in northern Ohio brushed against some overgrown trees and knocked out power in eight states and part of Canada. By 4:13 p.m.,

contributed to at least 11 deaths and

million dollars a day for an infraction,

cost an estimated $6 billion. In the wake

depending on its flagrancy and the

of the blackout, Congress passed the

risk incurred.

Energy Policy Act of 2005.

Energy Policy Act of 2005 The Energy Policy Act of 2005 was

South Florida Blackout of 2008 On February 26, 2008, an equipment

508 generating units at 256 power plants

designed to combat growing energy

failure and fire at a transmission

1 percent. Solid preventive maintenance,

across these eight states were off-line.

problems and changed U.S. energy

substation forced the automatic

largest utilities in key measurements of overall

including the use of 3-D (three-dimensional)

More than 61,800 MWs of electrical

policy by providing tax incentives and

shutdown of four generating units —

electric reliability: LBar (average length of

imaging, helps identify potential problems

load was lost in parts of Ohio, Michigan,

loan guarantees for energy production

two of them nuclear-powered —

single service interruptions) and System

before they arise.

New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey,

of various types. It also expanded the

at Florida Power & Light’s Turkey Point.

Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont

role of the Federal Energy Regulatory

Within minutes, the failure set off a

and the province of Ontario.

Commission (FERC) by requiring it to

cascade of power outages from Key

solicit, approve and enforce new electric

West to Daytona Beach and further

Commission’s utility data showed OUC’s

Units 1 and 2 averaged a remarkably low

performance well ahead of Florida’s four

Although power was successfully

Ken Ksionek: “Strong, Determined Leader”

restored to most customers within hours,

reliability standards from the North

north, affecting up to 2.5 million

General Manager (2004–present)

some areas of the United States did not

American Electricity Reliability

customers statewide. OUC’s generating

have power for two days and parts of

Corporation (NERC).

system automatically began to shut

en Ksionek was named interim General Manager after the death of Bob Haven and given the permanent position October 12, 2004. Ksionek had served as Vice President of OUC’s Energy Delivery Business Unit from 1995 to 2004 — managing the engineering, construction, maintenance and operation of OUC’s

K

the average number of outage minutes per year.

every year from 2002-2009. Four times in the

Comparison of the Florida Public Service

OUC line technicians help to ensure the utility’s award-winning record for electric reliability.

Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI),

electric distribution systems.

Ksionek, a graduate of the University of Wisconsin, joined OUC in 1985 as Director of Construction for the Stanton Energy Center Unit 1 and then became the Director of Capital Projects and Co-Project Manager of Stanton Unit 2 Construction.

During his tenure as Vice President of Energy Delivery, OUC gained national prominence for its reliability.

Ksionek took over the General Manager and CEO position in what would become one of the most tumultuous years in OUC history.

Having no time to prepare for the transition, he had to immediately deal with employees mourning the loss of a beloved leader and final negotiations on a 20-year water consumptive use permit. Testing the mettle of the new leader even further, Hurricane Charley pummeled Central Florida on Friday, August 13 — leaving 80 percent of OUC’s customers without power. OUC had never experienced a storm of this magnitude — and for the first

time had to ask other utilities for assistance.

Charley was followed weeks later

by Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne.

Through it all, Ksionek proved to be the right leader for the right time. His intimate knowledge of the electric system and the emergency preparedness plan allowed him to respond quickly.

Four years later, Ksionek would be tested yet again as he had to lead OUC through what has been labeled a national economic recession. The financial tsunami that followed required a steady hand as the utility faced volatile fuel markets and a local housing downturn that put a halt to customer growth. Through it all, Ksionek persevered and OUC fared well by effectively reducing expenses and improving operational efficiencies.

At the same time, the electric and water utility industries were once again facing potential increased regulation. The Florida Public Service Commission approved compliance goals that would require the state’s larger

Page 52

electric utilities to reduce energy consumption and increase customer education.

As typical of Ksionek, he not only wanted to meet the goals, but exceed them. As a result, OUC is well on its way to not only helping customers conserve, but also finding ways to weave sustainability through all parts of the organization. From building a Gold LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) customer service and administration center to constructing a solar farm at the Stanton Energy Center, OUC is committed to providing clean water and electricity that is affordable and reliable.

Over the years, Ksionek’s steadiness and strength helped OUC weather whatever challenges have come its way.

But, above all, his passion for reliability sets him apart. From the power plants to the meter, he knows every inch of the system and remains focused on providing the highest level of service to OUC’s customers.

Ontario experienced rolling blackouts

Prior to the blackout, NERC set

down 13 circuits at 11 substations

for up to two weeks due to a generation

voluntary standards. As a result of the

across the metro area. That left

capacity shortage. In total, about

regulation, FERC approved 96 new

11,438 customers, mostly residential,

50 million people lost power for up to

reliability standards covering trees,

without power for two to 20 minutes.

two days in the biggest blackout in

training and tools. It also gave FERC the

North American history. The event

authority to impose fines of up to a

OUC Secures 20-year Renewal of Water Consumptive Use Permit In 2004, OUC reached agreement on an historic 20-year renewal of its Consumptive Use Permit (CUP) with the St. Johns River and South Florida Water Management Districts.

The permit, which represented a regional water solution among OUC, the water management districts and Orange County, authorized OUC to withdraw groundwater for treatment and distribution to customers. As part of the CUP and settlement agreement, OUC pledged to maintain its groundwater withdrawal allocation at the same level for the next 20 years, increase the use of reclaimed water, develop alternative water supply with utility partners and enhance conservation efforts.

Page 53

In 2003, the Florida section of the American Water Works Association named H2OUC (OUC’s Orlando drinking water) the best in the state.

OUC crews laid electric cable underground to power Orlando’s growing medical city.

A Decade of Reliability “The Reliable One” was benchmarked as the most reliable utility in the Southeast region in 2002, 2003, 2006 and 2007 and in the state

In addition, OUC’s generation units are among the most reliable in the nation.

decade, PA Consulting Group recognized

Generation reliability performance is measured

OUC as the winner of the Southeast region

by an Equivalent Forced Outage Rate (EFOR)

ReliabilityOne™ award, which is given annually

that measures unplanned outages, not

to the utilities that have excelled in delivering

scheduled ones. In 2010, the national average

reliable electric service to their customers.

for unplanned outages was about 8 percent; however, Stanton Energy Center’s coal-fired

National/Regional Events Affect Power Industry Northeast Blackout of 2003 On August 14, 2003, shortly after 2 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, a highvoltage power line in northern Ohio brushed against some overgrown trees and knocked out power in eight states and part of Canada. By 4:13 p.m.,

contributed to at least 11 deaths and

million dollars a day for an infraction,

cost an estimated $6 billion. In the wake

depending on its flagrancy and the

of the blackout, Congress passed the

risk incurred.

Energy Policy Act of 2005.

Energy Policy Act of 2005 The Energy Policy Act of 2005 was

South Florida Blackout of 2008 On February 26, 2008, an equipment

508 generating units at 256 power plants

designed to combat growing energy

failure and fire at a transmission

1 percent. Solid preventive maintenance,

across these eight states were off-line.

problems and changed U.S. energy

substation forced the automatic

largest utilities in key measurements of overall

including the use of 3-D (three-dimensional)

More than 61,800 MWs of electrical

policy by providing tax incentives and

shutdown of four generating units —

electric reliability: LBar (average length of

imaging, helps identify potential problems

load was lost in parts of Ohio, Michigan,

loan guarantees for energy production

two of them nuclear-powered —

single service interruptions) and System

before they arise.

New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey,

of various types. It also expanded the

at Florida Power & Light’s Turkey Point.

Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont

role of the Federal Energy Regulatory

Within minutes, the failure set off a

and the province of Ontario.

Commission (FERC) by requiring it to

cascade of power outages from Key

solicit, approve and enforce new electric

West to Daytona Beach and further

Commission’s utility data showed OUC’s

Units 1 and 2 averaged a remarkably low

performance well ahead of Florida’s four

Although power was successfully

Ken Ksionek: “Strong, Determined Leader”

restored to most customers within hours,

reliability standards from the North

north, affecting up to 2.5 million

General Manager (2004–present)

some areas of the United States did not

American Electricity Reliability

customers statewide. OUC’s generating

have power for two days and parts of

Corporation (NERC).

system automatically began to shut

en Ksionek was named interim General Manager after the death of Bob Haven and given the permanent position October 12, 2004. Ksionek had served as Vice President of OUC’s Energy Delivery Business Unit from 1995 to 2004 — managing the engineering, construction, maintenance and operation of OUC’s

K

the average number of outage minutes per year.

every year from 2002-2009. Four times in the

Comparison of the Florida Public Service

OUC line technicians help to ensure the utility’s award-winning record for electric reliability.

Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI),

electric distribution systems.

Ksionek, a graduate of the University of Wisconsin, joined OUC in 1985 as Director of Construction for the Stanton Energy Center Unit 1 and then became the Director of Capital Projects and Co-Project Manager of Stanton Unit 2 Construction.

During his tenure as Vice President of Energy Delivery, OUC gained national prominence for its reliability.

Ksionek took over the General Manager and CEO position in what would become one of the most tumultuous years in OUC history.

Having no time to prepare for the transition, he had to immediately deal with employees mourning the loss of a beloved leader and final negotiations on a 20-year water consumptive use permit. Testing the mettle of the new leader even further, Hurricane Charley pummeled Central Florida on Friday, August 13 — leaving 80 percent of OUC’s customers without power. OUC had never experienced a storm of this magnitude — and for the first

time had to ask other utilities for assistance.

Charley was followed weeks later

by Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne.

Through it all, Ksionek proved to be the right leader for the right time. His intimate knowledge of the electric system and the emergency preparedness plan allowed him to respond quickly.

Four years later, Ksionek would be tested yet again as he had to lead OUC through what has been labeled a national economic recession. The financial tsunami that followed required a steady hand as the utility faced volatile fuel markets and a local housing downturn that put a halt to customer growth. Through it all, Ksionek persevered and OUC fared well by effectively reducing expenses and improving operational efficiencies.

At the same time, the electric and water utility industries were once again facing potential increased regulation. The Florida Public Service Commission approved compliance goals that would require the state’s larger

Page 52

electric utilities to reduce energy consumption and increase customer education.

As typical of Ksionek, he not only wanted to meet the goals, but exceed them. As a result, OUC is well on its way to not only helping customers conserve, but also finding ways to weave sustainability through all parts of the organization. From building a Gold LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) customer service and administration center to constructing a solar farm at the Stanton Energy Center, OUC is committed to providing clean water and electricity that is affordable and reliable.

Over the years, Ksionek’s steadiness and strength helped OUC weather whatever challenges have come its way.

But, above all, his passion for reliability sets him apart. From the power plants to the meter, he knows every inch of the system and remains focused on providing the highest level of service to OUC’s customers.

Ontario experienced rolling blackouts

Prior to the blackout, NERC set

down 13 circuits at 11 substations

for up to two weeks due to a generation

voluntary standards. As a result of the

across the metro area. That left

capacity shortage. In total, about

regulation, FERC approved 96 new

11,438 customers, mostly residential,

50 million people lost power for up to

reliability standards covering trees,

without power for two to 20 minutes.

two days in the biggest blackout in

training and tools. It also gave FERC the

North American history. The event

authority to impose fines of up to a

OUC Secures 20-year Renewal of Water Consumptive Use Permit In 2004, OUC reached agreement on an historic 20-year renewal of its Consumptive Use Permit (CUP) with the St. Johns River and South Florida Water Management Districts.

