For Immediate Release: October 1, 2024

Congresswoman Matsui secures $3 million for SMUD’s clean energy transformation in Sacramento’s Meadowview neighborhood

Project to electrify 300 homes, reduce bills and clean air

On Thursday, SMUD and Congresswoman Doris Matsui will announce $3 million in funding for expansion of a clean energy project aimed at electrifying up to 300 homes in the Meadowview neighborhood. The Neighborhood Electrification Project, made possible through federal appropriations funding secured by Congresswoman Matsui, is part of SMUD's 2030 Zero Carbon Plan and represents a significant step in clean energy solutions. This project will improve air quality, lower utility bills and reduce financial stress associated with aging appliances for hundreds of customers.

What: Meadowview Neighborhood Electrification Project launch

When: Thursday, October 3, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Where: Residence of SMUD customer, 7304 Stockdale Street, Sacramento, CA 95822

Who: Congresswoman Doris Matsui, SMUD Board of Directors Vice President Gregg Fishman, Sacramento City Councilmember Mai Vang, SMUD Chief Customer Officer Brandy Bolden, SMUD customer participant, SMUD staff, workforce development partners and Meadowview community

“By partnering with SMUD to electrify homes in Meadowview, we're investing directly in the health, wellbeing and financial security of our community members,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “Sacramento continues to lead in innovation, creating a model for sustainable, equitable development that benefits our neighbors while contributing to our broader climate goals. I'm proud to have secured $3 million in funding for this transformative project that makes a real, tangible difference in people's lives and paves the way for a cleaner, more prosperous future."

"As we drive toward a clean energy future, we're committed to ensuring no community is left behind," said SMUD CEO and General Manager Paul Lau. "We’re grateful for Congresswoman Matsui’s leadership in securing transformative investments that address our region’s pressing challenges. This project exemplifies SMUD's commitment to sustainable energy solutions and creating lasting economic impact in the communities we serve. By investing in sustainable infrastructure and partnering with local organizations, we're not just upgrading homes – we're building healthier, more resilient neighborhoods and empowering residents to be active participants in our clean energy transition.”

SMUD’s Neighborhood Electrification Project will fully electrify homes where feasible, including upgrades such as heat pump space heating, heat pump water heating, smart thermostats, induction stoves and EV charging. SMUD is working closely with community partners to raise awareness, engage customers about clean energy benefits, recruit participants for the program and create workforce opportunities.

Key resident benefits of the electrification project include:

  • Cleaner air and healthier homes for families
  • Reduced utility bills for residents, increased property values
  • Preparation for future electric vehicle adoption and solar plus storage technologies
  • Contribution to regional air quality improvements and statewide greenhouse gas reduction goals

Building on its successes from Meadowview activation, SMUD plans to roll out similar projects across the Sacramento region, with a strategic focus on communities facing more environmental and economic challenges. That is why SMUD is partnering with local organizations to support workforce development, training and career pathways in clean energy. This initiative, made possible by federal funding from the U.S. Department of Energy, ensures that as we electrify Meadowview and work toward our zero-carbon goals, we're also investing in our community's future workforce.

About SMUD

As the nation’s sixth-largest, community-owned, not-for-profit electric service provider, SMUD has been providing low-cost, reliable electricity to Sacramento County for more than 75 years. SMUD is a recognized industry leader and award winner for its innovative energy efficiency programs, renewable power technologies and for its sustainable solutions for a healthier environment. Today, SMUD’s power supply is on average about 50 percent carbon free and SMUD has a goal to reach zero carbon in its electricity production by 2030. SMUD’s rates and customer bills are consistently among the lowest in California, and are today, on average, more than 50 percent lower than its neighboring investor-owned utility.