Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division is celebrating Public Power Week, Oct. 5-11, along with more than 2,000 other electric utilities that collectively provide electricity on a not-for-profit basis to 47 million Americans.

“As a municipal-owned utility, MLGW strives to do what’s in the best interests of our customers. Public Power Week enables us to showcase that commitment to the community,” said Jerry R. Collins Jr., president and CEO of MLGW. “Our rates are among the lowest in the nation and we appreciate being able to provide the best service that our customers deserve.”

Public Power Week is a national, annual event sponsored in conjunction with the American Public Power Association (APPA) in Washington, D.C. APPA is the service organization for community- and state-owned electric utilities. MLGW is a member.

“MLGW is a driving force for the community’s economic vitality, and it’s important for us to remind residents how valuable we are as a local resource,” said Collins.

A great way to observe Public Power Week is to continue to prepare for colder temperatures. Here are a few tips to help conserve energy:

• Set your thermostat at 68 degrees or lower when you’re home during cold months (78 degrees in hot months). Every degree below 68 can save four percent on your heating bills.
   
• Wear layered clothing and thick socks to keep warm, then set your thermostat even lower.
   
• At bedtime, lower your thermostat even more and add extra blankets.
   
• Lower or turn off thermostat when leaving your home for four hours or more.
   
• Close garage doors, cover foundation vents, and close off vents and doors to seldom-used rooms.