For the second time in four years, Memphis Light, Gas and Water has earned the American Public Power Association's (APPA) Reliable Public Power Provider (RP3) recognition for providing consumers with the highest degree of reliable and safe electric service. Of the more than 2,000 public power utilities in the nation, only 60 have receive the RP3 designation.

The RP3 recognizes public power utilities that demonstrate proficiency in four key disciplines: reliability, safety, training and system improvement. Criteria within each category are based on sound business practices and represent a utility-wide commitment to safe and reliable delivery of electricity. "The RP3 award is independent confirmation that we at MLGW are working to improve our customers’ quality of service," stated Jerry Collins Jr., President and CEO. "I am proud of our employees' commitment to providing safe, reliable, and cost effective electric services to our customers in the greater Memphis and Shelby County area. I believe that this award is in the best interests of our customers as a whole."

Paul Allen, vice president, engineering at Nashville, Tenn., Electric Service and chair of APPA's RP3 Review Panel, presented the designees on March 23, during the association's annual Engineering & Operations Technical Conference, held in Austin, Texas.

"RP3 designees are shining examples of excellence in utility operations," said Allen, "These utilities are currently providing their communities with a high level of reliable and safe service while focusing on future improvements." This is the fourth year that the RP3 designation has been offered. More information and a full list of designees—recognized in three categories—is available at www.APPAnet.org.