The permit, which represented a regional water solution among OUC, the water management districts and Orange County, authorized OUC to withdraw groundwater for treatment and distribution to customers. As part of the CUP and settlement agreement, OUC pledged to maintain its groundwater withdrawal allocation at the same level for the next 20 years, increase the use of reclaimed water, develop alternative water supply with utility partners and enhance conservation efforts.

Page 53

In 2003, the Florida section of the American Water Works Association named H2OUC (OUC’s Orlando drinking water) the best in the state.

Three Hurricanes in One Season: “A Year’s Worth of Work in 45 Days” In 45 days during Florida’s most active

poles over houses. Over the course of the three

hurricane season on record — the summer of

storms, OUC spent about $31 million to repair

2004 — Hurricanes Charley, Frances and Jeanne

damage. Though the hurricanes impacted OUC

hit Orlando, devastating Central Florida’s tree

financially, reimbursement for the bulk of

canopy and sending thousands of trees crashing

hurricane-related costs came from the Federal

into homes and miles of power lines. Charley

Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and

knocked out power to 80 percent of OUC’s

the State of Florida. None of these costs was

customers; Frances, 40 percent; and Jeanne,

passed on to customers.

59 percent.

In all, OUC replaced 570 poles and 453

OUC linemen served on the front lines of

transformers, 26.6 miles of primary line and

restoration efforts, routinely working 16-hour

44.2 miles of secondary line. Only two boil water

days in dangerous conditions. With that effort,

alerts were issued — and more than 2,000

power was safely restored to OUC’s affected

linemen, tree trimmers and trouble technicians

customers at a faster rate than the neighboring

were called in to assist with restoration.

utilities. After Hurricane Charley, crews had to

Customer service representatives fielded more

replace rear-lot line poles that had been

than 160,000 calls, a 50 percent increase from

knocked over in customers’ backyards. In some

normal activity.

cases, cranes were used to lift replacement

Mutual Aid: Returning the Favor OUC was happy to return the favor for several

power to customers who had been out since

utilities that sent crews to restore power in

Frances swept through on September 4, 2004.

Orlando and St. Cloud after Charley devastated

OUC also sent linemen to the City of Opp,

the area. After completing its own power

Alabama (near the Florida-Alabama border)

restoration following Hurricane Frances and

to help the restoration effort in the wake of

making sure that Hurricane Ivan was going to

Hurricane Ivan. In September 2005, OUC electric

bypass Central Florida, OUC released crews

and water crews went to Gulfport, Mississippi, to

to Fort Pierce Utilities Authority to help restore

help communities impacted by Hurricane Katrina.

Page 54

Used with permission of the Orlando Sentinel, copyright 2011

Three Hurricanes in One Season: “A Year’s Worth of Work in 45 Days” In 45 days during Florida’s most active

poles over houses. Over the course of the three

hurricane season on record — the summer of

storms, OUC spent about $31 million to repair

2004 — Hurricanes Charley, Frances and Jeanne

damage. Though the hurricanes impacted OUC

hit Orlando, devastating Central Florida’s tree

financially, reimbursement for the bulk of

canopy and sending thousands of trees crashing

hurricane-related costs came from the Federal

into homes and miles of power lines. Charley

Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and

knocked out power to 80 percent of OUC’s

the State of Florida. None of these costs was

customers; Frances, 40 percent; and Jeanne,

passed on to customers.

59 percent.

In all, OUC replaced 570 poles and 453

OUC linemen served on the front lines of

transformers, 26.6 miles of primary line and

restoration efforts, routinely working 16-hour

44.2 miles of secondary line. Only two boil water

days in dangerous conditions. With that effort,

alerts were issued — and more than 2,000

power was safely restored to OUC’s affected

linemen, tree trimmers and trouble technicians

customers at a faster rate than the neighboring

were called in to assist with restoration.

utilities. After Hurricane Charley, crews had to

Customer service representatives fielded more

replace rear-lot line poles that had been

than 160,000 calls, a 50 percent increase from

knocked over in customers’ backyards. In some

normal activity.

cases, cranes were used to lift replacement

Mutual Aid: Returning the Favor OUC was happy to return the favor for several

power to customers who had been out since

utilities that sent crews to restore power in

Frances swept through on September 4, 2004.

Orlando and St. Cloud after Charley devastated

OUC also sent linemen to the City of Opp,

the area. After completing its own power

Alabama (near the Florida-Alabama border)

restoration following Hurricane Frances and

to help the restoration effort in the wake of

making sure that Hurricane Ivan was going to

Hurricane Ivan. In September 2005, OUC electric

bypass Central Florida, OUC released crews

and water crews went to Gulfport, Mississippi, to

to Fort Pierce Utilities Authority to help restore

help communities impacted by Hurricane Katrina.

Page 54

Used with permission of the Orlando Sentinel, copyright 2011

OUC vehicles “then and now” — dieselpowered truck and hybrid bucket truck.

Customer Education and Outreach In the Community From hurricane preparedness to input on transmission line projects, OUC was committed to keeping customers informed through neighborhood outreach.

OUC worked with St. Cloud and the community to determine the route of a new transmission line and the location of a new substation — holding several public meetings to speak with residents and invite their input. To determine the preferred route, engineers looked at 74 different transmission line segments and 96 alternative route combinations.

Hurricane Preparedness and Conservation Following the record-breaking hurricane season of 2004, OUC held 18 community meetings to discuss hurricane preparation and response for the 2005 storm season. The utility continued those meetings in 2006 and 2007.

In early 2010, faced with a worsening economy and a rising number of calls from customers who were having difficulty paying their utility bills, OUC

Balancing Affordability, Reliability and Environmental Stewardship

consumption and, in turn, their utility bills.

Beginning in 2006, the demand for affordable,

Billing options and payment assistance also

reliable, clean generation was more important

were featured. Later that same year, OUC

than ever, as the whole country was embracing a

partnered with the City of Orlando for the

“green revolution.” Companies scrambled to add

Green Neighborhood Program, which would

renewable resources to their generation portfolios

deliver efficiency upgrades to more than 1,000

as Congress debated “climate” laws that would

inefficient homes throughout Orlando.

tax carbon emitted from power plants. Talk of “cap and trade” regulation was the rage as utilities

In the Classroom

began to look for ways to reduce their power plant

Throughout its history, OUC has often gone into local classrooms to talk to students about electrical safety, conservation, hurricane preparedness

carbon emissions.

Project AWESOME In 2009, OUC partnered with the

OUC undertook an electric Integrated Resource Plan to determine the best way to provide clean, affordable, reliable power and to comply with

and careers in utilities. In 2006, OUC

Orlando Science Center to develop

potential federal climate legislation. The utility also

renewed its outreach in the schools,

a program to educate all fifth grade

looked for ways to help customers become more

focusing on Central Florida’s diminishing

students in OUC’s electric and water

energy efficient.

water resources. OUC partnered with

service territories in Orange and Osceola

Orange County Utilities and arts teachers

counties about water conservation,

in Orange County Public Schools to

energy efficiency and alternative energy

A Commitment to Sustainability In response, OUC renewed its efforts to

A Green Fleet

so that they are as reliable as the crews and

That commitment to sustainability was equally evident in OUC’s growing fleet. OUC’s reputation for reliable and responsive electric and water service over the years stems, in large part, from the hard work of the Fleet Division that has kept the utility’s vehicles on the road and ready to roll. In 1955, the then-Automotive Department was responsible for maintaining 57 vehicles ranging from gas-powered trucks to tractors. Since that time, the fleet has grown to include more than 800 vehicles, many of which run on lower emission biodiesel and several of which are high-efficiency plug-in electric cars and hybrid bucket trucks. Service and repair

involve students in the annual Water Color Project,

resources. Project AWESOME (Alternative

implement programs, practices and standards

a regional art contest that challenged high school

records once kept in handwritten logs are now

Water & Energy Supply, Observation,

that promoted sustainability throughout the

students to use conservation themes to decorate

tracked via high-tech software that communicates

Methods & Education) was designed to

Commission. Initiatives included expanding the

rain barrels. Meanwhile, fifth graders submitted

with a vehicle’s onboard computer to run

encourage good habits at an early age

recycling program and upgrading facilities with

water conservation drawings for a chance to be

diagnostics, schedule maintenance and assess

utilizing hands-on water and energy

energy-efficient lighting and light sensors; installing

featured in the annual Water Color Project calendar.

fuel consumption and performance. These

activities. The curriculum met Sunshine

rain sensors on irrigation systems; adjusting

advancements have helped OUC improve the

State Standards and reached about 6,000

thermostats; and forming a Green Team of

efficiency and safety of the fleet, lowering

fifth graders each year.

employee volunteers who worked to implement

emissions and maximizing the life of the vehicles,

hosted a series of “Reliably Green” community meetings to inform customers about conservation

personnel they carry.

In 2006, OUC began using biodiesel fuel in its diesel fleet trucks. Made from renewable domestic resources — like fats used in cooking grease — biodiesel is a cleaner burning, lower emission alternative to pure petroleum diesel fuels. The B20 mix integrated seamlessly into OUC’s current fueling system while reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than 15 percent.

The Fleet Division also incorporated a number of other eco-conscious policies, using earth-friendly products and disposing of contaminated fuels according to environmental standards. Tires, batteries and oil filters were recycled through vendors, while freon, antifreeze and motor oil were handled on site. Water was recycled, too — thanks to mini-water treatment plants and wash racks at the Pershing and Gardenia facilities that kept OUC vehicles clean.

OUC uses computers to run vehicle diagnostics.

practical, sustainable operations in their areas.

tips and rebate programs that could reduce their

Lighting Retrofit Program Since 2003, OUC has provided its Lighting Retrofit Program for commercial customers —

with Orange County Public Schools had installed

retrofitting indoor lighting systems with more

energy-saving fixtures at 30 schools for an annual

energy-efficient, cost-effective ones for projected

energy savings of 2.2 MWs and more than

energy savings of 65-70 percent.

$900,000 in energy costs. At participating schools,

In return for the new lights, customers pay off

OUC was the first

By 2010, OUC’s indoor lighting partnership

municipal utility in Florida to acquire a

OUC replaced old lighting fixtures with more

the equipment by reimbursing OUC with the

energy-efficient retrofits. The schools benefitted

money they save on their electric bills. The

immediately as the up-front costs were spread

payback period was typically three to four years.

over multiple billing periods. Best of all, the

plug-in hybrid that gets up to 99 mpg.

charges were balanced out by lower power bills.

Page 56

Page 57

OUC vehicles “then and now” — dieselpowered truck and hybrid bucket truck.

Customer Education and Outreach In the Community From hurricane preparedness to input on transmission line projects, OUC was committed to keeping customers informed through neighborhood outreach.

OUC worked with St. Cloud and the community to determine the route of a new transmission line and the location of a new substation — holding several public meetings to speak with residents and invite their input. To determine the preferred route, engineers looked at 74 different transmission line segments and 96 alternative route combinations.

