GRU in The News

Department of Energy Awards GRU $47.5 Million Grant 

10/14/24

 The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded GRU a $47.5 million grant to bolster electric grid resilience, increase funding to community-based programs and support workforce development.  

The grant is part of the DOE’s $10.5 billion Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program, which aims to increase access to affordable, reliable energy. President Biden announced the grant award while touring hurricane damage in St. Petersburg this Sunday. 

“It’s important to point out that one of the main reasons we received this grant is because GRU is an industry leader in grid reliability,” said GRU CEO Ed Bielarski. “Because we already are innovative and reliable, DOE wants to use us as a model to further innovate and enhance our resilience and storm response, including in disadvantaged communities.”  

At the moment those enhancements include: 

·         Replacing 10 transformers 

·         Replacing outdated circuit breakers with new technology

·         Replacing 129 wooden poles with ductile iron poles

·         Enhancing GRU’s digital meters to more easily detect and respond to outages 

·         Hardening and undergrounding distribution lines serving disadvantaged communities

·         Building a new substation in southwest Gainesville

In addition to its technical components, the grant provides additional funding for community programs such as GRU’s Low-Income Energy Efficiency Program (LEEPplus). LEEPplus provides free home upgrades to low-income customers. The grant more than doubles the program’s budget to $575,000 annually over the next five years. 

The grant also establishes an electric lineworker apprenticeship with Santa Fe College and funds additional apprenticeships and internships at Santa Fe and UF.  

GRU began aggressively pursuing grants following the COVID-19 pandemic when it utilized law firm Holland and Knight’s consulting arm in 2020. The utility was awarded the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnership grant on Oct. 7, 2024, during the second round of GRIP funding. In addition to the $47.5 million federal award, GRU has allocated $23.7 million in its electric distribution system budget. 

GRU has established a tentative timeline to satisfy the grant, which must be executed in five years. The next step is to negotiate a contract with the Department of Energy. 

“I want to thank everybody involved in this utility-wide effort,” Bielarski said. “This is a testament to our excellent staff and commitment to being a utility that puts its customers first.”

GRU Strongly Urges Customers to Prepare for Hurricane Helene 

09/25/24

Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) is ready to respond to Hurricane Helene and urges customers to prepare for the storm’s arrival. The storm is expected to strengthen before landfall, becoming a major hurricane. Projections place Gainesville and Alachua County within the cone of probability. 

General weather conditions in Alachua County are likely to deteriorate as early as Thursday morning. Best practices would have residents prepared before potential road hazards and high winds make travel of any kind unadvisable.  

Depending on its path and strength at landfall, Helene is capable of causing widespread power outages and significant property damage. In addition, restoration may be hampered by flooding, downed trees or other obstacles. Crews are prepared to work long hours after the storm passes, restoring service to customers as quickly and safely as possible. In addition to our GRU crews, GRU will be receiving mutual aid assistance from Texas-based Lubbock Power & Light and Davey Tree.  

Once conditions are safe for crews to begin work, our first priorities for service restoration include hospitals, law enforcement, power plants, water plants, wastewater plants, lift stations and fire stations. Our crews will then work to fix problems that will benefit the most people in the shortest amount of time.  

Customers should report all power outages and downed power lines to 352-334-2871; water/wastewater emergencies to 352-334-2711; and natural gas emergencies to 352-334-2550. Follow @GRUStormCentral on X for the latest storm updates and visit gru.com/StormCentral to view our outage map.   

GRU is advising customers to take preparatory measures:   

• If you have special medical needs or life-sustaining equipment, make sure you have an evacuation plan in place prior to the onset of the storm. Call Alachua County Emergency Management at 352-264-6500 and visit floridadisaster.org for evacuation information. 

• Ensure you have a complete emergency kit that includes first aid supplies, a battery-powered radio, tarps, batteries and flashlights, a three days’ supply of any needed prescription medicine, baby food and diapers, pet food, canned food and drinking water (at least one gallon per person, per day).  

• If you use a portable generator: DON’T run a generator in the house, DON’T run a generator in the garage, and DON’T plug a generator directly into a house’s main electrical system. The first two could lead to suffocation and the third could send an electrical charge back to the power grid, which would create an electrocution hazard for utility workers. DO set up generators outside in a well-ventilated area, and DO plug individual appliances directly into the generator. 

• Prior to the storm, turn off or disconnect all outside electric appliances, such as pool pumps. If you plan to evacuate, turn off the main switch on your circuit breaker panel. Do not remove your electric meter.  

GRU Files Complaint against City and Supervisor of Elections

09/11/24

On Tuesday, Sept. 10, the Gainesville Regional Utilities Authority (GRUA) filed a complaint against the City of Gainesville and the Alachua County Supervisor of Elections, asking a judge to declare a referendum that could dissolve GRU’s current governing body “null and void” and to keep the referendum from appearing on the November ballot.

Filed by GRU Authority attorneys Folds Walker, LLC. and Theriaque & Spain in the Eighth Judicial Circuit Court, the complaint argues that the City of Gainesville’s ballot measure violates the Special Act of the Legislature that created the GRUA.

Specifically, the complaint argues:

• The Special Act states that if “any charter provision, ordinance, resolution, decree, or any part thereof conflicts with the provisions of this article, the provisions of this article shall govern …”; and

• The ballot measure violates the City Commission’s legal requirement to “effectuate an orderly transition” of GRU to the Authority.

Additionally, the complaint argues that the ballot summary is misleading because it implies GRU oversight would return to its pre-Authority status. The referendum does not restore Section 3.06 of the City Charter, which identifies the utility’s general manager as a charter officer who reports to the City Commission. The complaint argues it’s unclear who would oversee GRU and where that person would report.

The complaint ultimately asks the judge to: 

1. Declare the proposed charter amendment passed by the Gainesville City Commission in June 2024 null and void.

2. Keep the Alachua County Supervisor of Elections from placing the referendum on the November ballot.

3. Keep the City of Gainesville from enforcing the referendum if it is placed on the ballot.

Background:

• In June 2023, the Florida Legislature passed House Bill 1645, which amended the city’s charter, taking GRU oversight away from the City Commission and replacing it with the Gainesville Regional Utilities Authority, an independent board appointed by the governor.

• In June 2024, the City Commission approved a ballot initiative that removed Section 7 from the City Charter, eliminating the GRU Authority.

• On Wednesday, Sept. 4, the GRU Authority approved the process of developing and filing a complaint through attorneys Folds Walker LLC., with final approval from GRU’s CEO.

• On Friday, Sept. 6, while dismissing Doughtie v. City of Gainesville and Ashley Moody in her capacity as Florida Attorney General, Judge Allen Winsor wrote, “As a matter of law, the Authority and the City are separate entities,” paving the way for the GRUA’s complaint.

GRU Extends Call Center Hours to Support Student Rush

07/11/24

GRU is pleased to announce the extension of our call center hours to accommodate the influx of students returning to Gainesville for the fall semester. July and August are our busiest months, with more than 14,000 requests requiring processing. GRU is committed to ensuring a smooth and efficient process for all customers needing electric, water, and gas services. 

Beginning July 15, GRU’s customer service phone lines will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. To assist as many customers as possible, we highly encourage those needing same-day service to call before 5 p.m.

“Extending our call center hours represents GRU’s ongoing commitment to providing world-class service to our community,” says Customer Service Manager Tequila Brooks. “We understand the unique and various needs of students, residents, and businesses during this busy period and are here to ensure that their transition and business matters are as seamless as possible.”

International students must still come in person to set up new electric, water, and gas services and provide a valid passport, green card, or community ID. 

For more information, please contact GRU Customer Service:

• Online: www.gru.com/welcome 

• Phone: 352-334-3434

No Rate Increases for GRU Customers

06/27/24

In a GRU Authority meeting on Wednesday, June 26, the Authority approved a budget with no rate increases for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins October 2024.

This marks a significant turnaround from an earlier proposed fiscal year 2025 budget that requested base rate increases for electric, gas, water, and wastewater.

“We have got to be a utility our customers can afford,” said CEO Ed Bielarski. “Our employees are committed to that goal, and we have the support of the Authority. Next year’s budget is a great first step in that direction.”

In addition to eliminating base rate increases in the upcoming year, the fiscal year 2025 budget addresses a number of other issues, including:

• The budget reduces GRU’s annual transfer to the city’s general fund by $6.8 million a year until the utility recoups $68 million it overpaid between 2018 and 2021. This reduces the payment to $8.5 million per year for the next 10 years;

• At the request of the GRU Authority, GRU cut $20 million in capital expenditures from its original budget proposal;

• At the request of the GRU Authority, GRU cut $12 million in operations and maintenance expenses from its original budget proposal;

• As part of its organizational evaluation, GRU has unfunded 27 positions, saving approximately $3 million;

• Overall, the budget reduces future upward base rate pressure on utility customers. 

Ed Bielarski Named Interim CEO of GRU

06/14/24

The Gainesville Regional Utilities Authority appointed Ed Bielarski interim chief executive officer during a board meeting on Wednesday, June 12.

Bielarski, who was appointed to the GRU Authority board by Gov. Ron DeSantis in May 2024 and nominated as chair by his fellow directors, resigned from the board to accept his new role. 

Bielarski was GRU’s general manager from 2015 to 2022 and is perhaps best known for getting the utility out of an expensive contract with the Gainesville Renewable Energy Center, often referred to as the biomass plant. In 2017, Bielarski negotiated GRU out of the contract and purchased the plant. This action ultimately saved customers more than $1 billion and reduced bills by 8 to 10 percent.

Bielarski earned a reputation as a tough negotiator by fighting to lower the annual transfer of funds to the City of Gainesville, which is used by the city to pay for services. Bielarski negotiated with the Gainesville City Commission to lower the transfer $2 million a year over six years from a high of around $38 million. 

Prior to his career at GRU, Bielarski was chief operating officer and chief financial officer of the Lehigh County Authority in Allentown, Pa., where he shepherded a one-of-a-kind 50-year concession arrangement with the City of Allentown. The agreement was awarded the 2013 Northeast Deal of the Year by The Bond Buyer. 

Bielarski earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Loyola University Maryland and an MBA from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. He has also worked as a certified public accountant.

Bielarski ran for mayor of Gainesville in 2022 and has written extensively about GRU’s most recent history from his time at GRU.

GRU Joins National Hurricane Preparedness Week Initiatives

05/03/24

GRU is observing National Hurricane Preparedness Week May 5-11 by encouraging customers to prepare now for the upcoming hurricane season.

“GRU stresses the importance of focusing on preparation for hurricane season rather than the projected number of storms,” said Utility Emergency Manager Scott Holowasko. “It only takes one storm to produce long-lasting impacts.”

In recognition of preparedness week, GRU has compiled four integral steps to preparing for a hurricane. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, so Gainesville residents are encouraged to follow these steps now to ensure their families, friends, and pets are safe in the event of a hurricane or tropical storm.

Step 1: Write a plan. It’s fundamental to have a plan of action for any potential emergency. Creating family preparedness plans and/or business preparedness plans will ensure that in the event of a hurricane, everyone knows exactly what to do, where to go, and whom to contact. Be sure to either write this plan by hand or print it out because you may not have access to the Internet.

Step 2: Prepare yourself and your property. Preparing your property for the storm season can include trimming or removing trees that could damage your home and other buildings. Remember, when dealing with storms, “hide from wind, but run from water.” When winds come, most homes are going to be safe spaces. When water rises, get to higher ground. More people are injured or killed from water in a storm than from wind. To find out if your area is prone to flooding, use the FEMA flood maps at https://www.fema.gov/flood-maps.

