Your Energy Matters

Turning Popsicle Sticks into an Engineering Work of Art

2012-02-09T05:19:00.000-08:00

By Liz Pratt

Popsicle sticks and glue may sound common for a classroom. But using an innovative, hands-on curriculum that introduces middle school students to CAD design and allows them to construct a bridge or high-rise model to scale is far from common.

This curriculum, called Project Lead the Way, encourages middle and high school students to embrace the areas of science, technology, engineering and math. It partners schools and industry leaders across the United States to promote STEM education in the local schools.

For the last several years, LG&E and KU have actively participated in Project Lead the Way – Kentucky as one of ten major partners across the state, and we’re proud to support Elizabethtown’s T.K. Stone Middle School and the district’s efforts to launch Project Lead the Way for its eighth grade students starting in the 2012-2013 school year.

This program was approved by the Elizabethtown Independent Schools Board during its January board meeting, and we’re committed to providing the computer equipment necessary to support the middle school’s Project Lead the Way classroom.

As a company where engineering and technology is so ingrained – from our day-to-day practices to our long-term projects – we realize the critical value in piquing students’ interest in these areas at an early age.

These young men and women are the foundation of our community’s future workforce and civic leaders, and we anticipate the positive impacts this program will have on student achievement.

Currently there are nearly 60 schools within our service territory participating in the Project Lead the Way Pathway to Engineering. This recent partnership is one of several company-wide initiatives that encourage opportunities for employees to promote career-readiness and STEM-related activities in local schools throughout our service territory.

Until next time, keep using energy wisely.

Great Shakeout Earthquake Drill Hits Kentucky Tomorrow

2012-02-06T09:57:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow morning (Tuesday, February 7) at 10:15 a.m. (CST), Kentucky will pretend to experience a major earthquake that has the potential to cause extensive damage across the Commonwealth and disrupt the lives of more than 40 million people living in the Central U.S.

The drill is part of the annual Great Central U.S. ShakeOut, and at LG&E and KU, our emergency preparedness is ready to roll. The ShakeOut is our chance to practice together how to protect ourselves, and for everyone to become prepared. The goal is to save lives and prevent disasters from becoming catastrophes.

Our operations are part of the more than 2.2 million people that are estimated to take part in tomorrow's drill, and we want you and your family to get involved, too.

To get shakin’, visit the organization’s website and pledge your family, school, business, or organization’s participation in the drill.

You’ll then receive information on how to plan your drill, what items you should include in an emergency kit, and how to create a dialogue with others about earthquake preparedness.

Then, for two minutes tomorrow, starting at 10:15 a.m. (CST), prepare to “Drop, Cover and Hold On.”

Opportunities like this are good reminders that Kentucky is in earthquake country.

Specifically, we’re located in the New Madrid Fault Zone, which, according to the United States Geological Survey, has an active and violent history.

Although tomorrow’s drill is an important one-day affair for earthquake preparedness, LG&E and KU plan and practice year-round for all kinds of natural disasters.

Our comprehensive emergency-response plan ensures that employees and equipment are ready for whatever Mother Nature brings.

For instance, we have a detailed plan in place to activate employees directly involved with restoration quickly and decisively in response to major events.

The plan also enables us to mobilize hundreds of other employees who train outside their normal jobs for emergency-specific duties in support of restoration efforts.

And, we’re here 24/7, 365 days a year to respond to any emergency you might have with your electric or natural gas service.

Be sure to familiarize yourself with important safety and outage information on our website.

While it’s impossible to out-engineer Mother Nature and predict exactly when inclement weather or disasters will strike, we all can certainly be more prepared to deal with the consequences of the many events she can produce.

Until next time, keep using energy safely and wisely.

And, get ready to roll tomorrow.

Lexington high school students learn about utility careers

2012-02-03T07:28:00.000-08:00

What do line technicians, plant operators, engineers and customer service representatives actually do, and how did they prepare for their careers? Students from Lexington’s Paul Dunbar High School recently had a chance to find out from LG&E and KU employees.

LG&E and KU’s Organization Development group, which is responsible for helping employees develop and enhance their workplace skills, organized a tour of the Lexington Stone Road Distribution Operations facility and informal presentations from employees in various job areas. The students, who are participating in a career exploration program at their school, learned about various utility jobs including the skills and education required for them, a typical day at work and what employees like about these jobs.

The students received an overview of LG&E and KU safety ethic, which is a core value of the company. Students also learned about such professions as unit operator and line technician, as well as roles in electric system coordination and customer service operations.

Students took a tour of Stone Road and received hands-on instruction in safety awareness — including the importance of wearing personal protective equipment — and watched employees demonstrate common daily tasks, such as equipment operation and maintenance or customer interaction.

“These students received a broad, entertaining overview of careers in the utility industry, and they had fun learning about our company operations,” said Betsy Livesay, manager of Organization Development, who organized the session. “As they begin thinking about their future career choices, we hope their experience with LG&E and KU will prompt them to consider some of these jobs and to prepare for them through training and higher education.”

LG&E and KU and the LG&E and KU Foundation have a long history of providing critical funding and opportunities for educational endeavors throughout our service territory. The tour and informational session that the Dunbar High School students participated in is one of several ways that the company fosters educational opportunities in our community.

- Jennifer Whelan

Use that portable generator wisely

2012-01-30T16:54:00.000-08:00

Check out this excellent safety video, courtesy of Electrical Safety Foundation International. If you own a portable generator, it's important that you install and operate it safely and effectively. These devices are great tools to have handy during extended power outages, but there are some critical "rules of the road" you'll need to follow in order to keep you and your family out of harm's way.

After viewing, check out our dedicated storm page for more important safety information concerning food safety, downed wire safety, and service connection info, to name a few.

Don't wait until a crisis hits to prepare. Take the proper steps now and you'll know exactly what to do when Mother Nature strikes again.

Until next time, keep using energy (and portable generators) wisely. Your friends here at LG&E and KU want you to be safe!

LG&E, KU crews rapidly restore power following today’s severe weather outbreak

2012-01-17T18:15:00.000-08:00

Even though the calendar says it is the heart of winter, a spring-like severe weather outbreak swept through Kentucky today, causing more than 23,700 of our customers to lose power.

Jefferson County bore the brunt of the power outages and damage, which included winds clocked by the National Weather Service at 94 miles-per-hour and at least one confirmed tornado, which touched-down near Brownsboro Road and the Watterson Expressway.

As we always do, we prepared for the weather front before it hit our area, so our crews could immediately go into action to efficiently return power to affected customers as quickly and as safely as possible.

As of the 9:15 p.m. time of this posting, we've restored power to more than 94 percent of the customers impacted by today's freak storm.

We hope to have the majority of remaining customers back on tonight and anticipate having all customers restored tomorrow. The bottom-line: we're working around-the-clock.

Additionally, you'll want to visit our storm page for important phone numbers and safety information. Once there, you can view our online outage map for near real-time restoration updates. If you're a smart phone user, download our free mobile outage map app to get a high-level overview of outages across our service territory, a summary of outages by zip code and county, and estimated restoration times -- right from the palm of your hand.

Check out the photos below to get a feel for the type of damage and conditions our crews are dealing with in the field.

Possible funnel clouds over Zone Avenue moving east along Brownsboro Road. These clouds were rotating at the time.

Damage along Goose Creek Road off of Brownsboro Road.

Brownsboro Road west of Springdale Road.

Ten Broeck subdivision off of Brownsboro Road.

Working For You: New Morganfield Facility Enhances Field Operations, Customer Service

2012-01-12T11:08:00.000-08:00

Today brought some excellent economic development and service news for our state and customers.

Earlier this morning, we were joined by state and local leaders from the western Kentucky area to open our new, consolidated business and operations center in Morganfield.

In terms of jobs, our 23,000-square-foot facility will house about 75 employees. The largest portion of those are in a new customer contact center that employs 34 now and will employ up to 54 by the end of the first quarter this year.

Our facility also consolidates our customer service business office representatives, western Kentucky economic development representative, line technicians, meter readers and field service personnel, all under one roof.

For customers, the facility also features ample parking, a walk-in center and a customer drive-up window. A storage facility for parts and equipment is also is on the grounds.

The contact center is already fielding calls from across KU and LG&E’s 94-county service territory, becoming the company’s fourth center in Kentucky.

As Chris Hermann, our senior vice president of Energy Delivery said: “Morganfield is an excellent site to expand our operations. We already had a presence in the community and existing facilities here, and the central location makes this a prime location for another storm-management hub."

And, as KU celebrates its 100th birthday later this year, this is a great place to kick off our second century of service to the state.

We've always said that we want the same service for everyone...the very best possible. The addition of this new facility is an extension of our commitment to you and your family.

Until next time, keep using energy wisely.

January's Free Energy Management Workshops

2012-01-09T13:11:00.000-08:00

Here's your opportunity to start the New Year off right by equipping yourself with education that can help you reduce household energy use and save money on monthly utility bills.

Our good friends at Project Warm have just released their January schedule of free energy management workshops that will be held at various locations across our community.

Each participant receives a free weatherization kit that includes plastic sheeting, tape, tacks, caulk, foam wall plates (for your light switch and electrical outlets) and a brochure with energy-saving tips. You'll leave Project Warm's workshop with a game plan and the tools needed to make an energy-saving difference.

The list full list of workshops is below, and please note that workshop attendance requires calling ahead to pre-register. This just ensures Project Warm can bring enough supplies for all participants to take home.

Since 1982, LG&E has been a long-time supporter of Project Warm. We're proud to be able to help them continue to offer such a critical service to our customers and the community.

Until next time, keep using energy wisely, and check back often for more energy-saving tips.

Your Winter Storm Safety Checklist

2012-01-06T07:23:00.000-08:00

Although the temps outside today don't reflect it, we're entering the heart of winter and now is the time to ensure you and your family are prepared for winter storms.

Our friends at the American Red Cross have put together an informative one-page checklist that covers what you should do before, during and after a winter storm. In our part of the country, it's not a matter of if, but when, the next bout of harsh winter weather will hit.

