Leading Tuscumbia Utilities as General Manager for the last eight years, Jeff McDonald knows how vital it is to prepare his system for the future. He offered the following thoughts regarding his LPC’s approach to the implementation of new technology:

“I always try to look for technology that can make our service better and ensure our customers’ lives are continuously improved. We implemented online payments and applications during Covid, and a lot of those processes will continue to evolve as we look to provide more online options for our customers in the future. We’re looking forward to transitioning to AMR as well, which will be a tremendous asset to both our customers and our team, with the ability to provide real-time data and potentially heading off any unnecessary energy usage. We know that this will improve the quality of our customers’ lives, and that’s ultimately what fuels every decision we make.”

Jeff knows that this industry evolves rapidly, and he shared how Seven States can help LPCs navigate the innovative changes in the Valley.

“Seven States’ intentional presence at district meetings and other events around the Valley is valuable for LPCs who might not know where to start on implementing innovation. They’re always ready to share what works, what doesn’t, and are knowledgeable in a wide variety of technologies, whether it be EV chargers, solar, batteries, or anything else coming down the road. It’s nice to see somebody that’s actually in a boots-on-the-ground role and to hear from other LPCs that have had successful projects with them.”

When asked about what advice he’d give to a new manager who wants to pursue innovation, Jeff shared that it’s important to keep the customer at the heart of every decision.

“Every single day, you have to do what’s best for the ratepayer. They are your lifeline, and you have to steward their resources and go above and beyond to serve them well. With a smaller system, sometimes the timing for new projects just isn’t right yet, but with each decision you make, as long as you’re confident that what you’re doing is truly the best thing for the ratepayer, your community will benefit greatly.”