Guam Power Authority Honored with APPA Sue Kelly Community Service Award

The American Public Power Association (APPA) awarded the Guam Power Authority (GPA), the prestigious Sue Kelly Community Service Award during the APPA’s National Conference on June 10, 2025, in New Orleans, Louisiana. APPA recognized 24 individuals and 9 utilities for service to the APPA and the public power industry.

The APPA Sue Kelly Community Service Award is presented to community-owned utilities for their “good neighbor” activities that demonstrate the commitment of the utility and its employees to the community. Five public power organizations from throughout the United States to include Guam received recognition during the conference: Guam Power Authority, Conway Corp in Arkansas, Littleton Electric Light and Water Departments in Massachusetts, Marshfield Utilities in Wisconsin, and Tillamook PUD in Oregon.

Throughout the years, GPA has participated in various community events. This includes yearly visits to various schools around the island to deliver their energy efficiency/conservation presentations, participating in career days, and donating STEM model kits to middle school teachers and students to further enhance their robotics curricula program. GPA's outreach committee's host annual donation drives that benefit local charities such as a food drive collecting between 2,500 to 3,000 canned foods for The Salvation Army of Guam and Catholic Social Service. Lastly, GPA has consistently been volunteering countless hours on weekends to work with Special Olympics Guam (SOGU) athletes, teaching them not only the fundamentals but also teamwork, perseverance, and self-confidence during its annual softball event. These are just some examples of how GPA embody the spirit of giving and teamwork through volunteerism as a means of enriching the island community.

John M. Benavente, P.E., GPA General Manager applauded his hardworking team. He said, “It is always a proud moment when GPA wins awards at the APPA’s national conferences. I thank our entire team for their commitment to excellence, and the latest award shows our unwavering commitment to our customers and fellow team members. Biba GPA!”

Supporting link:  
2025 Winners: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QgIF5CUIytg&t=2042s