Hurricane Preparedness and Conservation Following the record-breaking hurricane season of 2004, OUC held 18 community meetings to discuss hurricane preparation and response for the 2005 storm season. The utility continued those meetings in 2006 and 2007.

In early 2010, faced with a worsening economy and a rising number of calls from customers who were having difficulty paying their utility bills, OUC

Balancing Affordability, Reliability and Environmental Stewardship

consumption and, in turn, their utility bills.

Beginning in 2006, the demand for affordable,

Billing options and payment assistance also

reliable, clean generation was more important

were featured. Later that same year, OUC

than ever, as the whole country was embracing a

partnered with the City of Orlando for the

“green revolution.” Companies scrambled to add

Green Neighborhood Program, which would

renewable resources to their generation portfolios

deliver efficiency upgrades to more than 1,000

as Congress debated “climate” laws that would

inefficient homes throughout Orlando.

tax carbon emitted from power plants. Talk of “cap and trade” regulation was the rage as utilities

In the Classroom

began to look for ways to reduce their power plant

Throughout its history, OUC has often gone into local classrooms to talk to students about electrical safety, conservation, hurricane preparedness

carbon emissions.

Project AWESOME In 2009, OUC partnered with the

OUC undertook an electric Integrated Resource Plan to determine the best way to provide clean, affordable, reliable power and to comply with

and careers in utilities. In 2006, OUC

Orlando Science Center to develop

potential federal climate legislation. The utility also

renewed its outreach in the schools,

a program to educate all fifth grade

looked for ways to help customers become more

focusing on Central Florida’s diminishing

students in OUC’s electric and water

energy efficient.

water resources. OUC partnered with

service territories in Orange and Osceola

Orange County Utilities and arts teachers

counties about water conservation,

in Orange County Public Schools to

energy efficiency and alternative energy

A Commitment to Sustainability In response, OUC renewed its efforts to

A Green Fleet

so that they are as reliable as the crews and

That commitment to sustainability was equally evident in OUC’s growing fleet. OUC’s reputation for reliable and responsive electric and water service over the years stems, in large part, from the hard work of the Fleet Division that has kept the utility’s vehicles on the road and ready to roll. In 1955, the then-Automotive Department was responsible for maintaining 57 vehicles ranging from gas-powered trucks to tractors. Since that time, the fleet has grown to include more than 800 vehicles, many of which run on lower emission biodiesel and several of which are high-efficiency plug-in electric cars and hybrid bucket trucks. Service and repair

involve students in the annual Water Color Project,

resources. Project AWESOME (Alternative

implement programs, practices and standards

a regional art contest that challenged high school

records once kept in handwritten logs are now

Water & Energy Supply, Observation,

that promoted sustainability throughout the

students to use conservation themes to decorate

tracked via high-tech software that communicates

Methods & Education) was designed to

Commission. Initiatives included expanding the

rain barrels. Meanwhile, fifth graders submitted

with a vehicle’s onboard computer to run

encourage good habits at an early age

recycling program and upgrading facilities with

water conservation drawings for a chance to be

diagnostics, schedule maintenance and assess

utilizing hands-on water and energy

energy-efficient lighting and light sensors; installing

featured in the annual Water Color Project calendar.

fuel consumption and performance. These

activities. The curriculum met Sunshine

rain sensors on irrigation systems; adjusting

advancements have helped OUC improve the

State Standards and reached about 6,000

thermostats; and forming a Green Team of

efficiency and safety of the fleet, lowering

fifth graders each year.

employee volunteers who worked to implement

emissions and maximizing the life of the vehicles,

hosted a series of “Reliably Green” community meetings to inform customers about conservation

personnel they carry.

In 2006, OUC began using biodiesel fuel in its diesel fleet trucks. Made from renewable domestic resources — like fats used in cooking grease — biodiesel is a cleaner burning, lower emission alternative to pure petroleum diesel fuels. The B20 mix integrated seamlessly into OUC’s current fueling system while reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than 15 percent.

The Fleet Division also incorporated a number of other eco-conscious policies, using earth-friendly products and disposing of contaminated fuels according to environmental standards. Tires, batteries and oil filters were recycled through vendors, while freon, antifreeze and motor oil were handled on site. Water was recycled, too — thanks to mini-water treatment plants and wash racks at the Pershing and Gardenia facilities that kept OUC vehicles clean.

OUC uses computers to run vehicle diagnostics.

practical, sustainable operations in their areas.

tips and rebate programs that could reduce their

Lighting Retrofit Program Since 2003, OUC has provided its Lighting Retrofit Program for commercial customers —

with Orange County Public Schools had installed

retrofitting indoor lighting systems with more

energy-saving fixtures at 30 schools for an annual

energy-efficient, cost-effective ones for projected

energy savings of 2.2 MWs and more than

energy savings of 65-70 percent.

$900,000 in energy costs. At participating schools,

In return for the new lights, customers pay off

OUC was the first

By 2010, OUC’s indoor lighting partnership

municipal utility in Florida to acquire a

OUC replaced old lighting fixtures with more

the equipment by reimbursing OUC with the

energy-efficient retrofits. The schools benefitted

money they save on their electric bills. The

immediately as the up-front costs were spread

payback period was typically three to four years.

over multiple billing periods. Best of all, the

plug-in hybrid that gets up to 99 mpg.

charges were balanced out by lower power bills.

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Page 57

Reliable Plaza Green Features Include: • Solar photovoltaic array on the roof.

• Solar water heating via rooftop panels.

• Water collection cistern for irrigation.

• Low-flow plumbing fixtures.

THE GREENEST BUILDING IN DOWNTOWN ORLANDO

• Raised flooring for efficient heating and cooling.

• High-efficiency, daylight-sensitive lighting.

When the land under OUC’s former parking garage was required for the

• VOC-free (Volatile Organic Compound) carpet and paint.

Department of Transportation’s expansion

Customer Features The first floor offered one-stop service to all OUC customers. An expanded

of State Road 408, OUC evaluated its

residential service center provided an

options and made the decision to build

improved customer experience with eight

a new 110,000-square-foot customer

teller stations, three drive-through lanes

service and administration center and

and more convenient parking.

set the standard for sustainable buildings in Orlando.

While this new green home was a major milestone for OUC, it was also a first for the

Commercial and industrial customers had everything they needed in the new Commercial Service Center, and local developers, builders and contractors

Central Florida community. Designed to

enjoyed a single point of contact through

meet the requirements for Leadership in

the Development Services Center.

Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Certification, Reliable Plaza earned

Reliable Plaza also featured an interactive conservation education center, located on

the title of “The Greenest Building in

the first floor near Customer Service. With

Downtown Orlando.” It was designed

a live link to the building’s conservation

to use about 28 percent less energy and

systems, the center’s touch screen gave

40 percent less water than similar buildings

customers real-time data on how Reliable

built to code.

More than 12,000 customers visited

Plaza used — and saved — energy and water. The center also provided information

Reliable Plaza monthly to pay their utility

on green building ideas, conservation tips

bills, set up or change service, or learn more

and programs customers could employ

about energy and water conservation.

at home.

On November 11, 2008, Reliable Plaza was dedicated in honor of Veteran’s Day and the men and women of OUC who served their country. The American flag was raised by a group of OUC Veterans.

A Florida Original: The mural at Reliable Plaza is based on a landscape by Highwaymen artist Harold Newton (1934-94). Historian Gary Monroe noted, “Newton stands alone having created the images of modern Florida that symbolized the state as the place to really be alive.”

Page 58

Page 59

Reliable Plaza Green Features Include: • Solar photovoltaic array on the roof.

• Solar water heating via rooftop panels.

• Water collection cistern for irrigation.

• Low-flow plumbing fixtures.

THE GREENEST BUILDING IN DOWNTOWN ORLANDO

• Raised flooring for efficient heating and cooling.

• High-efficiency, daylight-sensitive lighting.

When the land under OUC’s former parking garage was required for the

• VOC-free (Volatile Organic Compound) carpet and paint.

Department of Transportation’s expansion

Customer Features The first floor offered one-stop service to all OUC customers. An expanded

of State Road 408, OUC evaluated its

residential service center provided an

options and made the decision to build

improved customer experience with eight

a new 110,000-square-foot customer

teller stations, three drive-through lanes

service and administration center and

and more convenient parking.

set the standard for sustainable buildings in Orlando.

While this new green home was a major milestone for OUC, it was also a first for the

Commercial and industrial customers had everything they needed in the new Commercial Service Center, and local developers, builders and contractors

Central Florida community. Designed to

enjoyed a single point of contact through

meet the requirements for Leadership in

the Development Services Center.

Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Certification, Reliable Plaza earned

Reliable Plaza also featured an interactive conservation education center, located on

the title of “The Greenest Building in

the first floor near Customer Service. With

Downtown Orlando.” It was designed

a live link to the building’s conservation

to use about 28 percent less energy and

systems, the center’s touch screen gave

40 percent less water than similar buildings

customers real-time data on how Reliable

built to code.

More than 12,000 customers visited

Plaza used — and saved — energy and water. The center also provided information

Reliable Plaza monthly to pay their utility

on green building ideas, conservation tips

bills, set up or change service, or learn more

and programs customers could employ

about energy and water conservation.

at home.

On November 11, 2008, Reliable Plaza was dedicated in honor of Veteran’s Day and the men and women of OUC who served their country. The American flag was raised by a group of OUC Veterans.

A Florida Original: The mural at Reliable Plaza is based on a landscape by Highwaymen artist Harold Newton (1934-94). Historian Gary Monroe noted, “Newton stands alone having created the images of modern Florida that symbolized the state as the place to really be alive.”

Page 58

Page 59

STOCKING THE TOOLS OF THE TRADE

ChargePoint electric vehicle charging station located at City Hall.

From hard hats and gloves to cable and pipe, having the right part at the right time is a critical

In the spring of 2008, OUC had already felt

component in delivering reliable

the economic ground moving beneath Central

and affordable service for

Florida. From an increase in customers needing

customers. Dating back to the

payment arrangements . . .to well-established

earliest days of the Commission,

Innovation — From Light Poles to Charging Stations

Weathering Tough Economic Times

By 2010, OUC was maintaining

OUC planned for a brighter tomorrow with a

OUC’s supply chain area has made sure

an inventory of 26,000 parts and

customer growth, the utility realized a storm

employees had the tools and materials

supplies across 113,000 square feet of

was brewing and that it would be necessary

they needed to do the job. In 2007, the

warehousing and 28 acres of outside

to batten down the hatches and prepare for

largely manually intensive process of

storage area at five sites. In addition,

rough weather.

tracking, stocking and ordering items was

OUC was recycling tons of materials

converted to a wireless barcode scanning

in an environmentally responsible way,

measures that included a hiring freeze for non-

system that could provide data in real

including porcelain insulators, wooden

essential positions, release of contractors and

time, allowing OUC to keep the right

pallets, wooden wire and cable reels,

travel limitations, to name a few.

amount of parts on hand and accurately

brass water meters and more than

array provided a total of 2.8 kilowatts of power

solar charging stations for electric vehicles and

to charge the vehicles.

cutting-edge solar photovoltaic (PV) technology on utility poles.

as part of a national non-profit initiative called

electric-vehicle charging stations at Reliable Plaza

Project Get Ready. A Department of Energy

were powered by the sun — and were the first

ChargePoint America Grant would provide

of their kind in Orlando. Located on top of the

nearly 300 charging stations to Central Florida.

