 July 2023
Hi, I’m Ashley Cissna with the EWEB Communications Team.
Happy July! This month, we're taking a look at our community's energy future. Our lead story examines why we may need to diversify our energy portfolio with additional sources of low-carbon, on-demand electricity. Other stories dig into rising regional electricity demand, the role hydrogen may play in decarbonizing the Northwest and how the 2021 Heat Dome affected electricity usage in Eugene.
EWEB's Board of Commissioners is also focusing on EWEB's energy future this week, with a presentation on our Integrated Resource Planning process and a guest speaker discussing emerging nuclear technologies. Plus, we’ve got another quiz question for you!
We hope you enjoy this month's newsletter, and please let us know what you think. Email us at publicaffairs@eweb.org.
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We are the people in your neighborhood!
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Generation Engineering Supervisor Mark Zinniker gives a lesson to McKenzie School students, sharing about the geological engineering considerations of the Carmen-Smith Hydroelectric Project.
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EWEB could need additional low-carbon, on-demand electricity, new analysis shows
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We know that our community's demand for electricity will rise in the next 20 years and that we will need additional resources to continue delivering reliable electricity. But how much will demand rise? And how soon?
Since the beginning of 2022, EWEB has been analyzing future electricity needs. We use advanced computer modeling software to suggest different mixes of electricity resources to meet those needs, including hydropower, wind, solar and emerging carbon-free technologies.
What have we learned so far? Low-cost, renewable hydropower from large dams on the Columbia River is a good choice for the foundation of our portfolio. On top of that, we can turn to new wind farms and new utility-scale batteries to keep our portfolio 90% carbon-free.
And as we pursue our target of a 95% carbon-free portfolio by 2030, we may need to diversify with additional low- or zero-carbon, on-demand sources of electricity, according to our most recent analysis. What are those potential resources? Learn more about EWEB's energy supply planning process.
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Trivia time!
Where does most of EWEB's energy come from?
A) Natural Gas
B) Hydropower
C) Solar
D) Coal
Read on to learn the answer!
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What's happening at your community-owned utility?
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 From the Oregon Capital Chronicle: Regional electricity demand projected to rise nearly 25% in next decade
An updated regional forecast concludes that in the next decade, electricity demand will rise more than twice as fast as predicted just one year ago. The total increase? Demand will be nearly 25% higher in 10 years than it is today. At EWEB, we're forecasting at least a 2% annual increase starting in 2030, and we're studying how to diversify our mix of electricity sources to meet that new demand – especially if it rises quickly.
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 Hydrogen’s decarbonization potential discussed at EWEB Board meeting
The simplest, lightest, most abundant element in the universe – hydrogen – could play a key role in decarbonizing society. EWEB's Board of Commissioners learned about hydrogen's potential during a recent presentation by the Renewable Hydrogen Alliance.
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 June 2021 Heat Dome broke records for temperature – but not energy use, EWEB analysis finds
The 2021 Heat Dome prompted many Eugene residents to crank up their air conditioning units in an attempt to ward off the searing temperatures. But unlike temperatures, electricity usage in the Eugene area did not break any records. In fact, the amount of energy EWEB customers used during the Heat Dome was still well below peak winter electricity usage.
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 From December 2022: EWEB publishes first draft of roadmap to Eugene’s reliable, affordable and clean energy future
In December 2022, EWEB published a first set of results from our analysis of possible energy resource portfolios we could pursue to meet our community's needs for the next 20 years. New analysis published in June (see lead story above) builds on these initial results.
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More news from EWEB
- EWEB and City finalize sale of former riverfront headquarters: The two riverfront buildings on 4.4 acres will be transformed into Eugene's new City Hall. EWEB and the City signed closing documents and officially handed over the site keys on Tuesday, June 27. Learn more.
- EWEB, partners receive $7.5M grant from NOAA: A new $7.5 million federal grant will help EWEB and partners protect water quality on the McKenzie River by restoring the natural functions of one of the river’s major tributaries, Quartz Creek. Learn more.