Step 3: Build a hurricane kit. Have a hurricane kit ready to go with items you might need in an emergency. This includes but is not limited to, water, non-perishable food, flashlights, a battery-powered radio, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, emergency contact information, and cash.

Step 4: Stay up to date with your insurance. Check to make sure you know if your insurance plan will cover potential repairs and damages to your home. On average, 14 named tropical storms affect the Atlantic coastal area every hurricane season, and seven of these 14 storms usually are labeled as at least Category 3. It’s important to stay aware of and be ready for potential hazards. For more information on how to stay prepared, including GRU’s Storm Guide and hurricane supply checklist, visit www.gru.com/stormcentral.

GRU Lowering Fuel Charges in April

03/28/24

GRU customers will see a continued downward trend in electric charges this April as the utility is lowering its Electric Fuel Adjustment for the fifth time in the past year.

With natural gas prices lower than projected and a healthy balance in GRU’s fuel account, CEO/GM Tony Cunningham has authorized reducing the Electric Fuel Adjustment and Purchased Gas Adjustment beginning April 1.

This reduction will save a residential electric customer using 1,000 kWh $5 a month and a natural gas customer $2.50 a month.

Fuel charges often have a greater impact on customer bills than rates, which are set each October. As a result of repeated fuel charge reductions, a 1,000 kWh residential electric customer is paying $42 less per month this April than they were in March 2023 and the least amount they’ve paid since November 2021.

Fuel and purchased gas adjustments cover costs GRU incurs to purchase fuel and produce power. GRU does not earn a profit from fuel charges. The utility assesses fuel charges regularly and adjusts them when appropriate.

GRU Unveils Preliminary Integrated Resource Plan Results

02/06/24

After a year of study and analysis, GRU will present the preliminary results of its most recent Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) during the GRU Authority meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 7.

While evaluating the IRP over the next several months, GRU will weigh many factors, including cost, timing and evolving technologies as it comes up with a plan to prioritize meeting future power needs while also lessening the financial burden on customers and stabilizing the utility’s financial picture.  

“We’re excited to bring the IRP to the GRU Authority for further evaluation,” said GRU CEO/GM Tony Cunningham. “The IRP plays an influential role in determining GRU’s future energy portfolio and in helping determine how we can provide affordable and reliable power to our customers for years to come.” 

An IRP is a planning tool used by utilities to study different options to meet future energy needs. GRU conducts an IRP every three to five years to ensure it is keeping up with the safest, most reliable and affordable technology.

As with the utility’s last IRP in 2019, GRU worked with experts from The Energy Authority (TEA), which has conducted more than 20 IRPs for municipal utilities. TEA ran several different computer models that solve for the lowest cost while still accounting for projected energy usage and other predetermined inputs. The result is a “baseline” scenario.

Preliminary results from this scenario are similar to IRPs conducted throughout the industry and show the following:  

• The most cost-effective solution to GRU’s future power needs is a diverse mix of natural gas, solar and batteries. 

• GRU may be able to defer large capital investments by delaying the retirement of two gas turbines at the Deerhaven Generation Station.

• Generating power locally and internally is the most cost-effective alternative.

• GRU will need additional resources within three to four years.

GRU began its IRP process in January 2023. Unlike in previous iterations, GRU has sought community feedback throughout by holding frequent meetings with utility customers and a Stakeholder Advisory Group made up of representatives from local businesses and organizations. GRU did not take the city’s 2018 net-zero carbon resolution into consideration for its baseline scenario, however, almost all computer models reduce GRU’s 2005 CO2 emissions levels by 75 percent or more.

The next steps are to finalize results, develop a preferred resource plan, an action plan and a final IRP report. Visit gru.com/IRP for more information.

GRU Focused on Reducing Debt, Stabilizing Rates

01/16/24

As GRU begins the budget process for fiscal year 2025, the utility is aggressively pursuing opportunities to further reduce debt and stabilize rates by reducing expenses. These reductions include across-the-board budget cuts and a potential reduction to the Government Services Contribution (GSC), GRU’s annual payment to the city’s general fund.

In a GRU Authority meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 17, CEO/GM Tony Cunningham will initiate a conversation about alternatives to reducing the GSC and returning the resulting savings to customers.

The presentation analyzes the impact two potential scenarios would have on reducing rates and debt: 

• Lowering the GSC by $7.8 million beginning in FY25

• Eliminating the GSC beginning in FY25

Cunningham points out that these scenarios provide context for the Authority so the board can choose an alternative that best meets customer needs.

“We are looking at all options,” Cunningham says. “We need to make business decisions that are in the best interest of our customers and the utility, so we are thoroughly vetting a variety of alternatives with the GRU Authority.”  

GRU reduced the GSC by $19 million last April as part of a 10-year plan to reduce net debt by $315 million. The reduction was based on a new formula for calculating the annual payment. The GSC has long been a controversial topic, peaking at $38.28 million in FY19-21, an amount that exceeded the utility’s net revenues and required it to use reserve funds to pay the transfer.

View the meeting agenda.

Comfy at 68°

12/21/23

Winter is officially here and GRU remains committed to providing reliable utilities while empowering our customers to maintain comfort without compromising their budget. To help prepare for the colder weather, GRU has some tips to help you and your loved ones stay cozy at 68° while mindfully limiting energy usage.

This initiative encourages customers to lower their thermostats to a comfortable, energy-efficient temperature of 68° or lower during the winter. This optimal thermostat setting will help customers take a significant step toward minimizing their energy usage. In addition, we have more tips to help manage energy consumption this winter: 

1. Seal Drafts: Ensure your windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent heat loss, reducing the need for additional heating. 

2. Bundle Up: Encourage wearing an extra layer of clothing, such as a comfy sweater, fuzzy socks, and slippers. Additionally, put another blanket on the bed to keep you cozy. 

3. Embrace Sunlight: Open your shades and curtains during the day to warm your home naturally.  

4. Regular Maintenance: Ensure your heating system is well-maintained and check your air filters monthly to improve efficiency. 

5. Slow and Steady: When using the heat setting on your thermostat, avoid activating the heat strips (which use 2-3x the amount of electricity) by increasing the temperature by 1-2 degrees at a time. Do not turn on your Emergency Heat Setting located on your thermostat unless instructed to by an HVAC contractor.

6. Light Up: Use energy-efficient LED lights in your home and for holiday decorations. 

For more tips on how to be cozy at 68° and save energy during the cold weather months, visit:  https://www.gru.com/MyHome/LowerMyBill/SaveEnergy/HowLowCanYouGo 

GRU Lowering Fuel Charges in December

12/1/23

GRU is reducing its electric fuel adjustment today, Dec. 1, saving a residential electric customer using 1,000 kWh $5 a month as the weather is cooling down. This continues a trend of reducing electric bills. A 1,000 kWh residential electric customer’s December bill is about $36 less than last December.

Additionally, GRU is reducing its purchased gas adjustment, the charge natural gas customers pay for fuel. A natural gas customer using 25 terms a month will save 75 cents. GRU’s natural gas rates already are among the lowest in the state.

December’s reduction marks the fourth time GRU has lowered its fuel adjustment this year. The fuel adjustment recovers costs GRU incurs to purchase fuel and provide power. GRU does not earn a profit on fuel costs.

GRU’s decision to lower its electric fuel and purchased gas adjustments this December is based on lower current and projected natural gas prices. The utility assesses fuel charges regularly and adjusts them when appropriate.

GRU’s Low-Income Energy Efficiency Program Helps Record Number of Eligible Customers in 2023

11/7/23

Since 2007, GRU’s Low-Income Energy Efficiency Program Plus (LEEPplus) has provided low-income customers with home improvements that can lower their electric bill, improve comfort and reduce energy use. GRU works with eligible customers to determine improvements that suit their homes best. These home improvements can include: replacing or servicing central air conditioning and heating systems, replacing water heaters with high-efficiency units, repairing and sealing duct systems, installing additional insulation, installing a programmable thermostat, weather stripping and caulking of doors and windows, and providing up to 10 LEDs.

In May 2022, GRU received 1.9 million dollars through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA). With this additional funding, GRU improved a record number of 268 customers through the LEEPplus Program. To perform these home upgrades, GRU partners with local contracting companies. Currently, twenty-seven contracting companies are working with GRU’s LEEP Program. These companies specialize in everything from electrical repairs, insulation, HVAC, mechanical repairs, and plumbing. 

Approved contractors partnering with GRU’s LEEPplus Program receive the following benefits: placement on GRU’s approved contractors list, the opportunity to respond to incoming leads from GRU-generated campaigns, opportunities for additional specialized training, certifications, and accreditations, the potential to participate in other GRU pilot initiatives and public events, partnership announcements during GRU’s speaking opportunities, and inclusion in GRU’s marketing materials promoting the use of energy-efficient equipment and maintenance.

The LEEPplus Partnering Contractor Program offers local companies opportunities to expand their customer base. GRU’s Partnering Contractors enter into signed agreements with GRU to promote energy- or water-efficiency programs.

To become a Partnering Contractor with GRU’s LEEPplus Program, please call 352-393-1460 or send an email to partnerwithLEEP@gru.com.

GRU Lowering Fuel Costs in November

11/1/23

GRU is reducing its electric fuel adjustment today, Nov. 1, saving a residential electric customer using 1,000 kWh $5 a month as the weather starts to cool. This continues a trend of reducing electric bills. A 1,000 kWh residential electric customer’s November bill is about $32 less than last November.

GRU is reducing the electric fuel adjustment from 50 mills to 45 mills, which equates to a $5 savings on a 1,000 kWh residential electric bill and a $4 savings on an 800 kWh residential electric bill. 

In addition to lowering its electric fuel adjustment, GRU is also reducing its purchased gas adjustment, the charge natural gas customers pay for fuel. A natural gas customer using 25 therms per month will save 50 cents, and the average GRU natural gas customer, who uses 20 therms per month, will save 40 cents. GRU’s natural gas rates already are among the lowest in the state.

November’s reduction marks the third time GRU has lowered its fuel adjustment this year. The fuel adjustment recovers costs GRU incurs to purchase fuel and provide power. GRU does not earn a profit on fuel costs.

In July, GRU reduced its fuel adjustment from 65 mills to 50 mills, saving the average residential customer around $15 as summer started heating up. These reductions had a significant impact on GRU customer bills, especially during the summer as energy usage increases in Florida.

GRU’s decision to lower its electric fuel and purchased gas adjustments this November is based on lower current and projected natural gas prices. The utility assesses fuel charges regularly and adjusts them when appropriate.

GRU Authority Holds First Meeting

10/3/23

The Gainesville Regional Utilities Authority will meet for the first time at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 4, at the Gainesville City Hall Auditorium. During the first meeting, the authority will elect a chair and vice-chair, as required by House Bill 1645, the legislation that created the independent board. 

Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed the first three members to the five-member board on Tuesday, Sept. 26. Those members are: 

• James Coats: Coats is the CEO of Phalanx Defense Systems, serves as a member of the Golden Key International Honor Society, and was awarded the “Spirit of Gainesville” Award by the Alachua County Chamber of Commerce. Coats earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration from American Military University. 

• Robert Karow: Currently retired, Karow previously served as the manager, legal counsel and contracts manager for Oleoductos de Crudos Pesados. He is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Earning his bachelor’s degree in economics and business administration from Chapman College and his juris doctor from the University of Florida, Karow has over 40 years of energy experience with an emphasis in oil and natural gas, pipelines, facilities, and power generation.

