News of the week

APPA Public Power Rodeo held in Louisiana

The American Public Power Association’s (APPA) twenty-second annual Public Power Lineworkers Rodeo was held last weekend in Lafayette, Louisiana, and Minnesota was well represented on the national stage. Sixty-four journeyman teams and 134 apprentices competed, including participants from Shakopee, Chaska, Elk River, Marshall, and Rochester.

“Seeing public power lineworkers from all across the country competing at this event is inspiring,” said Scott Corwin, APPA president & CEO. “The competition is intense, but—in the end—everyone wins when it comes to practicing safety, building skills, and celebrating the craft of linework.”

As part of an annual tradition, MMUA's Rita Kelly once again crafted a quilt from the t-shirts of competing utilities for charity auction. This year, the winning bid brought in $4,640 to benefit the families of fallen lineworkers. Thank you to all who represented Minnesota!

DOE releases final rule on efficiency standards for transformers

Last week, the Department of Energy (DOE) released its final rule on energy efficiency standards for distribution transformers.

The final rule appears to be an improvement from the proposed rule whereby the new efficiency standard could be met with only 25 percent of new transformers using energy-efficient amorphous steel cores. The remaining 75 percent of distribution transformers can continue to use grain oriented electrical steel (GOES) cores. The final bill would also allow five years for implementation rather than three years, as was in the proposed rule.

The political pressure from states' advocacy groups was essential to getting DOE to listen to industry on how the proposed rule, if finalized, would further exacerbate the distribution transformer supply chain crisis. MMUA once again thanks the members who participated in the APPA Legislative Rally and trip to meet with the Minnesota delegation in DC in February.

To read the final rule, click here.

Report: advanced conductors could quadruple US transmission capacity by 2035

A report by the Goldman School of Public Policy and GridLab suggests that replacing conventional transmission lines with advanced conductors could significantly boost U.S. transmission capacity by 2035, at a lower cost than building new lines.

The reconductoring approach could add approximately 64 terawatt-miles (TW-mi) of new interzonal transmission capacity, compared to just 16 TW-mi from constructing new lines alone. Notably, this surge in capacity could unlock access to lower-cost clean energy sources, potentially reducing wholesale electricity costs and driving substantial system cost savings. The report underscores the importance of policy incentives and streamlined processes to expedite the deployment of advanced conductors and achieve rapid grid decarbonization.

To read more, click here.

Hometown utilities recognized for safety excellence by APPA

APPA has awarded its Safety Award of Excellence to 145 utilities for their safe operating practices in 2023. These recipients stood out for their outstanding safety records and commitment to safety culture. The awards, conferred for more than 65 years, recognize utilities' efforts in maintaining safe workplaces and prioritizing the well-being of their workers.

Several Minnesota utilities were recognized for the award, including the City of Saint Peter, Princeton Public Utilities, Marshall Municipal Utilities, Willmar Municipal Utilities, Detroit Lakes Public Utilities, Alexandria Light and Power Utilities, Owatonna Public Utilities, and Rochester Public Utilities.

To read more, click here.

MMUA hiring Regional Safety Coordinator

The Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association (MMUA) is accepting applications for Regional Safety Coordinator. This position will serve as safety coordinator for a group of cities and hometown utilities located in/around Rochester, Minnesota.

Duties include identifying, developing, and delivering training and ensuring compliance with regulatory and safety standards. Applicants must possess a comprehensive background in OSHA regulations/safety compliance and have solid instructional skills. The application deadline is April 19.

Click here for the full job description and application instructions.

Looking ahead

MMUA announces "Interacting on the Issues" sessions

Last year, we had excellent meetings with commissioners and utility leaders about the outcome of the 2023 legislative session and its impact on local utilities. We also discussed regulatory issues, MMUA efforts to support municipal efforts, and we sought feedback on priorities for the coming year.

By popular demand, we are going back on the road this June. Please consider joining us for a session at one of four locations around the state. We can't wait to hear from you and learn how we can help enhance and promote the great work you do.

Join the MMUA government relations team and peers from your region to discuss the implications of new laws, explore opportunities, and network with others committed to protecting, promoting, and strengthening hometown utilities.

There is no cost to attend, however registration is required for planning purposes. Encourage your whole commission to join us, learn how MMUA is advocating for your utility, and give us your perspective so we can do better next year. We are especially eager to discuss ways MMUA can help commissioners champion hometown utilities. Learn more and register by clicking on the links below.

June 6—Hutchinson

June 13—Brainerd

June 26—Blue Earth

June 27—Alexandria

As always, thank you for your association with MMUA and your commitment to delivering excellent service through locally owned utility assets in your community. Have a great week!

Christian Glanville

Marketing and Member Relations Manager

Direct: 763.746.0727 / Cell: 612.655.0598

Fax: 763.551.0459

cglanville@mmua.org | www.mmua.org

To download a copy of this email, click here.

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