Powerful Debuts Alder Blueprint with Vera Water & Power’s Refreshed Website
SPOKANE VALLEY, WA — A utility with deep roots. A blueprint built for what’s next. Vera Water & Power teamed up with Powerful to launch a refreshed website that honors their history while paving the way for more modern, flexible communication. As the first utility to implement Powerful’s newly developed Alder blueprint, Vera is setting the tone for how public utilities can evolve their digital presence—without losing sight of who they are. The new site brings together bold design, streamlined navigation, and dynamic tools that make it easier than ever to connect with the Spokane Valley community.
The Alder blueprint was created by Powerful to help utilities like Vera promote key initiatives, seasonal messaging, and timely updates—all within a homepage layout that’s clean, clear, and designed for action. Promotional sections feature large imagery, bold headlines, and short supporting text paired with clear buttons that link directly to internal pages. For Vera, this means they can spotlight high-priority topics—like their current water service line survey—right where visitors are most likely to see them.
“Being the first-ever website to use the Alder promotional-based blueprint, Vera Water and Power was able to create a unique and modern experience for their customers,” says Stacey Horton, Designer at Powerful. “By incorporating rounded shapes, complementary colors, and captivating imagery, this redesign provided an exciting way for their new brand to shine through in a blueprint that fit them like a glove. It was such a fun experience designing this website and I look forward to seeing how it serves the Vera team and their customers for years to come!”
The site’s functionality is just as thoughtful as its design. Powerful’s built-in News Releases and Calendar & Events apps automatically update the homepage with the most recent announcements and upcoming events—saving time for staff while keeping the community informed. From office closures and board meetings to long-term projects and utility updates, Vera’s team can share what matters most without having to manage complex workflows behind the scenes.
Brand consistency was also a priority in the redesign. The new color palette, typography, and interface choices reflect Vera’s trusted identity in the Spokane Valley while creating a fresh digital presence. Strategic placement of call-to-action buttons—such as bill pay, service forms, and conservation information—ensures visitors can quickly find what they need without scrolling or searching.
With this redesign, Vera now has a website that mirrors the way they serve their community: responsive, approachable, and built with purpose. The site balances long-term goals with day-to-day functionality, giving Vera the tools they need to keep information current and communication flowing.
About Powerful
Powerful is a leader in designing human-centered websites for utility organizations, helping clients like Vera Water & Power modernize their digital presence through thoughtful design and flexible technology. With a mission to build long-term partnerships, Powerful creates websites that prioritize accessibility, visitor experience, and day-to-day functionality—ensuring utility customers can easily find information, complete tasks, and stay connected. Each project is tailored to reflect the utility’s unique identity and service goals, with a focus on clear navigation, responsive design, and community engagement. By understanding Vera’s vision and bringing it to life through the new Alder blueprint, Powerful delivered a platform that supports both staff efficiency and public transparency.
About Vera Water & Power
Vera Water & Power is a publicly-owned, not-for-profit utility serving the Spokane Valley community for more than 100 years. The utility provides safe, reliable electricity and water at the lowest possible cost, with a strong commitment to responsible resource management, environmental stewardship, and customer service. Vera is governed by a five-member board of directors and operates with a mission to deliver high-quality service while meeting the evolving needs of the community it serves.