• Eric Lawson: Lawson is the CEO of HCA North Florida Regional Hospital. Holding multiple executive leadership positions in hospitals over the past 30 years, he most recently served as the Division Chief Financial Officer for HCA TriStar. Lawson earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Tennessee Technological University. Lawson satisfies the requirement for a “private, nongovernment customer consuming at least 10,000 kilowatt hours per month.” 

State Rep. Chuck Clemons filed HB 1645 on April 10 to create an independent, governor-appointed board to oversee GRU instead of the Gainesville City Commission. The bill became law on July 1 and the board assumed responsibility on Oct. 1. 

GRU provides electric, water, wastewater, gas and telecommunications services to more than 100,000 customers in and around Gainesville.

GRU to Request Rate Increases to Help Reduce Debt; Cover Rising Costs

8/8/23

In its fiscal year 2024 budget presentation on Wednesday, Aug. 9, GRU will request rate increases in the electric and wastewater systems to cover rising costs and to support the utility’s long-term plan to reduce debt and become more financially stable.

“We don’t take rate increases lightly, but this request is a crucial part of our debt-reduction plan,” said GRU General Manager Tony Cunningham. “We have committed to reducing net debt by $315 million over the next 10 years, and these increases, while still below the rate of inflation over the last couple of years, are critical to the success of that plan. We have kept the increases as low as possible to balance customer needs with fiscal responsibility.”

The average residential electric customer will see a $2.50 increase in their monthly bill, and the average wastewater customer will see a $2.25 increase. GRU gas and water rates will not increase. 

These requested rate increases are one element of a 10-year plan to reduce debt that includes cutting expenses and significantly reducing the amount of annual revenues GRU transfers to the city, known as the government services contribution.

“All of these pieces are critical to the puzzle,” Cunningham said. “The City Commission recognized this when they approved our debt-reduction plan in April.”

In addition to supporting GRU’s debt reduction goals, rate increases help keep up with rising costs for everything from labor to chemicals. The costs of chlorine and ammonia, for instance, will increase 216 percent and 325 percent, respectively, this fiscal year. 

Additionally, GRU continues to assess fuel charges on a regular basis and has reduced its electric fuel adjustment for the average residential customer by $24 since April, bringing much-needed relief when customer usage is highest.

GRU Reminds Students to Submit Service Requests in Advance

7/26/23

As students eagerly return to Gainesville for the upcoming academic year, GRU is gearing up to meet the surge of over 14,000 additional utility service demands. With the anticipated influx of residents, GRU encourages customers to act promptly by submitting service requests for starting, stopping, or relocating utility services online at www.gru.com/welcome. By doing so, customers help ensure a more seamless transition and prevent potential delays in accessing essential utilities. 

GRU recommends taking proactive measures by submitting service requests as early as possible to accommodate the demand for utility services. This helps prevent a backlog and ensures we can accommodate your requested service date. GRU is committed to working diligently to process all requests promptly and efficiently, but we emphasize the importance of submitting requests as early as possible to mitigate any potential delays during the busiest time of the year for Gainesville.
For further assistance or to submit service requests, please visit: www.gru.com/welcome or contact our Customer Service Department via phone: (352) 334-3434.

S&P Global Ratings Affirms “Stable” Outlook

7/06/23

Standard & Poor’s Global Ratings affirmed GRU’s “stable” outlook in its annual report of GRU’s credit rating published on June 30, 2023. GRU’s rating was affirmed at the “A” level.

In confirming GRU’s stable outlook, S&P noted:

• A steady economy anchored by the University of Florida, area hospitals and a diverse residential customer base.

• GRU’s virtual elimination of coal–fired energy generation.

• The highest renewable energy production levels in the state and one of the highest levels in the southeast.

• Flexibility due to “robust” liquidity.

In terms of credit risks, S&P noted:

• Backlash resulting from a combination of high rates and below-average area incomes.

• Legacy investments contributing to high power costs and rates.

• A high debt-to-capitalization rate.  

In the report, S&P also discussed the uncertainty surrounding recently signed legislation that replaces the Gainesville City Commission with a governor-appointed board in October. The new board will oversee GRU.

“In our view, the strategic direction that the new board will take, and whether it will continue to implement credit-supportive policies, is currently unclear… ,” the report states.

Noted concerns include the future board’s position on:

• Annual utility rate increases previously adopted by the city commission.

• The government services contribution (formerly the general fund transfer).

• The city commission’s long-term plan to reduce GRU’s net debt by $315 million.

• The city’s resolution to achieve net zero, community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 2045.

Standard & Poor’s is one of three agencies that evaluate GRU’s bonds, along with Moody’s Investor Services and Fitch Ratings. GRU is committed to ensuring stable ratings in the future. Read the full report here.  

Message from the General Manager: HB1645

7/03/23

As the General Manager of GRU, I am responsible for ensuring that our customers receive high-quality, essential utility services every moment of every day, and I am absolutely committed to this mission.  

A new law took effect on July 1, 2023, that creates a governor-appointed, five-member board called the Gainesville Regional Utilities Authority to oversee GRU instead of the Gainesville City Commission, GRU’s current governing body. 

I want to assure customers that GRU will remain a public utility and continue to provide safe and reliable electric, water, wastewater, natural gas and telecommunications services to our community. 

The city has a long and storied history of providing utilities to Gainesville, dating back to the 1891 purchase of Boulware Springs to ensure an abundant water supply. In 1912, the city then established a public power system and started producing energy two years later from what is now the J.R. Kelly Generating Station.  

GRU now provides electric service to more than 200,000 people from 10 generating units and serves about 190,000 people with water/wastewater from one water treatment plant and two water reclamation facilities. More than 800 employees at these facilities and others work around the clock to maintain our outstanding record for safety, reliability, environmental stewardship and community involvement.   

A change in who oversees GRU does not alter our mission or commitment to these principles; nor does it change our obligation to financial stability. In the past few months, GRU has committed to reducing its net debt by $315 million over the next 10 years and has worked to develop a sensible formula for the annual funds GRU transfers to the city. The new method reduces the amount of money transferred and will help pay down debt quicker.  

For more than 100 years GRU has served this community. We excel in our ability to navigate change, whether in governance or everyday operations. The utility industry is ever-evolving, and GRU is equipped to meet the challenges of uncertainty with a promise of reliability.  

GRU Lowering Fuel Charges in July

6/26/23

GRU is reducing its electric fuel adjustment on July 1, saving a residential electric customer using 1,000 kWh $15 a month as summer heats up.  

GRU is reducing the electric fuel adjustment from 65 mills to 50 mills, which equates to a $15 savings on a 1,000 kWh residential electric bill and a $12 savings on an 800 kWh residential electric bill. The average GRU customer uses around 800 kWh per month.   

In addition to lowering its electric fuel adjustment, GRU also is reducing its purchased gas adjustment, the charge natural gas customers pay for fuel. A natural gas customer using 25 therms per month will save $5, and the average GRU natural gas customer, who uses 20 therms per month, will save $4. GRU’s natural gas rates already are among the lowest in the state.   

July’s reduction marks the second time in four months GRU has lowered its fuel adjustment. The fuel adjustment recovers costs GRU incurs to purchase fuel and provide power. GRU does not earn a profit on fuel costs.   

“Being able to lower fuel charges in the summer is extremely significant for our customers,” said GRU General Manager Tony Cunningham. “We’ve been able to reduce a 1,000 kWh residential electric bill by $30 over the last four months without sacrificing reliability or safety.”   

In April, GRU reduced its fuel adjustment from 80 mills to 65 mills and its purchased gas adjustment from 90 cents to 70 cents per therm.  

These reductions have a significant impact on GRU customer bills, especially during the summer when energy usage increases in Florida.     

GRU began to gradually increase its fuel charges in November 2021, as numerous factors, including the war in Ukraine, caused natural gas prices to skyrocket worldwide. Monthly fuel costs at GRU increased from approximately $6.6 million in July 2020 to $20 million in July 2022.   

GRU’s decision to lower its electric fuel and purchased gas adjustments in July is based on lower current and projected natural gas prices. The utility assesses fuel charges on a regular basis and adjusts them when appropriate.   

Summer Survival Guide 2023

6/21/23

Americans paid about 14% more for electricity according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In Gainesville, and throughout Florida, record-breaking heat and skyrocketing fuel costs led to higher-than-expected energy bills.  

Fast forward to 2023. Summer is here, and GRU wants to help customers prepare for the seasonal increases in usage that lead to higher utility bills. GRU’s Summer Survival Guide offers tips to beat the heat and fun activities to savor summer while mindfully decreasing energy usage. 

 Did you know a warm bath before bed can lower your body temperature? Or that buttermilk has cooling properties? Did you know that planting shade trees in your yard can reduce air conditioning costs by up to 35 percent and that GRU offers free in-home energy and water surveys? In our Summer Survival Guide, you’ll find energy-saving ideas and fun facts, in addition to a summer savings checklist you can cut out and hang next to the thermostat.  

Download the guide at gru.com/summer or pick up a copy in our lobby at 301 SE 4th Ave. Customers who would like to schedule a free in-home energy and water survey can call 352-393-1460. 

GRU Celebrates Drop Savers Water Conservation Contest Winners from Alachua County Schools

6/6/23

GRU General Manager Tony Cunningham and Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward celebrated the local winners of this year's Drop Savers Water Conservation contest on Tuesday, May 30 at the GRU Administration Building. The students shared the inspiration for their artwork and enjoyed visiting with the mayor and general manager.

Students from around Alachua County are invited to participate in the annual Drop Savers Water Conservation contest each March. In this contest, students create a poster that portrays a water conservation idea in a slogan and/or drawing form. The student entries focus on the importance of conserving our most precious resource - water. 

The local winners from this year’s contest were: Starr W. (kindergarten, Irby Elementary School), Demarius G. (second grade, Glen Springs Elementary School), Roman E. (fourth grade, Glen Springs Elementary School), Falyn W. (sixth grade, Oak View Middle School), and Aliana C. (ninth grade, Buchholz High School). 

GRU has participated in the Drop Savers Water Conservation Contest since 2012. The Florida Section of the American Water Works Association hosts the state-wide contest annually.

Gainesville Wins My Water Pledge Challenge for Water Conservation

5/30/23

Gainesville Regional Utilities is pleased to announce that Gainesville has placed first in its population category in the National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation. 

“This recognition shows how committed Gainesville neighbors are to protecting our water resources and ensuring a sustainable community for the future of Gainesville,” said Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward. 

The Mayor’s Challenge is an annual competition held across the U.S. to raise awareness about water conservation and encourage citizens’ participation in becoming “water-wise.” Citizens pledge to reduce their energy and water waste and consumption, with the winning city from each population category being the one with the greatest percentage of its population taking the pledge.

Residents from across the country pledged to conserve 1.8 billion gallons of water, diminish their usage of single-use plastic water bottles by 4.1 million and reduce landfill waste by 49 million pounds, resulting in potential savings of 6.6 billion pounds of carbon dioxide and 123 million kilowatt-hours of electricity. Gainesville finished ahead of Miramar, Fla., Surprise, Ariz., Broken Arrow, Okla., and Greeley, Colo.

"GRU enjoys participating in this fun challenge to promote water conservation,” said GRU Water/Wastewater Officer Debbie Daugherty. “We are proud of our customers for their continued commitment to conserve this precious resource. The Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation is a great reminder of the many ways we can limit usage and lessen our environmental footprint.”

