Helix Water District was recognized by the San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce with its 2026 Environmental Stewardship Award. District representatives received their award at the 114th Annual East County Honors Awards Gala.

The Environmental Stewardship Award recognizes the Helix Water District’s leadership in advancing innovative and collaborative solutions to protect natural resources and strengthen long-term water reliability for East County.

Helix Water District has invested in conservation, clean energy, and resilient infrastructure for more than a century, as part of its mission to deliver safe, reliable drinking water for its customers. The district continues to embark on new projects and initiatives that position Helix as a regional leader in environmental stewardship.

“Sustainability is not a single achievement but a daily commitment,” said Board President Kathleen Coates Hedberg. “We are honored to be recognized for our ongoing efforts.

“From clean energy investments to advanced water purification, our progress is driven by the dedication of our employees, the strength of our regional partnerships, and the trust of the customers we proudly serve,” added Coates Hedberg.

Environmental Stewardship Accomplishments

The Helix Water District’s commitment to environmental sustainability is reflected in its numerous accomplishments.

The district installed a first-of-its-kind, state-of-the-art charging system at the Nat L. Eggert Operations Center. It is now the largest medium- and heavy-duty fleet charging installation in California. It was almost entirely grant-funded.

Helix has reduced energy costs and demand, saving up to 18% on electric commodity rates through direct purchase agreements while also cutting facility electricity use by 15% through efficiency upgrades. These collective savings benefit Helix customers.

The district has improved regional water reliability by participating in the East County Advanced Water Purification Program, thereby reducing reliance on the Colorado River and Sierra Nevada runoff.

Helix Water District has lowered its greenhouse gas emissions by 40% through fleet, energy, and operational improvements.

In addition to the recognition for its efforts by the San Diego Regional East County Chamber, Helix Water District earned Green Business certification in 2025 from the California Green Business Network and the City of La Mesa.

Helix Water District continues to work with its residential and business customers to promote long-term water efficiency. This effort has helped reduce average water use from 142 gallons per person per day in 1992 to 90 gallons in 2025.

Ongoing Commitment to Environmental Sustainability

“Environmental sustainability and fiscal responsibility go hand in hand,” said Coates Hedberg. “For every project, the district considers how best to protect our natural resources while also delivering value to the customers we serve.”

The East County Honors Awards Gala, a long-standing tradition celebrating excellence in business and community leadership, brings together organizations that exemplify innovation, responsibility, and service. Helix Water District is honored to be recognized among those helping shape a more sustainable future for East County.

The San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce advocates for improving business opportunities, public policy, and business education throughout San Diego County.

For more information, visit www.eastcountychamber.org/.