Keeping an emergency kit handy and making preparations early can lessen the anxiety when inclement weather hits.

Additionally, you'll want to visit our storm page for important phone numbers and safety information.

Once there, you can view our online outage map for near real-time restoration updates. If you're a smart phone user, download our free mobile outage map app to get a high-level overview of outages across our service territory, a summary of outages by zip code and county, and estimated restoration times -- right from the palm of your hand.

Here at LG&E and KU, when Mother Nature delivers her worst, our employees and business partners deliver their best. Internal processes developed over the years by our team enable us to cope with all types of weather events, and efficiently prepare and respond to them as quickly and as safely as we can.

In the meantime, check back to this blog and follow us on Twitter for important updates when inclement weather strikes.

From our family to yours, we wish you a safe and prosperous 2012.

Local Communities Benefit From LG&E and KU’s Charitable-Giving Campaign

2011-12-29T08:10:00.000-08:00

Each year, LG&E and KU employees donate generously of their time and talents to the communities where they live and work.

This comes in many forms – it could be weekends spent weatherizing homes of the low-income disabled and elderly, leading classroom discussions on economics and job preparation to students, and sprucing up state parks and non-profit organizations, to name a few.

It also involves participating in our company’s annual charitable-giving campaign, called the Power of One.

For the fifth year in a row, our employees have again surpassed the $1 million mark in giving to non-profit organizations across Kentucky that benefit from our company’s charitable-giving campaign. And, our employees’ campaign participation continues to be more than twice the national average.

If you work or know of someone who works at a nonprofit organization, it won’t surprise you to hear that fundraising continues to be a challenge given our sluggish economy. That’s why now, more than ever, local non-profits need you support to continue to provide the critical programs and services on which so many Kentuckians depend.

Check out local news stories here and here to learn more about the positive impact our collective donations will make in 2012. As the state’s largest energy provider, our employees are happy to do their part to help non-profit organizations continue their vital work for generations to come.

From our family to yours, have a safe and happy New Year.

December's Free Energy Management Workshops

2011-12-12T12:56:00.000-08:00

Although colder temperatures have arrived, you can still take action to reduce your home's energy use and save money.

Each year, we partner with our good friends at Project Warm to offer free weatherization workshops across the community. These are hour-long seminars that teach participants some easy, do-it-yourself ways to make a home more energy efficient.

And, each participant leaves with a free weatherization kit that includes plastic sheeting, tape, tacks, caulk, foam wall plates (for your light switch and electrical outlets) and a brochure with energy-saving tips. You'll leave Project Warm's workshop with a game plan and the tools needed to make an energy-saving difference.

Click here to learn more about Project Warm. In addition, visit our website for programs and tips that will save you energy and money year- round. I always say that the cheapest energy is that which you do not use...and these workshops are a good way to learn directly from the experts and ask questions.

If you can't make any of the December workshops, don't worry; we'll have more scheduled for 2012 in the coming weeks, so check back to our blog often.

Until then, keep using energy wisely and have a safe and happy holiday season.

Weatherizing Homes and Warming Hearts

2011-12-09T12:38:00.000-08:00

Hundreds of homes across Kentucky will be warmer this winter season thanks to the help of our volunteers. Employees and their family members spent Saturday mornings this autumn to help weatherize the homes of low-income, elderly and disabled customers, so their homes will be ready for the cold weather that's already arrived.

Here's the rundown of our efforts:

Winterblitz – Lexington
On Oct. 15, four KU teams weatherized eight homes in the Lexington area. The 21 volunteers helped by caulking cracks, replace windows and doors and offering winterization information. In total, approximately 100 volunteers from KU and the community weatherized 40 homes. The effort was coordinated with the Community Action Council.

Project Warm Blitz – Louisville
On two Saturdays in November, volunteers from LG&E helped weatherize 80 homes in the Louisville metro area. Forty-six LG&E teams, 149 volunteers in all, participated in the event. In total, 638 volunteers across the city weatherized 275 homes during the 21st annual Project Warm Blitz.

How You Can Help Others
While our weatherization efforts were focused on winterizing homes, Project Warm and the Community Action Council are in need of volunteers year-round. It's a great way to give back to the community, and perfect for students and community groups needing service hours. Just visit Project Warm and Community Action Council for more information.

A Customer Says Thanks...
The best part of volunteering in these winter blitzes is the real connection you make with others. After the effort in Louisville, one of our clients, Mrs. Griffin, contacted Project Warm to express her gratitude to the LG&E team that weatherized her home.

Griffin said she was “amazed and overjoyed that the volunteers went the extra mile to make a difference in her life.” Griffin, who is disabled, said she had not been able to sleep because of noise adjacent to her house, leaving her exhausted each day.

With the help of LG&E volunteers’ weatherizing her windows, and moving her bed to the back of her house, she finally had a good night’s sleep. Griffin said the extra help was “so unexpected and so kind,” that she felt “overwhelmed and blessed.”

Now that's energy that matters.

Put Safety First When Decorating for the Holidays

2011-12-01T12:49:00.000-08:00

Holiday lights make the season festive and bright, but they can also increase the chance of fire and compromise safety if installed or operated incorrectly.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, an estimated 250 home fires involving Christmas trees and another 170 home fires involving holiday lights and other decorative lighting occur each year. Together, these fires result in 21 deaths and 43 injuries on average.

Many avoidable electrical fires can be traced to misuse of electric cords, such as overloading circuits, poor maintenance and running the cords under rugs or in high-traffic areas.

In addition to visually inspecting lights and decorations, we recommend the following tips to help put your family's safety first during the holiday season:

Stay away from downed power lines.
Always keep electric cords and appliances away from water or wet surfaces.
Focus your eyes on the sky when hanging outdoor holiday lights and carry ladders parallel to the ground to avoid coming in contact with a power line.
Exit the area safely and quickly if there is an electrical fire.
Take some time to inspect each string of holiday lights for broken sockets, frayed cords or faulty plugs before using them inside or outside your home.
You should remember to call 911 and KU if you have an electric emergency (LG&E if you have an electric or natural gas emergency.)

Find a second wall socket or an extension cord if you are plugging multiple electrical cords near the same location to avoid overloading your electrical outlet.
Immediately replace worn, old or damaged appliance cords.
Regularly inspect electrical appliances, decorations and wiring.
Secure all curtains, decorations and cloth materials at least three feet away from heat sources.
Take a moment to ensure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.

December is the most dangerous month for electrical fires due to more indoor activities and our increase in use of lighting, heating, and appliances. Visit our website for more information on electric safety.

Connecting People with Nature: Bernheim and Plant for the Planet

2011-11-17T12:42:00.000-08:00

As the Nov. 30 application deadline approaches for our Plant for the Planet matching-grant tree-planting program, we celebrated Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest’s recent grant at a public dedication at the facility today.

In total, more than 40 trees have been planted at Bernheim as part of the grant the nonprofit organization received. These trees are among the more than 20,000 that have been planted since our Plant for the Planet program began in 2009.

Volunteers and staff were on-hand to dedicate the trees today, including L. Thomas Block, a Bernheim trustee and great-grandson of founder Isaac W. Bernheim.

Berheim horticulturalists helped volunteers plant the trees, and provided instruction on proper tree selection, placement and planting.

The next time you’re at Bernheim, stop by the Garden Pavilion just inside the entrance. That’s where the trees – an assortment of species that will grow to various heights – are planted (as a side note, here’s a handy brochure that instructs you on how to plant the right tree in the right place, so your tree doesn’t interfere with utility lines when it matures.)

I can remember my parents taking me to Bernheim as a child, and it’s nice to see how the facility has blossomed and evolved over the years. It’s even more rewarding to be able to support this Kentucky landmark today, by enhancing its beauty through our Plant for the Planet Program.

There’s still time to apply for 2012 matching tree-planting grants. Interested organizations can download an application here, and submit it by Nov. 30. We’ll announce the winners early next year.

Until next time, it’s well worth making a trip to Bernheim. There’s plenty to see and do, and it’s always nice to get reacquainted with nature.

A Warmer Winter: 650 volunteers weatherize 300 homes across Louisville

2011-11-08T12:53:00.000-08:00

As the leaves fall and colder temperatures approach, many in our community are helping the area’s low-income elderly and disabled get an early upper hand on winter by weatherizing homes as part of the 21st annual Project Warm Blitz.

This year’s effort takes place over the first two Saturdays in November. I volunteered my time this past Saturday, and was joined by a Project Warm volunteer and a co-worker who brought his teenage son along to help.

This was my ninth time participating in the Blitz, and I encourage anyone who can help to volunteer at some point in the future, as it’s a critical community service that makes a real positive impact on some of our area’s most economically-disadvantage citizens.

You don’t have to be a handy to be effective either, because believe me, I’m one of the least handy people around. Before you even step foot in a home, Project Warm provides training on how to properly hang plastic on interior windows and teaches you other simple weatherization techniques that can even be applied to your own home.

Project Warm estimates that these basic measures help clients save up to 20 percent on heating costs – a significant amount, especially for those who live on a fixed-income.

Although the final homes of the 21st annual Blitz will be weatherized this Saturday, Project Warm’s need for volunteers is year-round. LG&E employees and their families have partnered with Project Warm since the organization was founded in 1982, and we want you to join us.

If you or your organization is interested in performing weatherization work, just give Project Warm a call at 502-636-9276 or visit http://www.projectwarm.org/.

Until next time, keep using energy wisely.

Trees for Tomorrow: Plant for the Planet Accepting Applications through Nov. 30

2011-10-24T11:48:00.000-07:00

Twenty-one organizations funded and more than 20,000 trees planted across the Commonwealth – and growing.

Since its inception in 2009, our “Plant for the Planet” matching-grant tree-planting program has benefitted numerous nonprofit organizations and governmental agencies across the LG&E and KU service territory.

Deadline is Nov. 30

Efforts to further beautify the state next spring have already taken root, as interested organizations can submit applications through Nov. 30.

Matching one-year grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 are available for urban, suburban or rural projects in forests and parks, along parkways or roadways.