The contest is held by The Wyland Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting, protecting, and preserving the world’s oceans, waterways, and marine life through educational programs, public art projects, and community events.

The Wyland Foundation will award hundreds of prizes to participants from each of the winning cities. The prize pool for each city includes:

• A grand prize of $3,000 toward home utility payments;

• 50 Toro Bluetooth hose-end watering timers; 

• 50 Zenni ReMakes sustainable glasses

• 50 gift cards to Hobie Surf Shop 

• 50 Petal reusable hand soap bottles and soap pods

• 25 $25 e-gift cards for home improvement stores; and 

• 10 Wyland Foundation recycled logo hats.

Individual prize winners will be announced between May 1, 2023, and August 31, 2023. 

GRU is delighted to have helped our community participate in this competition along with citizens from over 2,000 cities across the country. Gainesville’s victory affirms that our utility and our community are exemplary in committing to water conservation.

For additional information, please view the Wyland Foundation’s press release HERE.

The Heat is on: Sign up for a Free Home Survey  

5/23/23

If you walk over to your thermostat and set it at 78 degrees or higher this summer, you will have taken the No. 1 step toward lowering your utility bill. 

“At GRU we promote the cooling setting of 78 degrees or higher during summer months,” says Gainesville Regional Utilities Residential Efficiency Program Coordinator Brandi Shatto. “When outside temperatures exceed 90 degrees, your home will feel nice and cool at 78.” 

“The more your A/C runs, the more electricity it’s using, and the more electricity it’s using, the higher your bill could be,” Shatto says. 

As summer approaches, GRU is encouraging customers to take advantage of free home surveys conducted by the utility’s Energy & Business Services Department. These surveys help identify potential low- to no-cost ways to save energy and water throughout the year, but they can be particularly helpful in the summer. 

Many factors influence the amount of water and energy you use, including the age and condition of your home appliances and your regular household activities. Conducting an energy and water survey is the first and most effective step you can take to lower your utility bill and improve the comfort of your home.  

At your request, GRU’s trained staff will inspect your home and its equipment at no charge. A GRU conservation analyst will check windows, doors, ductwork, insulation, appliances and other equipment and will offer customized tips for making your home more efficient. 

Surveys take between 30 minutes and three hours, depending on the size of the home. Homeowners must be present for the duration of the inspection. 

The thorough inspection includes checking the refrigerator, freezer, washer, dryer, hot water heater, A/C, attic insulation, vents, crawl spaces under the home, fireplace and seals around doors and windows.  

A technician will also analyze your latest bill and billing history. “Abnormal spikes or a decrease in your bill are the first things we look for when reviewing your bill,” says Shatto. GRU’s experts also take into consideration how seasonal changes affect your bill.  

“For example, if your water and electricity – or gas if you have a gas water heater – spike at the same time or slowly increase together, that is a sign of a hot water leak. Your bill gives us an idea of what to look for even before we get out there.”  

To schedule a free home energy and water survey, please call our Energy and Business Services Department at 352-393-1460 . Please note: Due to high demand, our survey schedules may fill up quickly. 

 Energy-saving measures you can take prior to a survey:  

• Set your thermostat at 78 degrees in the summer, and bump it up to the low 80s when leaving for the day to keep the unit from turning on as frequently.   

• Make sure that your A/C is working as efficiently as possible. Check your filter monthly and change it as needed. A dirty air filter could leave your A/C running more often to get the air needed to cool your home. It will have to work much harder if that filter has hair dust and dirt in it blocking airflow.  

• Turn your water heater down to 120 degrees. This adjustment can potentially save you up to $400 a year. 

• Use cold water to wash your clothes. About 85 percent of the energy used for washing clothes goes to heating the water. This can save you up to $60 a year. 

• Visit this guide for more ways to save energy in your home room by room.   

GRU Committed to Reliable Service

5/15/23

With a bill that would create a new independent board to oversee Gainesville Regional Utilities on the governor’s desk, GRU General Manager Tony Cunningham is ensuring customers, employees, vendors and all other partners that a change in governance would not alter the utility’s obligation to deliver safe and reliable services and honor all agreements.  

“Our duty is to provide essential everyday services like electric, water and wastewater treatment at all times, day or night, rain or shine, 24/7/365,” Cunningham says. “Make no mistake, every one of our employees is aware of this and committed to fulfilling this responsibility. That is our sole focus.”   

Filed by Rep. Chuck Clemons in April, House Bill 1645 would replace GRU’s current governing body, the Gainesville City Commission, with a governor-appointed, five-member board called the Gainesville Regional Utilities Authority.  

According to the bill, the Authority would be created with the “purpose of managing, operating, controlling, and otherwise having broad authority with respect to the utilities owned by the City of Gainesville.” 

While members of the Gainesville City Commission have publicly opposed the bill, Mayor Harvey Ward echoes Cunningham’s commitment to providing reliable utility services under any and all circumstances.  

“As mayor, and as an owner and customer of GRU, I know that it’s critically important that the lights stay on and the water flows where it’s supposed to, when it’s supposed to,” Ward says. “All of that is non-negotiable, and I will continue to work hard to support the women and men who make sure that happens. While I have disagreements and concerns with the process of this bill, please make no mistake that the continued excellent delivery of services from our municipal utility is my priority.” 

To underscore this point, Cunningham lists a few of the numerous ongoing projects that will improve future reliability and efficiency, including a new customer information system that will shorten transaction times, smart meter installations over the next two years, a groundwater recharge wetland park in southwest Gainesville, an integrated resource plan that will help determine the utility’s future energy needs and upgrades to substation transformers that will further ensure reliable power.  

“GRU has provided these essential services to Gainesville for more than 100 years,” Cunningham says. “We’re all proud to be a part of this legacy and to ensure that GRU remains a safe and reliable public utility for future generations.”  

Drink Up, Gainesville

5/10/23

In conjunction with Drinking Water Week, the 2022 Water Quality Report is here! Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) is proud to serve our community safe and high-quality drinking water. The water that flows through the pipes of our Gainesville community comes from the Floridan aquifer and is treated at the Murphree Water Treatment Plant to ensure its quality and safety. The Murphree Water Treatment Plant provides our Gainesville community with nearly 25 million gallons of water every day, and it operates around the clock.

Every year, GRU publishes the Water Quality Report as required by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection in accordance with the Safe Drinking Water Act. GRU treats water pumped from the Floridan aquifer. The treatment process includes oxidation, lime softening, recarbonation, filtration, fluoridation and disinfection. This water quality report is submitted to customers as required by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection in accordance with the Safe Drinking Water Act.

GRU Meter Upgrades Progressing

5/5/23

Gainesville Regional Utilities has installed or retrofitted approximately 19,500 electric, water, and gas meters or modules this year as it moves forward with its Meter Upgrade Project. These new units will allow customers to track energy usage and water consumption more effectively.  

As GRU continues to install digital meters, or what’s technically known as Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), here is what you need to know:   

Meter change-outs take only a few minutes and result in minimal service disruption, according to AMI Deployment Manager Doug Hoffman. Natural gas meters, he said, get modules added to them, so it’s a slightly different process.  

“We pull up to a residence where they can see us and the GRU truck,” Hoffman said. “Our installer will wear a GRU shirt, hard hat, gloves, and safety glasses and be well-identified. They’re going to knock on your door, ring the doorbell, and we will call if it looks like someone is home.”  

Hoffman said the electric meter change-out will result in a 3- to 5-second outage because the process is a quick removal of the old meter before putting a new one in its place.  

At a recent installation at an apartment complex in Gainesville, AMI Installer Nathan Espinoza explained the process as he replaced a panel of six meters in less than 15 minutes. Fellow trainee installer Nate Marshall assisted Espinoza.  

Espinoza starts by reading the current meter number and taking a current read, which Marshall records on a form with the new meter identification information. Espinoza removes the old meter and replaces it with the new AMI meter, seals the meter box with a blue seal that denotes AMI, and then the new meter gets processed through GRU’s billing system.  

Data collector devices throughout the city will relay the data to the AMI Head-End System and Meter Data Management System for processing.   

Once the AMI system goes live, GRU customers can access and monitor their consumption via a self-service Web portal, empowering them to make informed decisions about budgeting and conservation.  

The benefits of AMI include improving the accuracy of meter reads, detecting meter failures and water leaks quickly, quicker response to power outages, remote turn on/offs, energy theft detection, and eliminating on-site meter readings.  

GRU Electric Measurement Technician Joe Barber said the AMI installation schedule is going as planned and that “customers have been accepting and happy about the meter upgrades.”  

GRU Upgrades Substation Transformer

5/2/23

GRU and contractors from Rountree Transport & Rigging moved a 114,000-pound transformer into place Monday, May 1, at GRU’s Sugarfoot Substation.  

The transformer, which replaces a 50-year-old model, is part of a seven-year project to upgrade GRU substations with higher-capacity, more efficient units that can accommodate system growth and improve reliability. Transformers “step-down” the power from high-voltage transmission lines to make the electricity safe for homes and businesses.

This latest unit arrived via tractor trailer from North Carolina Monday morning and was in place by 3:30 p.m. thanks to an innovative technique that uses hydraulics, steel rails and the secret ingredient, Palmolive dish soap — but only the orange variety.   

This is the fifth transformer GRU has replaced during the life of this project. Staff expects it to be fully installed and operational by Memorial Day.  

GRU Lowering Fuel Charges

3/23/23

GRU is reducing its electric fuel adjustment and purchased gas adjustment charges beginning April 1, bringing well-timed relief to customers as summer approaches.

•  A residential electric customer using the industry standard 1,000 kWh will save $15 on their monthly bill. GRU is reducing the electric fuel charge from 80 to 65 mills.

•  The average GRU residential electric customer using 800 kWh will save $12 on their monthly bill.

• A residential natural gas customer using the industry standard 25 therms will save $5 on their monthly bill. GRU is reducing its purchased gas adjustment from 90 to 70 therms.

GRU makes no money on fuel charges; these are pass-through costs used to cover the utility’s fuel expenses.

GRU began to gradually increase its fuel charges in November 2021, as numerous factors such as the global disruption of fuel supply due to the war in Ukraine caused natural gas prices to skyrocket worldwide. Monthly fuel costs at GRU went from approximately $6.6 million in July 2020 to $20 million in July 2022.

GRU’s decision to lower its electric fuel and purchased gas adjustments in April is based on lower natural gas prices and an improved balance in GRU’s fuel account. The utility assesses fuel charges on a regular basis and makes adjustments when appropriate.

For more information, visit gru.com/fueladjustment.

GRU Receives $22.5 Million Wastewater Grant

2/15/23

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection awarded GRU a $22.5 million grant through its Wastewater Grant Program on Friday, Feb. 10.

The grant will help fund the Main Street Water Reclamation Facility Enhanced Nutrient Removal and Expansion Project. The project will modernize the facility to improve nutrient removal and expand its capacity from 7.5 million gallons per day to 10 million gallons per day to accommodate for growth in the community.

The project, which begins construction in 2024, works in conjunction with Sweetwater Wetlands Park to improve water quality and to provide a source of clean water to Paynes Prairie. 

The grant is funded through the state’s Wastewater Grant Program, which awarded more than $240 million to 36 wastewater-related projects. GRU received the second-largest award.

“We are grateful to Governor DeSantis and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for providing this funding to help us in this important project to protect water quality,” said GRU General Manager Tony Cunningham. “This project helps ensure that we can continue to provide safe and reliable utility services while also benefiting the environment.”     

