OG&E in Fort Smith: Providing Reliable Energy for the River City Key Performance Indicators

Energy Consumption in Fort Smith

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), Fort Smith’s energy consumption in the residential sector is approximately 1,525 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year, while the commercial sector consumes around 2,750 kWh annually. The industrial sector accounts for a significant portion of energy usage, consuming an estimated 12,000 kWh per year.

OG&E’s Role in Fort Smith

OG&E Energy Corp. (NYSE: OGE) is a leading energy provider in Oklahoma and western Arkansas, including Fort Smith. The company serves approximately 12,000 customers in the city, supplying both electricity and natural gas.

OG&E’s Services

OG&E offers a range of services to its customers in Fort Smith, including:

• Electricity Transmission and Distribution: OG&E’s transmission network delivers electricity to Fort Smith from generating plants across the region, while its distribution system distributes power to homes, businesses, and other facilities in the city.

  

• Natural Gas Distribution: OG&E distributes natural gas through a network of underground pipelines to homes, businesses, and industries in Fort Smith.

• Customer Service: OG&E provides 24/7 customer service, including outage reporting, billing inquiries, and energy efficiency assistance.

• Energy Efficiency Programs: OG&E offers energy efficiency programs to help customers reduce their energy consumption and save money on their bills.

Economic Impact of OG&E

OG&E’s operations in Fort Smith contribute to the city’s economic vitality. The company employs approximately 150 people in the area, and its investments in infrastructure and energy efficiency help support local businesses and create jobs.

Innovations and Sustainability

OG&E is committed to innovation and sustainability. The company has invested in renewable energy projects, such as wind and solar farms, and is exploring emerging technologies like microgrids and electric vehicles.

Case Studies

• Energy-Efficiency Upgrade at Mercy Hospital: OG&E helped Mercy Hospital in Fort Smith reduce its energy consumption by 15% through a comprehensive energy-efficiency upgrade. The project involved replacing outdated lighting fixtures with energy-efficient LEDs, installing a high-efficiency heating and cooling system, and upgrading the hospital’s building management system.

• Solar Power for Fort Smith Public Schools: OG&E partnered with Fort Smith Public Schools to install solar panels on the roofs of seven schools in the district. The solar panels provide approximately 15% of the schools’ electricity needs, reducing energy costs and promoting sustainability.

Benefits of OG&E Service

• Reliable Energy Supply: OG&E has a proven track record of providing reliable energy to its customers in Fort Smith. The company’s extensive transmission and distribution network ensures a stable and uninterrupted flow of electricity and natural gas.

  

• Affordable Energy: OG&E’s rates are competitive with other energy providers in the region. The company also offers a variety of rate plans to meet the specific needs of its customers.

• Customer-Focused Service: OG&E is committed to providing excellent customer service. The company’s 24/7 call center and online account management tools make it easy for customers to get the assistance they need.

Strategies for Successful Energy Management

• Conduct Energy Audits: Regular energy audits can help businesses and homeowners identify areas where they can reduce energy consumption.

• Implement Energy-Efficiency Measures: Installing energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and heating and cooling systems can significantly reduce energy bills.

• Take Advantage of Incentives: OG&E and other energy providers offer incentives to encourage customers to adopt energy-efficient technologies.

• Educate Employees and Residents: Raising awareness about energy conservation can help businesses and homeowners make informed decisions about their energy use.

Why Energy Management Matters

• Reduced Energy Costs: Energy management can help businesses and homeowners reduce their energy bills by up to 30%.

• Improved Environmental Sustainability: Reducing energy consumption helps reduce carbon emissions and other environmental impacts.

• Enhanced Productivity: Energy-efficient technologies can improve workplace productivity by creating a more comfortable and productive environment.

Conclusion

OG&E is a vital energy provider in Fort Smith, providing reliable and affordable electricity and natural gas to the community. The company is committed to innovation and sustainability, offering a range of energy-efficiency programs and investing in renewable energy projects. By partnering with OG&E, Fort Smith residents and businesses can access the energy they need to power their lives and support the city’s thriving economy.