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Grant PUD Respected Energy Leader in Region
September 16, 2008

EPHRATA, WA – Commissioners and staff received positive news as consultant Luanna Grow reported today on the District's recent external Reputation Survey.

After a similar survey in 2002 identified some weaknesses, the utility greatly improved its reputation and relationships with key regional partners.  “The positive shift in perceptions about Grant PUD over the past six years is truly remarkable,” Grow said.

During July and August of 2008, Grow conducted 51 interviews with utility executives, government leaders, fishery agencies and tribal representatives.  Respondents were guaranteed that their answers would remain anonymous to encourage openness.  Grow, a public relations and communications consultant, has worked with the PUD on relicensing, regional issues and relationships for over 10 years.

The goals of the 2008 survey were to see how perceptions have changed and identify any remaining problems.  “The insights gained from this measurement will assist Commission and staff as we move forward with implementation of the license to operate the Priest Rapids Project,” stated Commission President Tom Flint.

Over 84 percent rated Grant PUD’s overall reputation as Above Average or Excellent.  The most significant improvements were seen in perceptions relating to salmon protection efforts and tribal relationships.  Nearly 90 percent believe Grant PUD is highly influential on regional and national energy and environmental policies.  Respondents hope that Grant will continue to play an even bigger role as a regional energy leader, particularly in partnership with other public utilities, Grow said.

Nearly 75 percent were aware that Grant PUD is advocating for all hydropower to be designated as a renewable resource and promoting more hydro development.  Over half of them know this because General Manager Tim Culbertson testified in support of hydropower in Washington DC this summer.  When asked what Grant PUD does particularly well, respondents mentioned dam operations and utility fundamentals, providing low cost power to local communities, exploration of innovative ideas and regional leadership.

Going forward, Grow urged the utility to avoid complacency and continue relationship building and communication throughout the region.  Retaining those good relationships will be important as the utility works to implement the new license.

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Grant County Public Utility District is a Washington state municipal corporation that began electric service in 1942.  Owned by the people it serves, Grant PUD generates and sells electricity to Grant County residents and millions of customers throughout Central Washington and the Pacific Northwest.  The Priest Rapids Project, comprised of Priest Rapids and Wanapum Dams, produces nearly 2,000 megawatts of clean, renewable and reliable electricity – enough to supply a city the size of Seattle.  A leader in science based technology; Grant PUD is committed to finding effective measures for the protection, mitigation and enhancement of salmon, steelhead and other natural and cultural resources.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Dorothy Harris
(509) 793-1516 / dharris@gcpud.org