That June, OUC undertook cost-cutting

Knowing that customers would need more

New Conservation Requirements On December 1, 2009, the Florida Public

each year. To accomplish those goals, OUC was

Service Commission (PSC) established new peak

determined to ramp-up promotion of existing programs and introduce new ones to help

1.7 million pounds of steel, aluminum

help than ever, OUC launched new programs

needed for future projects. The high-

and copper. Across the Commission,

to reduce energy and water consumption and

for all large electric utilities in the State of Florida.

customers improve the efficiency of their homes

tech system enabled OUC to further

OUC also introduced single-stream

enable customers to pay utility bills over an

The new rules would require OUC to reduce

and businesses.

streamline its inventory, eliminating

recycling to make it easier for employees

extended period of time. In addition, OUC

energy consumption by an average 3,600,000 kWh

obsolete or excessive parts and reducing

to recycle a wider variety of materials

increased contributions to its Project Care

the costs of storing unneeded items.

and partnered with a vendor who

Utility Assistance Fund by 70 percent.

It also helped OUC improve efficiencies

purchased the recyclable paper and

in everything from purchasing to the

cardboard, diverting it from the landfill

warehouse, while expanding the use of

and generating revenue for charity.

sustainable practices such as recycling.

: e r a C t Projec ory A His t ing of H e l p

After passing the $1 million mark in assistance in 2008, OUC overhauled Project Care, the emergency bill payment assistance program first launched in 1994, to better assist those customers who needed help the most. In addition to matching employee and customer contributions 2 to 1, OUC increased customer allocations and made eligibility guidelines more flexible. In partnership with 2-1-1, a United Way agency, OUC also funded a full-time Project Care administrator to streamline the application and approval process for qualifying OUC customers experiencing temporary problems paying their utility bills. At the close of 2010, contributions had surpassed $2 million.

Page 60

the City of Orlando, Orange County and others

fuels and efficient transportation, two of its three

demand and energy conservation requirements

forecast when materials would be

To help prepare Central Florida to support plug-in electric vehicles, OUC partnered with

As part of the utility’s commitment to alternative

businesses shutting down . . .to a halting of

building’s parking garage, the 16-panel solar

number of innovative projects including installing

Page 61

OUC installed the first utility pole-mounted solar PV system in Florida. The pilot project included 10 intelligent photovoltaic solar systems that together could produce up to 2 kilowatts that was pumped directly into the power grid.

STOCKING THE TOOLS OF THE TRADE

ChargePoint electric vehicle charging station located at City Hall.

From hard hats and gloves to cable and pipe, having the right part at the right time is a critical

In the spring of 2008, OUC had already felt

component in delivering reliable

the economic ground moving beneath Central

and affordable service for

Florida. From an increase in customers needing

customers. Dating back to the

payment arrangements . . .to well-established

earliest days of the Commission,

Innovation — From Light Poles to Charging Stations

Weathering Tough Economic Times

By 2010, OUC was maintaining

OUC planned for a brighter tomorrow with a

OUC’s supply chain area has made sure

an inventory of 26,000 parts and

customer growth, the utility realized a storm

employees had the tools and materials

supplies across 113,000 square feet of

was brewing and that it would be necessary

they needed to do the job. In 2007, the

warehousing and 28 acres of outside

to batten down the hatches and prepare for

largely manually intensive process of

storage area at five sites. In addition,

rough weather.

tracking, stocking and ordering items was

OUC was recycling tons of materials

converted to a wireless barcode scanning

in an environmentally responsible way,

measures that included a hiring freeze for non-

system that could provide data in real

including porcelain insulators, wooden

essential positions, release of contractors and

time, allowing OUC to keep the right

pallets, wooden wire and cable reels,

travel limitations, to name a few.

amount of parts on hand and accurately

brass water meters and more than

array provided a total of 2.8 kilowatts of power

solar charging stations for electric vehicles and

to charge the vehicles.

cutting-edge solar photovoltaic (PV) technology on utility poles.

as part of a national non-profit initiative called

electric-vehicle charging stations at Reliable Plaza

Project Get Ready. A Department of Energy

were powered by the sun — and were the first

ChargePoint America Grant would provide

of their kind in Orlando. Located on top of the

nearly 300 charging stations to Central Florida.

That June, OUC undertook cost-cutting

Knowing that customers would need more

New Conservation Requirements On December 1, 2009, the Florida Public

each year. To accomplish those goals, OUC was

Service Commission (PSC) established new peak

determined to ramp-up promotion of existing programs and introduce new ones to help

1.7 million pounds of steel, aluminum

help than ever, OUC launched new programs

needed for future projects. The high-

and copper. Across the Commission,

to reduce energy and water consumption and

for all large electric utilities in the State of Florida.

customers improve the efficiency of their homes

tech system enabled OUC to further

OUC also introduced single-stream

enable customers to pay utility bills over an

The new rules would require OUC to reduce

and businesses.

streamline its inventory, eliminating

recycling to make it easier for employees

extended period of time. In addition, OUC

energy consumption by an average 3,600,000 kWh

obsolete or excessive parts and reducing

to recycle a wider variety of materials

increased contributions to its Project Care

the costs of storing unneeded items.

and partnered with a vendor who

Utility Assistance Fund by 70 percent.

It also helped OUC improve efficiencies

purchased the recyclable paper and

in everything from purchasing to the

cardboard, diverting it from the landfill

warehouse, while expanding the use of

and generating revenue for charity.

sustainable practices such as recycling.

: e r a C t Projec ory A His t ing of H e l p

After passing the $1 million mark in assistance in 2008, OUC overhauled Project Care, the emergency bill payment assistance program first launched in 1994, to better assist those customers who needed help the most. In addition to matching employee and customer contributions 2 to 1, OUC increased customer allocations and made eligibility guidelines more flexible. In partnership with 2-1-1, a United Way agency, OUC also funded a full-time Project Care administrator to streamline the application and approval process for qualifying OUC customers experiencing temporary problems paying their utility bills. At the close of 2010, contributions had surpassed $2 million.

Page 60

the City of Orlando, Orange County and others

fuels and efficient transportation, two of its three

demand and energy conservation requirements

forecast when materials would be

To help prepare Central Florida to support plug-in electric vehicles, OUC partnered with

As part of the utility’s commitment to alternative

businesses shutting down . . .to a halting of

building’s parking garage, the 16-panel solar

number of innovative projects including installing

Page 61

OUC installed the first utility pole-mounted solar PV system in Florida. The pilot project included 10 intelligent photovoltaic solar systems that together could produce up to 2 kilowatts that was pumped directly into the power grid.

Green Neighborhood Program In 2010, OUC partnered with the City of

of high energy consumption, thanks to

Orlando on the Green Neighborhood Program,

funding from OUC and the federal stimulus

a weatherization fix-up program that targeted

funds the City received in the form of an Energy

homes in some of the City’s least energy-efficient

Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG).

neighborhoods. Based on historical consumption

Participants in the Green Neighborhood Program

data from OUC, the City developed an energy

received an energy and water audit from OUC

intensity map to identify the neighborhoods with

followed by a complimentary package of electric

the highest energy consumption per square foot.

and water conservation measures valued up

The Green Neighborhood Program was

to $1,000.

In 2010, the Green Neighborhood Program: Implemented more than $700,000 in conservation measures for a total annual energy savings of more than 1.3 million kWh in more than 1,000 homes in the City of Orlando.

provided free to neighborhoods with a history

New Power Partnerships: OUC Sells Electricity to Vero Beach and Bartow Power plants take years to permit and construct and are built with growth in mind. Utilities forecast their generation requirements and supplement

OUC Partners on Largest Solar Rooftop Array in Southeast at the Orange County Convention Center In May 2009, OUC joined Orange County to

In addition to the grant, OUC contributed

flip the switch on the largest rooftop solar PV

$1.5 million to the project and would receive

system in the Southeast United States. The 1-MW

10 years worth of Renewable Energy Credits.

array atop the Orange County Convention Center

of power over a definite period of time as the

future energy requirements above the City’s

utility grows into its load requirements.

current resource level.

On January 1, 2010, OUC became the exclusive

Also in 2010, OUC and the City of Bartow

their electricity needs by selling blocks of

power provider for the City of Vero Beach —

signed a seven-year power purchase agreement.

generation to other municipalities or utilities

providing about 100 MW of electricity to the

OUC would provide wholesale power to the City

through power purchase agreements. Such power

beachfront community for a period of 20 years.

beginning January 1, 2011; Bartow would then

partnerships with other municipalities have been an

The agreement made OUC Vero Beach’s exclusive

distribute it through its existing infrastructure

effective way for OUC to contract large increments

power provider and power marketer, supplying

to about 11,000 customers.

The PV system, which utilizes high-efficiency,

was the result of a partnership between OUC and

flat-plate collectors, covered about 200,000

Orange County that was awarded a $2.5 million

square feet of the Convention Center’s

grant from the State of Florida to install the

North/South building and would generate

landmark project. DOE named the installation

1,300 to 1,500 MWH of electricity per year —

a Solar America Showcase.

the equivalent amount of power used by 80 to

OUR COMMITMENT TO FUTURE GENERATIONS

In 2010, OUC added a 31-kW solar array atop the Dr. Phillips Cinedome at the Orlando Science Center.

100 typical homes. And no greenhouse gas emissions would be produced in the process.

A Solar City in the Sunshine State OUC’s efforts to ready Central Florida for a renewable future were rewarded in 2008 as its hometown was designated a “Solar America City” by the U.S. Department of Energy. The ongoing green partnership between OUC, the City of Orlando and Orange County received $450,000 in funding and technical expertise to help develop solar projects in the community that could be replicated across the country. The previous year, OUC had launched solar photovoltaic and solar thermal programs that helped customers eliminate the upfront costs of solar.

The program included a partnership with the Orlando Federal Credit Union to provide no- or low-interest loans to homeowners.

Page 62

At the close of the first decade of the new millennium, OUC remained committed to building upon the strong foundation it had established over the past 87 years. Through it all, one thing has been constant — the employees of OUC continue to provide the highest level of reliability at affordable rates while acting as good stewards of the environment.

Page 63

Green Neighborhood Program In 2010, OUC partnered with the City of

of high energy consumption, thanks to

Orlando on the Green Neighborhood Program,

funding from OUC and the federal stimulus

a weatherization fix-up program that targeted

funds the City received in the form of an Energy

homes in some of the City’s least energy-efficient

Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG).

neighborhoods. Based on historical consumption

Participants in the Green Neighborhood Program

data from OUC, the City developed an energy

received an energy and water audit from OUC

intensity map to identify the neighborhoods with

followed by a complimentary package of electric

the highest energy consumption per square foot.

and water conservation measures valued up

The Green Neighborhood Program was

to $1,000.

