The City of Hollister received rebates from Pacific Gas and
Electric this week for taking part in a program to reduce
”
total demand for energy.
”
The City of Hollister received rebates from Pacific Gas and Electric this week for taking part in a program to reduce “total demand for energy.”
Although the amount was only $720 for two motors purchased in January, the city may continue receiving rebates by buying more energy efficient motors, according to Assistant Engineer Matt Atterbury. He said PG&E recently announced it would be extended until the end of 2003.
“Municipalities are the highest energy users,” Atterbury said.
The motors were purchased for the Memorial Booster Station, which serves to increase water pressure throughout Hollister.
“Without it, pressure would be low all the time,” Atterbury said.
PG&E, under the program that started in 2002, pays rebates for several means of energy conserving by residential, businesses and municipalities. Aside from motors, they include lighting, refrigeration, air conditioning and gas. The maximum rebate to the city would be $25,000 per year.
Atterbury said the city may buy energy-efficient motors for the interim wastewater treatment plant project. He said the motors also help to reduce air pollution and conserve natural resources.
Additionally, long-term operational costs will be reduced for the life of the motors, according to a staff report.
“It lessens the total demand everybody draws from PG&E,” he said.
The program is sponsored by the California Public Utilities Commission.