If your organization or group has demonstrated tree planting success, you can download an application online at www.lge-ku.com/plantfortheplanet. Just make sure your proposal clearly states project objectives, anticipated results and how the project will improve the environment.

The Right Tree, in the Right Place

Plant for the Planet funds only support non-invasive tree species and all applicants must demonstrate that mature trees resulting from their efforts will not interfere with utility lines — consistent with our "Right Tree in the Right Place" program.

Everyone wins when you can help the environment and enhance electric reliability at the same time.

We’ll announce grant recipients next February, so spread the word about the program and invite interested organizations to submit an application today.

Until next time, keep using energy – and planting trees – wisely.

Simple Tips to Slay Those Energy Vampires

2011-10-21T06:02:00.000-07:00

With colder temperatures upon us, it’s a fitting time to discuss simple no and low-cost actions you can take to reduce energy use and costs.

And, since we’re in the Halloween season, you also want to tackle your home’s “energy vampires,” which are electronic devices that continuously draw power even though they’re not turned on.

The average home has about 40 such devices, and they include TVs, DVD players, video game consoles, portable chargers, and MP3 players, to name a few. They can add more than $125 a year in energy costs.

So what can you do to slay these digital devils?

-- Install a smart power strip, which acts as a central turn-off point and can cut supply to vampire energy sources but provide continuous power to devices like a DVR that require regular digital system updates. You can pick one up at most electronic stores.

-- Enable the ENERGY STAR power management feature on your home computer and monitor, so they go into energy-saving mode when not in use.

-- Unplug your chargers (cell phone, camera, battery and power adapters) or use a smart strip to turn them all off after use.

You don’t have to spend much money to slay energy vampires or on improving your home’s general energy efficiency.

-- Perform an online energy audit to better pinpoint how your home uses energy and where potential savings exist. Simply register your LG&E or KU account, then click on "Online Energy Audit." After keying in some basic information about your home, you'll receive a 19-page report with energy-saving recommendations based on your home and your actual energy use.

-- Request an on-site energy audit and for $25 a trained energy specialist will examine your home and use specialized equipment to help identify air leaks and other areas where you could improve your home’s energy efficiency. After the audit, you'll receive energy-saving products such as compact fluorescent light bulbs and water restrictors to help get you started, as well as a customized report detailing suggested energy-saving measures and the estimated costs for making those improvements.

-- Use a programmable thermostat and gain better control over your energy usage. According to ENERGY STAR, if used properly, a programmable thermostat can save up to $180 a year.

-- Adjust your thermostat down two degrees in the winter and up two degrees in the summer and save up to $45 a year.

-- Turn off all unnecessary lights and use compact fluorescent light bulbs, which use about 75% less energy than standard incandescent bulbs.

-- Seal and save. As much as 20 percent of air flow is lost through leaks in your ductwork. Sealing leaks around the house with caulk, spray foam, and weather-stripping can improve home comfort while reducing overall energy costs.

-- Check your HVAC system's air filter regularly and replace as necessary according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A dirty filter will slow air flow, making your system work harder to keep you warm in winter.

Happy hunting, and until next time, keep using energy wisely.

Attend an upcoming energy management workshop

2011-10-06T05:45:00.001-07:00

Colder temperatures are just on the horizon, and the folks at Project Warm are giving the community an early upper-hand on winter by conducting a series of free energy management workshops across Louisville, starting this Monday.

LG&E has been a supporter and partner of Project Warm since the organization's inception in 1982. Each year, we help fund their good work and the many effective services they provide the area's low-income elderly and disabled.

In addition, next month's Project Warm Blitz will once again be supported by hundreds of our employees and their families, as we work hand-in-hand to weatherize and prepare homes for winter.

The energy management workshops provide participants with the tips and tools they need to use energy more wisely. They also give you a game plan for attacking those leaks around the house that lead to higher energy consumption and higher bills.

In addition to gaining knowledge, you'll leave with your own free weatherization kit containing plastic sheeting, tape, wall plates, rope caulk, tacks and a conservation tips brochure.

A full list of upcoming workshops is below. You can pre-register by calling the number listed next to each workshop location. Note that pre-registration is not required for the Nov. 9 and Nov. 16 workshops at our LG&E location at 820 W. Broadway.

Visit http://www.projectwarm.org/ and www.lge-ku.com/ee for more information on energy efficiency programs and services.

Delivering on our customer service promise

2011-09-14T12:00:00.000-07:00

By Chip Keeling

In the coming days, you may hear through a customer service audit performed by Liberty Consulting to the Kentucky Public Service Commission that we have focused more on low rates and should have spent more on enhancing our service capabilities.

Over the past few years, we have faced some significant challenges together that contributed to a decline in customer satisfaction, including two record-breaking storms -- the 2008 wind storm and 2009 ice storm. The sluggish economy placed added financial pressures on many Kentucky families.

And during the same timeframe, we installed a new customer information system, adjusted our rates and several of our business processes. In our effort to provide better service to you and maintain some of the country’s lowest rates, our key focus was on improving technology. Liberty Consulting concludes that we should have been willing to spend more, faster, in the interest of our customers, and we are now following those recommendations.

Rest assured, we are focused on strengthening your trust and confidence in us, and many initiatives are already in play to achieve this.

Our goal is to provide the same service for everyone – the very best possible. Our new Customer Experience initiative goes beyond traditional customer service methods and rallies the support of every employee and business partner. For this customer-focused effort, we are finding innovative solutions and making sound decisions that will most effectively meet your expectations and our customer service goals. It is just one step in a long-term effort.

The good news is that we’re on the right path and are already seeing positive results. For instance, the most recent J.D. Power results demonstrate that we continue to be a leader in customer satisfaction.

We also recognize the importance of being there when you need us. Following the Aug. 13 thunderstorm, we worked tirelessly to restore power to nearly 182,000 customers who lost electric service.

Our commitment to you is simple: We will provide the resources necessary — after Mother Nature’s wrath and on blue-sky days — to re-establish our position as one of the nation’s highest-quality utility service providers. Like our safety focus, we steadfastly commit the time, energy and leadership to achieve this change.

Our obligation to serve you goes far beyond regulatory accountability. We have deep-rooted histories in our communities, and the people we serve are our friends, families and neighbors. The energy we generate and deliver provides a better foundation for growth and prosperity across our Commonwealth. The bottom-line is that without you, there wouldn’t be an us.

So we’ve begun the process to right the ship and we’re making progress, but there’s more yet to be done. Thank you for your support as we work to deliver on our customer service promise.

Join the conversation
We welcome constructive recommendations to help us regain our company’s reputation for providing superior customer service. E-mail us at contact@lge-ku.com. We want to hear from you.

LG&E and KU partner with the University of Kentucky on environmental research project

2011-08-24T11:48:00.000-07:00

By Jennifer Whelan

The U.S. Department of Energy recently announced that it is granting the University of Kentucky Research Foundation $14.5 million to support the study of capturing carbon dioxide from coal-fired power plants in an effort to create cleaner-burning coal technology. The grant will enable researchers at UK’s Center for Applied Energy Research to field test technology they develop at Kentucky Utilities’ E.W. Brown plant in Harrodsburg, Ky. The grant is one of only four that are awarded nationally each year.

In addition to the federal grant, state and industry partners will contribute another $4.9 million to the project.

While UK is leading the research, the project also is supported by LG&E and KU, Duke Energy, Kentucky Power Co., East Kentucky Power Cooperative and the Electric Power Research Institute. All entities will share the cost of the research and technology designed to capture carbon dioxide.

According to researchers at the university, the grant dollars will put Kentucky in a leading position of developing methods to retrofit existing power plants in an effort to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. The goal is to develop technology that will remove at least 90 percent of the carbon dioxide emitted from a power plant, with no more than a 35 percent increase in the cost of electricity.

UK researchers plan to launch the first system at E.W. Brown, which will use waste heat to make the plant more energy efficient.

So what does this mean to LG&E and KU and our customers? It’s an important step in the study and future implementation of carbon capture at coal-fired generating stations. We have the opportunity to develop new technology in our own backyard that could have a significant impact on power generation and the environment for years to come.

LG&E and KU have a long history of collaborating with the state’s universities on developing and testing technologies that further reduce emissions from coal-fired electric generation. For more information on LG&E and KU’s projects and partnerships, visit our Environmental Research and Development site.

Customer-Focused Crews Work Around the Clock to Restore Power

2011-08-17T13:15:00.000-07:00

By Chip Keeling

When your power goes out, our crews go all-out to restore power as quickly and as safely as possible. Regardless of the day or time, we have dedicated resources at the ready, to serve you.

While folks in the community were out enjoying their weekend, a short but powerful thunderstorm tore through our service territory early Saturday evening, affecting the electric service of more than 182,800 customers – most in Jefferson County. The storm packed winds of nearly 70 miles per hour, which uprooted trees, broke branches and downed 1,758 power lines.

All hands on deck

Immediately, our crews went into action, assessing damage, protecting the public and restoring power. To assist in this Herculean restoration effort, we brought in more than 1,650 workers from Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Tennessee, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia and Pennsylvania to complement the full array of LG&E and KU crews, who led the charge.

In our Retail area, employees answered more than 130,316 calls and addressed customers’ service needs in our walk-in centers.

In addition, crews worked diligently to restore power to Jefferson County Public Schools, which delayed the first day back to school due to power and communications outages and roads blocked by debris.

Primary restoration efforts were completed today in the areas hit hardest by Mother Nature, which is a remarkable feat given the magnitude and widespread damage of the storm.

No power, no access, right?

We know that communicating about an outage is almost as important as the restoration itself, because you have important decisions to make about your family or business.

That’s why in addition to our normal communications channels, we use this blog, our Twitter account, and online outage map and outage map app for smart phones to provide you with near real-time updates and important information as an emergency situation unfolds.

You can also register your account at our website to report an outage and learn more about estimated restoration times once they’re known, in addition to using our automated telephone system.

We know you’re not likely to use your desktop computer if your power is out, but with today’s growing technology-savvy culture, these tools serve the needs of wireless customers who prefer instant online communication.