In 2010, the Green Neighborhood Program: Implemented more than $700,000 in conservation measures for a total annual energy savings of more than 1.3 million kWh in more than 1,000 homes in the City of Orlando.

provided free to neighborhoods with a history

New Power Partnerships: OUC Sells Electricity to Vero Beach and Bartow Power plants take years to permit and construct and are built with growth in mind. Utilities forecast their generation requirements and supplement

OUC Partners on Largest Solar Rooftop Array in Southeast at the Orange County Convention Center In May 2009, OUC joined Orange County to

In addition to the grant, OUC contributed

flip the switch on the largest rooftop solar PV

$1.5 million to the project and would receive

system in the Southeast United States. The 1-MW

10 years worth of Renewable Energy Credits.

array atop the Orange County Convention Center

of power over a definite period of time as the

future energy requirements above the City’s

utility grows into its load requirements.

current resource level.

On January 1, 2010, OUC became the exclusive

Also in 2010, OUC and the City of Bartow

their electricity needs by selling blocks of

power provider for the City of Vero Beach —

signed a seven-year power purchase agreement.

generation to other municipalities or utilities

providing about 100 MW of electricity to the

OUC would provide wholesale power to the City

through power purchase agreements. Such power

beachfront community for a period of 20 years.

beginning January 1, 2011; Bartow would then

partnerships with other municipalities have been an

The agreement made OUC Vero Beach’s exclusive

distribute it through its existing infrastructure

effective way for OUC to contract large increments

power provider and power marketer, supplying

to about 11,000 customers.

The PV system, which utilizes high-efficiency,

was the result of a partnership between OUC and

flat-plate collectors, covered about 200,000

Orange County that was awarded a $2.5 million

square feet of the Convention Center’s

grant from the State of Florida to install the

North/South building and would generate

landmark project. DOE named the installation

1,300 to 1,500 MWH of electricity per year —

a Solar America Showcase.

the equivalent amount of power used by 80 to

OUR COMMITMENT TO FUTURE GENERATIONS

In 2010, OUC added a 31-kW solar array atop the Dr. Phillips Cinedome at the Orlando Science Center.

100 typical homes. And no greenhouse gas emissions would be produced in the process.

A Solar City in the Sunshine State OUC’s efforts to ready Central Florida for a renewable future were rewarded in 2008 as its hometown was designated a “Solar America City” by the U.S. Department of Energy. The ongoing green partnership between OUC, the City of Orlando and Orange County received $450,000 in funding and technical expertise to help develop solar projects in the community that could be replicated across the country. The previous year, OUC had launched solar photovoltaic and solar thermal programs that helped customers eliminate the upfront costs of solar.

The program included a partnership with the Orlando Federal Credit Union to provide no- or low-interest loans to homeowners.

Page 62

At the close of the first decade of the new millennium, OUC remained committed to building upon the strong foundation it had established over the past 87 years. Through it all, one thing has been constant — the employees of OUC continue to provide the highest level of reliability at affordable rates while acting as good stewards of the environment.

Page 63

“Reliability is our corporate culture, the heart of our business.”

OUC’s state-of-the-art Water Quality Laboratory performs more than 20,000 chemical and bacteriological tests annually to ensure the quality and safety of OUC’s drinking water.

– Ken Ksionek, General Manager and CEO from 2004-Present

O U C R E L I A B I L I T Y & WAT E R Q U A L I T Y

A Long-Term Commitment to Reliability and Quality Although it was 1998 before OUC officially

1875 –1922

1923 –1949

Reliable, Efficient Power Plants OUC’s commitment to reliability starts at its

1950 –1969

1970 –1989

Water Quality

frequent power outages. Although shield

high-voltage electric energy. OUC's electric

became known as “The Reliable One,” the

wire was commonly used for this purpose in

distribution engineering division was always at

power plant facilities. From the world-class peaking

operation on March 18, 1887, the goal has been

commitment to providing the highest level of

transmission lines, its application on distribution

the forefront of that development by being

gas turbines of the old Lake Highland Plant and the

to provide citizens of Orlando with a safe, clean,

service to customers goes back to the early days

lines was limited.

one of the leading users of new technology

marvel of efficiency that was the Indian River Plant

reliable source of drinking water. Through the

created by the industry. In some instances, it was

when it opened in 1960 to the modern powerhouse

years, OUC has remained committed to

necessary to replace existing facilities that had

of the Stanton Energy Center, OUC has sought

providing the highest level of water quality

already been designed and constructed due to

to build and maintain a clean, efficient and

and installing a reliable distribution system to

failure of some component.”

dependable generation fleet for its customers.

facilitate growth.

of the company. The need for reliable service began at the turn of the 20th

Underground Utilities OUC installed its first underground feeder lines

century when

in 1934 with funds from the federal government.

28 streetlights

These lines were predominantly used for

were installed

By the late 1970s, OUC had established

Maintaining a reliable fleet of generation that

commercial installation. “When I started work

a policy to underground all new construction,

uses a diverse mix of fuel has saved OUC customers

and located

at OUC in 1949, the downtown area was almost

and by 2010, more than 60 percent of electric

millions of dollars over the years. OUC power

throughout

completely served by underground electrical

distribution lines were underground.

resource employees work 24/7 to ensure that plants

Orlando. By

distribution,” recalled Assistant General Manager

1903, 24-hour

Lou Stone. ”It is my understanding that the

OUC remains at the forefront of technology

are well-maintained and available when necessary.

and currently utilizes the industry-proven

In fact, OUC has a long history of not only meeting,

electric service was available, and Orlando was

distribution cables were installed in duct work

Crosslinked Polyethylene (XLPE) and Ethylene

but exceeding industry standards for availability

on its way to becoming a vibrant city. As the

that had been constructed by the WPA (Works

Propylene Rubber (EPR) underground power

and forced outage time. SEC Units 1 and 2 have an

City grew, so did the need to control crime.

Progress Administration) in the early 1930s. The

cables. The utility will continue to seek more

equivalent availability rate of 87.88, which is the

Street lighting was crucial to maintaining public

primary installation was constructed with cables

efficient insulations, while striving to keep costs

time the generating unit is capable of delivering

safety, thereby creating a need for reliable

that utilized lead covering on the outer surface.

under control.

at full capacity, compared to the national average

electric service.

This was the standard at that time.”

Over the years, OUC has remained committed

of 82.88. In addition, a combined Equivalent

Stone went on to say that “underground

Forced Outage Rate (EFOR) of 2 percent compared

to investing in the technology and infrastructure

construction for electrical distribution was just

to the national average of around 8 percent saves

to ensure a high level of electric reliability. During

beginning to enter the market when I became

OUC ratepayers by reducing the costs associated

the 1950s, the utility took that commitment to the

Manager of Electric Operations in the latter

with unexpected outages like having to find

next level by investing in a new technology called

half of the 1960s. It was a painful experience for

replacement power.

a static shield wire.

both the industry and users like OUC. The major

These two base load units, which rarely get a

OUC was one of the first utilities in the state

problem was the development of insulation that

chance to rest, help ensure that OUC has an ample

to use static shield wire to protect its distribution

would withstand the rigors of being underground

supply of power — whether it’s the hottest day of

system against lightning strikes — a cause of

for many years and the stresses associated with

summer or coldest winter night. The utility’s record reliability is due in large part to its trademark preventive and predictive maintenance schedule and a dedicated, well-trained workforce.

To identify potential weaknesses before problems arise, OUC utilizes state-of-the-art technologies such as vibration monitoring and analysis, thermography and Low Frequency Electromagnetic Technique electronic boiler tube mapping. Aside from the intricate inspection process, which Engineering and distribution activities reached unparalleled levels in 1990 as work orders soared 47 percent to $28 million. Nearly two decades later, OUC continued to power growth including a new Medical City in Southeast Orlando.

includes preventive maintenance and repairs,

1990 –2010

Since the first water works system began

From Lake Water to the Floridan Aquifer OUC originally drew its water from lakes. In the mid-’50s, it turned to the Floridan Aquifer for its

Ensuring Reliable, Safe Drinking Water In 1995, OUC began Water Project 2000 — the most comprehensive water system upgrade in the utility’s history.

By treating the water with ozone, a strong but safe disinfectant, OUC dramatically reduced the use of chlorine in the water system and removed hydrogen sulfide, a naturally occurring compound that can create an unpleasant taste and odor in water. The result was tap water that tasted as good as bottled and it bore OUC’s name — H2OUC. H2OUC was named the best drinking water

water supply. Located a quarter of a mile or more

in the state in 2003 by the Florida section of the

below the earth’s surface, this vast underground

American Water Works Association (AWWA).

reservoir contains some of the cleanest water in

A panel of judges tested water from 10 utilities

the nation. This water is as clean today as it was in

across the state, checking for taste, color, clarity

the 1950s, according to tests conducted by OUC’s

and smell.

own sophisticated Water Quality Laboratory.

Today this water is delivered through a highly reliable system of remotely controlled, interconnected water plants.

The Copper-Lightning Connection Central Florida’s reputation as the lightning capital of the United States never became more evident after hundreds of “pinhole”-sized leaks began forming in copper pipes. During the 1980s and early ‘90s, OUC’s water department, led by laboratory superintendent Dick Dunham, determined that four factors led to accelerated pinhole leaks: lightning, water chemistry, copper plumbing grounding practices and low-quality plumbing workmanship. This was in the time period before the widespread use of PVC pipes.

OUC was able to determine that better grounding of plumbing pipes could reduce the chance of a leak.

OUC has traditionally chosen to fuel its boiler with a lower sulfur, higher quality coal that, in turn, lowers maintenance costs for SEC. Credit also must be given to the OUC plant

OUC personnel operate all seven water plants remotely from the utility’s water production control room.

employees and the regular training they undergo to hone and expand their skills in order to keep up with the latest processes and techniques required to maintain a high-performing plant. OUC’s power plant engineers, operations, and maintenance personnel are dedicated, knowledgeable, and have

Page 64

the proven ability to rise to any challenge.

Page 65

“Reliability is our corporate culture, the heart of our business.”

OUC’s state-of-the-art Water Quality Laboratory performs more than 20,000 chemical and bacteriological tests annually to ensure the quality and safety of OUC’s drinking water.

– Ken Ksionek, General Manager and CEO from 2004-Present

O U C R E L I A B I L I T Y & WAT E R Q U A L I T Y

A Long-Term Commitment to Reliability and Quality Although it was 1998 before OUC officially

1875 –1922

1923 –1949

Reliable, Efficient Power Plants OUC’s commitment to reliability starts at its

1950 –1969

1970 –1989

Water Quality

frequent power outages. Although shield

high-voltage electric energy. OUC's electric

became known as “The Reliable One,” the

wire was commonly used for this purpose in

distribution engineering division was always at

power plant facilities. From the world-class peaking

operation on March 18, 1887, the goal has been

commitment to providing the highest level of

transmission lines, its application on distribution

the forefront of that development by being

gas turbines of the old Lake Highland Plant and the

to provide citizens of Orlando with a safe, clean,

service to customers goes back to the early days

lines was limited.

one of the leading users of new technology

marvel of efficiency that was the Indian River Plant

reliable source of drinking water. Through the

created by the industry. In some instances, it was

when it opened in 1960 to the modern powerhouse

years, OUC has remained committed to

necessary to replace existing facilities that had

of the Stanton Energy Center, OUC has sought

providing the highest level of water quality

already been designed and constructed due to

to build and maintain a clean, efficient and

and installing a reliable distribution system to

failure of some component.”

dependable generation fleet for its customers.

facilitate growth.

of the company. The need for reliable service began at the turn of the 20th

Underground Utilities OUC installed its first underground feeder lines

century when

in 1934 with funds from the federal government.

