Georgetown Utility Systems recognized nationally for reliability and safety

In April, Georgetown Utility Systems attained diamond level status under the American Public Power Association’s Reliable Public Power Provider program. This is the program’s highest level of recognition and is only awarded after a rigorous application process and outside review.

The RP3 designation recognizes public power utilities that demonstrate proficiency in four key disciplines: reliability, safety, workforce development, and system improvement. Criteria within each category are based on sound business practices and represent a utility’s commitment to safe and reliable delivery of electricity.

Glenn Dishong, Georgetown Utility Systems utility director, presented the RP3 recognition at the City Council meeting April 9. Georgetown is one of six public power providers in Texas to receive the diamond designation.

“Each of [the other diamond status utilities in Texas] are substantially larger than we are, and I think we should be proud that we were able to do that at our size,” Dishong said. “I want to congratulate all of the folks from the linemen to the engineering staff to technical services. … It’s all the work that everyone does every day participating in those four key pillars of the program that makes us what we are.”

In total, only 254 of the more than 2,000 public power utilities nationwide hold the RP3 designation. Levels of recognition include gold, platinum, and diamond. Georgetown Utility Systems had been a platinum designee since 2016.

During the council meeting, Mayor Dale Ross proclaimed April 18, 2019, as Lineman Appreciation Day in Georgetown in recognition of the work Georgetown Utility Systems lineman do 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to keep Georgetown’s electric system operating.

To learn more about Georgetown Utility Systems, go to gus.georgetown.org.