In Chelan County, we enjoy many benefits of public power—reliable electricity at low rates, fast internet, clean water, fourteen parks, and countless secondary benefits to our local economy, health, and more. Why? Because previous generations in Chelan County had the foresight to invest in the hydroelectric projects that power our quality of life. In 2015, Commissioners asked the public to help identify ways to boost quality of life in Chelan County through a Public Power Benefit program.
Public Power Benefits might be services like expanded fiber availability or a day use parking pass, or an amenity like a splash pad water feature at a park. These are optional PUD services meant to enhance the quality of life in Chelan County. They are funded using a portion of electric revenues, as determined annually by Commissioners. This is a new program, and Commissioners are currently focusing on the five project areas.