- Currin Substation - the origin of the name: EWEB is in the process of rebuilding the Currin Substation near Garden Way and Interstate 105. But where did the name "Currin" come from? A local historian offers some details. Learn more.
- EWEB begins major water pipeline upgrades: This summer, EWEB is launching several construction water pipeline projects to enhance the reliability and earthquake resiliency of drinking water service for Eugene residents. Learn more.
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Board of Commissioners meetings and topics
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The Eugene Water & Electric Board is owned by our customers, who elect a five-member Board of Commissioners. At the July 11 public meeting, Commissioners will discuss:
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Integrated Resource Plan (IRP)
Since early 2022, EWEB has been working on an Integrated Resource Plan to forecast electricity demand 20 years into the future and assess possible portfolios of energy resources to meet EWEB's long-term energy needs. During the July Board meeting, the Board will review the IRP and provide feedback on proposed action items that it can then approve at the August Board meeting.
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Advanced Nuclear
Greg Cullen, vice president for energy services and development at Energy Northwest, will present on the potential for small modular nuclear reactors (SMR) to provide reliable, carbon-free energy when included in a resource portfolio. Energy Northwest operates the Columbia Generating Station nuclear plant, which provides EWEB with approximately 7% of our electricity. The Board will provide comments and ask questions.
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2023 - 2024 Wildfire Mitigation Plan
Senate Bill 762 requires that all Oregon utilities have a Wildfire Mitigation Plan (WMP) and open communication about wildfire risks. The Board will discuss the 2022 WMP and discuss the 2023 - 2024 WMP.
You can view the full agenda for the July 11 meeting here. You can also learn how to watch online, attend in-person and provide public comments.
Watch the previous Board meeting
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Apply for an electric mobility grant
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Stay cool as temperatures rise!
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The summer heat appears to have finally found the Pacific Northwest. High temperatures have crested 90 degrees in the past couple weeks, and promise to do so again in the weeks ahead.
But don’t let those higher numbers scare you! Here at EWEB we have several tips to help you stay cool while also being energy efficient.
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It’s all about the windows! Open your windows at night, when temperatures are at their lowest, and keep them closed during the hottest part of the day. Use shades, curtains and blinds to cover your windows to avoid allowing the sun to heat the inside of your home.
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Don’t underestimate the power of a good fan. Moving air is critical to feeling cooler. Before you turn on the air conditioning, try using a fan. Bonus tip: Put a fan in an open window at night to draw cool air into your home.
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If you have an air conditioner, make sure you are cleaning the filter regularly and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for routine maintenance. This both extends the life of your unit and helps the system operate more efficiently and effectively.
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In the market for a cooling unit? Checkout EWEB’s rebates on ductless heat pumps!
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Program of the month: Ductless Heat Pumps
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Ductless heat pumps are cheaper to install and operate than other air conditioning units, and because they run on electricity, they are a more environmentally friendly heating source than gas furnaces. And despite the name, ductless heat pump systems offer year-round comfort with a built-in air conditioner.
EWEB offers rebates and loans on ductless heat pumps. All EWEB electric customers may be eligible! Learn more about our $800 rebate and $6,000 zero-percent interest loan today. We have additional funds available for income-based rebate programs.
In response to the 2021 heat dome, the Oregon Legislature passed a bill that allocated $15 million to the Oregon Department of Energy (ODOE) to support heat pump installations in Oregon rental homes. These funds are available in the form of rebates of up to $7,000 for heat pump installations.
These rebates are paid to an ODOE-approved contractor, who installs the heat pump. Any rebate the contractor receives would be taken off the total cost of the invoice after installation. Learn more about the program here. This is not an EWEB program, and we encourage you to reach out to approved contractors. A list is available on the ODOE website.
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Sign up for EWEB's emergency alerts and preparedness newsletter!
This e-newsletter will bring you information on emergency preparedness as it relates to safe and reliable drinking water and electricity. This is a quarterly email with timely information on preparing your home and family for an emergency, as well as updates on EWEB projects to continuously improve our resiliency and preparedness.