While this storm wasn’t typical, our response was…going above and beyond to bring the lights back on as quickly and safely as possible.

Have something to share?

If you have restoration photos or stories to tell about work LG&E and KU have done in your area, e-mail the blog and let us know. We want to hear from you.

Company volunteers help students return to school on the right foot

2011-08-15T08:43:00.000-07:00

By Liz Pratt, public relations specialist for LG&E and KU.

Each year as the summer winds down, our Generation Services team anticipates an influx of phone calls to start rolling in to the department; however, these calls are from employees around our service territory who are adding their names to the volunteer list for our company’s annual back-to-school supply drive.

As one employee volunteer describes, “It’s like ink on a napkin; over the years our efforts and volunteer support have continued to branch out and have enabled us to reach more children in need. Our volunteers look forward to this annual event.”

More than 14,000 filled backpacks in total were distributed by LG&E and Kentucky Utilities Company employees during the 10th annual back-to-school event spanning from Louisville, Lexington, Bullitt County, Meade County, Harrodsburg, Carroll County and near the company’s Green River facility in Muhlenberg County.

Company volunteers partnered with local nonprofit organizations and area retailers, Walmart and Meijer, to help thousands of students in need head into the classroom this school year with backpacks, paper, pocket folders, glue sticks, pencils and other necessary supplies.

Our annual event began as a community service project in the company’s Generation Services Department with The Lord’s Kitchen, a charitable organization that feeds the hungry and homeless in Louisville, to help raise 300 school supply kits for children in five Louisville neighborhoods. As more employees learned about the backpack distributions, the interest and community support expanded to include other areas in our service territory.

We recognize education is the key to a bright future in our communities, and providing thousands of students with the necessary supplies to start off the school year on the right foot makes this one of our most special annual community events.

KU volunteers partnered with the YMCA of Central Kentucky and the Fayette County School system to distribute 8,000 backpacks in 20 neighborhoods as part of the annual “Ready, Set, Go! Neighborhood Back-to-School Rallies” in Lexington on August 6.

It's 8/11 today -- a reminder to call before you dig!

2011-08-11T08:15:00.000-07:00

Today is 8/11, which is a friendly reminder to always call 811 before starting any digging in the yard of your home or business

Whether you're a do-it-yourselfer planning a weekend project or a professional excavator contracted for a home improvement job, one phone call to 811 will get your underground utility lines marked for free.

We have some useful information on our website that includes a color-coded chart to help you identify what's what when your lines are marked.

The bottom-line is that safe digging is smart digging.

Know what's below your feet before you start your project. Your safety is important to us!

Tips to Save Energy and Keep Cool During this Heat Wave

2011-07-21T12:42:00.000-07:00

By Chip Keeling

As customers across the state are keeping cool indoors and combating this sweltering heat wave from the Midwest to the east coast, I’d like to share some insights to help customers become more energy efficient in their homes. Often, when temperatures rise, so can energy usage.

The extreme temperatures this summer can be a challenge for electric customers who want to cut costs without sacrificing comfort in their homes. I hope the following tips provide useful recommendations to make it a little easier to reduce energy at home and save money.

• Set air conditioners to the highest comfortable setting during the day: 78-80 degrees is a comfortable setting for most people. Raising your air conditioner setting by one degree can save anywhere from 4-7% on the cooling portion of your energy bill.

• Use ceiling fans to circulate the cool air. Fans can help you feel more comfortable at higher temperatures. Window fans, ceiling fans or whole-house fans use much less power and are an alternative to air conditioners. Turn the fan off when you leave the room since the fan does its job by cooling you — not the room.

• Turn off all unnecessary lights. Use fluorescent lighting, which is cooler. ENERGY STAR®-qualified compact fluorescent light, or CFL, bulbs and fixtures last up to 10 times longer and use about 75% less energy and produce 75% less heat than standard incandescent bulbs.

• Close curtains, drapes and blinds to keep the sun's radiant heat from entering your home through your windows. Many times, you can reduce solar heat gain in hot summer months by shading your windows from the inside. Awnings and trees can also help produce shade from the outside of your home.

• Check your air filters monthly — even on extended filters. Change when necessary according to the filter manufacturer’s recommendations. Dirty air filters make your air conditioner work harder. Clean the filter in window units as well. It is behind the front panel.

• Clear plants, dirt or grass clippings from outdoor air-conditioning units. This debris interferes with air circulation. Wash the coil periodically with a garden hose.

• Turn off all unnecessary appliances. Run your dishwashers, dryers and washing machines during the evening hours (after 7 p.m.) when energy consumption is lower.

• Don't close air registers and do not close off rooms completely because it can increase system pressure and damage the compressor. Furniture or drapes should not block air registers.

• Cook outdoors on your grill; use a microwave oven or crockpot or prepare cold meals to avoid heating up the kitchen and adding moisture to the air. Microwaves use less than half the power of a conventional oven and cook food in about one-fourth the time.

For additional tips and programs we offer to help customers save energy and money,
visit lge-ku.com/ee. Stay safe and cool this summer!

A Greener Habitat, Supported By LG&E

2011-07-11T13:25:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, we had the pleasure of helping dedicate a brand new, energy-efficient home that was constructed by Habitat for Humanity of Metro Louisville.

It’s one of 23 homes that Habitat plans to build or rehabilitate this year, and the families who are waiting for their new homes have an extra advantage to look forward to: lower energy consumption.

Specifically, Habitat received a $50,000 grant from LG&E to support the cost of incorporating ENERGY STAR® requirements in all the homes the agency plans to build or rehab in Louisville this year.

ENERGY STAR-qualified housing must surpass strict energy efficiency requirements set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Energy. In order to be qualified, all houses are assessed to ensure the construction and combined features provide a more energy efficient, comfortable home that exceeds standard construction.

The combined features may include effective insulation, high-performance windows, tightly-constructed ducts, efficient heating and cooling equipment, and efficient products including but not limited to, major appliances, ventilation fans, and lighting.

Because incorporating these energy efficient enhancements means higher costs on the front-end for a nonprofit organization like Habitat, our funding was immediately put to effective use, and enables Habitat to do even more good work for more families in our community.

Our grant also expands on our existing partnership with Habitat. Last year, LG&E volunteers helped build Habitat’s first LEED-certified home in Louisville as part of our statewide “Day of Caring” campaign.

In addition, the organization continues to receive rebates for energy-efficient construction qualified through our ENERGY STAR New Homes Program.

Habitat builds homes that build stronger communities. At LG&E, we fully support their mission to build safe, affordable – and now energy efficient – homes. It’s just another way our energies go to serving you.

LG&E and KU Launch Free Outage App for Smartphones

2011-06-16T11:45:00.001-07:00

You now have a new way to get near real-time information about power outages, and it’s right at your fingertips.

LG&E and KU’s outage map app is now available for download on iPhone, Android and BlackBerry devices. Just search for “LG&E and KU Outage Maps” in your phone’s app store and, once downloaded, you’re able to view our outage map in a platform designed specifically for your mobile phone.

Like the outage map found on our website, the new smartphone app displays outage numbers in an interactive graphic and chart format showing outages by county and by zip code.

The app is updated automatically in regular intervals based on information available in the companies’ outage management system. Additionally, once our operational staff assesses the extent of an outage, estimated restoration times are provided on the map.

While we work year-round to provide reliable service, sometimes Mother Nature throws her worst at us. When the lights do go out, we work as safely and as quickly as possible to restore power. At the same time, we want you to have as much information as possible in ways that are convenient to you.

The launch of our mobile outage app is part of that larger effort. Additional mobile communications offerings, such as two-way outage texting and email/phone-based outage updates and notifications, are currently in development.

So, download the app today and let us know what you think.

Until next time, keep using energy safely and wisely.

The Cost of Compliance: Federal EPA mandates set to impact the Commonwealth

2011-05-25T08:53:00.000-07:00

In response to a litany of new and pending federal Environmental Protection Agency regulations, LG&E and KU will on June 1 file with the Kentucky Public Service Commission our detailed plan to achieve compliance with these stricter mandates, in the most cost-effective manner, with the least amount of impact on our customers and the Commonwealth.

Specifically, our filing amounts to an estimated $2.5 billion in environmental upgrades for our Mill Creek, Trimble County, Ghent and Brown generating stations. These upgrades are necessary for us to comply with new and pending Federal EPA air regulations such as the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, Clean Air Transport Rule and Maximum Achievable Control Technology for Hazardous Air Pollutants. Compliance with these federal EPA mandates mean that LG&E residential customers will see monthly bill impacts growing to an additional $16.33 increase by 2016. For KU customers, the bill impact is estimated to grow to be $9.46 per month by 2016.

It’s important to note that these estimates are just for air regulations. Further, federal EPA mandates for land and water could require additional environmental upgrades and add costs to the energy used by our customers.

And, since many electric utilities across the nation will be competing for the same resources and materials under the same compressed timeframe, cost escalations are particularly concerning for us.

While in some instances it is more cost-effective to install controls at existing units, in other cases it might be more economical to retire units and replace the lost energy supplied by them.

We expect to determine by July if it will be more cost-effective to retire our Cane Run, Green River and Tyrone generating stations rather than retrofit them.

Of course, replacing any lost energy while continuing to safely and reliably meet the annual 1.5 percent electric demand growth of our customers will result in even more and requests for regulatory approvals expenses for customers.

We have expressed – early and often – our concerns to our policy-makers and communicated the significant impacts of these new and pending regulations to all our stakeholders. We will continue to do so in our efforts to minimize the impacts on you.

With looming federal EPA deadlines before us, we must move forward with the most cost-effective compliance strategy and prepare for the future.

We take our responsibility to the environment seriously, as we’ve always done. But the federal EPA’s mandates come at a significant cost for Kentucky.

We want you to be as prepared as possible, too, which is why we will continue to update you on what is required of us, and how we’re acting to prudently prepare and minimize the consequences on our customers.

By Chip Keeling

Great Shakeout Earthquake Drill Hits Kentucky Tomorrow

2011-04-27T10:21:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow morning (Thursday, April 28) at 10:15 a.m. (CST), Kentucky will pretend to experience a major earthquake that has the potential to cause extensive damage across the Commonwealth and disrupt the lives of more than 40 million people living in the Central U.S.