The Main Street Water Reclamation Facility was originally built in 1930 and then remodeled and expanded in the 1950s. It is one of two GRU wastewater treatment facilities.

Cunningham New GRU General Manager

2/03/23

Tony Cunningham was promoted to general manager of GRU on Jan. 19 after holding the interim role for approximately one year. The Gainesville City Commission approved the terms of his contract on Feb. 2.

Cunningham, who has worked at GRU for more than 21 years, served on GRU’s leadership team as the utility’s water/wastewater officer prior to being appointed interim GM in January 2021.

In his role as interim general manager, Cunningham has focused on building strong relationships and navigating unpredictable workplace challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. In the upcoming year, he will ensure that GRU continues its long history of providing safe, reliable and essential utility services to the community while overseeing numerous projects to further improve GRU’s reliability, safety, customer experience and environmental stewardship. 

Cunningham, a University of Florida grad and engineer for 28 years, is focused on continuing to develop a sustainable utility model that balances economics, environment and people.

“We have amazing employees, great leadership and so many important projects on the horizon that will make a difference in our community,” Cunningham said. “We take great pride in providing essential services to our customers and in being a municipal utility that adds value to our area in so many different ways.”

Meter Reading and Billing Back on Track

1/11/23

Like many employers across the country, GRU has faced staffing shortages due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We have experienced particular challenges hiring and retaining meter readers over the past several months, leading to a number of additional challenges, ranging from meter estimations to billing delays.

We have been working day and night to address these issues and have already employed a number of successful solutions, including:

• Halting mass-estimations of meters.

• Working with an outside agency to make sure we always maintain appropriate staffing levels.

• Transitioning temporary employees to permanent positions to improve retention.

• Reviewing additional compensation options to improve retention further.

GRU has also enacted measures to address billing delays and anticipates resolving any current issues over the next couple of weeks. Among the steps we have taken:

• Shifting staff from complementary departments to assist in processing delayed bills.

• Working weekends and holidays to resolve existing issues.

• Increasing the billing staff by two full-time employees.

• Working with a contractor to assist with any remaining backlog.

We will continue to monitor these areas and assess staffing levels to make sure GRU is providing the service our customers expect and deserve. As we move toward digital meters over the next couple of years, not only will our customers gain more control over their usage but challenges like these will cease to exist. Customers should visit gru.com/billestimates or call 352-334-3434 for more information.

Meter reading issues have led to billing challenges nationwide:

• New Orleans, LA: S&WB billing issues caused by meter reader shortage, director says

• Tulsa, OK: Worker shortage blamed for odd bills and lack of answers

• Amarillo, TX: Xcel Energy faces shortage of meter readers, errors in previous bill estimates

• Alexandria, LA: Mayor: 'The last reading that most of our citizens got was in May'

It’s Getting Cold! Follow These Tips to Save Energy

12/19/22

Did you know heating your home can require twice as much energy as cooling it? If the temperature is below 40 degrees, it can be more expensive to heat your home to 68 degrees than to cool it from 90 to 78 degrees.

With forecasters predicting multiple days of below-freezing temperatures this week, now is the time to consider energy conservation. Follow these tips from our energy experts to stay comfortable this winter while saving energy and money.

Heat slowly to be efficient
If you have an "emergency heat" setting on your thermostat, that means you have a heat pump. To use your heat pump efficiently, raise the temperature on your thermostat only one or two degrees at a time. More significant changes in the setting may activate heat strips, which can use up to 5% more energy.

Set temp to 68 degrees or lower
Keep your thermostat at 68 degrees when you’re home and turn it down even further at night or when you’re leaving for the day. Keep your body warm with extra blankets and heavier clothing.

Simple home improvements increase efficiency
A little maintenance around the house goes a long way toward keeping heating costs down. Check your air filter monthly and change it when needed. Weatherstrip doors and caulk windows to keep the cold air out and the hot air in. Keep your fireplace damper closed when not in use to avoid a draft.

For more energy-saving tips, resources and programs, visit GRU.com/SaveEnergy. Local programs are available to help lighten the burden of high costs for low-income families.

GRU Seeking Partnering Contractors for Efficiency Program

10/17/22

GRU’s LEEPplus program is in need of local contractors to install energy-efficient appliances and complete insulation projects.

LEEPplus assists low- and (now) moderate-income customers with home improvements that can reduce energy use and improve comfort and energy efficiency. The program was launched in 2007 and has since serviced more than 1,800 homes.

In May, GRU made the following improvements to LEEPplus:

• Increased the amount of money spent on energy upgrades to up to $10,000 per home;

• Raised the program’s income threshold so more customers are eligible to receive home upgrades;

• Made the program available to renters.

GRU expanded and revised LEEPplus after the Gainesville City Commission authorized dedicating $1.9 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to the program. Under the new guidelines:

• Renters are eligible with homeowner approval;

• GRU has increased its spending budget per home;

• Income levels are up to 120 percent of the median family income as per HUD guidelines;

• Homeowners can receive assistance every 10 years;

• Homes 10 years old or older qualify.

Once deemed eligible, electricians, HVAC/AC installers, plumbers and general contractors work with GRU to determine the improvements that best suit their homes. These may include:

• Replacing or servicing central air conditioning and heating systems;

• Repairing and sealing duct systems;

• Installing additional insulation;

• Replacing the water heater;

• Upgrading electrical service panels;

• Installing a programmable thermostat;

• Weatherstripping and caulking doors and windows;

• Providing up to 10 LEDs.

The expansion of the program means more contractors are needed to install the upgrades. To learn how current partnering contractors are using the LEEPplus program for steady income and to grow their programs click here.

To learn more about the LEEPplus expansion, visit gru.com/leep.

GRU Waives Late Fees through October

10/04/22

GRU will continue to waive late fees through October to help lessen the burden of high utility bills related to increased fuel costs. GRU originally waived late fees through September but has decided to extend this policy for at least one more month.

While costs for everything from rent to groceries continue to rise nationwide, Florida utility customers have seen particularly dramatic increases in electric bills due to extremely high natural gas prices.  

This price spike has unfortunately coincided with the time of year when GRU customers use more air conditioning. In general, North Central Florida electric utility customers use more energy June through September. 

“We are deeply concerned about the pressure this puts on customers and continue to look for solutions,” said GRU Interim General Manager Tony Cunningham. “We hope waiving late fees helps alleviate some stress.” 

In addition to waiving late fees through October, GRU will continue to educate customers about ways to conserve energy and lower usage. Please visit gru.com/SaveEnergy for tips, resources and information about assistance programs.  

GRU Asks Customers to Conserve Water During Storm

9/28/22

Hurricane Ian is forecast to produce heavy rains for an extended period. This puts tremendous stress on our wastewater treatment system, as rainwater inundates our collection system and fills up pipes. This is especially prevalent in areas of standing floodwater.

We ask customers to help avoid wastewater overflows in your homes and our environment by reducing their water usage during the storm. To help conserve, please follow these tips:

• Only run your dishwasher when necessary.

• Only run your clothes washer when necessary.

• Avoid long showers or baths.

• Only flush your toilet when necessary.

For your health and safety, it is important to avoid standing floodwater whenever possible. If you experience a sewer backup or overflow, please call GRU at 352-334-2711.

GRU Suspends Disconnects During Hurricane Ian

9/27/22

For the safety of our community and employees, GRU is taking the following measures:

• GRU has suspended customer disconnections for nonpayment through Sunday, Oct. 2, as our community prepares for Hurricane Ian.

• GRU’s lobby and drive-thru will be closed starting Wednesday, Sept. 28, and will remain closed through Friday, Sept. 30.

Customers should report all power outages, emergencies and downed power lines to 352-334-2871. Follow @GRUStormCentral on Twitter for the latest storm updates. 

• GRU is also advising customers to take preparatory measures:  

  • If you have special medical needs or life-sustaining equipment, make sure you have an evacuation plan in place prior to the onset of the storm. Call Alachua County Emergency Management at 352-264-6500 and visit floridadisaster.org for evacuation information.

  • Ensure you have a complete emergency kit that includes first aid supplies, a battery-powered radio, tarps, batteries and flashlights, a three-day supply of any needed prescription medicine, baby food and diapers, pet food, canned food and drinking water. We recommend filling bottles or jugs with GRU tap water.

  • If you use a portable generator: DON’T run a generator in the house; DON’T run a generator in the garage; and DON’T plug a generator directly into a house’s main electrical system. The first two could lead to suffocation and the third could send an electrical charge back to the power grid, which would create an electrocution hazard for utility workers. DO set up generators outside in a well-ventilated area, and DO plug individual appliances directly into the generator.

  • Prior to the storm, turn off or disconnect all outside electric appliances, such as pool pumps. If you plan to evacuate, turn off the main switch on your circuit breaker panel. Do not remove your electric meter. 

GRU Urges Customers to Prepare for Hurricane Ian

9/26/22

Gainesville Regional Utilities is prepared to respond to Hurricane Ian through its emergency operations plan and urges customers to prepare for the storm’s arrival. 

General weather conditions in Alachua County may start to deteriorate as early as Thursday morning, Sept. 29, as Hurricane Ian approaches Florida. Forecasts anticipate that Ian may weaken before landfall due to wind shear in the area but still produce strong, sustained winds and heavy rains.

Depending on its path, Hurricane Ian is capable of causing widespread power outages and significant property damage. In addition, restoration may be hampered by flooding, downed trees or other obstacles. Crews are prepared to work long hours after the storm passes, restoring service to customers as quickly and as safely as possible.

After the storm, our first priorities for service restoration include hospitals, law enforcement, power plants, water plants, wastewater plants, lift stations and fire stations. Our crews then work to fix problems that will benefit the most people in the shortest amount of time. See our storm restoration guide.

Customers should report all power outages, emergencies and downed power lines to 352-334-2871. Follow @GRUStormCentral on Twitter for the latest storm updates. 

GRU is advising customers to take preparatory measures:  

• If you have special medical needs or life-sustaining equipment, make sure you have an evacuation plan in place prior to the onset of the storm. Call Alachua County Emergency Management at 352-264-6500 and visit floridadisaster.org for evacuation information.

• Ensure you have a complete emergency kit that includes first aid supplies, a battery-powered radio, tarps, batteries and flashlights, a three-day supply of any needed prescription medicine, baby food and diapers, pet food, canned food and drinking water. We recommend filling bottles or jugs with GRU tap water.

• If you use a portable generator: DON’T run a generator in the house; DON’T run a generator in the garage; and DON’T plug a generator directly into a house’s main electrical system. The first two could lead to suffocation and the third could send an electrical charge back to the power grid, which would create an electrocution hazard for utility workers. DO set up generators outside in a well-ventilated area, and DO plug individual appliances directly into the generator.

• Prior to the storm, turn off or disconnect all outside electric appliances, such as pool pumps. If you plan to evacuate, turn off the main switch on your circuit breaker panel. Do not remove your electric meter. 

City Commission Approves GRU Budget

9/21/22

The Gainesville City Commission approved GRU’s fiscal year 2023 budget Thursday, Sept. 22. The $463 million budget supports GRU’s mission of providing safe and reliable utility services in an environmentally responsible manner.

The budget includes previously agreed-upon rate increases for electric and wastewater service but no increases for natural gas or water. The average GRU residential electric customer (800 kWh) will see a $2.42 increase on their monthly bill and the average wastewater customer (5 kgal) will see a $2.25 increase. Both increases are below the rate of inflation.

During the 2022 budget cycle, the City Commission agreed to gradually increase electric and wastewater rates through 2027 to rebuild reserves to predetermined target levels. Anything above those levels would be used to pay down debt.

