MED remains focused on service and reliability as search for new general manager narrows

The search continues for a new general manager to lead the Nashville Electric Department, with the field of candidates narrowing to a short list.

The submission period has closed, and work is ongoing to review resumes from those interested in leading the electric department that serves one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.

“As the city grows, MED remains committed to providing reliable, affordable electricity with excellent customer service,” says P.D. Mynatt, MED’s chief financial officer who is serving as interim manager until a new general manager is placed. “We have a good group of employees who believe in the mission of public power. They remain dedicated to doing an outstanding job for the people of Nashville and to making sure our customers see no difference in service through this transition period.”

Customer service surveys show a high level of satisfaction among MED customers. Part of this stems from the fact that, because of its financial strength, MED has been able to hold rates steady in the face of increases from its wholesale power provider, TVA.

In October, MED decided for the second year in a row to absorb an increase in TVA rates rather than pass it along to customers. Combined, MED saved customers $4.8 million, or more than $4 each month on an average residential user’s bill.

Additionally, MED has invested in technology to make operations more efficient, thereby making it easier for customers to do business with us. This includes automated meter reading, SmartHub online account management and PowerUp prepay billing.

MED has been recognized nationally several times for the reliability of its distribution system, along with its commitment to safety, workforce development and system improvement. Its rating of 99.993 percent reliability means power is rarely interrupted.

When outages do occur, MED’s focus on tree trimming and placing utilities underground when possible helps minimize restoration times while also making the city more attractive.

MED is known in the community as a leader in protecting natural resources. Not only is it the founder and major sponsor of Nashville’s Earth Day celebration, but MED has also installed several electric car charging stations throughout the city.

In terms of economic development, MED has forged partnerships with entities such as Amazon, General Mills and MTSU to ensure their unique power needs are met and to explore opportunities to work together so the city continues to benefit from the jobs they create.

“MED is a well-run utility because of the work our employees do every day to serve our customers,” Mynatt says. “As we transition to a new general manager, we want to reassure the public that these employees remain just as focused on getting the job done.”