Frequently asked questions
Q: Am I eligible to borrow this equipment?
A: If you buy firm capacity directly or indirectly from Western, you may borrow equipment from the Equipment Loan Program. Western sells power to more than 600 public entities in Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, Texas, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada and California. If you are unsure of your eligibility, contact the program manager or your regional Energy Services representative.
Q: How much does it cost me to borrow a piece of equipment?
A: There is no charge to our firm power customers; however, borrowers must pay for return shipping.
Q: For how long may I keep a piece of borrowed equipment?
A: Loan lengths vary according to availability, demand and equipment type. For example, a standard loan for an infrared camera is two weeks. This time frame is flexible. Weather or other factors may keep a customer from completing the work within the loan time frame. If there is no waiting list, you may arrange an extension with the program manager. We will do everything we can to make this program meet your needs.
Long-term loans are available for joint action agencies and special customer programs. Requests for long-term loans will be evaluated based on the demand for the particular piece of equipment and the extent to which the loan benefits multiple Western customers.
Q: How do I get request a loan?
A: Fill out the equipment request form (needs form) or contact the program manager. Loans are first-come, first-served. Requesting equipment well in advance improves your chances of getting exactly what you want, when you want it.
Q: What type of equipment is available?
A: Visit our tool gallery.
Q: How is the equipment shipped?
A: Equipment is typically shipped via a private carrier, such as UPS. We can express equipment overnight if there is an urgent need.
Q: How is the equipment returned?
A: The customer typically pays return shipping costs and returns equipment via a private carrier. If your office is near a Western regional office, you may simply drop the equipment off with the Energy Services representative at that office.
For more information, contact:
Equipment Loan Program Manager
Western Area Power Administration
Corporate Services Office
P.O. Box 281213
Lakewood, CO 80228-8213
Phone: 720-962-7420
Fax: 720-962-7427