Additionally, if you are a part of this email list, you will receive emergency alerts on Public Safety Power Shutoffs, winter storm outages, drinking water quality and more.
Signup Now
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A healthy workplace, competitive pay and comprehensive benefits make EWEB a great place to work. We're looking for talented people to bring new ideas and fresh thinking to our team.
Featured Job: Customer Service Analyst (Bilingual Spanish Preferred)
As a Customer Service Analyst, you will speak with customers about a vast array of EWEB initiatives, products, and activities. You will help to shape the public perception of EWEB and provide excellent service for billing, cross-selling, and collection activities. Work is performed in a contact center environment on a team of 30+ Customer Service Analysts who are empowered to analyze problems and devise solutions for EWEB customers. Supervisors and Leads provide a supportive teamwork driven environment. New Customer Service Analysts participate in classroom training and receive additional on the job mentoring.
Check out this and other job openings.
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Preparing for emergencies
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Events like wildfire, earthquake or even a really bad winter storm can impact the electric and water systems and other public services we all rely on. In a severe emergency, some services could be disrupted for weeks or even months.
Preparedness is a shared responsibility. We're making investments to prepare, replace and maintain our community's electric and water systems. You can do your part by following the Oregon Office of Emergency Management's recommendation to build a kit and make a plan so you can be without public services for two weeks.
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Emergency Preparedness Tip: Wildfire Prevention
Wildfire season is here!
Hot and dry temperatures can increase the risk of wildfires and summer power outages. EWEB wants to remind you that wildfire season is here. We all have a role in protecting our community from dangerous wildfires and preparing for potential power disruptions. Here are a few wildfire resources to take a look at before you plan outdoor activities this summer:
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Your monthly Pledge to Prepare Checklist
Pledge to Prepare is a 12-month blueprint to get you and your household two-weeks-ready in case of large emergency outage.
In July, continue to build on food and water supplies you gathered in previous months. We also want to add to our supply of propane or other fuel source for heating and cooking needs.
Then get outside and meet your neighbors! In an emergency, it is often community members who become first responders. Knowing who has specific skills or needs can be particularly helpful and life saving in a major disaster. Download the full July Checklist for additional tips.
Share a photo of your progress to be entered to win the monthly raffle.
Join Pledge to Prepare
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Featured Social Media Post
“I think having City Hall here will really connect the city to the river and having the riverfront development, the riverfront park – all of that facilitates that connection. It's really gratifying to know that EWEB was a part of this area for 100 years and that we're passing it off to someone who will continue its public service for another 100 years.” - Frank Lawson, EWEB General Manager on sale of the EWEB's former riverfront headquarters buildings to the City of Eugene.
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Deep dives for fellow utility nerds :-)
The nuclear industry’s big bet on going small
Nuclear provides about half of the United States’ zero-carbon electricity today, but older conventional nuclear power plants are being retired. Advanced small modular nuclear reactors, with their new designs and automatic safety features, offer a solution that could help keep the nation’s energy supply reliable while reducing carbon emissions. Read more at Vox
Clark Public Utilities board decides to join nuclear power feasibility study
One way that public utilities in the Pacific Northwest could pursue additional nuclear power is through Energy Northwest, which is a joint operating agency that sells nuclear power from the Columbia Generating Station to Northwest utilities, including EWEB. At least one public utility is onboard with studying that option: Clark Public Utilities, which serves Vancouver, Wash. Read more at The Columbian
US residential heat pump sales pass gas furnaces for first time as interest in efficiency tech surges: IEA
Residential heat pumps made up 53% of heating system sales in 2022, surpassing gas furnaces for the first time. "Sales of key efficiency technologies are surging," said the International Energy Agency. Read more at Utility Dive.
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Trivia answer:
Where does most of EWEB's energy come from?
If you guessed option B, Hydropower, congratulations, you are correct!
EWEB gets approximately 80% of our power from hydropower, and specifically the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA). However, the exact percentage varies from year to year based on many factors, especially the amount of rain and snowpack. BPA sells power from large dams on the Columbia River. We’re fortunate to have this abundant, low-cost, carbon-free resource in the Northwest.
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