The drill is part of the annual Great Central U.S. ShakeOut, and at LG&E and KU, our emergency preparedness is ready to roll.

Our operations are part of the more than 1 million people that are estimated to take part in tomorrow's drill, and we want you and your family to get involved, too.

To get shakin’, visit the organization’s website and pledge your family, school, business, or organization’s participation in the drill.

You’ll then receive information on how to plan your drill, what items you should include in an emergency kit, and how to create a dialogue with others about earthquake preparedness.

Then, for two minutes tomorrow, starting at 10:15 a.m. (CST), prepare to “Drop, Cover and Hold On.”

Opportunities like this are good reminders that Kentucky is in earthquake country.

Specifically, we’re located in the New Madrid Fault Zone, which, according to the United States Geological Survey, has an active and violent history.

Although tomorrow’s drill is an important one-day affair for earthquake preparedness, LG&E and KU plan and practice year-round for all kinds of natural disasters.

Our comprehensive emergency-response plan ensures that employees and equipment are ready for whatever Mother Nature brings.

For instance, we have a detailed plan in place to activate employees directly involved with restoration quickly and decisively in response to major events.

The plan also enables us to mobilize hundreds of other employees who train outside their normal jobs for emergency-specific duties in support of restoration efforts.

And, we’re here 24/7, 365 days a year to respond to any emergency you might have with your electric or natural gas service.

Be sure to familiarize yourself with important safety and outage information on our website.

While it’s impossible to out-engineer Mother Nature and predict exactly when inclement weather or disasters will strike, we all can certainly be more prepared to deal with the consequences of the many events she can produce.

Until next time, keep using energy safely and wisely.

And, get ready to roll tomorrow.

More Ways to Save Energy and Money

2011-04-21T05:55:00.001-07:00

Our customers’ interest in energy efficiency is growing, and so has our commitment to delivering programs that help you manage energy use at home and work.

In our ongoing effort to help you use energy more wisely, we have filed a seven-year plan with the Kentucky Public Service Commission to expand five of our existing energy efficiency programs and create three new ones.

If approved, the programs will be introduced to you later this year.

For any new or expanded energy efficiency program, we use feedback from a variety of customer groups and representatives.

This helps us to fully assess our program offerings and determine the types of programs you want.

Whether you are a residential or commercial customer, if our plan is approved, you will have more tools, incentives and resources available to help you better manage energy use.

Our plan includes:

-- Enhancements to our Demand Conservation Program;

-- Increased incentives for customers who perform Residential Energy Audits and make energy-efficient home improvements;

-- Increased availability of our low-income assistance WeCare program; and

-- Assistance for our commercial customers to tailor their energy-efficient improvements to qualify for rebates.

In creating our seven-year plan, we regularly met with representatives from the Governor’s Office of Energy Policy, the Attorney General, low-income advocacy groups, governmental environmental protection agencies and businesses, among others.

While our energy efficiency programs are available to help each residential and commercial customer, it is important to look at the bigger picture of what all of our collective energy-saving actions mean, too.

Our existing energy efficiency programs have already paid dividends in energy savings.

You have helped us achieve a cumulative energy savings of approximately 207,900 megawatt-hours, natural gas savings of 4 million cubic feet, and a cumulative demand reduction of 182 megawatts — enough demand reduction to avoid the need for a natural gas-fired turbine.

Based on your participation, and that of our other customers, we anticipate that our new and expanded programs could achieve a 500-megawatt demand reduction by 2017.

To put that in perspective, one megawatt supplies enough energy to power more than 700 typical residential customer homes for one month.

Besides helping you use energy more wisely, our programs offset increasing energy demand that leads to the need to build more generation.

They also provide more of a buffer for rate increases caused by federal environmental regulations to which we are required by law to comply.

Our filing is another important step in our efforts to help you save energy and money and make a positive environmental difference.

We’ll continue to keep you informed about how and when you can take advantage of the programs in today’s filing.

You can also learn more of the details by reading the official press release.

In the meantime, also take a look at our current energy efficiency programs to see what is available today.

The bottom line is: We hear you, we’re listening, and we’re proud to partner with you to better manage your energy use.

Red-tail hawk takes flight again at LG&E’s Mill Creek Station

2011-04-15T06:16:00.000-07:00

Two years ago, a red-tail hawk landed at our Mill Creek Station with little hope of flying again.

Found on the side of the plant road by employees, the emaciated raptor hid under a vehicle that stopped out of concern for its safety.

Thanks to our ongoing partnership with Raptor Rehab, employees knew the right people to call and cared for the injured hawk until officials took him in.

After several months of aggressive treatment, the hawk took flight again earlier this week close to the spot where it originally landed, with a few of the plant’s employees gathered in support.

Protecting Kentucky’s raptors is not a new concept for LG&E and KU. Since the 1990s, our utilities’ power plants have played host to many raptor species through our nesting box initiative, which was highlighted last year on KET’s Kentucky Afield.

And, as part of our Avian Protection Plan, we continue to provide resources and financial support for the rehabilitation of injured or malnourished raptors, like the one released at Mill Creek.

We also cover or mark power lines where needed to allow safe perching.

These are just a few of the ways we’re protecting Kentucky’s natural resources.

If you’d like to help us in our support of Raptor Rehab, check out their website for information on how to volunteer or donate.

Until next time, keep using energy safely and wisely.

And, keep an eye to the sky for that red-tail hawk.

Meet Aurelia, Raptor Rehab’s Golden Eagle

2011-04-01T11:02:00.000-07:00

After a month-long contest that solicited more than 118 entries from our employees to name Raptor Rehab’s Golden Eagle, officials from the organization announced the winner during a presentation to our employees today.

Judges selected the name Aurelia, Latin for “golden,” as the winning entry. Annalee Worthington, a senior communications specialist at LG&E and KU, submitted the name.

It’s a suitable name for an incredibly beautiful bird.

In case you have never heard of them, Raptor Rehab is a nonprofit, all-volunteer group which focuses on rehabilitating sick, injured or orphaned raptors.

As a token of appreciation to LG&E and KU for our pledged financial support for the care and feeding of the eagle for the rest of her life, Raptor Rehab asked our employees to name the rescued raptor, which has been in captivity for more than 18 years due to a wing amputation.

I was one of the folks who attended the presentation, and it was an amazing experience to get an up-close and personal look at this magnificent bird.

It also reiterated the importance of protecting these raptors for future generations.

Here at LG&E and KU, we’re doing our part with a complete avian protection plan to help many different species of raptors thrive across the Commonwealth.

Whether it’s installing nesting boxes at our power plants for peregrine falcons or ospreys, or special guards designed to prevent birds from having accidental contact with our electrical equipment, our employees are passionate about caring for these creatures.

View a brief interview below on Raptor Rehab’s mission to learn more about the organization’s partnership with LG&E and KU and discover how you can get involved:

Until next time, keep using energy safely and wisely.

Celebrate ‘Earth Month’ at the Louisville Zoo and Lexington Arboretum

2011-03-17T12:07:00.000-07:00

Spring break is coming up and for those of you planning a “stay-cation,” LG&E and KU are throwing two big parties for the planet, and you’re invited.

Louisville Zoo – Once again, LG&E and KU will sponsor “Party for the Planet: A month-long Celebration of the Earth” at the Louisville Zoo, March 27 through April 24.

Enjoy a special $2 admission April 23 to mark Earth Day. Bring an old cell phone to recycle and receive a $2 discount on zoo admission April 3, 10 and 17.

Lexington Arboretum – For the first time, the company will sponsor a “Party for the Planet” at the Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky in Lexington, March 24 through April 30, with free events on Arbor Day, April 30.

Both celebrations offer a full schedule of activities throughout April. Check out zoo keeper presentations, tree walks, scavenger hunts, classes, costume characters, workshops, a children’s spring-break camp, special exhibits, tree seedling give-a-ways, music and more.

Don’t miss April 23 “Earth Day Festival” at the zoo and April 30 “Re-leaf” Arbor Day at the Arboretum. More than 40 “eco-exhibitors” will be set up at both locations. Louie the Lightning Bug and our Mini-City live electric safety demonstration will be on hand in addition to a full-day’s worth of fun and activities.

Visit the Louisville Zoo and the Lexington Arboretum online for more details.
Images courtesy of the Louisville Zoo and Lexington Arboretum

The Bright Way to Recycle, Dispose of CFL Bulbs

2011-03-04T11:03:00.001-08:00

Because we're strong advocates of responsible energy use and regularly promote the use of high-efficiency lighting, customers frequently ask us about compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs).

In today's posting, we'll answer the two most commonly asked CFL questions to help you continue to take small steps in making your home as energy efficient (and safe) as possible.

What if a CFL breaks?

The Environmental Protection Agency recently released revised guidelines for properly cleaning up and disposing of broken CFLs.

CFLs do contain a small amount of mercury (about the size of the period at the end of this sentence) that is safely sealed within the bulb’s glass tubing. It’s part of the reason they are so energy efficient and why the mercury is not released when the bulb is in operation. However, if a CFL happens to break, be sure to follow the EPA’s detailed, practical steps at the link above.

Where do I recycle spent CFLs?

There are a few options available to you when recycling CFLs. For an ever-expanding list of recycling and disposal options, you can contact your local municipal solid waste agency, or go to www.earth911.org.

One convenient option I’ve taken advantage of is Home Depot’s free CFL recycling program. You simply place an expired and unbroken CFL in a plastic bag and deposit it in one of the store’s orange collection bins, normally located inside near the front entrance. Click here for more information on Home Depot’s program and how to find a store near you.

Try them out

And let us help. We recently mailed two coupons to customers toward the purchase of ENERGY STAR® CFL multipacks. The coupons can deliver savings up to $6 off the purchase price. Use your coupons before April 15 – it’s a fast and easy way to cut energy use.

