OUCThe Trusted One has been named an Escalents Utility Trusted Mark and Customer Engagement 2022 Environmental Champion. OUC was the only utility to receive the honor. OUC scored the highest points for environmental dedication among its electric peers.
OUC has been awarded Escalents recognition for its environmental stewardship efforts for the fifth consecutive year.
The selection of Environmental Champions is based upon customer survey results. These customers rate their energy providers on sustainability and stewardship in business operations. They also rate energy efficiency programs that help lower consumption and support environmental causes.
OUC is proud to celebrate Earth Month. Its customers have recognized our long-standing commitment towards sustainability and energy innovation as we work towards our goal to net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Clint Bullock, OUC’s General Manager & Chief Executive Officer, said this. The groundbreaking of Florida’s first net-zero campus was a significant step towards achieving our goal. We consider bringing our facilities to net zero an integral part of our strategic plans.
OUC has taken several environmental initiatives over the past year.
It broke ground on its St. Cloud Operations & Maintenance center, the first net-zero campus of a Florida utility. The state of the art campus will achieve net zero emissions through conservation and efficiency practices, and the use of renewable energy. There are many sustainable features in the project, including floating solar, rooftop solar panels, rainwater harvesting tanks and Florida-Friendly landscaping. There are also walking and biking trails and EV charging stations. Construction is expected complete in December 2023.
In partnership with the City Of Orlando, launching a 2030 Solar Pledge in October 2021. Commercial customers who are participating in the pledge to have their facilities powered by 100% solar energy by 2030. Businesses must use at least 10% solar energy when they sign, with the initial investment through OUCommunity Solar providing both residential and commercial customers with sustainable, maintenance free solar without the need for costly panels or installation.
Increasing investment and infrastructure for electric cars (EVs) with a $45million commitment to innovative electrification programmes, including support for eBuses/charging hubs. In October 2021, LYNX’s eight eBuses celebrated one year on the road. The buses had a 101-ton reduction in carbon dioxide emissions compared with their diesel-powered predecessors. Six more eBuses are scheduled to be on the roads this year. Construction of the Robinson Recharge Mobility Hub (OUC-led electric vehicle project) began in February 2022. It will have up to 20 Level 3 charging stations located in downtown Orlando. It is expected that the facility will be completed in the latter part of this year. It will be the largest of its type in Florida and have the ability to charge all kinds of battery-powered vehicles.
Escalent conducted surveys among residential electricity, natural gas, and combination utility customers over the past 12 months to determine Environmental Champions. The utilities were then scored on an Environmental Dedication Index. Environmental Champions are those who score high enough on the index. You can view the results of the 2022 Utility Trusted brand and customer engagement study here.
OUC is making a positive difference around Osceola County.
