Apr 12, 2021 | Customer Service
Last year and the pandemic brought on many new challenges for our customers. It also brought on new challenges for our company, as the majority of customer service employees began working remotely. But with all the changes in 2020, our commitment to delivering remarkable service was stronger than ever.
Over the past year, you interacted with us millions of times across multiple channels. We offered help, answered your questions about payment agreements, programs and ways to save energy, and supported you through these difficult times.
Here’s how we did it:
Over 6.5 million web self-service transactions — Doing business through our website accounts for the largest chunk of customer contacts. And why not? You can do so many things, like manage your account, apply for help with your bill, learn great energy efficiency tips, and more.
Just under 1.5 million self-service transactions through our automated phone system — You can make a payment, report an outage, and even transfer your electric service in a few short minutes with our automated system.
Over 1.4 million phone calls — If you have a more complex need and prefer to speak with someone, we’re here to help.
About 2,400 social media responses— Did you know we answer customer questions on Facebook and Twitter? We have a dedicated team ready to respond.
Whenever and wherever you choose to contact us, we’ll be here for you.
Apr 7, 2021 | Community Involvement, Environment
At PPL, the environment is important to us and we know it’s equally important to you! That’s why we’re launching a campaign to honor Earth Day 2021 and we invite you to join us!
This year’s theme is #RestoreOurEarth. And what better time to get outside and preserve this beautiful environment than during Earth Week?
To join us, all you have to do is share a photo of you and your family doing something outside to preserve our environment between April 19 – April 25. Make sure you tag us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and use the hashtag #EarthDayMyWay.
Whether you’re planting a tree or garden, using a reusable water bottle, riding your bike, taking a walk, or discovering native plants, together we can #RestoreOurEarth.
To learn more about our environmental initiatives, here are just a few programs that demonstrate our commitment:
Community Roots
Through this program, we provide plants and trees to help preserve the environment where we live, play, and work.
Wood Recycling Program
Learn more about how we recycle old or broken utility poles to keep them out of landfills.
Helping Birds of Prey
This is how we protect wildlife and keep bald eagles soaring through our territory.
Mar 30, 2021 | Environment
Spring is upon us. And what better way to show our love of the environment than planting a tree? There’s just something about watching a tree adapt to all four seasons and grow right before our eyes. But before we get caught up in the beauty of nature, we must do a bit of research and take safety precautions before we pull out the shovels and start digging.
Here are a few tips for safe and successful tree prep and planting:
Keep tree roots in a cool place until ready to plant. Add water to moisten the roots, as needed.
Location, location, location – plan the spacing and location of your tree. And make sure it’s far away from any PPL power lines. If a tree is planted near power lines, eventually it may need to be trimmed or removed to keep your power reliable and the grid safe.
Call 811 before you dig! Know what’s below. It’s important to call 811 at least 3 business days before your project to avoid digging into any underground utility lines.
Consider using mulch (shredded bark or wood chips), around your tree to prevent damage to its roots.
For more information and a comprehensive guide to selecting, planting and caring for a new tree, visit www.arborday.org
Mar 30, 2021 | Community Involvement
As any teacher will tell you, the transition to a virtual environment has been a challenge. That’s why we’re stepping up to ease the burden and connect students with the resources they need to thrive.
Through a partnership with Smithsonian Science Education Center, Da Vinci Science Center, and the Allentown School District, we successfully launched a STEM literacy series for fourth and fifth grade students.
STEM – which stands for “Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math” – is critical as it prepares students for future success in both school and their careers.
To kick-off this initiative, we funded a professional development training with teachers so they could successfully launch the STEM program for roughly 2,500 students. Fourth graders learn about energy in the home, while fifth grade students are studying environmental energy. The great thing about this program is students receive a STEM package of their own, including a textbook and science kit. These resources are for the students to keep at home and share with their families after the 6-week lesson is complete.
We’re proud to play a small part in preventing STEM learning loss for these students during such a difficult time. Here’s to the next generation of STEM leaders!
Mar 30, 2021 | Community Involvement
In 2018 when we agreed to grant $100,000 to the Susquehanna Health Foundation toward an “ambulance bus,” it was an exciting and innovative idea. But this year, we saw that idea and vision come to life.
Now, this climate-controlled, 15 passenger, ambulance bus will be used for a variety of functions, all contributing to the health and safety of the community. The goal is to reach residents across 12 counties, 7 of which are within our territory, through paramedic and firefighter training and drills for emergency responders. It’s already been put to good use, delivering COVID19 vaccines to senior citizens in Williamsport, Lycoming County.
Since its founding in 2015, the PPL Foundation has contributed $15 million to organizations across our 29-county region. We’re proud to play a small part in preparing for the unique healthcare needs of this area, while supporting two of the PPL Foundation’s major focuses: education and sustainable communities.
We’re looking forward to seeing the ambulance bus in action!