My family has been using CFLs for years without any incident. The energy savings (switching out five of your most-used bulbs with CFLs can save $27 annually) and the convenience of not having to replace spent light bulbs as frequently (particularly in hard-to-reach places) is definitely worth the switch.

There are many additional ways your family can become more energy efficient, and a good place to start is at our website.

Until next time, keep using energy safely and wisely.

Breaking Ground in Morganfield: Creating New Careers in Kentucky

2011-01-28T10:37:00.000-08:00

In the midst of a cloudy economic climate, it’s always good to hear news of additional jobs being created in the Commonwealth.

That announcement is exactly what our company delivered at a press conference today in Morganfield, Ky., with state and political leaders on hand.

Specifically, we broke ground today on a new facility in the western part of our state that will help us enhance our customer service and storm management functions, and strengthen the community presence we’ve long established in a vital and vibrant part of our service territory.

Initially, we plan to hire 25 new employees.

By the end of this year, we expect the facility to be complete with a capacity to accommodate up to 50 positions in that region. Every great career has a beginning, and yours could start in the near future.

We plan to hold three educational career fairs in February and will soon be interviewing potential candidates for open positions.

Applicants must apply online at www.lge-ku.com/careers/morganfield.

Our energies go to serving our customers, and that mission has been bolstered by today’s welcome economic development news.

Until next time, keep using energy wisely.

Employees say ‘thanks a million’ by pledging more than $1.1 million to area non-profits

2011-01-03T07:05:00.000-08:00

Our employee base knows that when the strengths of thousands come together for a good cause, their collective actions can affect some real positive change in the community.

It comes as no surprise that when the economy suffers so can charitable giving on the whole, despite the fact that in an economic downturn demand for social services increases.

That’s why news that our 2010 employee-giving campaign set all-time records is so welcome, particularly during the holiday season.

Specifically, our employees have pledged more than $1.1 million to 27 non-profit organizations across Kentucky in 2011. Combine that with our Foundation’s additional support and the grand total checks in at just over $1.6 million.

Similar giving campaigns across the nation average an employee participation rate of between 20 and 30 percent for payroll deduction. This year, our participation rate was nearly 70 percent; a remarkable feat that shows community involvement is serious business for employees at LG&E and KU.

So, whether you live in Mt. Vernon or Madisonville, Bedford or Bardwell, Louisville or Lexington, take care in knowing our employees’ dedication to the communities we serve goes much further than just powering your home or business.

That’s something we can all feel warm about.

Here's to a safe and happy New Year.

Share some warmth with a “HUG” this holiday season

2010-12-07T09:40:00.000-08:00

Looking for a unique holiday gift that’s a great stocking stuffer for that special someone in your life? How about the ideal gift for a non-profit organization? Consider purchasing a Home Utility Gift Certificate, or “HUG,” at any one of our customer service walk-in centers.

Starting at just $25, HUGs allow you to purchase a credit that is subtracted from the recipient’s next monthly utility bill. You receive a gift certificate in return for the amount that will be credited to their account. Then, you can choose to present it to the recipient, or, feel free to remain anonymous if you prefer. Either way, the recipient does not have to take any action in order to make your good deed a reality.

We’ve offered these certificates since 2003, and customers have purchased them for a variety of people and non-profit organizations. For instance, some parents purchase a HUG to help out a college student who is living on his or her own for the first time. Others purchase HUGs for aging parents living on a fixed income. And many have purchased HUGs for non-profit organizations to help them offset monthly operating costs.

Whatever your reason for giving, HUGs can be the perfect gift for that hard-to-buy-for loved one or a non-profit that is near-and-dear to your heart.

The certificates are available during normal business hours at all customer service walk-in centers (a complete list is below). All you need to provide is the address for the LG&E or KU recipient, so the proper account is credited.

LG&E Location:

Louisville: 820 West Broadway

KU Locations:

Earlington: 111 W. Main St.
Greenville: 380 Airport Rd.
Eddyville: 219 W. Main St.
Morganfield: 220 N. Morgan St.
Mt. Sterling: 209 W. Locust St.
Barlow: 137 S. Fourth St.
Campbellsville: 109 W. Main St.
Carrollton: 215 Eleventh St.
Danville: 198 W. Broadway
Morehead: 138 N. Blair Ave.
Middlesboro: 2201 Cumberland Ave.
Winchester: 308 W. Lexington St.
Shelbyville: 1100 Main St.
Harlan: 184 Bank Dr.
Somerset: 306 N. Main St.
Versailles: 250 Crossfield Drive
Lexington North: 1620 Old Paris Pike (Inside Kroger)
Richmond: 200 E. Water St.
Paris: 1445 S. Main St.

Our employees are making healthy choices

2010-11-23T07:57:00.000-08:00

A shout-out goes to LG&E and KU employees who are making healthier choices and pursuing wellness opportunities through our company’s wellness program. Because of these efforts, Business First has given LG&E and KU the Healthiest Employers Award for companies with 1,500– 4,999 employees.

Wellness is a top priority at our company. We know that healthy employees make for productive employees who need to be at the top of their game to serve our customers’ 24/7 energy needs. When our employees take advantage of the company’s many wellness programs, they’re taking ownership of their health and making lifestyle improvements that will enhance their lives at work and at home.

Beginning in January of each year, we offer free health fairs at company facilities so our employees can get a number of screenings to check blood pressure, body mass index, blood tests and body fat screenings. Last year, we introduced prostate cancer screenings, which actually helped save the lives of two of our employees. In both cases, the men’s tests showed abnormal levels of prostate-specific antigens, or PSA. Our two veteran employees went to their doctors, were treated for prostate cancer — with successful results — and returned to work just six weeks later.

In addition to health fairs, we offer flu shot clinics, free mammograms, partial reimbursement at fitness centers and a family assistance program that focuses on mental and emotional wellness.

We have a strong, dedicated work force. It’s good to know that the company is taking care of us, so we can continue to help our customers and our communities 365 days of the year.

The More Things Change, the More They Stay the Same

2010-11-01T08:42:00.000-07:00

By Chip Keeling

Looking back to years past makes me think about how far we have come in a number of ways, but from an energy provider perspective, how much of the past is actually circling around to the present. Throughout every point in LG&E and KU’s long history, we have committed ourselves to maintaining some of the lowest rates in the country. In addition, we have placed top priority on award-winning customer service, safety and reliability.

Same company, new look.

We were pioneers in applying technology to our generating units to achieve remarkable reductions in emissions and have met environmental compliance requirements each step of the way. Further, we are recognized as an excellent corporate citizen, proudly invested in the communities we serve. The milestones attained by our companies are numerous and far-reaching, and today marks another important achievement.

Allow us to reintroduce ourselves

With today’s close of PPL Corporation’s acquisition of our company, we have a renewed focus on our core brands of LG&E and KU and the values they stand for — safe, reliable, affordable energy with award-winning customer service.

Simply put, we’ve returned home.

PPL has demonstrated that they have similar values and beliefs as those of LG&E and KU. When we announced the transaction in April, PPL made a series of commitments to the Commonwealth of Kentucky, our customers, employees and civic and community groups. As a result of those commitments our local leadership remains intact, more than 3,100 jobs have been preserved, the LG&E and KU headquarters remain in Louisville and Lexington, and we continue our same level of charitable giving and economic development in the communities we serve.

PPL enhanced those commitments by agreeing to not increase base rates until at least January 2013 and to implement an earnings sharing mechanism with customers for up to five years.

In a testament to the soundness of the acquisition, we are closing the transaction ahead of schedule having obtained the necessary regulatory approvals and swift completion of financing.

As we begin the next leg of our journey, I am confident that this combination will be good for Kentucky, our customers, our employees and our new shareholders.

While we have changed dance partners over the years, the music remains the same.

Know a teacher? Have a child? Don’t miss our Children’s Energy Education Program

2010-10-25T04:44:00.000-07:00

“Aladdin: Your father will never accept me, Jasmine. He does not understand our love.

Jasmine: It has been so long since love touched his heart, he does not remember.…

Aladdin: If only I could find an abundant energy source – surely your father would accept me then.”

Wait a minute. That wasn’t in the Disney film.

That’s because the dialogue isn’t from the beloved movie. It’s from the National Energy Education Development (NEED) Project, a nonprofit organization that we’ve partnered with as part of our Children's Energy Education Program. Rather than focusing on flying carpets and the evil Jafar, however, this script sticks to more scientific issues — natural gases, for example — making it applicable in the classroom. Instead of Robin Williams voicing an over-the-top Genie, we now have Genies Propane and Methane in this science-focused version.

Comparing a classic Disney story to the search for natural gas? Not something you’d expect to hear in an elementary classroom. But that’s the idea behind LG&E and KU’s Children’s Energy Education Program. We know science is important. We see it at work every day. By partnering with NEED, we’re able to help bring entertaining, age-specific and educational information to children.

How do we do that? By providing useful training and materials to teachers who are searching for ways to make science as fun as gym class. So, in addition to Aladdin’s quest for energy, students and teachers also can act out scripts in which Charlie Brown urges energy efficiency or the Jetsons search for future energy sources.

Thousands of teachers have already seen how creative ideas can make a difference in the classroom. Since our program began in 2009, we’ve trained 1,348 elementary- and middle-school teachers, reaching a total of 67 percent of schools. Unlike the gold of Agrabah, however, this is an investment that won’t disappear. That’s because teachers pass along valuable information to their students. In fact, the program has already reached 77,901 students throughout Kentucky.

Interested teachers can check out our website to find ways in which they can incorporate theatre, games and other fun, interactive initiatives into their science curriculum. A video library is available as well. To participate in training opportunities, teachers can register for one of the Energy Workshops.

With the help of LG&E and KU’s Children’s Energy Education Program, we’re able to help both students and teachers reach a point where science and imagination can soar together. No flying carpets needed.

Who is Project Warm?

2010-10-07T06:10:00.001-07:00

Since October is National Energy Awareness Month, we'd like to introduce you to a local non-profit organization that's been performing weatherization work for low-income elderly and disabled in our community since 1982.

Project Warm provides energy conservation services and education to hundreds of Louisville-area clients every year.

