Paris, Tenn.–The Paris Board of Public Utilities has earned a Reliable Public Power Provider designation from the American Public Power Association for providing reliable and safe electric service. This is the utility’s fourth time earning this designation since 2010.
The RP3 designation, which lasts for three years, recognizes public power utilities that demonstrate proficiency in four key disciplines: reliability, safety, workforce development, and system improvement. Criteria include sound business practices and a utility-wide commitment to safe and reliable delivery of electricity. Paris BPU joins more than 270 public power utilities nationwide that hold the RP3 designation.
“I think over the last year or so, we’ve seen the vital importance of running a reliable and safe utility,” according to Aaron Haderle, Chair of APPA’s RP3 Review Panel and Manager of Transmission and Distribution Operations at Kissimmee Utility Authority, Florida. “The utilities receiving the RP3 designation have proven that they are committed to running a top-notch public power utility by implementing industry best practices.”
One of the way Paris BPU emphasizes safety is through monthly safety meetings along with a yearly hurtman rescue training. Ongoing system maintenance and improvements allow the utility to continue delivering reliable service to the communities we serve. Additionally, trainings and continuing education provide opportunities for workforce development and a well-trained workforce is critical in the continuation of safe and reliable power in Paris and Henry County.
“We are incredibly proud of our employees and our utility for being honored with this designation,” Paris BPU President & CEO Terry Wimberley said. “However, this designation does not mean we can sit back for the next three years. We are committed to continually improving the safety and reliability of service to our customers.”
Photo, from left: Paris BPU Employees; Cole Edwards- Director of Engineering and Metering, Terry Wimberley- President & CEO, Josh McCaslin-Chief Engineer, Brian Horton- Vice President, Electric Operations.