The commission also agreed to reduce the general fund transfer to the city by $2 million each year through 2027. The general fund transfer, or GFT, is utility revenue transferred to the city’s general fund to pay for a broad range of services, including fire, police, parks and recreation and public works. GRU will transfer $34.2 million in FY23.

This year’s budget also includes key investments in meter technology, upgrades to GRU’s billing and customer information system and several projects to address aging infrastructure throughout the utility. The Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project involves the installation of digital, remote meters that will offer customers more control over usage.

“This year’s budget puts us in a position to continue providing essential services to the community at the high level they expect and deserve,” said interim General Manager Tony Cunningham. “It will be exciting to see the positive impact upgrades to our metering technology have on customers over the next couple of years.”    

GRU Returns Utility Deposits to Help with Summer Bills

8/8/22

GRU is returning utility deposits early to support customers as electric costs rise due to dramatic increases in fuel prices and high usage related to extreme heat.

Customers who have held an account for more than 12 months as of Aug. 2 and who have maintained a satisfactory payment history over that period will receive a credit on their bill in the amount of their deposit. GRU normally holds deposits for 24 months and may return them based on payment history.

This is the latest step GRU has taken to address high summer electric bills. Last week, GRU announced it would waive late fees accrued between the months of July and September.

While costs for everything from rent to groceries continue to rise nationwide, Florida utility customers have seen particularly dramatic increases in electric bills due largely to skyrocketing natural gas prices. GRU uses natural gas to generate electricity.

This spike in natural gas prices has coincided with the time of year when GRU customers use more air conditioning. In general, North Central Florida electric utility customers use more energy between the months of June and September.

“We’re doing everything we can to assist our customers during these challenging times,” said GRU Chief Customer Officer Kinn’zon Hutchinson. “We’re all in this together.”

In addition to these steps, GRU will continue to educate customers about ways to conserve energy and lower usage. Please visit gru.com/SaveEnergy for tips, resources and information about assistance programs or call customer service at 352-334-3434.

GRU Waives Late Fees through Summer

8/3/22

GRU is waiving late fees accrued between the months of July and September to help lessen the burden of high utility bills related to extreme summer heat and increased fuel costs.

While costs for everything from rent to groceries continue to rise nationwide, Florida utility customers have seen particularly dramatic increases in electric bills due to extremely high natural gas prices.

This price spike has unfortunately coincided with the time of year when GRU customers use more air conditioning. In general, North Central Florida electric utility customers use more energy June through September.

“We are deeply concerned about the pressure this puts on customers and continue to look for solutions,” said GRU Interim General Manager Tony Cunningham. “We hope waiving late fees through our hottest season helps alleviate some stress.”

In addition to waiving late fees through Sept. 30, 2022, GRU will continue to educate customers about ways to conserve energy and lower usage. Please visit gru.com/SaveEnergy for tips, resources and information about assistance programs or call customer service at 352-334-3434.

Take GRU’s Summer Savers Challenge to Reduce Energy Usage

6/16/22

As natural gas prices continue to rise, resulting in higher-than-expected utility bills across the country, GRU is empowering customers to lower energy bills by taking our Summer Savers Challenge. Take the challenge and you will be eligible to win a $50 gas card!

To participate in the Summer Savers Challenge, visit gru.com/summersavers and pledge to follow these expert energy-saving tips:

• Step 1: Set your thermostat to78 degrees. For each degree you lower the temperature from this recommended setting, you can increase your bill up to 4%.

• Step 2: Set your thermostat to “auto” instead of “on,” so the fan doesn’t run continuously. This can save you $28 a month.

• Step 3: Turn your thermostat up 2 degrees when leaving your home for more than two hours. This can save 10% on your energy bill.

• Step 4: Turn your water heater down to 120 degrees. This adjustment can save you $400 a year.

• Step 5: Use cold water to wash your clothes. About 85% of the energy used for washing clothes goes to heating the water. This can save you $60 a year.

By making these five simple adjustments to your routine, you can save hundreds of dollars on utility bills, which tend to be highest in Florida between the months of June and September. To help assure customer success, our residential efficiency experts have assembled tips that can help lower bills without sacrificing comfort.

In addition to our Summer Savers Challenge, GRU customers can find tips on conserving water and energy at gru.com/saveenergy. Customers may also be eligible for our LEEPplus program, which provides energy-efficient home upgrades to qualifying Gainesville residents.

GRU’s LEEPplus Program Expanding to Help More Customers

5/2/22

GRU’s Low-income Energy Efficiency Program (LEEPplus) is expanding to benefit and serve more GRU customers. Beginning Monday, May 2, GRU made the following improvements to LEEPplus:

• Increasing the amount of money spent on energy upgrades to up to $10,000 per home;

• Raising the program’s income threshold so more customers are eligible to receive home upgrades;

• Making the program available to renters.

LEEPplus assists low- and (now) moderate-income customers with home improvements that can reduce energy use and improve comfort and energy efficiency. The program was launched in 2007 and has since serviced more than 1,800 homes.

GRU expanded and revised LEEPplus after the Gainesville City Commission authorized dedicating $1.9 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to the program. Under the new guidelines:

• Renters are eligible with homeowner approval;

• GRU has increased its spending budget per home;

• Income levels are up to 120% of median family income as per HUD guidelines;

• Homeowners can receive assistance every 10 years;

• ·Homes 10 years old or older qualify.

Once deemed eligible, participants work with GRU to determine the improvements that best suit their homes. These may include:

• Replacing or servicing central air conditioning and heating systems;

• Repairing and sealing duct systems;

• Installing additional insulation;

• Replacing the water heater;

• Upgrading electrical service panels;

• Installing a programmable thermostat;

• Weatherstripping and caulking doors and windows;

• Providing up to 10 LEDs.

To learn more about the LEEPplus expansion, visit gru.com/leep.

What LEEPplus recipients have to say about the program:

“I cannot thank you enough for your assistance and for those who created this program to assist those who live in older homes and do not have the resources to make the necessary improvements to prevent astronomical energy bills or health issues due to too much heat and/or cold.” – Joy B.

“This team merits all the Kudos possible! I am pleased and grateful beyond words for the interest shown regarding solving my air conditioning air ducts and water heater problems and the excellent work done.” – Marla R.

Gainesville, Fl., No. 1 in the Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation

4/27/22

Gainesville is currently ranked No. 1 in its population category for the National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation! With only a few days left, take the pledge today to keep us in first place. When you pledge to save water you also register to win hundreds of prizes, including $3,000 toward your utilities. 

The Mayor's Challenge is a friendly competition between cities across the U.S. to see who can be the most “water-wise” by pledging to conserve water. The challenge ends April 30. Now more than ever, saving water and protecting our natural resources is crucial.

To participate in the challenge, visit mywaterpledge.com, then click on Take the Pledge, and enter Gainesville, Florida. 

Spring Cleaning Checklist From GRU

4/14/22

Spring has arrived and it’s the perfect time to get started on your spring cleaning! Our energy experts want to remind GRU customers about the importance of cleaning their major appliances. Cleaning out these household items can help them run more smoothly, efficiently and economically as well as get rid of debris that may have collected throughout the year.

• Oven: Wash oven burner pans and the interior with mild detergent. Remove and wash your range hood filter. Check the door gasket to make sure it has a tight seal.

• Toilet: Replace warped or leaky toilet flappers. Only flush the 3 P's: Paper, Pee and Poo!

• Water Heater: Check the temperature of the water coming from your water heater. 120 degrees is best.

• Windows: Check the caulk on your windows and consider adding window film to those receiving direct sunlight.

• Fans and Window A/C Units: Clean ceiling fans, and turn them off when you leave the room. Consider replacing outdated ceiling fans or window A/C units with newer ENERGY STAR® units.

• Refrigerator: Clean the door gasket with a baking soda solution. Unplug the unit, clean the coils and vacuum around the unit. 

• Faucet: Add aerators to your faucet and repair any dripping fixtures.

• A/C Units and Plants: Clear away plants and other items from the condenser unit and drain line of your air conditioner. 

For more information, please visit gru.com/SpringCleaning.

GRU’s Recharge Wetland Reaches Milestone

2/22/22

GRU moved a step closer to constructing a groundwater recharge wetland park in southwest Gainesville last week when the City Commission unanimously approved the utility’s ranking of the teams who submitted proposals to design and build the wetland.

This is the latest significant milestone in the construction of the wetland. GRU will initiate contract negotiations with the top-ranked design-build firm, Wharton-Smith, Inc. After a contract is executed, GRU and the design-build team will begin collaboration workshops with project partners, community stakeholders and our neighbors on the design of the park.

First initiated in 2021 with the purchase of 75 acres off Parker Road, the wetland park is a collaborative project with cost-share partners the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD) and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), as well as Alachua County, who will manage public access to the park.

The wetland park will reduce our community's environmental footprint, increase our capacity to beneficially reuse water and help support flows in the Santa Fe and Ichetucknee rivers and their springs. Along with the environmental benefits, the park will also provide a beautiful space for the community to enjoy educational opportunities. The wetland is expected to be completed in 2025.

“We are excited about reaching this important milestone and the expertise this design-build team brings,” said GRU Engineer and Utility Designer Kristen Sealey. “We look forward to creating this project collaboratively with the team, our project partners and community stakeholders.”

GRU Receives State Environmental Grant

2/7/22

The State of Florida awarded the City of Gainesville and GRU a $4.7 million grant to fund projects designed to make GRU’s wastewater collection system operate more efficiently during flooding caused by major storms. 

Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the award Tuesday, Feb. 1. GRU was one of 113 environmental resilience projects to receive funding through the Resilient Florida Funding Program. 

GRU’s award covers about 40% of an $11.9 million multi-phase project whose ultimate goal is to make GRU’s wastewater collection system better able to handle major storms. Flooded streets during these storms can cause rainwater to get into GRU’s sanitary sewer system, leading to sanitary sewer overflows, which can be hazardous to the environment. GRU’s projects address this by:

• Increasing the pumping capacity at major wastewater lift stations (pumps that lift wastewater to a higher elevation);

• Upgrading control systems to improve the reliability of lift stations; 

• Installing new force main piping to increase the flow capacity of the system and provide redundancy (force mains are underground pipes that transport wastewater from lift stations to GRU’s treatment plants). 

GRU, which maintains approximately 857 miles of wastewater lines, plans on completing these projects over the next three years.  

“This project is a huge step forward in our ongoing efforts to make our wastewater system more resilient for the years to come,” says GRU Supervising Utility Engineer Rick Hutton. “We very much appreciate the commitment from Governor DeSantis and the legislature in helping to fund resiliency improvements in our community and across the state.”  

GRU Sending Mutual Aid Assistance

1/21/22

GRU is providing mutual aid support to Santee Cooper in South Carolina in anticipation of a sleet and ice storm forecast to move through the region this evening. GRU sent 18 workers, including eight lineworkers, a coordinator, a manager, a safety coordinator, a fleet technician, a line clearance coordinator and five Asplundh trees trimmers. The GRU team staged in Moncks Corner, South Carolina, last evening and is awaiting assignment.

GRU Crafting Response to Preliminary Audit Report; Auditor Updates Key Language

Updated 12/9/21

The state Auditor General responded to GRU’s request to make a clearer distinction between preliminary findings related to GRU and other branches of city government.  Specifically, The Auditor General added the following language to their findings:

“For the 2017-18, 2018-19, 2019-20 fiscal years, the GRU obtained financial statement audits, the results of which were included in the City’s audited financial statements with a reference to the work of the other auditor.  The standalone GRU audits for those fiscal years did not include any significant deficiencies or material weaknesses.”