This short video provides a behind-the-scenes look at the three critical services the organization provides, and shows the people and businesses behind the work:

LG&E has been a proud partner of Project Warm since its inception. In fact, each November hundreds of our employees and their families volunteer their time to make area homes more energy efficient as part of the organization's annual Winter Blitz initiative.

We're also the title sponsor of the organization's inaugural Green Spark Awards, which today will honor area businesses and individuals who have embraced energy efficient practices.

If you'd like to volunteer your time to help Project Warm, call 502-636-WARM (9276) or visit their website.

Until next time, keep using energy safely and wisely.

Where do vampires lurk in your home?

2010-10-01T04:55:00.000-07:00

October is National Energy Awareness Month, and we're kicking it off with an appearance on WAVE 3 today at 10 a.m. to talk about vampire energy, among other things. It's all part of our Home Energy Makeover Show, where we help find ways to make customers' homes more energy efficient.

According to this month's issue of Consumer Reports, more than 40 items in your home consume energy even when they're turned off. Do you leave your cell phone charger plugged in even after your cell phone has finished charging? It's likely still draining power, hence the term "vampire" energy.

In fact, vampire energy can add up to $125 in additional costs to annual utility expenses. There are ways to curb it, such as smart strips, but get the full rundown -- as well as many more energy efficiency tips -- this morning on WAVE 3. If you're unable to watch the show live today, check back here to watch the episode (and previous ones) online.

Until next time, keep using energy safely and wisely.

Our Comments at Today's EPA Hearing on Coal Ash

2010-09-28T18:20:00.000-07:00

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency conducted a public hearing in Louisville today (one of eight hearings being held across the country) to collect comments on proposals to regulate coal combustion residuals.

LG&E and KU representatives were among the many speakers at today's hearing. As the state's largest utility, we feel it's important for you to know where we stand on these proposals and why, in an unfiltered manner.

Click here to read our full testimony presented at the EPA's hearing.

Go Paperless and We’ll Help Plant a Tree

2010-09-20T05:56:00.000-07:00

We’re asking our customers to “think outside the mailbox” by making the switch to paperless billing. And, as an added incentive, now through Nov. 30, we’ll donate $1 to the Arbor Day Foundation for every new paperless billing customer who signs up.

Our goal for this effort is to reach 10,000 new enrollments, which means we’ll donate up to $10,000 to the Arbor Day Foundation, whose mission is to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees.

While making the switch to paperless billing might seem like a small action, if yours is like the average American family, you throw away more than 2,000 pounds of paper each year. That's the equivalent of 17 trees per family, and, a lot of waste.

Collectively, we can make a big difference in reducing our environmental impact.

So, how does it work?

Once enrolled in paperless billing, you receive an e-mail each month when your bill is ready. The e-mail includes a billing summary and direct links to:

-- view your actual monthly statement;

-- pay your bill by eCheck; and

-- pay your bill by PayPal or an ATM, debit or credit card.

Simply click the appropriate link, then login to your account to safely and securely view and pay your bill. The paperless notification will be sent to the e-mail address(es) of the registered user(s) on the account.

Now’s your chance

Visit our website and make the switch today. If you haven’t registered your account online, you’ll need to do that first (all you need is a copy of your current or recent bill and a valid e-mail address to complete the registration).

Once you’re registered, click on “Billing Options” under the “My Bill” heading on the left of the screen. From there, simply check “Paperless” and click “authorize.” After that, you’re set.

Don’t forget that you’ll also have access to many other cool features and programs once you’ve registered your account online.

Make the simple and easy switch today. As the Arbor Day Foundation says, “today’s gift will reach tomorrow’s generation.” Still need more motivation? Check out this video from the folks at http://www.payitgreen.org/.

Until next time, keep using energy safely and wisely.

Are You Prepared?

2010-09-07T10:14:00.000-07:00

If you’re like most people, the circumstances of your life require that you look ahead and plan for your future, particularly for the unexpected. But — like most people, too — it’s often difficult to do this because day-to-day obligations take top priority and demand your immediate attention. Wouldn’t it be great if a particular time of year could be dedicated to such planning? Since September is National Preparedness Month, it offers the perfect opportunity to plan for emergencies.

Say a tornado hits the area. Power lines are down. Your phone doesn’t work. Your water may not be safe to drink. What do you do? In the words of www.ready.gov, “Get a kit. Make a plan. Be informed."

Get a kit
Have enough supplies on hand to last you three days or more. Food, water, a flashlight, batteries, first-aid kit and other basic emergency items should make up your kit. For ideas on how to create your own kit, or purchase a ready-made kit, visit http://www.ready.gov/.

Make a plan
When disaster strikes, it may happen while you’re at work, your spouse is out of town and your kids are at school. So, how do you connect? Make a plan. Decide how you will get in touch with each other, reconnect and what steps to take in the meantime.

Be informed
Do research in advance. Collect phone numbers and website information of government agencies, emergency responders and other community contacts that can help during an emergency. Do the information gathering on the front-end to make sure you are better prepared when disaster strikes.

At LG&E/KU, our employees are often among the first responders after a natural disaster. We always encourage our customers to be prepared for an emergency situation and put safety first. So, this September, consider developing an emergency plan with your family, or if you already have one, go through a drill to test your preparedness. For more information, visit http://www.ready.gov/.

Students receive more than 14,000 backpacks from Louisville Gas and Electric, Kentucky Utilities

2010-08-18T08:25:00.000-07:00

Students all across Kentucky are going back to school with the necessary supplies thanks to a combined giveaway effort by LG&E and KU.

This past weekend, LG&E volunteers assembled thousands of backpacks and braved record-high temperatures to distribute them to needy families at two distribution points in Louisville.

The Lord’s Kitchen and Feed the City assisted in the initiative, along with Walmart, which provided the supplies at deeply discounted prices.

LG&E’s endeavor, now in its ninth year, distributed more than 3,800 backpacks filled with school supplies to children in Louisville.

Louisville’s giveaway completed the companies’ 2010 School Supply Drive, which distributed more than 14,000 backpacks throughout the Commonwealth in places like Meade County, Bullitt County, Carroll County and Harrodsburg, where 2,750 backpacks were distributed.

An additional 8,000 backpacks were also given away earlier this month in 21 Lexington neighborhoods as part of the annual "Ready, Set, Go! Neighborhood Back-to-School Rallies."

We’d like to thank all who assisted in this year’s event; your collective efforts resulted in thousands of Kentucky students going back to school ready for success on day one.

Louisville Gas and Electric and KU supplying more than 14,000 backpacks to Kentucky students

2010-08-13T11:41:00.000-07:00

With the start of school upon us, LG&E and KU employees are stepping up once again to provide hard-pressed families in the communities we serve with needed school supplies.

The goal is to make sure area students enter the classroom with the essential materials they need to go back to the classroom prepared for success on day one.

For the last nine years, LG&E employees and The Lord's Kitchen, a charitable organization that feeds the hungry and homeless in Louisville, have spearheaded Louisville's annual supply drive.

With the help of the our Generation Services Department, Feed the City and Walmart, the 2010 School Supply Drive will distribute more than 3,000 backpacks at two locations tomorrow in Louisville.

Each backpack we give away will include paper, pocket folders, glue sticks, pencils and other supplies. Our employee volunteers are meeting later today to stuff the backpacks in preparation for tomorrow’s drive.

Where to find us tomorrow (Aug. 14)

Volunteers will distribute backpacks at two locations:

11:30 a.m. – The Pavilion at Parkway Place; Building 23, Brashear Drive (click here for directions)

Noon – 3050 W. Broadway (click here for directions)

Backpacks will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Louisville effort is one of many around the state

In addition to the Aug. 14 event in Louisville, our employees have helped sponsor and fund many other back-to-school supply drives in several Kentucky counties. In sum, more than 14,000 backpacks will be distributed through our companies’ collective efforts.

For instance, an additional 800 backpacks will be sent to various Jefferson County Public Schools and their resource centers this coming Monday, Aug. 16.

Last week, 2,750 backpacks were distributed to students in Meade County, Bullitt County, Carroll County and Harrodsburg.

An additional 8,000 backpacks were distributed in 21 Lexington neighborhoods as part of the annual "Ready, Set, Go! Neighborhood Back-to-School Rallies." The event was coordinated by the non-profit organization LexLinc and sponsored by Kentucky Utilities Company.

This is an exciting time of year for children and parents alike, but it can also bring anxiety and apprehension. Together with others in our community, we want to do our part to help families begin the school year on the right foot.

Our take: the recent base rate increase ruling

2010-07-30T13:50:00.000-07:00

By Chip Keeling

Today, the Kentucky Public Service Commission officially ruled on our base rate increase requests. You’ll be seeing news reports over the next several days that provide an overview of the costs (click here to read the KPSC’s official press release), but we wanted to go “beyond the numbers” to explain why we requested base rate increases in the first place, to better articulate how the whole process works, and to reaffirm our commitment to serving our customers.

One of the main reasons we decided to launch a blog was to have a meaningful and open dialogue with our customers on complex topics in the energy business, and regulatory matters definitely fall into this category.

We know that any increase in your monthly energy bill will impact your wallet and your family’s budget. That’s why we don’t go before the Kentucky Public Service Commission with such requests unless it’s absolutely necessary.

I’ll explain more on this process later, but you should know that we work every day to keep costs down, and it requires careful planning and proper investments in our infrastructure to keep the energy flowing safely and reliably.

In order to fund these capital projects and expenses, we ask for fair and reasonable increases in base rates; but again, only when absolutely necessary.

For instance, we’re meeting increased customer energy demand by bringing online later this year a $1.2 billion generating unit that will be one of the cleanest of its kind in the country. To get that electricity to you, we’ve added 55 miles of additional transmission lines.

We’re also in the middle of a long-term natural gas main replacement that enhances the reliability of our entire system. The project involves more than 615 miles of pipe, about the distance from Louisville to Panama City, Fla.

And, in September 2008 and January 2009, Mother Nature caused the two largest and most expensive restoration events in our companies’ history.

These expenses were among the ones brought before the KPSC earlier this year as part of our base rate increase request, and were what the commission ruled on today.

