Greer CPW earns three communications awards following Tropical Storm Helene
November 6, 2025
Greer Commission of Public Works (Greer CPW), a public not-for-profit utility, announced that they recently received three prestigious communication awards recognizing outstanding transparency and restoration efforts during Tropical Storm Helene. The most recent honor was presented by the American Public Power Association (APPA) at the Customer Connections Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah.
“Restoring utilities during Helene was a team effort and a storm we will never forget. We appreciate customers’ comments, patience, and understanding as we worked through the historic event,” said Alison Rauch, Public Information Coordinator. “I’m humbled that we were recognized among so many other public power utilities, and it was an honor to accept this award on behalf of all Greer CPW employees.”
The APPA recognizes utilities for their excellence in communications in three categories – print and digital, web and social media, and video – based on annual gross revenues. Greer CPW earned an Award of Excellence in the web and social media category, a first for the company and the highest recognition possible.
“Clear and timely communication is just as important as restoring power,” said Gene Gibson, Greer CPW Chairman. “Our team worked around the clock to keep the community informed and supported during Helene, and these awards are a reflection of that dedication to service.”
The national award was judged by an independent panel of communications experts, honors utilities that raise awareness of publicly owned power systems, and whose communications had a significant impact on the community. Judging criteria included audience reach and engagement, website design and accessibility, customer-friendly communication, and clear, action-oriented content.
“We’re proud to be recognized for building trust through open, honest communication and ensuring our customers had the information they needed every step of the way,” said Rauch.
In addition to the APPA honor, Greer CPW also received an Award of Excellence from the International Association of Business Communicators – South Carolina (IABC-SC) in the Issues Management and Crisis Communications category this October, marking another first for the organization.
This award recognizes organizations whose communications have had a measurable impact during crises and highlights effective strategies to manage critical situations. Entries were judged independently using the same criteria applied by IABC’s Global Blue Ribbon Panel. Greer CPW was also named Star of the Show, the top honor awarded to the highest-scoring entry across all categories from the IABC-SC chapter.
