News and Events
$100 Instant Discount on Clothes Washers
May 16, 2013
Focus on Energy now offers $100 Instant Discounts on Qualifying ENERGY STAR® Clothes Washers
MADISON, WI (April 15, 2013) – Focus on Energy, Wisconsin utilities’ statewide program for energy efficiency and renewable energy, is now offering $100.00 instant discounts through participating retailers, including Pierce Pepin Appliance, Ellsworth, WI, on qualifying ENERGY STAR certified top load clothes washers as part of its Residential Lighting and Appliance Program. Wisconsin residential customers of Focus on Energy participating utilities can take advantage of the $100.00 instant discount at select retail locations. Quantities are limited and are on a first come, first serve basis. There is a limit of one product purchase per qualified customer per program year. The program is designed to reduce customer peak demand and energy usage, which helps Wisconsin families save on their bills and make significant contributions to Wisconsin’s energy efficiency goals. The average American family washes about 300 loads of laundry each year. These ENERGY STAR clothes washers can help families cut their related energy and water costs, using about 20% less energy and 35% less water than regular washers. They also have a greater tub capacity, reducing the total number of loads needed to get through the same pile of laundry.
It's estimated that there are 76 million top-loading washers wwith agitators, 25 million of which are at least 10 years old, still in use across the country. Washers manufactured before 1998 are significantly less efficient than newer models. Together, these inefficient washers cost consumers $2.8 billion each year in energy and water.
If every clothes washer purchased in the U.S. this year was ENERGY STAR certified, we would save 540 million kWh of electricity, 20 billion gallons of water, and 1.4 trillion BTUs of natural gas every year, resulting in energy bill savings of about $250 million, every year. For a list of participating retailers or more information about Focus on Energy, call 800.762.7077 or visit focusonenergy.com.
Power Restoration Efforts Continue
May 3, 2013
Crews began work at 6 AM this morning. Several lines in the Hartland Township area have been repaired to restore power to those members. With a large number of accounts out in the Martell area, we have three two-man crews currently working there. To ensure the safety of the crews, they will continue working until 9 PM tonight and will start again tomorrow at 6:00 AM.
Crews Continue Working to Restore Power after Snow Storm
May 2, 2013
Crews from Riverland Energy and Clark Electric Cooperative are working with Pierce Pepin crews to help restore power. A Jackson Electric crew is also enroute. Crews are currently dealing with broken poles in Gilman Township. Some areas of Trimbelle and Beldenville were restored within the last hour. Areas north and west of Ellsworth have also been restored. Some of our linemen have been working over 16 hours without rest, so all crews will be called in at 9 PM for safety reasons. They will start again tomorrow morning at 6 AM.
The terrain is very challenging with soft ground and thick, slippery snow, making the restoration work more difficult. We are very appreciative of everyone's patience while power is restored. Our goal is to restore power as quickly and as safely as possible.
Rate Adjustment - Effective May 1, 2013
May 1, 2013
A rate adjustment went into effect on May 1, 2013. For details about current rates, please go to our Electric Service Rates page.
National Lineman Appreciation Day
April 17, 2013
Late last night, the Senate passed a resolution honoring all the linemen for their work in keeping the power on and designating April 18, 2013 (tomorrow) as National Lineman Appreciation Day. We are very proud of the work our linemen do and are very pleased that their work has been recognized by the U.S. Senate.
113th CONGRESS
1st Session
S. RES. 95
Recognizing linemen, the profession of linemen, the contributions of these brave men and women who protect public safety, and expressing support for the designation of April 18, 2013, as National Lineman Appreciation Day.
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
April 10, 2013
Mr. ISAKSON (for himself and Mr. BENNET) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to
RESOLUTION
Recognizing linemen, the profession of linemen, the contributions of these brave men and women who protect public safety, and expressing support for the designation of April 18, 2013, as National Lineman Appreciation Day.
Whereas the profession of linemen is steeped in personal, family, and professional tradition;
Whereas linemen are often first responders during storms and other catastrophic events, working to make the scene safe for other public safety heroes;
Whereas linemen work with thousands of volts of electricity high atop power lines 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to keep electricity flowing;
Whereas linemen must often work under dangerous conditions far from their families to construct and maintain the energy infrastructure of the United States;
Whereas linemen put their lives on the line every day with little recognition from the community regarding the danger of their work; and
Whereas April 18, 2013, would be an appropriate date to designate as National Lineman Appreciation Day: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Senate--
(1) recognizes the efforts of linemen in keeping the power on and protecting public safety; and
(2) supports the designation of April 18, 2013, as National Lineman Appreciation Day.