The Auditor General also updated two footnotes related to GRU’s budget process:

“The City Commission separately approved the GRU annual budgets (for example, City of Gainesville Resolution No. 190368 for the 2019-20 fiscal year GRU budget), and GRU budget documents indicate that the GRU budget is presented in accordance with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Uniform System of Accounts.”

“The GRU posts quarterly Budget to Actual Comparison reports on its Web site, and the reports are presented using the same FERC basis of accounting used in the City Commission-approved budget, which enables readers to readily determine whether GRU resources were expended within the budgeted amounts consistent with City Commission intent.”

12/8/21

GRU is preparing its response to the Florida Auditor General’s preliminary and tentative findings and recommendations that may be included in an operational audit of the City of Gainesville conducted over the past two years.  The Auditor General’s office released its preliminary findings on Nov. 22, and GRU has 30 days to submit a response.

Among GRU’s suggestions is that the Auditor General make a clearer distinction between preliminary findings related to GRU and other branches of city government. The preliminary report’s assertion that “City personnel did not have the knowledge and capability required to prepare GAAP [Generally Accepted Accounting Principles] financial statements for the 2017-18, 2018-19, and 2019-20 fiscal years” was unrelated to GRU but could easily be misconstrued.

GRU has produced all financial statements and reports on time and in conformity with the highest professional standards and consistent with GAAP standards, when applicable. GRU’s finance staff is composed of qualified and experienced professionals and engages outside auditors to audit the financial statements, as governed by the utility’s bond resolutions and continuing disclosure requirements.  

GRU also will comment on preliminary findings related to debt and the utility’s general fund transfer to the city. The Auditor General recommended GRU, with the City Commission’s approval, institute a plan to reduce debt. GRU’s current administration, along with the commission, started addressing debt in 2017 with the buyout of the GREC biomass power purchase agreement, which reduced the utility’s total liabilities, including debt, by $300 million.

Since that time, GRU and the commission have aggressively developed policies to reduce the general fund transfer in a fiscally responsible manner over time, to maintain specified levels of cash reserves, reduce debt through cash defeasance and implement a formal plan to meet targeted credit metrics.  GRU and the City Commission are - and have been - working proactively together to maintain and improve the financial health of GRU and the city.  

Fuel Charges Increase as Gas Prices Surge

10/28/21

Due to a global spike in natural gas prices, the Electric Fuel Adjustment and Purchased Gas Adjustment portions of GRU customer bills will increase starting Nov. 1, 2021. These increases come as utilities across the nation warn of higher-than-expected electric bills.

Fuel adjustments are a “pass-through” cost based on how much GRU pays for the fuel it uses to generate electricity or provide gas. GRU closely monitors these costs and evaluates whether the utility needs to raise or lower them based on market conditions. As a pass-through cost, GRU makes no money on fuel charges.

GRU will continue to evaluate fuel costs based on actual and projected expenses and anticipates the need for further increases as we enter the winter months, when cold weather typically drives up the price of natural gas, coal and oil.    

To lessen the burden on GRU customers, GRU is spreading increases over months where usage and electric bills are historically lower. GRU has also been able to mitigate natural gas usage by generating more power from its Deerhaven Renewable Generating Station, which runs on biomass fuel. In the third quarter of fiscal year 2021, more than 35% of the GRU’s power came from renewable sources. The planned addition of a 50-megawatt solar facility will further boost GRU’s future fuel flexibility when the cost of one fuel unexpectedly surges.

Below are the bill impacts associated with this increase in fuel charges.

800 kWh Residential Electric Customer (GRU average customer)

• Current: $103.36

• November: $111.76

1,000 kWh Residential Electric Customer (Industry standard)

• Current: $129.59

• November: $139.59

25 Therm Residential Gas Customer

• Current: $32.74

• November: $36.49

Visit gru.com/fueladjustment for frequently asked questions.

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City Approves GRU’s FY22 Budget

9/24/21

The Gainesville City Commission approved GRU rate increases for the electric, water and wastewater systems during the final reading of the budget ordinance on Thursday, Sept. 23. New rates go into effect on Oct. 1, 2021.

Rate increases support GRU’s overall financial health in addition to its continued commitment to safety, reliability, community involvement and environmental stewardship. More than 30 percent of the power GRU generates comes from renewable resources, 70 percent of the water we draw from the Floridan aquifer is later returned to the aquifer and 100% of the wastewater we collect is beneficially reused

This is the first time since 2019 GRU has raised rates despite increased expenses and relatively flat revenues. GRU felt it was inappropriate to request rate increases last year due to COVID-19.  

As a result of this year’s rate increases, a residential electric customer using the industry standard 1,000 kWh will see a $6.46 monthly increase. A residential customer with GRU electric, gas, water and wastewater will see a monthly increase of $9.40, also using standard industry comparisons. 

In addition to this year’s increase, the City Commission committed to a plan to lower the general fund transfer GRU pays to the city $2 million per year through 2027 while incrementally increasing electric rates (3%) and wastewater rates (5%) every year between fiscal years ‘23 and ‘27. 

“The City Commission displayed a forward-thinking approach to the budget, and this will provide long-term security to our community,” said GRU General Manager Ed Bielarski. “This measured approach stabilizes GRU’s financial health now and in the future, while also supporting renewable energy goals.”

While rates have increased, the city remains committed to helping those experiencing financial hardships. The following GRU, community and state agencies may be able to assist those in need. 

• GRU’s Project Share, a customer- and employee-funded payment assistance program administered through the United Way of North Central Florida. Call 211.

• GRU’s extension and installment plans. Visit this link. 

• Alachua County Department of Social Services. Call 352-264-6750

• Catholic Charities. Call 352-372-0294

• Community Action Agency. Call 352-373-7667

• ElderCare of Alachua County. Call 352-265-9040

• Florida Coalition for the Homeless. Call 352-378-0460

• Gainesville Community Ministry. Call 352-372-8162

• Salvation Army. Call 352-376-1743

• Emergency Rental Assistance Program/Our Florida. Call 352-704-0301

Customers can also find energy-saving tips at gru.com/saveenergy and water-saving tips at gru.com/savewater.

GRU Hosts 21st Annual Golf Tournament to Benefit Williams Elementary School

8/27/21

GRU will host its 21st annual golf tournament at Ironwood Golf Course on Saturday, Aug. 28, at 8 a.m. Proceeds of $20,000 will go to Williams Elementary School, as part of GRU’s ongoing Adopt-a-School partnership with Williams. This year, Oelrich Construction serves as the event’s first-ever Title Sponsor.

Over the past 20 years, GRU has donated more than $276,000 to benefit students and programs at Williams Elementary. This year, approximately 100 golfers will participate in the event, which includes a golf scramble followed by a raffle to raise additional funds. GRU thanks its many sponsors for making the event possible, most notably Title Sponsor Oelrich Construction.

When: Saturday, Aug. 28, 8 a.m.

Where: Ironwood Golf Course, 2100 NE 39th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32609.

GRU Issues First “Green” Bond

7/27/21

GRU issued its first-ever “green” bond this July, establishing an important precedent for the utility’s relationship between environmental and financial sustainability. The offering was so successful one investor purchased all $39.5 million of the environmentally beneficial debt. 

Green bonds are issued to fund projects that promote environmental sustainability and resiliency.  For this series of bonds, GRU will finance water and wastewater improvements, including numerous infrastructure upgrades that will enhance the safety and reliability of our systems and the partial funding of a proposed 75-acre groundwater recharge wetland park. The park is being developed in coordination with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the Suwannee River Water Management District and Alachua County. The wetland park is expected to open to the public in 2025.

The bond was verified as “green” by Kestrel Verifiers, Oregon-based specialists at providing second-party opinions about green bonds. Kestrel, which is accredited by the Climate Bonds Initiative, conducted an independent external review of this bond to evaluate conformance with the green bond principles established by the International Capital Market Association. Their external review concluded that these projects are aligned with the core components of a green bond.

Kestrel Verifiers additionally noted the strategic direction of the utility and the city, commenting that Gainesville is committed to a path to sustainability and has established clear goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and overall environmental impact. On Oct. 18, 2018, the Gainesville City Commission unanimously passed a resolution committing to achieving net-zero, community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 2045 and to becoming a zero-waste community by 2040.

“I want to congratulate all of the folks at GRU for everything they do to deliver such confidence to Wall Street,” said GRU General Manager Ed Bielarski. “We are committed to providing utility services in an environmentally responsible manner, and this green bond is a validation of our efforts and the direction of the city.”

GRU will continue to review future projects for green bond designations. 

GRU Receives Credit Downgrade

5/05/21

S&P Global lowered its long-term rating on GRU’s combined debt from AA- to A this week, marking GRU’s fifth bond-rating downgrade since 2010 and GRU’s first-ever two-notch downgrade. Unlike a typical two-notch downgrade, this was not tied to a specific event but to a series of decisions made by previous City Commissions.

GRU’s budget, finance and accounting team is currently working with the utility’s financial consultant to determine short- and long-term costs and ramifications associated with the bond rating downgrade. The team has executed processes, transactions and planning over the past three years to solidify GRU’s financial health. This continuing process will focus on improving the rating to AA status at a future point. GRU will solidify future steps in this strategy with the City Commission’s approval.

In its report, S&P noted the following main drivers for GRU’s downgrade: 

• High debt levels associated with two uncompetitive investments in renewable energy: the solar feed-in-tariff program and the biomass plant. 

• High electric rates.

• High general fund transfer. 

• An uncertain path toward 100% renewable goals as an unfunded mandate.

The report also notes the following strengths: 

• An economy anchored by UF and several hospitals.

• A diverse customer base.

• Good liquidity representing 388 days of operating expenses. 

• Liquidity and reserves are very strong.

S&P Global is one of three agencies who determine GRU’s bond rating along Moody’s Investors Service and Fitch Ratings. You can read S&P’s full report here. 

National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation

4/13/21

GRU and the City of Gainesville are participating once again in the Wyland National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation, now through April 30.

The Mayor's Challenge is a friendly competition between cities across the U.S. to see who can be the most “water-wise” by pledging to conserve water. To pledge, visit mywaterpledge.com, click on Take the Pledge, and enter Gainesville.

We are currently ranked 11th in our population category and need everybody’s pledge to reach No. 1!

By making a simple pledge to save water and reduce pollution, you're not only doing your part for our community but have a chance to win hundreds of prizes, including $3,000 toward your home utility payments. You can also help a local charity win a 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

Water conservation has enormous benefits to our local economy, the environment and our global climate. As populations grow and demands for water increase, providing a steady, sufficient water supply presents a greater challenge than ever.

This is the third year Gainesville has participated in the challenge. In 2019, Gainesville lost a friendly competition to Athens, Georgia.

GRU Moving Foward With Smart Meters

2/5/21

The Gainesville City Commission unanimously approved GRU’s request on Feb. 4 to move forward with a plan to install Smart Meters, or Advanced Metering Infrastructure, at the service addresses of GRU electric, gas and water customers. GRU will install the wireless meters in several phases over the next two to three years.

Common in the utility industry, Smart Meters provide customers with a number of benefits, including:   

• Near real-time usage information

• Fewer outages

• Shorter restoration times

• Potential leak notifications

• Faster move-in, move-out and new-service requests 

Smart meters are digital meters that track energy usage in increments and relay that information to data collection sites throughout the city. GRU customers will be able to access that data through an online self-service portal, empowering them to establish personal utility budgets and to better conserve resources.

