I don’t think I need to tell you that time is a thief and change is inevitable. I started working for your cooperative as an electrician in 1985. My first responsibility was installing devices on electric water heaters that allowed the cooperative to turn them off during times of peak electrical usage.  

The landscape of the energy industry is changing, with technology and politics affecting both the generation and the consumption of electricity. Central Electric has a responsibility to adapt and evolve to meet the needs of our members. As the general manager who proudly installed our cooperative’s first load management system back in 1985, I’ve witnessed firsthand the positive impact that innovative technology can have on the electric grid and our wallets. 

That system I installed almost 40 years ago has served us well, but it will reach the end of its useful life in 2029. Over the next few months, your cooperative will launch a pilot project to test potential replacement equipment for the devices we have installed in member homes that control water heaters, air conditioners and other devices. 

By participating in this pilot project, you have the chance to help shape the future of our cooperative and contribute to a more efficient and sustainable path forward. 

But let’s talk turkey – what’s in it for you? Well, besides the warm fuzzies that come with knowing you’re doing your part to save the planet, participating in this project could also mean big savings for you and your family. By shedding load (energy usage) during peak times of consumption, we can reduce strain on the power grid, better utilize renewable power resources and lower overall electricity costs for everyone.

The ability to turn loads off or reduce electrical consumption at peak times already saves Central Electric an estimated $1.8 million annually. With a membership of roughly 4,900, that equals annual savings of about $367 on average for each member.

So how can you get involved? It’s simple! Just raise your hand (figuratively, of course) and call our office and let us know you’re interested in being part of this exciting initiative. Whether you’re a technophile itching to test out the latest gadgets or simply looking to do your part to save $ on your electric bill, we need you to be involved in this pilot project.
Being part of the pilot will mean that your cooperative will need access to your home to install and monitor this equipment. We are confident that the equipment we are testing will serve us well, but confirmation from this testing is just good business. 

Together, we can continue to lead the way in energy innovation and efficiency, ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come. So let’s roll up our sleeves and embark on this new chapter in our cooperative’s history – because when we evolve together, there’s no limit to what we can achieve.