28 streetlights

These lines were predominantly used for

were installed

By the late 1970s, OUC had established

Maintaining a reliable fleet of generation that

commercial installation. “When I started work

a policy to underground all new construction,

uses a diverse mix of fuel has saved OUC customers

and located

at OUC in 1949, the downtown area was almost

and by 2010, more than 60 percent of electric

millions of dollars over the years. OUC power

throughout

completely served by underground electrical

distribution lines were underground.

resource employees work 24/7 to ensure that plants

Orlando. By

distribution,” recalled Assistant General Manager

1903, 24-hour

Lou Stone. ”It is my understanding that the

OUC remains at the forefront of technology

are well-maintained and available when necessary.

and currently utilizes the industry-proven

In fact, OUC has a long history of not only meeting,

electric service was available, and Orlando was

distribution cables were installed in duct work

Crosslinked Polyethylene (XLPE) and Ethylene

but exceeding industry standards for availability

on its way to becoming a vibrant city. As the

that had been constructed by the WPA (Works

Propylene Rubber (EPR) underground power

and forced outage time. SEC Units 1 and 2 have an

City grew, so did the need to control crime.

Progress Administration) in the early 1930s. The

cables. The utility will continue to seek more

equivalent availability rate of 87.88, which is the

Street lighting was crucial to maintaining public

primary installation was constructed with cables

efficient insulations, while striving to keep costs

time the generating unit is capable of delivering

safety, thereby creating a need for reliable

that utilized lead covering on the outer surface.

under control.

at full capacity, compared to the national average

electric service.

This was the standard at that time.”

Over the years, OUC has remained committed

of 82.88. In addition, a combined Equivalent

Stone went on to say that “underground

Forced Outage Rate (EFOR) of 2 percent compared

to investing in the technology and infrastructure

construction for electrical distribution was just

to the national average of around 8 percent saves

to ensure a high level of electric reliability. During

beginning to enter the market when I became

OUC ratepayers by reducing the costs associated

the 1950s, the utility took that commitment to the

Manager of Electric Operations in the latter

with unexpected outages like having to find

next level by investing in a new technology called

half of the 1960s. It was a painful experience for

replacement power.

a static shield wire.

both the industry and users like OUC. The major

These two base load units, which rarely get a

OUC was one of the first utilities in the state

problem was the development of insulation that

chance to rest, help ensure that OUC has an ample

to use static shield wire to protect its distribution

would withstand the rigors of being underground

supply of power — whether it’s the hottest day of

system against lightning strikes — a cause of

for many years and the stresses associated with

summer or coldest winter night. The utility’s record reliability is due in large part to its trademark preventive and predictive maintenance schedule and a dedicated, well-trained workforce.

To identify potential weaknesses before problems arise, OUC utilizes state-of-the-art technologies such as vibration monitoring and analysis, thermography and Low Frequency Electromagnetic Technique electronic boiler tube mapping. Aside from the intricate inspection process, which Engineering and distribution activities reached unparalleled levels in 1990 as work orders soared 47 percent to $28 million. Nearly two decades later, OUC continued to power growth including a new Medical City in Southeast Orlando.

includes preventive maintenance and repairs,

1990 –2010

Since the first water works system began

From Lake Water to the Floridan Aquifer OUC originally drew its water from lakes. In the mid-’50s, it turned to the Floridan Aquifer for its

Ensuring Reliable, Safe Drinking Water In 1995, OUC began Water Project 2000 — the most comprehensive water system upgrade in the utility’s history.

By treating the water with ozone, a strong but safe disinfectant, OUC dramatically reduced the use of chlorine in the water system and removed hydrogen sulfide, a naturally occurring compound that can create an unpleasant taste and odor in water. The result was tap water that tasted as good as bottled and it bore OUC’s name — H2OUC. H2OUC was named the best drinking water

water supply. Located a quarter of a mile or more

in the state in 2003 by the Florida section of the

below the earth’s surface, this vast underground

American Water Works Association (AWWA).

reservoir contains some of the cleanest water in

A panel of judges tested water from 10 utilities

the nation. This water is as clean today as it was in

across the state, checking for taste, color, clarity

the 1950s, according to tests conducted by OUC’s

and smell.

own sophisticated Water Quality Laboratory.

Today this water is delivered through a highly reliable system of remotely controlled, interconnected water plants.

The Copper-Lightning Connection Central Florida’s reputation as the lightning capital of the United States never became more evident after hundreds of “pinhole”-sized leaks began forming in copper pipes. During the 1980s and early ‘90s, OUC’s water department, led by laboratory superintendent Dick Dunham, determined that four factors led to accelerated pinhole leaks: lightning, water chemistry, copper plumbing grounding practices and low-quality plumbing workmanship. This was in the time period before the widespread use of PVC pipes.

OUC was able to determine that better grounding of plumbing pipes could reduce the chance of a leak.

OUC has traditionally chosen to fuel its boiler with a lower sulfur, higher quality coal that, in turn, lowers maintenance costs for SEC. Credit also must be given to the OUC plant

OUC personnel operate all seven water plants remotely from the utility’s water production control room.

employees and the regular training they undergo to hone and expand their skills in order to keep up with the latest processes and techniques required to maintain a high-performing plant. OUC’s power plant engineers, operations, and maintenance personnel are dedicated, knowledgeable, and have

Page 64

the proven ability to rise to any challenge.

Page 65

0 1 0 2 IN

MERS CUSTO C I R LECT MERS 54 E CUSTO 178,3 R E T A 39 W EES 135,9 ATED MPLOY E GENER 7 H W M 1,12 N OF ILLIO LONS L 7.5 M A G ON BILLI MPED 24.9 WATER PU

From 2009 –2010, OUC updated its website and launched a conservationfocused site, as well as a mobile version to reach customers on the go.

C U S T O M E R

S E R V I C E

1875 –1922

1923 –1949

1950 –1969

Customer Service: Always at the Heart of OUC ustomer service has been the heart of OUC since the earliest days of the utility. While the technology has changed, the mission to provide convenient, reliable, friendly service remains the same today as it was in 1923.

Location, Location, Location In 1936, convenience meant a central

OUC.com was redesigned in 2000 to improve

behind the cashier windows and joined

the utility also issued a mobile version of OUC.com

downtown location on the corner of Wall and

the frontline ranks of customer service.

navigation and then translated into Spanish in

North Main where customers could start or stop

The photo below appeared in a special

2007 to reach a growing segment of customers.

switching to smart or web-enabled phones to

service and pay their electric and water bills

advertising section of the April 14, 1968 Orlando

The translated website further added to OUC’s

manage their accounts.

before crossing the street to the Southern Bell

Sentinel showing a group of female representatives

Telephone Company to take care of their

“smartly attired in their new uniforms and ready

telephone account. With their postcard-sized

to extend their warm welcome to customers.”

keep pace with technology — enhancing and

bilingual representatives and a fully translated

bill stub in hand, customers would stand in line

The Sentinel section also noted that customers

automating phone service options while still

interactive, automated phone system.

to speak to one of the OUC customer service

could expect to receive “prompt, courteous and

maintaining a personal touch with local walk-in

representatives — who at that time were all men.

By the time OUC opened a new Administration

thorough attention … in person or by telephone” from OUC’s Customer Service Division.

Building in 1968, women had moved out from

Any Time, Anywhere Over the decades, Customer Service would

and call centers.

to reach the growing number of customers

existing efforts to deliver critical information and service to Spanish-speaking customers through

In 2009, OUC upgraded the website again to provide customers with easier access to key

By 1994, convenience meant providing

information and to lay the foundation to add to its

online service to customers with the launch

online services for customers and vendors. In 2010,

of OUC.com. And as the popularity of the

OUC added ReliablyGreen.com, a one-stop, 24-hour

Internet increased, OUC added features that

online shop for energy and water conservation

allowed customers to view their accounts,

information, rebates and programs. That year,

pay their bills, make service requests and even apply for a job at OUC via the website.

In 2003, OUC added a number of customer service features to its website.

Edna Heath (on left) who joined OUC on May 11, 1955 as a Clerk Typist and Relief Cashier celebrated the opening of three downtown offices. She started at the Wall Street office before moving to City Hall and then to the Administration Building at 500 S. Orange Avenue in 1968. She officially retired in 1990 as Superintendent of Revenue Collections, but came back to work for the company as a contractor. When customer service moved temporarily to the corner of Jefferson Street and Orange Avenue while the new energy and water efficient administration building was under construction, Ms. Edna, as she had become known, went with them. On November 11, 2008, she was a notable part of the celebration at the opening of Reliable Plaza. Just as she had for decades, Ms. Edna continued to serve customers until leaving OUC in 2010 and capping 55 years of dedicated service to The Reliable One. Page 66

Page 67

1970 –1989

1990 –2010

0 1 0 2 IN

MERS CUSTO C I R LECT MERS 54 E CUSTO 178,3 R E T A 39 W EES 135,9 ATED MPLOY E GENER 7 H W M 1,12 N OF ILLIO LONS L 7.5 M A G ON BILLI MPED 24.9 WATER PU

From 2009 –2010, OUC updated its website and launched a conservationfocused site, as well as a mobile version to reach customers on the go.

C U S T O M E R

S E R V I C E

1875 –1922

1923 –1949

1950 –1969

Customer Service: Always at the Heart of OUC ustomer service has been the heart of OUC since the earliest days of the utility. While the technology has changed, the mission to provide convenient, reliable, friendly service remains the same today as it was in 1923.

Location, Location, Location In 1936, convenience meant a central

OUC.com was redesigned in 2000 to improve

behind the cashier windows and joined

the utility also issued a mobile version of OUC.com

downtown location on the corner of Wall and

the frontline ranks of customer service.

navigation and then translated into Spanish in

North Main where customers could start or stop

The photo below appeared in a special

2007 to reach a growing segment of customers.

switching to smart or web-enabled phones to

service and pay their electric and water bills

advertising section of the April 14, 1968 Orlando

The translated website further added to OUC’s

manage their accounts.

before crossing the street to the Southern Bell

Sentinel showing a group of female representatives

Telephone Company to take care of their

“smartly attired in their new uniforms and ready

telephone account. With their postcard-sized

to extend their warm welcome to customers.”

keep pace with technology — enhancing and

bilingual representatives and a fully translated

bill stub in hand, customers would stand in line

The Sentinel section also noted that customers

automating phone service options while still

interactive, automated phone system.

to speak to one of the OUC customer service

could expect to receive “prompt, courteous and

maintaining a personal touch with local walk-in

representatives — who at that time were all men.

By the time OUC opened a new Administration

thorough attention … in person or by telephone” from OUC’s Customer Service Division.

