LOS ANGELES (December 12, 2024) — The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) hosted its annual Utility Trends workshop virtually on December 5th, showcasing plans to propel Los Angeles toward a carbon-free, water-secure future. The event marked the sixth year that LADWP’s Key Account customers have joined the utility to look ahead to industry trends and how the utility’s long-term plans may affect its largest customers and stakeholders.
LADWP’s Key Accounts Section consists of approximately 30 account advisors who serve as the primary point of contact for the utility’s largest institutional, governmental, and commercial customers, who often have the most varied and complex operational needs. Account advisors work closely with these customers to ensure the safe, reliable, and cost-effective delivery of water and power in a customer-focused, personalized, and environmentally responsible manner.
The agenda featured updates on LADWP’s Strategic Long-Term Resource Plan (SLTRP), the Pure Water Los Angeles initiative, and preparations for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Key leaders, including CEO and Chief Engineer Janisse Quiñones, underscored the Department’s commitment to innovation, equity, and environmental stewardship.
The first update was on LADWP’s SLTRP. LADWP reaffirmed its goal of transitioning to a 100% carbon-free energy grid by 2035. The Department’s 2024 SLTRP built on the LA100 Study, focusing on renewable energy investments, increased electrification, and energy efficiency programs. Initiatives included increasing solar and wind investments, increasing energy storage, modernizing generation stations, transmission development, and customer programs and incentives.
Continuing, was an update on LADWP’s infrastructure plans for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. With the 2028 Olympics on the horizon, LADWP is enhancing energy and water infrastructure to meet the demands of the games. The Department is working closely with partners across the city to identify and address all needs in preparation for the games. Presented initiatives included supporting the Games Route Network for seamless athlete and spectator transit.
On the water side, updates were given about the Pure Water Los Angeles Program and drinking water quality improvements. LADWP’s Pure Water initiative aims to transform treated wastewater into a sustainable, potable resource, addressing local water supply challenges. Some goals of this program include converting 100% of the Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant to water recycling and producing 130 million gallons a day of recycled water by 2056. Phase 1, which will produce 50 million gallons a day, is expected to be completed by 2040.
The workshop proceeded with an explanation on water regulations and how these regulations affect the Department’s drinking water quality. LADWP carefully monitors its drinking water quality and reports to regulators regularly to ensure that the water supplied to its customers meet regulatory standards.
Closing out the updates was a presentation on LADWP’s commercial efficiency incentives. LADWP continues integrating equity into its planning, including programs to address energy burden and expand access to energy efficiency and renewable energy incentives. The Department continues to bring in more flexibility and higher incentive rates to help customers adapt to the changing landscape. While other utilities in California are rolling back their investments in energy efficiency, LADWP is increasing their investment to help reduce the cost burden on customers.
“The event today highlighted the importance of strong partnerships in shaping the future of Los Angeles,” said Latrice Williams, LADWP’s Manager of Premier Accounts. “As we navigate a rapidly changing utility landscape, impacted by climate change and evolving customer needs, LADWP remains committed to responding effectively. However, we cannot do this alone. Our shared success and achievements of our sustainability goals depends on the collaboration between the Department and all our valued customers. We are grateful to the commitments of our partners in helping to develop a more sustainable future for our city.”
Watch the 2024 Utility Trends workshop recording here.
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