2013 was an eventful and pivotal year in Memphis Light, Gas and Water’s history. The Division embarked on several projects that will change the trajectory of services to and for our customers for years to come. Undertaking the first steps to meter automation, the expansion of liquefied natural gas (LNG) sales, the opening of Shelby County’s first public compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling station, and the initial phase of the replacement of a 26-year-old greenscreen- dominated finance, work management, materials and equipment computer operating system known as Project INSPIRE, were among the year’s top priorities.

The projects mentioned above, and all of the Division’s annual objectives rolled into accomplishing one overarching goal: To provide value to our customers, while maintaining the lowest combined rates of any utility in the country. Our 2013 Rates Survey revealed MLGW to be right on target, with an average residential bill well below the national norm.

With that said, the question looming on the horizon is, “How does MLGW maintain low rates in the future?” Through efficiency and innovation. Using technology, MLGW aims to improve our processes to become more efficient. From internal operations to customer service, the net effect of upgrading MLGW systems is to have better, more reliable service at an affordable cost. It doesn’t stop there, however. We are equally committed to strengthening community partnerships to reduce energy consumption and the pursuit of cleaner energy revenue streams. It is a concept not encouraged by private utilities which are driven by profits. In contrast, MLGW, which is accountable to customers, willingly embraces this consumer-centric concept. It is a paradigm shift in the utility industry. It is Power Forward.

-MLGW President and CEO Jerry R. Collins Jr.
 

2013 MLGW Annual Report