Sen. Johnson Visits Western Wisconsin
April 8, 2013
Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services opened its board/training room to area leaders on Friday, April 5, for a brief session with Senator Ron Johnson. Read more about the visit from the Pierce County Herald.
http://www.piercecountyherald.com/event/article/id/52379/
Employment Opportunity
April 1, 2013
Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services offers a rewarding opportunity as a Member Services Representative in a service oriented team environment. Applications are due by April 17, 2013. For details, go to our employment page.
Your opinion matters!
March 28, 2013
On April 1, the NRECA’s Market Research Services will begin a telephone survey of 350 randomly selected Pierce Pepin members. The survey will take several minutes. Please take this opportunity to tell us how we can better serve you. Your participation is appreciated!
New Directors Elected
March 26, 2013
PPCS held its 76th Annual Meeting on Saturday, March 23. Three new directors were elected to the board: Gerald Drier, District One; Ed Hass, District Two; and Brian Berg, District Three. Congratulations!
Planned Outage - Friday, March 22nd
March 20, 2013
We will be having a planned outage in the Esdaile area on Friday, March 22nd. The planned outage time is from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; however, the crew is hoping to complete the outage in less time. All affected members will be phone notified Wednesday evening starting at 5:00 p.m.
This outage is to put a new section of line in service which the crew has been working on along County Road EE.
If you have any questions about this work, please contact Jeff Olson at 715-273-4355 or 800-924-2133.
Annual Meeting - March 23, 2013
March 1, 2013
Join us for our 76th Annual Meeting on Saturday, March 23, 2013, at the Ellsworth High School, 323 Hillcrest Street. Registration at 9:00 a.m. with business meeting at 10:00 a.m. There will be director elections, drawings for PPCS gift certificates, refreshments and complimentary chicken dinner through the Ellsworth Fire Hall.
Vehicle Accidents & Powerlines - Critical Safety Tips
December 20, 2012
Winter driving conditions require us to be especially alert and cautious. Unfortunately, accidents still do happen. If you are in an accident involving power lines, it is critical to know what to do to keep yourself and others safe. Naturally, your first instinct is to get out of the car. But that is rarely the best course of action. Since you cannot tell by looking if a power line is energized, follow these steps.
- Stay in the vehicle until utility crews arrive and make sure the power is cut off. Getting out of the vehicle can be deadly.
- The only time you should get out of the vehicle is if you are in immediate danger, such as the risk of fire. Only then should you jump free without touching the vehicle and ground at the same time and then hop away with feet together or shuffle away keeping both feet together and in contact with the ground. Do not walk or run!
- It is important to warn those who come upon the accident to stay away. They could become a path for electricity when approaching an accident scene involving power lines and be injured or killed.
"If the power line is still energized and you step outside, your body becomes the path for that electricity and electrocution is the tragic result," says Brad Ristow, Pierce Pepin's electric operations manager. "Whenever possible, it's best to wait for local electric utility crews to arrive to make sure power to the line is cut off."
PPCS seek candidates for director elections
December 11, 2012
PPCS is seeking candidates for director in districts 1, 2 and 3. For detailed information, click on this link.
Pierce Pepin named to 2012 Business Honor Roll
November 16, 2012
Pierce Pepin has been named to the Wisconsin Association of School Boards’ 2012 Business Honor Roll for supporting schools in the local community. Nominated by the Ellsworth Community School District for contributions to Ellsworth’s Safe Walkways project, electric operations manager Brad Ristow accepted the certificate for the co-op at the district’s board meeting on Nov. 12. The Pierce County Herald, also selected for this honor.
Load Management Test for Dual-Fuel Electric Heating Scheduled
October 24, 2012
A test of our load management system for dual-fuel electric heating systems will be held on Wednesday, November 14, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Letters will be mailed to members who will be included in the testing. If you have any questions about the program or testing, contact our Member Services Department at 715-273-4355 or 800-924-2133.
Dairyland Power Renewable Portfolio Exceeds 2015 Requirements
October 5, 2012
Dairyland Power Cooperative's renewable energy portfolio exceeds the 2015 requirements. The generation and transmission cooperative is years ahead in renewable energy investments. Click here to read more ...
