Independence Power & Light Department receives two national designations – including ‘diamond’ for reliability for the third straight time

The results are in – the Independence Power & Light Department is among the best in the nation at keeping the lights on and doing it safely.

Independence Power & Light Department (IPL) has earned a diamond Reliable Public Power Provider (RP3) designation, the highest possible ranking, from the American Public Power Association (APPA).

The RP3 designation recognizes public power utilities that demonstrate proficiency in four key disciplines: reliability, safety, workforce development and system improvement. Independence was one of only two utilities in Missouri to win the diamond designation.

IPL was given the designation for their reliable and safe electric service over the last three years. With this newest designation, IPL has now held the RP3 diamond standard for nearly ten years.

“Independence Power & Light Department works hard to ensure our residents are never without power – whether it be in an emergency or everyday situation,” IPL Department Director James Nail said. “This designation is a true testament to how hard our staff works, and we could not be prouder or more honored. Even though we have held this designation for many years, we are committed to continuing to look for ways to improve our operations and service to our customers.”

In addition to the RP3 designation, IPL also received a Safety Excellence Award from the APPA for safe operating practices in 2022. It’s the first time IPL has ever been recognized with the award.

IPL was also one of only two utilities companies in the Missouri large class to win the award.

“This award shows our commitment to every employee and our community that we strive to make IPL a safe workplace,” Environmental, Health and Safety Supervisor at IPL Eric Holder said. “Over 300 public utilities submit safety applications to APPA every year and only a handful are recognized annually with an award. Being recognized truly puts IPL in a distinguished group.”

Independence Power & Light Department is a municipal electric utility, established in 1901. The utility is owned and controlled by the community through locally elected officials and is one of the three municipally owned utilities we have in Independence.