INSIDE GLENDALE CITY HALL

Tim Willert

GWP UPGRADE

WHAT HAPPENED

The council approved Glendale Water and Power’s Electric Resource

Plan, which outlines a 30-year operating forecast and a description of

resources available to meet Glendale’s projected power needs.

As part of the plan, the council approved a $2-million downpayment on

a new natural gas-powered turbine for use during peak periods, and

$150,000 for feasibility studies on the second phase of the plan, which

calls for a $200-million generator that would produce electricity around

the clock.

WHAT IT MEANS

The new turbine will cost $30 million to $45 million, and will replace

a pair of outdated generators at Grayson Power Plant that were built in

the early 1970s.

The two existing generators are limited in their energy-producing

capacity by air-quality restrictions, and would cost the city $2.7

million to retrofit.

VOTE: The council voted 5-0 in favor.

PUBLIC BENEFITS PROGRAM

WHAT HAPPENED

The council approved GWP public benefits programs and budgets for

2001-2004, including its Smart Business Audit and Retrofit program for

small business customers.

WHAT IT MEANS

Small business owners participating in the new program would receive

comprehensive energy audits at no cost, written audit reports, energy

education and up to $1,000 worth of installed energy conservation

measures such as lighting, pipe insulation and low-flow shower heads.

The audits would identify energy-saving possibilities and provide

energy education. The program is similar to one GWP offers to large

business owners and is designed to reduce energy waste, GWP Director

Ignacio Troncoso said.

VOTE: The council voted 5-0 in favor.