Comstock's magazine 0320 - March 2020 | Page 116

CER VALLE LA Roseville Electric Utility ROSEVILLE’S ELECTRIC SERVICE AND ECONOMIC ADVANTAGE F ormed in 1912, Roseville Electric less expensive than service in neighboring Utility provides service to residential jurisdictions with PG&E.” and business customers within city limits, now a 43-square-mile service territory. Governed by the city council, this community-owned utility operates all electric infrastructure throughout Roseville — distribution facilities, substations and generating resources — and can import power from outside the city. An advantage to municipal power is that decisions, actions and rate making happen locally. “The municipal model prides itself on being responsive to customers, managing costs and making investment decisions that are best for the community,” says Shawn Matchim, assistant director. “Our local control allows us to better serve the community.” Roseville Electric Utility recovers its costs through service rates to the community rather than through tax revenue. “Even though we’re a city department, we operate as a not-for-profit business, so we’re able to keep downward pressure on our costs and rates,” Matchim says. “We’re 35-38 percent Those lower rates benefit Roseville as a whole, translating to business development and retention as customers can invest their electricity savings elsewhere. Another benefit of this municipal model is its enterprise fund. Through its generated revenue, Roseville Electric Utility is able to contribute to the city’s general fund and “ We are reliable, we are low-cost, and we are safe. We are more than a utility, we are a business partner. other city departments for public safety, — SHAWN MATCHIM police and fire service, parks and recreation, Assistant Utility Director and other community programs. Roseville Electric Utility also offers education programs through its Utility Exploration Center and other venues, putting on workshops and engaging with ” the community. “We do a lot of outreach about energy efficiency, sustainability and inform the community about the value of having their own municipal utility,” Matchim says. With a focus on delivering the highest level of reliable service and value to the whole community, Roseville Electric Utility is strengthening Roseville for a bright future. 2090 Hilltop Circle Roseville, CA 95678 roseville.ca.us www.roseville.ca.us SPONSORED PROFILE