News

Chelan PUD was honored with the American Public Power Association’s prestigious Scattergood System Achievement Award in recognition of the utility’s bold, community-centered work to prepare Chelan County for the next 50 years.

The award celebrates public power utilities that demonstrate sustained achievement and customer service, and embody the visionary spirit of Ezra F. Scattergood, founder of Los Angeles’ municipal power system. Chelan PUD was one of the award’s first honorees in 1959.

“Like the leaders who came before us and had the courage to build the foundation we enjoy today, we face a new generation of opportunities and challenges,” said Chelan PUD board president Kelly Allen. “This recognition reminds us that our responsibility is to think beyond today's needs, make bold decisions rooted in sound stewardship, and ensure future generations inherit a utility that is reliable, affordable, resilient, and prepared for whatever lies ahead.”

Chelan PUD’s award nomination highlighted several future-focused initiatives, including long-term strategic planning, collaborative clean energy exploration, and workforce development.

Over the past two years, Chelan PUD led Vision 2075, a 50-year visioning effort shaped by employees, commissioners, community leaders and customer-owners. The process used strategic foresight, scenario planning and community engagement to chart a path for securing energy and water, preserving local control, keeping rates stable, strengthening partnerships, building resilience and investing in clean energy. The effort helped shape Chelan PUD’s new strategic plan, updated mission, vision and values, and 12 board strategic directives.

The utility is also exploring new clean energy partnerships to build on its hydropower foundation. Chelan PUD has worked with regional partners to introduce emerging technologies to the community, including fusion and geothermal energy.

Chelan PUD’s commitment to the future also extends to workforce development and energy stewardship. Through the Advanced Energy Management Program, Wenatchee High School students are using advanced metering data and hands-on building audits to identify major energy savings in schools and public facilities.

Together, these efforts reflect Chelan PUD’s mission to provide essential services to empower the community.

About Chelan PUD

Chelan Public Utility District provides essential utility services to Chelan County, Washington, including electricity, water, wastewater and wholesale fiber. Governed by a locally elected board of commissioners, Chelan PUD is committed to creating bold, enduring value for future generations.

About American Public Power Association

The American Public Power Association is the voice of not-for-profit, community-owned utilities that power 2,000 towns and cities nationwide. We represent public power before the federal government to protect the interests of the more than 55 million people that public power utilities serve, and the 96,000 people they employ. Our association advocates and advises on electricity policy, technology, trends, training, and operations. Our members strengthen their communities by providing superior service, engaging citizens, and instilling pride in community-owned power.