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Aug. 30, 2021 |
TOP NEWS
NERC Industry Alert
The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) recently issued a Level-2 alert for the electric utility industry to prepare for extreme weather events. The alert is in response to two events that occurred in the past four winter seasons. In its alert, NERC recommended five actions for reliability coordinators, balancing authorities, transmission operators and generator owners to consider. Recommendations included: 1) create or add to seasonal operating plans for the upcoming winter season at least two months in advance, with emphasis on meeting extreme cold weather energy requirements, 2) review seasonal operating plans to ensure they contain the current generator availability, fuel supplies and other related assumptions, 3) communicate forecast and actual unit de-rates during extreme cold weather events and conditions, 4) manual and automatic load shedding, and 5) conduct dual fuel assessments to ensure resources can switch to alternate fuel and monitor how much alternate fuel is on site. Registered entities have until Sept. 17 to respond to NERC on their status. Members with questions can contact LaKenya VanNorman.
Lineworker Appreciation Campaign
FMPA and the Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA) wrapped up a social media campaign last week to celebrate Florida Lineworker Appreciation Day on Aug. 26. During the first few weeks of August, social media followers were asked to “Drop us a Line” on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter and let us know why they love their utility lineworkers. From Aug. 23-27, we included a shoutout from some of these customers thanking the nearly 1,000 public power lineworkers, who help keep the lights on in our communities. Members are encouraged to share these posts with their lineworkers and customers.
Annual Report Kickoff
FMPA’s Public Relations Department met last Friday and kicked off planning for FMPA’s 2021 Annual Report. The team discussed fiscal year highlights, the production schedule and process, and potential themes. The report will be available in early 2022. Contact: Ryan Dumas
Welcome, Jade Bulitta
Please welcome Jade Bulitta, who joins FMPA on Monday as the new System Operations Analyst. In this role, Jade will analyze and model short-term capacity and energy portfolio positioning. She has a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and biochemistry from Dickinson College and a master’s degree in energy resources engineering from Stanford University. Jade has more than 10 years of experience in the industry, including time at Lakeland Electric and Leidos. Jade will report to Chris Gowder.
TVPPA Advanced Lineman Training
The Tennessee Valley Public Power Association (TVPPA) hosts an advanced lineman training Tuesday through Thursday at the Kissimmee Utility Authority. Members interested in attending can register on TVPPA’s website.
NextEra Battery Tour
FMPA and several Keys Energy Board Members meet Wednesday to tour NextEra’s battery facility in Wynwood. Contact: Ken Rutter
Fall Compliance Workshop
FMPA will host its annual Compliance Workshop on Sept. 7 and 8 at FMPA’s Orlando Office. In preparation of the workshop, a survey was sent asking feedback from members on topics and questions to help guide the discussion. The workshop will feature guest presenters from the Southeastern Electric Reliability Corporation (SERC), FMPA staff and subject matter experts, and will include a Q&A session for members. Contact: LaKenya VanNorman
Human Resources Roundtable
Member city staff who work in human resources are encouraged to participate in the Human Resources Roundtable on Sept. 8 at 10 a.m. at FMPA’s Orlando Office. The roundtable provides a forum for participants to discuss HR topics, such as benefits, recruiting, employee retention, training, policies and more. A teleconference option will be available for participants who are not able to attend in person. Registration is free. Contact: Sharon Samuels
Lineman’s Roundtable
FMPA will host a Lineman’s Roundtable on Oct. 7 from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Newberry Municipal Building. The roundtable provides a forum for line crews to exchange ideas on operating practices, safety, training, tools, equipment and other common issues. The roundtable is open to all levels of utility line crew personnel, as well as utility staff members who are interested in transmission and distribution topics. Registration is free, and lunch will be provided. Contact: Sharon Samuels
SPECIAL DATES
Anniversaries
Sena Mitchell | Aug. 30 | 3 Years
Bianca Scott | Sept. 3 | 2 Years
COMING UP
Finance Committee
Sept. 15 | 2 p.m. | FMPA’s Orlando Office
Governing Board Meetings
Sept. 16 | 9 a.m. | FMPA’s Orlando Office
Safety Compliance Workshop
Oct. 15 | 1 p.m. | Teleconference
TOP INDUSTRY NEWS
Utility Crews from Florida Deploying for Hurricane Ida in Louisiana
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FMPA Weekly is published by FMPA’s Public Relations Department for staff and members. Questions about this newsletter may be directed to Amy Raleigh or Anna Castro. Check out FMPA’s Glossary, for frequently mentioned terms.