New E-bill System Launched
September 5, 2012
PPCS launched its new e-bill system, SmartHub, on September 5, 2012. This new system allows members to have greater access to their account information, including mobile apps. Click here to learn more.
Listening session with Wisconsin Ag Secretary Ben Brancel to be held at Pierce Pepin Cooperative
August 23, 2012
Mark your calendars! State Representative Warren Petryk announced that Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade & Consumer Protection Secretary Ben Brancel will be a special guest at a listening session at Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services on Wed., Aug. 29, from 7:00–8:30 PM. We welcome Secretary Brancel, Rep. Petryk and western Wisconsin residents, and are pleased to offer our facility for this event.
New Propane Prices Announced
July 19, 2012
Our propane prices are a great value. Call now to learn more about our keep-fill, budget billing program. Contracts are still available, too! 800-924-2133 or 715-273-4355. http://www.piercepepin.com/content/programs-services
Scam Alert: Beware of Energy Credit Identity Theft
July 19, 2012
There is an ongoing con affecting utility customers across the United States. Individuals are told that President Obama is providing energy credits toward their utility bills. They attempt to obtain personal information so they can initiate identity theft. Read more about the scam.
There is no program that will give people energy credits as the scammers claim. Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services does work with local county government agencies to provide energy assistance to individuals who qualify. Learn more about energy assistance.
Pierce Pepin members are encouraged to report any calls they receive from potential scammers to the cooperative and local law enforcement officials.
Employment Opportunity: Member Services Rep.
July 11, 2012
Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services offers a rewarding opportunity as a Member Services Representative in a service oriented team environment. Key responsibilities include handling member inquiries, accurately processing payments and balancing daily cash drawer, setting up budget payments, answering telephones, greeting visitors, processing all mail, and providing administrative support for various departments. Click here to learn more ...
Full Load Control Today
July 5, 2012
Due to the severe weather conditions, there will be a full load control of commercial/industrial, irrigation and grain drying loads this afternoon, Thursday, July 5, beginning at 1:00 p.m. Loads will be restored by 5:00 p.m. To learn more, go to: http://www.piercepepin.com/content/energy-sense-load-management
Heat Wave Significantly Increases Energy Usage
July 3, 2012
The heat wave encompassing our region has resulted in significant energy usage. A large portion of that is attributed to air conditioner use in homes and businesses. We may be on a pace which would be record-breaking energy usage on the Dairyland system.
We encourage cooperative members in the Dairyland system to conserve as much as possible during this period of high energy use, especially between the hours of 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. when usage is highest and power the most costly.
Office/Showroom Closed July 4
July 3, 2012
Our office and showroom will be closed for the July 4th holiday. We hope you and your family enjoy the holiday!
Dairyland Power reaches settlement with EPA & Sierra Club
June 29, 2012
Dairyland Power Cooperative has reached a joint settlement agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Sierra Club concluding litigation regarding alleged violations of the New Source Review (NSR)* provisions of the Clean Air Act. Click here to learn more.
Full Load Control Today
June 28, 2012
Due to high forecasted loads, there will be Full Load Control Today.
* Commercial and Industrial loads will be controlled by 1:00 PM and be restored by 5:00 PM.
* Irrigation alert will begin at 12:10 PM. Pumps should be off from 1:00 PM until 5:00 PM.
* Grain Drying will be off at 1:00 PM and restored by 5:00 PM.
Alert Devices on address 511 will light the Peak Alert lamp and sound audible alarm at 12:00 PM and the Full Load Control lamp will light at about 1:00 PM.
