CEMC Earns Green Certification in Montgomery County

Taking care of the resources we depend on is part of how we serve our members every day. That work was recognized again this year when CEMC renewed its Silver Level status through the Clarksville-Montgomery County Green Certification Program.

Montgomery County Mayor Wes Golden and program manager Michelle Newell presented the recertification in late October. The program, supported by Bi-County Solid Waste Management and Montgomery County Government, recognizes local organizations that put practical resource management and efficient operations into action.

Using energy wisely at home base

Energy efficiency stood out as a strong focus for us this year. At our headquarters on Madison Street in Clarksville, which is home to both CEMC operations and Cumberland Connect, we have updated our lighting and temperature controls. We also removed personal space heaters and other equipment that work against the building’s heating and cooling system, so it can run the way it was designed to.

Less waste, more reuse

Recycling cardboard and aluminum is only part of our waste reduction efforts. We sell retired wiring so it can be put back to use, and we have made significant cuts to the amount of plastic and paper we throw away.

One of the more unusual ways we keep materials out of the landfill is by offering retired utility poles to the public. Residents have turned them into landscaping borders, fencing and other projects on their own property. Scott Bagwell, our Supervisor of Purchasing and Warehousing, led the recertification effort and says the pole program is one of the things that sets CEMC apart.

Taking care of what we have

Our fleet now includes alternative-use vehicles, which help lower fuel and maintenance costs. We also put a strong focus on preventive maintenance for our trucks and equipment. Keeping them in good shape means they run reliably when members need us and last longer before they need to be replaced.

President & CEO Chris Davis credits CEMC’s more than 300 employees for making this work possible. Their day-to-day care for our equipment, facilities and materials is what earned this recognition.