NWPPA was created in 1940 as a not-for-profit by utilities owned and governed by their consumers, so there is a direct relationship and focus on value to customers.
First, we help train the utility workforce that keeps the power flowing. Electricity is a complex and always changing business; a consistent program of learning and workforce development is critical.
Second, we help utilities stay informed, connect, learn, and share best practices that benefit customers by creating an array of communications tools (industry directories, newsletters, and magazines) specific to our part of the electricity business in the West.
Third, we lead advocacy on policy issues, especially in the federal realm, that hit the bottom line of customers’ cost of electricity or safety. Examples include getting a law passed to streamline federal regulations hindering the ability of utilities to clear hazardous trees near power lines for fire prevention and working to protect local control and safety where the Federal Communications Commission threatened to override utility policies regarding how communications equipment is attached to electric utility poles.