Power Restored from June 19th Storms
June 20, 2012
Power has been restored to all members after yesterday’s storms. Crews worked until 9:00 p.m. to restore power and we'd like to thank everyone for their cooperation during this time. With the possibility of more storms headed our way today, call your utility immediately if you lose power and consider these storm recovery tips. http://bit.ly/oO4z9l
Full Load Control Today
June 20, 2012
Due to the severe weather conditions, there will be a full load control of commercial/industrial, irrigation and grain drying loads this afternoon beginning at 1:00 p.m. Loads will be restored by 5:00 p.m. To learn more, go to: http://www.piercepepin.com/content/energy-sense-load-management
Full Load Control Today
June 19, 2012
Due to the severe weather conditions, there will be a full load control of commercial/industrial, irrigation and grain drying loads this afternoon beginning at 1:00 p.m. Loads will be restored by 5:00 p.m. To learn more, go to: http://www.piercepepin.com/content/energy-sense-load-management
PPCS Celebrates 75 Years
June 9, 2012
Pierce Pepin enjoyed a large crowd for its 75th anniversary celebration on Saturday, June 9, 2012. Participants joined in the dedication ceremony where Matt Pechacek, PPCS scholarship winner, unveiled the new plaque that will be installed on the front of our building. Watch the ceremony on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZxIirOiW-g&feature=relmfu
Brief Outage This A.M. for Trimbelle Substation
June 8, 2012
There will be a brief outage this morning for approximately 135 members served by the Trimbelle substation. Members affected live in the Diamond Bluff, Oak Grove and Trimbelle townships.
Maytag Repairman Visits Pierce Pepin
May 31, 2012
A celebrity right here in Ellsworth? The Maytag Repairman, Clay Jackson, will be at Pierce Pepin on Friday, June 8 from 10 AM to 12 PM and 1 to 3 PM. Stop in and visit. We're celebrating our electric division's 75th anniversary with special savings for three days only - June 7, 8 and 9.
Propane Contracts Now Available!
May 2, 2012
Propane prebuy contracts are available for the 2012-2013 heating season. Prebuying your gas will lock in your price per gallon and protect you from any price spikes during the winter heating season. New this year—a required minimum purchase of only 300 gallons—down from 500 in past years.
If you’re interested in a prebuy contract but have not contracted before, contact us for all the details. We will be happy to determineyour gallon usage during this past year and calculate your contract price. Pay the entire amount in one payment for a discount, or spread the payment over four months.
Information about this year’s prebuy offer has been mailed to customers who contracted for propane in 2011. Click here to learn more about the propane services we offer.
Pierce Pepin delivers tree seedlings to area fourth graders
April 27, 2012
As part of its commitment to preserving the environment, Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services teamed up with Fourth Grade Foresters USA to provide 755 evergreen tree seedlings to 4th grade students within the Durand, Ellsworth, Elmwood, Pepin, Plum City, Prescott, River Falls and Spring Valley school districts. The trees were delivered in time to celebrate Arbor Day on April 27.
Rate Adjustment in May 2012
April 26, 2012
A rate adjustment will be effective May 2012. This is the first rate adjustment Pierce Pepin has had since May 2009. Use this link to access our rates information and read the May Highlighter for additional details.
Recent Outages
April 9, 2012
| Date | Town | Area | Length | Cause | Accounts Affectd |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04/07/12 | Clifton | 1130th St | 1 hour | A-5 pole burned off. Replaced cutout. | 5 |
| 04/07/12 | Ellsworth | State Rd 72 | 1 hr 5 min | Cut off burned off pole; add pole top pin and new cutout. | 2 |
| 04/06/12 | River Falls | 1025th St | 1 hr 7 min | Member equipment caused outage. Breaker feeding house was off. Reset breaker. | 1 |
| 04/05/12 | Isabelle | 370th St | Unknown | Found and replaced blown transformer fuse. | 1 |
| 04/03/12 | Martell | 540th St | 1 hr 20 min | Lightning. Refused cutout. | 4 |
| 04/03/12 | Martell | County Rd Y | 2 hours | Lightning. Refused cutout. | 1 |
| 04/03/12 | Martell | County Rd Y | 1 hr 5 min | Thunderstorm. Refused cutout. | 1 |
75th Annual Meeting
March 24, 2012
Join us for our 75th Annual Meeting on Saturday, March 24, 2012. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. with business meeting to follow at 10:00 a.m. There will be elections for three director positions, door prizes and a special guest.
Welcome to our new web site!
March 20, 2012
Wecome to our new web site. All of the information you rely on is still here, just in a fresh, new look. Let us know what you think. We'd love to have your feedback.
Co-op Month Breakfast
October 8, 2011
Join us for our annual Co-op Month pancake breakfast on Saturday, October 8, 2011 from 8 to 11 a.m.
74th Annual Meeting
March 26, 2011
Save this date! Our 74th Annual Meeting will be held at Ellsworth Senior High School on March 26, 2011.
Office/Showroom Closing
January 17, 2011
Our offices and showroom will be closed Monday, January 17, 2001 for an employee in-service.