Financed over two decades, AMI will save GRU more than $1.5 million while drastically improving system reliability and employee safety. In January, GRU’s Utility Advisory Board unanimously recommended the City Commission approve GRU’s request to move forward with AMI.  

GRUCom Adjusts Public Safety Radio System Charges  

1/5/21

After years of undercharging subscribers for the Public Safety Radio System it operates and maintains, GRUCom notified users this week that it has begun charging actual costs for this service.  

This change came about as the agreement previously used to govern the Public Safety Radio System expired Sept. 30, 2020. In anticipation of this expiration date, GRUCom has worked with the Radio Management Board and local governments over the last five years to develop fair terms. System subscribers supported the need to pay the actual costs of the radio system.   

While operating at an annual loss, GRUCom completed a $5 million upgrade to the system in 2018 to enhance public safety. It completed this upgrade without increasing prices. Subscribers will now be charged a subscription fee based on their percentage of talk time in the prior fiscal year compared to the total system minutes used. GRUCom will annually determine the actual costs of the service and make necessary adjustments.  

“The new agreement enables us to cover our costs, which is an equitable arrangement for GRUCom and the community at large,” said GRU General Manager Ed Bielarski. “It's not fair to ask utility customers to continue subsidizing public safety radio, so we’re glad our subscribers support this change.”

GRUCom currently provides Public Safety Radio System services to the City of Gainesville (General Government), Gainesville Regional Utilities, Gainesville Regional Airport, Alachua County Board of County Commissioners, University of Florida, City of Alachua, City of High Springs, City of Newberry Fire Department, Santa Fe College, Shands Teaching Hospital and Clinics, Inc. and the VA Medical Center.  

GRUCom is the telecommunications arm of Gainesville Regional Utilities, using a 559-mile all fiber-optic network to support three primary product lines: 1) telecommunication and data services; 2) public safety radio; and 3) tower leasing services.  

GRU to Begin Yearly Utility Pole Inspections

12/17/20

GRU starts its annual utility pole inspection program Jan. 1 in northwest Gainesville. Since 2000, inspectors have replaced more than 1,200 utility poles that could have led to a service interruption or safety issue.

GRU currently has over 33,000 wood poles in its system and inspects 3,500 to 4,800 annually over an eight-year cycle. This year, GRU and contractor Osmose will inspect poles between NW 55th St. and NW 18th St. and NW 34th Blvd. and NW 16th Ave. Osmose will inspect each of the pre-identified poles in this area and apply appropriate treatments to preserve the integrity of the wood and extend the life of the pole.

While pole inspections are optional, GRU has performed them for more than 20 years as a way to help ensure the utility’s infrastructure is able to withstand damage caused by weather, vehicles or machinery, fungi and insects.

The pole inspection program helps GRU provide reliable service while also helping to prevent catastrophic failures to its system and optimize cost savings of its assets.

City of Gainesville and GRU Raise Over $54,000 for Charitable Campaign

12/10/20

GRU and City of Gainesville employees raised over $54,000 for charitable causes during the city’s 4th annual collective fundraising effort, Charitable Campaign. The campaign is spearheaded by GRU’s Office of Inclusion and Diversity to encourage city and utility employees to choose a cause important to them and make a one-time or recurring donation. A large part of the success of the campaign can be attributed to the ease of giving, which is facilitated by an online portal with over 1 million registered non-profits, as well as the ability to deduct recurring donations directly from a city-issued paycheck. Given the increased need that 2020 has brought on, GRU is more than proud of the success of this year’s Charitable Campaign.

GRU Introduces new Account Management System

12/9/20

GRU introduces its new online account management system Saturday, Dec. 12. The new system enables customers to complete all transactions in a convenient “payment wallet,” offers a Spanish-language option, email and text notifications and 24 months of usage and payment history.

All customers who wish to manage their accounts online must create a new User Profile. This includes customers with existing online accounts. After Dec. 12, customers will NOT be able to manage their account online through the previous version of GRU’s account management system.* 

 Customers can create a new User Profile in just three steps: 

1. Visit gru.com and click on the Account Login link.

2. Click on Log In to GRU.

3. Click on Need a Profile? Sign up.

In the coming months, GRU will introduce additional online features, plus a redesigned paper bill with an easy-to-read donut graph, enhanced colors to call attention to important information and clearer overall messaging. Find more information about upcoming changes at gru.com/paymentFAQ. 

*eBill customers will have an extended deadline but will also need to create a new User Profile after Dec. 12. 

Recharge Wetland Park One Step Closer

Updated 12/9/20

11/30/20

GRU moved one step closer to constructing a groundwater recharge wetland park in southwest Gainesville last night, as the Alachua County Commission unanimously approved our request for a special exception on 75 acres off Parker Road. The Alachua County Planning Commission unanimously approved GRU’s request on Nov. 18. Each step in this process is essential as GRU prepares for the construction of the wetland, which will be completed in 2024.

GRU is partnering with the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD) and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) on this project, which involves creating a constructed wetland that will receive reclaimed water from the Kanapaha Water Reclamation Facility. The purpose of the wetland park is to recharge, or replenish, the Floridan aquifer with high-quality, low-nutrient water.

The wetland park will reduce our community's environmental footprint, increase our capacity to beneficially reuse water and help support flows in the Santa Fe and Ichetucknee rivers and their springs. Along with the environmental benefits, the park will also provide a beautiful space for the community to enjoy and educational opportunities.

The project team will present to the Board of County Commissioners for final zoning approval in December. 

For more information on the groundwater recharge wetland, please visit gru.com/rechargewetland   

GRU Customers Can Save by Determining Winter Max

11/17/20

GRU customers have an opportunity to save money on wastewater charges throughout the entire year by paying attention to their water consumption now.

Customers’ water use during their January and February billing cycles (which accounts for the water they use early-December through January) can influence how much they pay for wastewater charges throughout the year.

This is called the Winter Max, and it exists because wastewater isn’t a metered service like water, electric or gas. Instead, GRU estimates how much wastewater a customer produces based on how much water they’re using. GRU does this in the winter because outdoor water use is often lower this time of year.

To figure out the Winter Max, GRU looks at a customer’s highest daily water usage during the January and February billing cycles. January and February are the only bills that will show wastewater charges on all of the water used in each of these months.

For the rest of the year – March through December – customers will either be charged based on their actual monthly water usage or their Winter Max, whichever is lower. Decreasing water use during the January and February billing cycles will help reduce a customer’s Winter Max, which can lower wastewater costs the rest of the year.

To know exactly which months are being calculated to determine their Winter Max, customers can check the service dates on their January and February bills.

For more information, or to learn how to calculate the Winter Max, visit gru.com/wintermax.

GRU Lobby Closed Tomorrow

11/11/20

For the safety of our customers and employees, GRU’s Administration Building lobby will be closed Thursday, Nov. 12. The lobby will reopen for regular business on Friday, Nov. 13.

Other Tropical Storm Eta notes:

• Safety is always GRU’s top priority. We are fully staffed and will respond to outages throughout the evening as long as working conditions remain safe.  

• GRU has brought in additional tree crews from Asplundh to help clear damage caused by broken limbs or trees and speed up potential restoration efforts.

• GRU has mutual aid crews from several public power utilities on standby should the storm cause wide-spread outages.

• Please follow us on twitter @grustormcentral for outage updates.

GRU Lineworkers Complete High-Voltage Training

11/05/2020

Eight GRU lineworkers received their Live-Line Barehand Certification on Thursday, Nov. 5, after completing a training course that qualifies them to work on energized 230,000 volt transmission lines. The course requires 40 hours of training.

This specialized technique allows lineworkers to perform critical maintenance on energized, high-voltage transmission lines without cutting power to customers and is key to ensuring the reliability of GRU’s electric transmission and distribution system. Lineworkers who perform live-line barehand work wear a specially designed suit — and work from an insulated bucket — that enables them to be energized at the same voltage as the line.

“They are protected from shock by trusting that their equipment and tools will properly insulate them from grounded potentials and by the specialized suit, which forms a Faraday cage around their body,” explains GRU Electric Systems Operations Manager Ray Jordan. A Faraday cage is made of a conductive material that blocks electromagnetic fields.

The GRU lineworkers who received their certification are Ken Baker, Brad Thomas, Kyle Fagan, Adam Ivey, Kort Key, Chris Morrow, Jared Maes and Dan Ash.

Please click here for a short video or email communications@gru.com for photos.

GRU Wins Public Power Communications Award

11/02/2020

The American Public Power Association recently awarded GRU the Excellence in Web/Social Media Award for GRU’s annual Year in Review, Snapshotgru.com/2019. The Communications Department received the award during a virtual conference on Oct. 28.    

GRU received the Public Power Communications Award during the American Public Power Association’s Customer Connections Virtual Conference on Oct. 27 and 28. The award recognizes utilities who were creative in their presentation of information through graphics, social media engagement, web layout, design and interactivity.

The GRU Communications team created the Year in Review as an alternative to the traditional annual report. The fun, interactive webpage tells GRU’s annual story in a format that’s easy to share and promote through social media and other digital platforms. Through the webpage, customers can better access information about GRU’s accomplishments, reliability and progress toward meeting renewable energy and efficiency goals.

GRU has produced its Year in Review for two years and is currently in production on the 2020 Year in Review.

GRU Wins Building Strong Communities Award

10/28/2020

GRU recently received the Building Strong Communities Award from the Florida Municipal Electric Association for the outstanding programs and services it provides to the community in addition to its extra efforts during COVID-19.

During the first few months of the pandemic, GRU suspended disconnects for unpaid bills, waived late fees and offered extended payment plans to customers in need of assistance. Overall, GRU saved customers more than $1 million in disconnection fees.

Despite the many obstacles caused by COVID-19, GRU has continued to support the community through college scholarships, elementary school fundraisers and its annual charitable campaign, which hopes to raise $60,000 for non-profit organizations.

“Public power utilities have always been community-focused and invested in programs that give back to their communities,” said Amy Zubaly, FMEA executive director. “This year, with the pandemic impacting nearly every facet of our daily lives, public power utilities have found many ways to assist their communities during this difficult time.”

GRU Crews Return Home After Providing Mutual Aid in Louisiana  

10/22/2020

GRU crews returned home Monday after providing mutual aid assistance in Lafayette, Louisiana, following Hurricane Delta. More than 20 GRU and Asplundh workers supported Lafayette Utility Services, or LUS, with power restoration. LUS provides electricity to about 65,000 customers in Lafayette. Hurricane Delta left more than 35,000 of those customers without power. The GRU crew supported LUS for 9 days, which involved restoring power to the majority of the residents within the first two days as well as some cleanup and non-emergency pole replacements during the last few days. This is the third time this hurricane season GRU has provided mutual aid assistance following a storm.

 GRU Wins Cybersecurity Award  

10/21/2020
GRU was awarded the CSO50 Award, which recognizes organizations for security projects or initiatives that demonstrate outstanding business value and thought-leadership. Organizations awarded the CSO50 are among those who demonstrate risk and security excellence.

With ransomware attacks are on the rise in Florida, municipalities are especially vulnerable. Gainesville’s CIO Walter Banks used the experiences of the recently affected municipalities as a platform to decrease vulnerability and promote cybersecurity awareness throughout the city’s user base. The City of Gainesville developed a program to educate employees on the ways hackers access corporate systems and exploit lax security practices. This program included a review of strategy, technical security and an awareness campaign. Staff education was identified as the most critical component to this initiative.

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