Behind every open storefront, every poured glass of wine and every production line running on schedule is a utility system businesses rely on, often without ever seeing it. We spoke with Utilities Director Joy Eldredge about how Napa’s Utilities Department is investing in sustainability, protecting ratepayer dollars and building long-term infrastructure that keeps local businesses running efficiently and reliably.
Q: What sustainability resources or initiatives does the Utilities Department do that business owners might not be aware of, whether related to energy efficiency, or waste reduction?
Regarding energy efficiency, the Utilities Department was an early adopter of solar energy. In 2006, we installed a 370kW solar array to offset power at our Lake Hennessey intake pump station, which is the site of the City’s largest power consumption. This investment paid for itself and has saved water customers over a million dollars over the last decade. Additionally, in 2015, the Water Division used energy efficiency rebates to change all lighting fixtures to LED bulbs, saving money and reducing our environmental impact. Every efficiency improvement helps stabilize long-term costs for ratepayers, including the businesses that rely on us every day…