Building in 1968, women had moved out from

Any Time, Anywhere Over the decades, Customer Service would

and call centers.

to reach the growing number of customers

existing efforts to deliver critical information and service to Spanish-speaking customers through

In 2009, OUC upgraded the website again to provide customers with easier access to key

By 1994, convenience meant providing

information and to lay the foundation to add to its

online service to customers with the launch

online services for customers and vendors. In 2010,

of OUC.com. And as the popularity of the

OUC added ReliablyGreen.com, a one-stop, 24-hour

Internet increased, OUC added features that

online shop for energy and water conservation

allowed customers to view their accounts,

information, rebates and programs. That year,

pay their bills, make service requests and even apply for a job at OUC via the website.

In 2003, OUC added a number of customer service features to its website.

Edna Heath (on left) who joined OUC on May 11, 1955 as a Clerk Typist and Relief Cashier celebrated the opening of three downtown offices. She started at the Wall Street office before moving to City Hall and then to the Administration Building at 500 S. Orange Avenue in 1968. She officially retired in 1990 as Superintendent of Revenue Collections, but came back to work for the company as a contractor. When customer service moved temporarily to the corner of Jefferson Street and Orange Avenue while the new energy and water efficient administration building was under construction, Ms. Edna, as she had become known, went with them. On November 11, 2008, she was a notable part of the celebration at the opening of Reliable Plaza. Just as she had for decades, Ms. Edna continued to serve customers until leaving OUC in 2010 and capping 55 years of dedicated service to The Reliable One. Page 66

Page 67

1970 –1989

1990 –2010

T H E

D* . T. BLAN JUDGE Went 1923 Presid

J. F. ANGE* Member 1923-24

NAME Judge W.T. Bland J.F. Ange Judge L.C. Massey H.L. Beeman Alvin Jefferson Nye H.H. Dickson W.R. O'Neal L.B. Fort Mayor L.M. Autrey Dr. H.G. Edwards Turner Evans Mayor James L. Giles J. Merle McElroy Mayor S.Y. Way George F. Brass H.L. McDonald H.C. Babcock Mayor V.W. Estes C.P. Dickinson E.W. Yandre C.G. Magruder H.N. Dickson L.B. McLeod J.T. Branham Mayor Wm. Beardall Clarence A. Johnson Dr. H.M. Beardall

H. H .

Mem DICKSO Presid ber 1923-3N* ent 19 0 28-30

JUDGE L. C. MASSEY* Member 1923-24

D LEO1946 . Mc L. B er Since 47 b 19 Memresident P

. BEARDALL MAYOR WM ce 1941 Member Sin

C O M M I S S I O N E R S

H. L. BEEMAN* Member 1923-24

J. T. BRAN Member Sin HAM President 19ce 1943 44-45

N C. A. JOHNSO 1944 Member Since 6 President 194

ARDALL DR. H. M. BEce 1937 Member Sin 9-40 President 193

Page 68

MEMBER 1923 1923-1924 1923-24 1923-24 1923-1926 1923-1931 1924-1928 1924-1932 1926-1928 Dec. 1926-Dec. 1934 1928-1939 1929-1931 1931-1934 1932-1934, 1938-1940 1933-1936 1935-1938 1935-1938 1935-1937 1939-1944 1939-1942 1940-1943 1945 1946-1949 1943-1954 1941-1952 1944-1955 1937-1948

1875 –1922

PRESIDENT 1923

1928-1929-1930 1924-1925-1926-1927

1931-1932-1933-1934 1937

1936 1935 1938 1941-1943-1944 1942

1947-1948 1945-1949-1953 1946-1950 1939-1940

1923 –1949

NAME Dr. J.S. McEwen W.A. Hutchinson E.A. Stebbins E.L. Brewton Mayor J. Rolfe Davis A.P. Clark R.T. Overstreet S.M. Heasley Mayor Robert S. Carr Mayor Carl T. Langford Lloyd Gahr E.G. Langston Wallace Mercer Tom Denmark

MEMBER 1949-1953 1949-Aug. 1952 Aug. 1952-1954 1953-1960 1953- Nov. 1956 1955-1962 1955-1962 1956-1963 Nov. 1956-Jan. 1967 March 7, 1967-Oct. 31, 1980 1961-1964 1962-May 1969 1963-1968 1964-1971

Richard H. Lawrence

1965-June 12, 1973

Sam Wilkins Richard W. Simpson Henry T. Meiner Grover C. Bryan Charles J. Hawkins Grace C. Lindblom H.E. Gene Johnson Mayor Bill Frederick W.M. Sanderlin I. Richard Weiner James H. Pugh Jr. Royce B. Walden James B. Greene Jerry Chicone Jr. Susan McCaskill-Little Richard L. Fletcher Jr. Mel R. Martinez

1969-1978 May 1969-1976 1972-1979 June 12, 1973-1980 1977-Oct. 18, 1983 1979-1986 1980 resigned July 7, 1981 Nov. 2, 1980-Oct. 31, 1992 April 14, 1981-March 14, 1989 Aug. 12, 1981-Aug. 16, 1983 Sept. 15, 1983-1991 Nov. 30, 1983-March 1992 Jan. 1, 1987-1988 Dec. 13, 1988-March 9, 1993 April 11, 1989-March 9, 1993 July 9, 1991-Dec. 31, 2000 Jan. 1, 1992-Aug. 1997

Ray D. McCleese Mayor Glenda E. Hood Carol P. Wilson, Ph.D. Tico Perez Tommy Boroughs Lonnie C. Bell Katie Porta Mayor Buddy Dyer Maylen Dominguez Dan Kirby, AIA, AICP Craig McAllaster, Ed.D. Linda Ferrone

March 27, 1992-Dec. 31, 2001 Nov. 1, 1992-Feb. 25, 2003 April 23, 1993-Dec. 31, 2001 Dec. 9, 1997-May 15, 2006 Jan. 1, 2001-Dec. 31, 2008 Jan. 1, 2002-Feb. 2008 Jan. 1, 2003-Dec. 31, 2010 Feb. 26, 2003 May 15, 2006-Present 2008-Present 2009-Present 2011-Present

1950 –1969

1970 –1989

PRESIDENT 1952 1951 1954 1955-1959

1990 –2010

1998 Commission ers

1956-1960 1957-1961 1958-1962 Ray D. McCleese Commission Pre sident

1963 1964-1968 1965 1966-1969 and until July 1, 1970 1967 and from July 1, 1970-1971 1973-1977 1972-1976 1974-1978 1975-1979 1980 1981-1982

1983-1984

Tico Perez Commissioner

Dr. Carol P. Wilson First Vice President

The Honorable Glenda Hood Mayor-Commissi oner

Richard L. Fletch er, Jr. Second Vice Pre sident

Robert C. Haven , P.E. General Manager and Chief Executive Officer

2010 Commissioners

1985-1988-1989 1986-1987 1990-1991-1992 1993-Aug. 23, 1994 Aug. 23, 19941995-1996 1997-1998 1999-2000 2001-2002-2003 2004-2005 2006-2007 2008-2009-2010 issioner; Ken Ksionek, aig McAllaster, Comm (Standing, from left) Cr ond Vice President.

Kirby, AIA, AICP, Sec n Da O; CE & ger na General Ma Mayor, Commissioner; y Dyer, City of Orlando (Seated, from left) Budd First Vice President. ; Maylen Dominguez, Katie Porta, President

2011

Page 69

T H E

D* . T. BLAN JUDGE Went 1923 Presid

J. F. ANGE* Member 1923-24

NAME Judge W.T. Bland J.F. Ange Judge L.C. Massey H.L. Beeman Alvin Jefferson Nye H.H. Dickson W.R. O'Neal L.B. Fort Mayor L.M. Autrey Dr. H.G. Edwards Turner Evans Mayor James L. Giles J. Merle McElroy Mayor S.Y. Way George F. Brass H.L. McDonald H.C. Babcock Mayor V.W. Estes C.P. Dickinson E.W. Yandre C.G. Magruder H.N. Dickson L.B. McLeod J.T. Branham Mayor Wm. Beardall Clarence A. Johnson Dr. H.M. Beardall

H. H .

Mem DICKSO Presid ber 1923-3N* ent 19 0 28-30

JUDGE L. C. MASSEY* Member 1923-24

D LEO1946 . Mc L. B er Since 47 b 19 Memresident P

. BEARDALL MAYOR WM ce 1941 Member Sin

C O M M I S S I O N E R S

H. L. BEEMAN* Member 1923-24

J. T. BRAN Member Sin HAM President 19ce 1943 44-45

N C. A. JOHNSO 1944 Member Since 6 President 194

ARDALL DR. H. M. BEce 1937 Member Sin 9-40 President 193

Page 68

MEMBER 1923 1923-1924 1923-24 1923-24 1923-1926 1923-1931 1924-1928 1924-1932 1926-1928 Dec. 1926-Dec. 1934 1928-1939 1929-1931 1931-1934 1932-1934, 1938-1940 1933-1936 1935-1938 1935-1938 1935-1937 1939-1944 1939-1942 1940-1943 1945 1946-1949 1943-1954 1941-1952 1944-1955 1937-1948

1875 –1922

PRESIDENT 1923

1928-1929-1930 1924-1925-1926-1927

1931-1932-1933-1934 1937

1936 1935 1938 1941-1943-1944 1942

1947-1948 1945-1949-1953 1946-1950 1939-1940

1923 –1949

NAME Dr. J.S. McEwen W.A. Hutchinson E.A. Stebbins E.L. Brewton Mayor J. Rolfe Davis A.P. Clark R.T. Overstreet S.M. Heasley Mayor Robert S. Carr Mayor Carl T. Langford Lloyd Gahr E.G. Langston Wallace Mercer Tom Denmark

MEMBER 1949-1953 1949-Aug. 1952 Aug. 1952-1954 1953-1960 1953- Nov. 1956 1955-1962 1955-1962 1956-1963 Nov. 1956-Jan. 1967 March 7, 1967-Oct. 31, 1980 1961-1964 1962-May 1969 1963-1968 1964-1971

Richard H. Lawrence

1965-June 12, 1973

Sam Wilkins Richard W. Simpson Henry T. Meiner Grover C. Bryan Charles J. Hawkins Grace C. Lindblom H.E. Gene Johnson Mayor Bill Frederick W.M. Sanderlin I. Richard Weiner James H. Pugh Jr. Royce B. Walden James B. Greene Jerry Chicone Jr. Susan McCaskill-Little Richard L. Fletcher Jr. Mel R. Martinez

1969-1978 May 1969-1976 1972-1979 June 12, 1973-1980 1977-Oct. 18, 1983 1979-1986 1980 resigned July 7, 1981 Nov. 2, 1980-Oct. 31, 1992 April 14, 1981-March 14, 1989 Aug. 12, 1981-Aug. 16, 1983 Sept. 15, 1983-1991 Nov. 30, 1983-March 1992 Jan. 1, 1987-1988 Dec. 13, 1988-March 9, 1993 April 11, 1989-March 9, 1993 July 9, 1991-Dec. 31, 2000 Jan. 1, 1992-Aug. 1997

Ray D. McCleese Mayor Glenda E. Hood Carol P. Wilson, Ph.D. Tico Perez Tommy Boroughs Lonnie C. Bell Katie Porta Mayor Buddy Dyer Maylen Dominguez Dan Kirby, AIA, AICP Craig McAllaster, Ed.D. Linda Ferrone

March 27, 1992-Dec. 31, 2001 Nov. 1, 1992-Feb. 25, 2003 April 23, 1993-Dec. 31, 2001 Dec. 9, 1997-May 15, 2006 Jan. 1, 2001-Dec. 31, 2008 Jan. 1, 2002-Feb. 2008 Jan. 1, 2003-Dec. 31, 2010 Feb. 26, 2003 May 15, 2006-Present 2008-Present 2009-Present 2011-Present

1950 –1969

1970 –1989

PRESIDENT 1952 1951 1954 1955-1959

1990 –2010

1998 Commission ers

1956-1960 1957-1961 1958-1962 Ray D. McCleese Commission Pre sident

1963 1964-1968 1965 1966-1969 and until July 1, 1970 1967 and from July 1, 1970-1971 1973-1977 1972-1976 1974-1978 1975-1979 1980 1981-1982

1983-1984

Tico Perez Commissioner

Dr. Carol P. Wilson First Vice President

The Honorable Glenda Hood Mayor-Commissi oner

Richard L. Fletch er, Jr. Second Vice Pre sident

Robert C. Haven , P.E. General Manager and Chief Executive Officer

2010 Commissioners

1985-1988-1989 1986-1987 1990-1991-1992 1993-Aug. 23, 1994 Aug. 23, 19941995-1996 1997-1998 1999-2000 2001-2002-2003 2004-2005 2006-2007 2008-2009-2010 issioner; Ken Ksionek, aig McAllaster, Comm (Standing, from left) Cr ond Vice President.