In addition, all of our more than 3,100 employees take their duty to serving you seriously. We want you to be satisfied in every interaction with us.

We know no one likes it when their bills increase, but we want to do our best to explain to you our side when such requests are made, and how the whole process works, so you know where your money is going and why.

Why a “rate case”?

It’s important to first set the context for a rate adjustment. Our job is to deliver energy safely and reliably year-round. While it’s something not everyone thinks about, all of us count on energy 24 hours a day, every day. You flip a switch and the lights come on. You turn on the gas and are able to cook. This “instant gratification” doesn’t happen on its own.

A “rate case” is the way we request a change in the base rates we charge to recover costs associated with delivering electricity and natural gas. We’re a regulated industry, so, before we can adjust our prices, we must make our “case” that our current rates are not sufficient to cover our costs.

That’s different from the way most companies operate. When costs change for, let’s say, grocery stores, they can simply adjust their product prices at any time.

But it’s not that simple for us. Our employees bring you energy through our vast network of electric and natural gas infrastructure. That includes nearly 33,000 miles of lines and pipe – enough to circle the earth once and then some. Or, if taking a road trip is more your style, that’s more than seven roundtrips from Louisville to San Francisco.

While we work hard to keep expenses down, the demand and cost of creating and delivering energy continue to rise. Along with the rising cost of equipment and facilities, repairing damage and restoring your service after severe and inclement weather can add up to tens of millions of dollars, and not one of those dollars can be reimbursed until the next rate case.

We give thousands of pages of data to regulators and other parties when we file a rate case. It’s all a very open and transparent process.

The regulators have several months to review the details, listen to our customers' feedback, ask additional questions and examine testimony, among other things, before making a ruling. They ultimately determine the costs we charge and the revenue we’re allowed to earn to keep a healthy business.

Once in effect, base rate adjustments allow us to continue investing in, and maintaining, our electric and natural gas infrastructure. It takes a lot of wires, pipes, poles and people to bring you the service you rely on 24 hours a day.

So now, when you hear about a rate case in the news, hopefully you have a better idea of the role it plays in creating and delivering your energy.

Meanwhile, you can better prepare for any cost changes by making your home more energy efficient. If you’re uncertain where to begin, a good place to start is our SmartSaver energy efficiency programs.

Of course, if you have any questions, let us know. We understand that the utility industry is a very complex one. The bottom line is that we’re here to help.

Until next time, keep using energy wisely.

E.ON’s gifts to the community

2010-07-13T13:04:00.000-07:00

Often, when the University of Kentucky and University of Louisville are mentioned in the same sentence, they’re opponents on a ball field or basketball court. Heck, if you really want to get the blood pumping among your family, friends and coworkers, start talking about the Cats and the Cards and then see what happens.

But, today, presidents of both universities came together at the E.ON U.S. Center in downtown Louisville. There was no trash talking, no shouting fans, no bad officiating; only smiles, a few inspirational words and a great deal of thanks.

E.ON, the German parent company of E.ON U.S., donated $2 million each to UK and UofL to fund a combination of engineering scholarships and energy efficiency research. The E.ON U.S. Foundation also received $2 million to enhance charitable giving and strengthen efforts to improve the quality of life for people who live in the communities served by our utilities, Louisville Gas and Electric and Kentucky Utilities.

E.ON has announced its intention to sell E.ON U.S. to PPL Corp. of Allentown, Pa., and the transaction should be complete before year’s end. As a parting gesture to the Commonwealth of Kentucky, E.ON voluntarily made the $6 million donation to leave a lasting legacy for future generations through the state’s two largest public universities and our foundation. Dr. Johannes Teyssen, Chairman and CEO of E.ON, came from Düsseldorf to Louisville to present the checks to UofL President Dr. Jim Ramsey, UK President Lee Todd, Jr., and E.ON U.S. Chairman, CEO and President Vic Staffieri.

Since LG&E and KU serve customers throughout Kentucky, these gifts will ultimately benefit communities across the Bluegrass state. E.ON’s gifts mirror our own long-standing commitment to this area. The E.ON U.S. Foundation alone has contributed more than $20 million to the community since its inception in 1994.

So, whether you cheer for the Big Blue or you are a diehard Cardinal fan, the outcome was positive for everyone involved. All sides — and especially our community — were winners today.

- Jennifer Whelan

Falcons fly high at LG&E, KU power plants

2010-06-30T12:25:00.000-07:00

On any given day, the fastest fliers in the world can be found performing acrobatic dives and maneuvers — at speeds up to 200 miles per hour — at many LG&E and KU power plants.
Peregrine falcons, once on the brink of extinction, are making a big comeback in Kentucky thanks, in part, to the dedication of employees at many of our facilities who ensure nesting boxes provide a safe setting for the birds to prosper.

The crevices and alcoves of power plants remind the falcons of their natural nesting environment on mountain cliffs and ledges in the West. The plant setting also offers an all-you-can-eat supply of pigeons and other flying food.

2010 has been a productive year for the species, with 12 hatchlings so far at facilities with nesting boxes, including LG&E’s Trimble County and Mill Creek Power Stations, and KU’s Ghent Power Station.

Late last month, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife visited Trimble County to band the four new peregrine falcons.

Each bird received two bands: one that identifies the bird as coming from Kentucky and another for the Midwest region. The bands have different colors and number codes unique to each bird, which are inputted into a database along with the bird’s gender, date of hatching and nesting place. This database is available for all departments of fish and wildlife in North America as a way to track the falcons.

KET’s Kentucky Afield documents banding at Trimble County

Trimble’s latest falcon additions were the focus of a recent episode of Kentucky Afield, a nature and wildlife-oriented television show on KET. Watch the banding yourself and learn more about our falcons. It’s the next best thing to seeing these unique birds up close and in person.

Ways to beat the heat and save money

2010-06-24T11:51:00.000-07:00

According to the local meteorologists, we’re pushing close to day 20 of 90+ degree temperatures. That’s almost two straight weeks of scorching heat. Last year, we didn’t experience anything like this until August.

Extreme heat can dangerously impact the health of many in the community. It can also pose challenges for electric utility companies.

When the temperature rises outdoors, the natural inclination for customers is to turn the temperature down indoors. And, when hundreds of thousands of homes do that during the hottest point of the day, our company must be up to the challenges of meeting the needs of our customers.

From our generating stations to transmission, and substations to power distribution, we have a team of folks working 24/7 in extreme heat to keep energy flowing continuously to the more than 1.2 million homes and businesses we serve.

Since electricity is consumed as it’s produced, we must generate enough power to meet the customer demand on our system at any given moment. This requires proper planning and good management of resources across every line of business, and it also includes partnering with customers on our de mand conservation program.

Meeting the Demand

This month, we’ve set two June records for peak customer usage on the LG&E and KU combined system; 6,709 megawatts on June 23, which exceeded the previous June record of 6,572 megawatts on June 15.

To give you a better idea of what that means, one megawatt can power up to 720 households using an average of 1,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity each for one month.

Ways to Save

– Set air conditioners to the highest comfortable setting during the day: 78-80 degrees works for most people. Raising your air conditioner setting by one degree can save you 4-7 percent on the cooling portion of your energy bill.

– Turn off all unnecessary lights. Use fluorescent lighting, which is cooler.

– Turn off all unnecessary appliances. Run your dishwashers, dryers and washing
machines during the evening hours (after 7 p.m.) when energy consumption is lower.

– Use ceiling fans to circulate the cool air. Fans can help you feel more comfortable at higher temperatures. Window fans, ceiling fans or whole-house fans use much less power and are an alternative to air conditioners. Turn the fan off when you leave the room since the fan does its job by cooling you — not the room.

– Close curtains and blinds to keep the sun’s heat out of your home.

– Don't close air registers and do not close off rooms completely because it can increase system pressure and damage the compressor. Furniture or drapes should not block air registers.

– Cook outdoors on your grill; use a microwave oven or slow cooker or prepare cold meals to avoid heating up the kitchen and adding moisture to the air. Microwaves use less than half the power of a conventional oven and cook food in about one-fourth the time.

– Check your air filters monthly — even on extended filters. Change if necessary. Dirty air filters make your air conditioner work harder. Clean the filter in window units as well. It is behind the front panel.

– The outdoor AC unit should be kept free from plants, dirt or grass clippings that will interfere with air circulation. Wash the coil
periodically with a garden hose.

You can also learn more about — and enroll in — the many energy efficiency programs we offer to help you use energy more wisely. We’ll continue to keep you informed of how you can better help us manage demand as the summer wears on.

Until next time, be safe and stay cool.

Welcome to Your Energy Matters

2010-06-16T13:50:00.000-07:00

Hi, welcome to LG&E/KU/ODP's new blog, Your Energy Matters. Yes, your gas and electric utility has jumped on the blog bandwagon…and for good reason. We’ve been communicating with you for years, through our customer service newsletters, advertising, community outreach, e-mail and, more recently, through Twitter.

Now, we’re branching out farther into the world of social media with this blog. And, while it’s new territory for us, it’s really just another way to reach out to our customers and chat. There’s a lot going on in our industry and plenty to talk about.

We want to know how we can better serve you, our customers, and we plan to provide you with some insight into what’s going on at our organization.

Bloggers on Your Energy Matters will be employees from our Communications Department, blogging on hot topics and timely news. Occasionally, we’ll have guest bloggers — subject matter experts from other areas of the company — who will share their unique perspective about specific industry/company topics.

Now, for some housekeeping…to leave a comment, you must first register with Google Blogger. We’re looking for productive, meaningful dialogue with our customers, and to help with that effort, we’ve developed some Discussion Guidelines.

To keep the conversation suitable for everyone, we will moderate all comments prior to publishing to ensure they adhere to the guidelines. Anonymous comments will not be approved for publication.

You can also send us an e-mail if you have a question about LG&E/KU/ODP or utilities in general. We’ll respond within two business days. If it’s a topic of general interest, we may even paraphrase your message and share it on the blog to keep the conversation going.

We hope you’ll check back to see what’s going on and drop us a line.