Partnering with You in a Time of Crisis

By Nicolas Procos

This October, as Alameda Municipal Power (AMP) takes part in a nationwide, annual celebration of public power, I am recognizing how AMP’s commitment to community is crucial in a time of crisis.

This global pandemic continues to impact nearly every part of our daily lives – from social distancing to distance learning. As the father of two children who are learning online because their schools are closed, I understand firsthand the new challenges that many of us are facing at home.

As we struggle to adapt to the “new normal,” AMP’s mission to provide our customers with cost-effective, clean and reliable power is more important than ever before.

With the understanding that many of us are facing stressful financial challenges, I am focused on how our community-owned utility can continue to be responsive to the needs of Alamedans. During this year’s Public Power Week (Oct. 4-10), AMP is honoring the role of flexibility and empathy when serving its customers.

AMP was formed in 1887 by a group of concerned residents who saw electricity as an essential public service, just like community schools, parks, hospitals, and police and fire departments. As a public power utility, AMP has been owned by its customers for 133 years.

Decisions about AMP’s policies are made by Alameda residents who volunteer to serve on the city’s Public Utilities Board. AMP customers have a direct voice in utility decisions and policy-making. And our connection to the community means that you can expect to receive excellent customer service and a wide variety of financial assistance options to help you through difficult times.

AMP rates average 20% less than those of neighboring communities, saving Alamedans a total of $15.5 million. Unlike investor-owned utilities, your money doesn’t go to shareholders. It goes toward system operations and to improving public services through annual transfers of $5.5 million to the city’s general fund. In April, the PUB decided not to raise electric rates during a time when Alamedans are facing the economic impacts of COVID-19.

You can also take pride in AMP’s 100% clean energy mix. On January 1, 2020, AMP began providing 100% clean energy to all customers, placing Alameda in a select group of cities leading the nation in the transition to green power. AMP achieved this milestone decades ahead of California’s goal of 100% clean power by 2045.

Reach Out for Financial Assistance

Above all, I want to remind you that your public power utility is your community partner. You can take advantage of AMP’s bill-savings and energy efficiency programs, which can help lower your electricity bills. If you are facing financial hardship related to the COVID-19 pandemic, we urge you to call our customer service team at (510) 748-3900 and visit www.alamedamp.com.

As we partner with you during this time of crisis, we also continue to do everything we can to maintain the utility’s financial strength. We are working to ensure that AMP’s financial picture remains stable and healthy.

AMP is committed to supporting you and our community during these difficult times. Be safe, stay healthy, and thank you for being an AMP customer and owner.