Kirby, AIA, AICP, Sec n Da O; CE & ger na General Ma Mayor, Commissioner; y Dyer, City of Orlando (Seated, from left) Budd First Vice President. ; Maylen Dominguez, Katie Porta, President

2011

Page 69

O U C S E RV I C E T E R R I TO RY

AT T R I B U T I O N S number of sources — including personal interviews with key OUC personnel — were used in the preparation of this book. They include:

Bacon, Eve. Orlando A Centennial History, Volumes I and II. Chuluota, Florida; The Mickler House, 1975.

Blackman, William Fremont, Ph.D., LL.D., History of Orange County, Florida. Chuluota, Florida; The Mickler House, 1973 [c1927].

Evans, Stephen. Orlando Then and Now. San Diego, California; Thunder Bay Press, 2007.

Hilt, David W., P.E. “Northeast Blackout Impacts and Actions and the Energy Policy Act of 2005.”

North American Electric Reliability Council.

Hood, Mayor Glenda E, and Bachman, Bill. Orlando: The City Beautiful. Memphis, Tennessee; Towery Publishing, Inc., 1997.

Luff, Harry. Personal Interview. 16 May 2008.

Luff, Harry. “Orlando Utilities Commission: Recollections by Harry Luff, Jr. General Manager-Retired.”

March 2006.

Minkel, J.R., “The 2003 Northeast Blackout – Five Years Later.” Scientific American, August 13, 2008.

Orlando Utilities Commission Annual Reports, Newsletters and Publications, 1923-2010.

Orlando Sentinel articles, as annotated in the text.

Porter, Tara Mosier, Ph.D. et al. Historic Orange County: The Story of Orlando and Orange County.

San Antonio, Texas: Historical Publishing Network, 2009.

Stanton, Curtis H. Personal Interview. 16 May 2008.

Stone, Louis E. Personal Interview. 16 May 2008.

Stone, Louis E. Speech at Stanton Energy Center. 4 April 1985.

Stone, Louis E. Written in Stone: The Life and Times of Lou Stone. Family Heritage Publishers, 2010.

Photo Credits: Orange County Regional History Center The following photographs used in this document are courtesy of the Orange County Regional History Center. We appreciate their help and expertise in researching and locating these photos.

OUC Water Service Area OUC Electric Service Area

• Cover and Page 5: Downtown Orlando, 1930-1950.

• Pages 1 and 2: Orlando’s first power plant/Orlando Water and Light, 1901.

Water Service Area: 200 square miles City of Orlando/Orange County Electric Service

• Page 2 – First utility electric pole, 1887.

Area: 244 square miles

• Page 4 – Judge John Cheney.

St. Cloud Electric Service Area: 150 square miles

• Page 6 – Downtown Orlando, 1930-1950.

• Page 6 – OUC’s new office building, 1936.

• Page 11 – Orlando parades during World War II.

O U C FAC I L I T I E S

• Page 16 – Glenn L. Martin Company.

Other Photo Credits: • Page 15 – Man’s landing on the moon, ASII-40-5875. Courtesy of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

• Page 23 – Walt Disney World® opening day. Copyright 1971, Gary Gimee.

• Page 37 – Entrance to Universal Orlando® Resort courtesy of Universal Orlando® Resort.

ADMINISTRATION, CUSTOMER SERVICE & OPERATIONS Reliable Plaza / 100 W. Anderson St. Administration, Customer Service Walk-In, Drive Through and Call Centers; Human Resources OUC Administration Building / 500 S. Orange Ave. (Closed) Pershing / 6003 Pershing Ave. Primary facility for Electric Operations; Electric and Water 24-hour Operations Center; Energy Delivery; Customer Service Call Center Gardenia / 3800 Gardenia Ave. Primary facility for Water Operations; Customer Service Walk-In and Drive Through Center; Water Quality Lab Curtis H. Stanton Energy Center / 5100 S. Alafaya Trail Power Production St. Cloud City Hall / 1300 9th St. Customer Service Center St. Cloud T&D Building St. Cloud Electric Operations

Page 70

GENERATION Curtis H. Stanton Energy Center Stanton Unit 1 Coal-Fired – 68.55 percent ownership (291 MW) Stanton Unit 2 Coal-Fired – 71.59 percent ownership (304 MW) Stanton Unit A Combined Cycle – 28 percent ownership (177 MW) Stanton Unit B Combined Cycle – 100 percent ownership (300 MW) Indian River Plant Indian River Combustion Turbines (IRP – A&B) – 48.8 percent ownership (37 MW) Indian River Combustion Turbines (IRP – C&D) – 79 percent ownership (177 MW) Lake Highland Plant (closed) Lake Ivanhoe Plant (closed) OTHER GENERATION Coal-fired McIntosh Unit 3 – 40 percent ownership (146 MW) Nuclear Crystal River Unit 3 – 1.60 percent ownership (14 MW) St. Lucie Unit 2 – 6.09 percent ownership (52 MW) OTHER FACILITIES 29 electric substations / 7 water plants / 8 chilled water plants

O U C S E RV I C E T E R R I TO RY

AT T R I B U T I O N S number of sources — including personal interviews with key OUC personnel — were used in the preparation of this book. They include:

Bacon, Eve. Orlando A Centennial History, Volumes I and II. Chuluota, Florida; The Mickler House, 1975.

Blackman, William Fremont, Ph.D., LL.D., History of Orange County, Florida. Chuluota, Florida; The Mickler House, 1973 [c1927].

Evans, Stephen. Orlando Then and Now. San Diego, California; Thunder Bay Press, 2007.

Hilt, David W., P.E. “Northeast Blackout Impacts and Actions and the Energy Policy Act of 2005.”

North American Electric Reliability Council.

Hood, Mayor Glenda E, and Bachman, Bill. Orlando: The City Beautiful. Memphis, Tennessee; Towery Publishing, Inc., 1997.

Luff, Harry. Personal Interview. 16 May 2008.

Luff, Harry. “Orlando Utilities Commission: Recollections by Harry Luff, Jr. General Manager-Retired.”

March 2006.

Minkel, J.R., “The 2003 Northeast Blackout – Five Years Later.” Scientific American, August 13, 2008.

Orlando Utilities Commission Annual Reports, Newsletters and Publications, 1923-2010.

Orlando Sentinel articles, as annotated in the text.

Porter, Tara Mosier, Ph.D. et al. Historic Orange County: The Story of Orlando and Orange County.

San Antonio, Texas: Historical Publishing Network, 2009.

Stanton, Curtis H. Personal Interview. 16 May 2008.

Stone, Louis E. Personal Interview. 16 May 2008.

Stone, Louis E. Speech at Stanton Energy Center. 4 April 1985.

Stone, Louis E. Written in Stone: The Life and Times of Lou Stone. Family Heritage Publishers, 2010.

Photo Credits: Orange County Regional History Center The following photographs used in this document are courtesy of the Orange County Regional History Center. We appreciate their help and expertise in researching and locating these photos.

OUC Water Service Area OUC Electric Service Area

• Cover and Page 5: Downtown Orlando, 1930-1950.

• Pages 1 and 2: Orlando’s first power plant/Orlando Water and Light, 1901.

Water Service Area: 200 square miles City of Orlando/Orange County Electric Service

• Page 2 – First utility electric pole, 1887.

Area: 244 square miles

• Page 4 – Judge John Cheney.

St. Cloud Electric Service Area: 150 square miles

• Page 6 – Downtown Orlando, 1930-1950.

• Page 6 – OUC’s new office building, 1936.

• Page 11 – Orlando parades during World War II.

O U C FAC I L I T I E S

• Page 16 – Glenn L. Martin Company.

Other Photo Credits: • Page 15 – Man’s landing on the moon, ASII-40-5875. Courtesy of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

• Page 23 – Walt Disney World® opening day. Copyright 1971, Gary Gimee.

• Page 37 – Entrance to Universal Orlando® Resort courtesy of Universal Orlando® Resort.

ADMINISTRATION, CUSTOMER SERVICE & OPERATIONS Reliable Plaza / 100 W. Anderson St. Administration, Customer Service Walk-In, Drive Through and Call Centers; Human Resources OUC Administration Building / 500 S. Orange Ave. (Closed) Pershing / 6003 Pershing Ave. Primary facility for Electric Operations; Electric and Water 24-hour Operations Center; Energy Delivery; Customer Service Call Center Gardenia / 3800 Gardenia Ave. Primary facility for Water Operations; Customer Service Walk-In and Drive Through Center; Water Quality Lab Curtis H. Stanton Energy Center / 5100 S. Alafaya Trail Power Production St. Cloud City Hall / 1300 9th St. Customer Service Center St. Cloud T&D Building St. Cloud Electric Operations

Page 70

GENERATION Curtis H. Stanton Energy Center Stanton Unit 1 Coal-Fired – 68.55 percent ownership (291 MW) Stanton Unit 2 Coal-Fired – 71.59 percent ownership (304 MW) Stanton Unit A Combined Cycle – 28 percent ownership (177 MW) Stanton Unit B Combined Cycle – 100 percent ownership (300 MW) Indian River Plant Indian River Combustion Turbines (IRP – A&B) – 48.8 percent ownership (37 MW) Indian River Combustion Turbines (IRP – C&D) – 79 percent ownership (177 MW) Lake Highland Plant (closed) Lake Ivanhoe Plant (closed) OTHER GENERATION Coal-fired McIntosh Unit 3 – 40 percent ownership (146 MW) Nuclear Crystal River Unit 3 – 1.60 percent ownership (14 MW) St. Lucie Unit 2 – 6.09 percent ownership (52 MW) OTHER FACILITIES 29 electric substations / 7 water plants / 8 chilled water plants

Reliable Plaza 100 W. Anderson St. Orlando, FL 32801 Phone: 407.423.9100 Fax: 407.236.9616 www.ouc.com

© 2011 Orlando Utilities Commission