THE STORY

Serving more than 1.2 million electric and natural gas customers across eight states, this leading Midwest utility has built its reputation on exceptional service and community commitment. Its award-winning portfolio of energy efficiency programs delivers measurable savings to a diverse mix of homes and businesses every year, but it was looking to connect with the community in a new way.

THE GOAL

Already recognized for a strong suite of energy efficiency offerings, the utility sought a new, cost-effective way to deepen its connection with residential customers— delivering savings today while inspiring long-term energy awareness. The goal was twofold: to achieve measurable energy reduction and to strengthen community engagement by investing in future generations.

THE SOLUTION AND RESULTS

Franklin Energy partnered with the utility to design an innovative program that brought energy education directly into the classroom. Focused on high school students, the program combined hands-on learning with real-world impact— equipping students with the knowledge to make informed energy choices and the tools to take action at home.

Each student received an energy efficiency kit filled with easy-to-install measures that delivered immediate household savings. Beyond the classroom, the program introduced students to STEM-based career paths in the growing clean energy economy—bridging education, empowerment, and workforce development.

Launched as a pilot in select high schools within the Pueblo, Colorado utility service area, the program exceeded expectations. To date, it has achieved:

• 1,199,166 kWh in energy savings
• 114,076 therms in natural gas savings
• 8,856,683 gallons of water saved

Equally powerful were the non-energy results: more than 3,300 students were inspired to explore STEM and green sector careers, strengthening the local talent pipeline and reinforcing the utility’s role as a trusted community partner.