Lafayette, LA (June 22, 2021) – Gregory Labbe’, Electric Operations Manager at Lafayette Utilities System (LUS), received the Harold Kramer-John Preston Personal Service Award during the American Public Power Association’s National Conference in Orlando, Florida. The award recognizes individuals for their service to the American Public Power Association (APPA).

“We are immensely proud of Greg achieving this well-deserved award,” says LUS Interim Director Lowell Duhon. “Having worked side-by-side with Greg during this past hurricane season, I see the tireless work and leadership he displays,” said Duhon.

Labbe’, celebrating his 35th year at LUS, has contributed to many areas across public power, especially demonstrating great leadership in 2020 with his activities around mutual aid. From coordinating the restoration of Lafayette and cities throughout Louisiana during Hurricanes Laura and Delta to assisting utilities across the southern US, he has become a reliable resource in emergency response and disaster recovery. He played a key role in the facilitation and coordination of  Louisiana Energy and Power Authority (LEPA) member’s mutual aid plan that allowed for rapid response and restoration effort following last year’s multiple storm events.

Labbe’ sits on the Board of Directors of LEPA and his team are active supporters of APPA’s Mutual Aid Working Group and annual participants in the APPA’s Lineworkers’ Rodeo.

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The American Public Power Association is the voice of not-for-profit, community-owned utilities that power 2,000 towns and cities nationwide. We represent public power before the federal government to protect the interests of the more than 49 million people that public power utilities serve, and the 93,000 people they employ. Our association advocates and advises on electricity policy, technology, trends, training, and operations. Our members strengthen their communities by providing superior service, engaging citizens, and instilling pride in community-owned power.