Oregon public power utility Springfield Utility Board has launched a pilot program under which SUB is offering a 0% loan for generators and generator transfer switches.
“Although most power outages are resolved quickly, major events like earthquakes, wildfires and winter storms can disrupt power for extended periods. Having backup power, especially if you have a medical need, can provide peace of mind and additional safety while SUB crews work to restore power,” it notes on its website.
To assist with preparedness efforts, SUB is offering a 0% loan program for up to $1,000 to help residential and commercial electric customers finance a generator or a generator transfer switch.
Transfer switches allow customers to change the source of power from SUB’s system to a generator in a home or small business, allowing customers to safely power critical items during an outage.
Without a professionally installed transfer switch, the generator can back-feed electricity to SUB’s system through the main breaker and create a dangerous, even fatal, situation for line crews and customers, the utility noted.
Incentive Overview
SUB’s residential and commercial electric customers can receive a 0% loan of up to $1,000 to help finance the cost of a generator, or an automatic or manual generator transfer switch. Loans are repaid via your SUB bill.
This pilot program is open to the first 50 customers who successfully complete the application process (25 for generators, and 25 for transfer switches). The pilot will help determine the program’s long-term viability.
ELIGIBILITY
- An active, current SUB commercial or residential electric account
- Good payment history for the past year
- An approved Loan Application
- Customers may participate in one of the two pilot programs (generator OR transfer switch) but not both
REQUIREMENTS
- Transfer switches must be installed by a licensed electrician
- Customer must submit documentation as noted on the application