Eugene Water and Electric Board (EWEB): Empowering Eugene-Springfield for Over a Century

Overview

Eugene Water and Electric Board (EWEB) is a customer-owned, not-for-profit utility serving the Eugene-Springfield area of Oregon. Established in 1895, EWEB provides safe, reliable, and affordable water, electricity, and telecommunications services to over 85,000 customers.

Core Services

Water:
* Delivers over 20 billion gallons of high-quality drinking water annually
* Manages 724 miles of water mains and 30,000 water meters
* Maintains five water treatment facilities and 11 reservoirs

Electricity:
* Provides over 2 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity per year
* Generates electricity from 9 hydroelectric dams and one gas-fired plant
* Offers a variety of energy efficiency and renewable energy programs

Telecommunications:
* Operates a fiber optic network connecting businesses, schools, and neighborhoods
* Provides high-speed internet, voice, and video services

Environmental Stewardship

EWEB is committed to protecting the environment and promoting sustainability. Key initiatives include:

• Green Power Partners Program: Offers customers the option to purchase 100% renewable energy
• Water Conservation Programs: Implements programs to reduce water consumption, such as rebates on water-saving appliances
• Environmental Protection: Protects water quality through watershed restoration projects and monitors air pollution

Customer Focus

EWEB's mission is to "provide exceptional water, electricity, and telecommunication services that enrich the lives of our customers." As a customer-owned utility, EWEB is accountable to its customers and strives to meet their needs.

Rates and Pricing

EWEB's rates are set by a publicly elected Board of Commissioners to ensure affordability and sustainability. Customers receive monthly bills that provide detailed information about their usage and charges.

Key Performance Indicators

Water:
* Water quality meets or exceeds all state and federal standards
* System reliability exceeds industry benchmarks (99.9% uptime)

Electricity:
* Renewable energy sources account for over 95% of electricity generation
* Power interruptions average less than 1 hour per customer per year

Telecommunications:
* Broadband speeds exceed national averages
* Customer satisfaction ratings are consistently high

How to Become an EWEB Customer

• Residential customers: Visit EWEB's website or call 541-685-7000
• Business customers: Contact EWEB's New Business Services team at 541-685-7171

Conclusion

Eugene Water and Electric Board is a trusted and reliable utility that has consistently exceeded customer expectations for over 125 years. With its focus on environmental stewardship, customer service, and affordable rates, EWEB continues to empower the Eugene-Springfield community.

Setting the Stage: The Evolution of Eugene Water and Electric Board

From Humble Beginnings to Cutting-Edge Innovation

Established in 1895 as the Eugene Water Works, EWEB has evolved from a small water utility to a multifaceted provider of essential services. Over the decades, it has expanded its service offerings, implemented cutting-edge technologies, and become a leader in environmental sustainability.

Key Milestones in EWEB's History

1895: Eugene Water Works is formed to provide safe drinking water to Eugene residents
1911: Electric service is added under the name Springfield Electric Company
1930s: Construction of the Dexter Dam harnessing the power of the McKenzie River
1945: EWEB becomes a customer-owned, not-for-profit utility
1970s: Development of energy conservation programs and renewable energy initiatives
1990s: Telecommunications services are introduced through the SmartNet fiber optic network
Present: EWEB continues to innovate and invest in its services, while maintaining a focus on sustainability and customer satisfaction

A Comprehensive Guide to EWEB's Water Services

Ensuring Safe and Abundant Water Supply

EWEB's water system is designed to meet the growing needs of the Eugene-Springfield community while safeguarding the health and well-being of its customers.

Water Sources and Treatment

Surface Water:
* McKenzie River (Dexter Dam)
* Coast Fork Willamette River (Walterville Canal)

Groundwater:
* 24 active groundwater wells

Water from these sources is treated at five state-of-the-art facilities to remove impurities and ensure compliance with all water quality standards.

Infrastructure and Distribution

• 724 miles of water mains
• 30,000 water meters
• 11 reservoirs with a total storage capacity of 15 billion gallons
• Regular inspections and maintenance to ensure system reliability

Water Conservation and Efficiency

EWEB recognizes the importance of conserving water resources. Programs include:

• Rebates on water-saving appliances
• Lawn watering restrictions
• Education campaigns
• Leak detection and repair services

Harnessing the Power: EWEB's Electricity Generation and Distribution

A Diverse and Sustainable Energy Portfolio

EWEB generates electricity from a variety of sources, with a strong emphasis on renewable energy.

