The city of Lompoc Electric Division has earned for the first time a Smart Energy Provider (SEP) designation from the American Public Power Association (APPA).

The city earned this designation by demonstrating a commitment to and proficiency in energy efficiency, distributed generation, and environmental initiatives that support the goal of providing safe, reliable, low-cost, and sustainable electric service.

The city of Lompoc was presented with the designation Nov. 15 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during APPA’s annual Customer Connections Conference. Lompoc Mayor Jenelle Osborne recognized the city’s electric division during the Dec. 6 Lompoc City Council meeting for the accomplishment.

The SEP designation, which lasts for two years (Dec. 1, 2022-Nov. 30, 2024), recognizes public power utilities for demonstrating leading practices in four key disciplines: smart energy program structure; energy efficiency and distributed energy programs; environmental and sustainability initiatives; and customer experience.

Out of the nation’s more than 2,000 community owned electric utilities, the Lompoc joins just 97 public power utilities across the country that hold the exclusive SEP designation.

Koral Miller, energy services manager at Mason County PUD No. 3 in Shelton, Washington, who presented the award to Lompoc on Nov. 15, said SEP-designated utilities have demonstrated leadership in smart energy programs and services.

“This designation celebrates utilities that are committed to serving their customers while taking the extra step to plan for the future. Communities served by utilities that have earned the SEP designation should be proud of their utility’s accomplishments,” she said.

C.J. Berry, Lompoc utility director, said the department is honored to be recognized as a utility at the cutting edge of smart energy best practices.

“This SEP designation represents our dedication to offering programs that keep our power competitively priced, support energy efficiency and conservation in our community, all while being a responsible steward of the environment,” Berry said.

Direct questions about the designation to Lompoc Utility Department staff, 805-875-8252.
For inquiries related to the Smart Energy Provider designation program, call Tobias Sellier of the American Public Power Association at 202-467-2927 or email MediaRelations@PublicPower.org.