The Lansing Board of Water & Light (BWL) is a municipally-owned public utility established in 1885, dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and affordable utility products and services to nearly 100,000 electric and 58,000 water customers in the greater Lansing area. Originally founded to supply water, BWL expanded its services to include electricity in 1892 and steam heat in 1919. The addition of chilled water services followed in 2001. The utility is governed by a board of commissioners made up of local citizens, including both voting and non-voting members representing surrounding regions.
BWL owns an extensive infrastructure, including 2,000 miles of power lines and over 800 miles of water mains, supplying an impressive 2.7 million megawatt hours of electricity and 7 billion gallons of water annually. Their mission emphasizes a commitment to public ownership, climate consciousness, and innovative strategies to enhance the customer experience.
Customer service is at the heart of BWL's operations, with a focus on accountability and respect for the diverse community it serves. The utility prides itself on its environmentally focused initiatives, including efforts to provide clean energy and promote sustainable practices.
BWL continues to innovate with new energy projects and comprehensive strategic planning, aimed at better aligning with industry changes and fostering regional growth. The organization also prioritizes the development of a diverse and highly skilled workforce, showcasing its dedication to its employees and the greater Lansing community.