Northern Wasco County People’s Utility District has been designated as a Smart Energy Provider by the American Public Power Association. The designation is awarded to utilities that demonstrate excellence in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and environmental initiatives. Northern Wasco PUD is Oregon’s sole recipient in the program’s six-year history. The SEP program recognizes close to 100 public power utilities across the nation for their commitment to best practices in energy management. An expert review panel that assesses the utility’s programs in four key areas: Smart Energy Information, Energy Efficiency and Distributed Energy Resources, Environmental and Sustainability Programs, and Communication/Education and Customer Experience. The SEP designation lasts for three years, commencing on December 1.