Hydroelectric Dams

• Nine hydroelectric dams on the McKenzie and Coast Fork Willamette Rivers
• Provide over 95% of EWEB's electricity
• Generate clean, renewable energy with minimal environmental impact

Natural Gas Plant

• One gas-fired plant for peak demand and reliability
• Utilizes efficient technology to minimize emissions

Energy Efficiency and Renewables

EWEB actively promotes energy efficiency and renewable energy sources through programs such as:

• Home energy audits
• Rebates on energy-efficient appliances and equipment
• Partnerships with solar and wind energy providers

Electricity Distribution Network

• 2,000 miles of transmission and distribution lines
• Substations and transformers to safely deliver electricity to customers
• Advanced metering infrastructure for real-time monitoring and control

Connecting the Community: EWEB's Telecommunications Services

Bridging the Digital Divide

EWEB's telecommunications division, SmartNet, provides high-speed internet, voice, and video services to businesses, schools, and residents.

SmartNet Fiber Optic Network

• Over 600 miles of fiber optic cable connecting key locations in Eugene-Springfield
• Enables high-bandwidth services such as gigabit internet and advanced teleconferencing

Services and Plans

• Residential internet with speeds up to 1 gigabit per second
• Business internet with dedicated bandwidth and security features
• Voice and video services for businesses and homes

Educational and Community Outreach

EWEB collaborates with educational institutions and community organizations to:

• Provide low-income internet access
• Host digital literacy workshops
• Promote STEM education in the community

EWEB's Commitment to Environmental Stewardship

A Leader in Sustainable Practices

EWEB recognizes its responsibility as an environmental steward and implements numerous initiatives to protect and preserve natural resources.

Water Quality and Watershed Protection

• Watershed restoration projects to prevent erosion and pollution
• Monitoring of water quality and stream health
• Public education campaigns on water conservation and environmental protection

Energy Efficiency and Renewables

• Promotion of energy efficiency and renewable energy through various programs
• Investment in green energy technologies and partnerships
• Reduction of carbon emissions and transition to a clean energy future

Air Quality Monitoring and Mitigation

• Air pollution monitoring stations to track air quality
• Partnerships with local organizations to improve air quality
• Support for initiatives to reduce vehicle emissions

EWEB's Financial Performance and Rate Setting

Transparency and Accountability

As a customer-owned utility, EWEB is committed to transparency and accountability in its financial operations.

Rate Setting Process

• Rates are set by a publicly elected Board of Commissioners
• Annual budget and rate proposals are subject to public hearings
• Goal of affordability and sustainability

Financial Highlights

• Revenue: $425 million (2022)
• Operating Expenses: $350 million (2022)
• Net Income: $75 million (2022)

EWEB's strong financial performance allows it to invest in infrastructure, expand services, and maintain affordable rates for customers.

EWEB's Customer Service and Engagement

Putting Customers First

EWEB is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and engaging with its customers in meaningful ways.

Customer Support and Communication

• 24/7 call center and online support
• Regular billing and service updates
• Educational materials and resources

Customer Engagement Initiatives

• Customer advisory committees
• Community outreach programs
• Social media presence for direct communication

Customer Satisfaction Surveys

EWEB regularly conducts customer satisfaction surveys to gauge performance and gather feedback. Results consistently show high levels of customer satisfaction with:

• Service reliability
• Customer support
• Overall value

EWEB's Role in Community Development

A Catalyst for Economic Growth and Prosperity

EWEB actively participates in community development initiatives to enhance the quality of life in Eugene-Springfield.

Economic Development

• Economic development partnerships to attract new businesses and support existing ones
• Workforce training programs for high-demand jobs
• Investment in infrastructure projects

Community Programs and Partnerships

• Support for local schools, libraries, and non-profit organizations
• Partnerships with community organizations on environmental protection and energy efficiency initiatives
• Funding for arts and cultural programs

Community Engagement

• Community engagement events and festivals
• Volunteer opportunities for employees and customers
• Advisory boards and committees to gather community input

EWEB's Commitment to Innovation and Technology

Embracing the Future of Utility Services

EWEB invests in technology and innovation to improve its services, enhance efficiency, and meet the evolving needs of its