Imperial Irrigation District outlines expanded rate-assistance, rebates and water projects in Brawley presentation

Imperial Irrigation District (IID) officials presented their public-benefits programs and recent planning work to the Brawley City Council, including expanded outreach and funding moves aimed at helping low-income and senior customers with energy costs.

In a presentation Wednesday, IID Division 3 Director Gina Young Dockstader and staff described programs funded by a state-mandated public benefits charge, new rebate and weatherization offerings, and larger water- and power-system projects in the valley. “IID offers a variety of public benefits programs to help customers offset their energy costs,” Assistant Power Manager Sabrina Barber said while outlining rebates, a weatherization program and rate-assistance options.

Why it matters: IID’s public-benefits work allocates ratepayer funds for energy efficiency and direct bill relief, and the utility’s planning for additional storage and reservoirs could change local water- and energy- system capacity over the coming years.

Key program details and local awards

- Tree for All / public green-space grants: IID’s Tree for All grants offer up to $35,000 per project. Dockstader said two projects located in the city of Brawley were awarded funds: the Housing Authority received $25,000 and the Riverside Cemetery District was awarded $35,000. Dockstader said applications will reopen in March and that the city of Brawley is eligible to apply for parks or other shared green spaces.

- Energy rewards and appliance rebates: IID moved to an…