Shows
Along Those LinesHow Co-ops are Educating Their Members on Rooftop SolarRooftop solar is gaining popularity with homeowners and businesses, leading to a surge in installations over the past decade. But the technology isn’t right for everyone, and electric co-ops are doing their part to help consumer-members make informed decisions and avoid misleading or inaccurate information from some third-party vendors. Hear from Lidija Sekaric, NRECA vice president of innovation and emerging technology, and Neal Brown, member services and marketing manager for Garkane Energy.2025-07-1419 minAlong Those LinesCo-ops Confront Growing Threat of WildfiresDrier and hotter weather conditions are creating longer wildfire seasons in many parts of the country, and even regions not typically at risk of wildfires are vulnerable. In this episode, learn how electric co-ops are dealing with this growing threat and how a bill in Congress, the Fix Our Forests Act, could help with mitigation efforts. Hear from NRECA's Erin Kelly and Hannah Hardin as well as West Oregon Electric Cooperative's Billi Kohler. 2025-06-0926 minAlong Those LinesCo-ops Using Elective-Pay Credits to Meet ‘Unique Future Goals’After years of advocacy from NRECA, Congress passed legislation in 2022 that allows electric co-ops to access federal tax credits for certain energy projects, including renewable power facilities, through an elective-pay option. These incentives can slash costs for co-ops to build, own and operate eligible generation and energy storage projects. Hear from NRECA's Hill Thomas as well as Doug Browne of North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives on how co-ops are reaping the benefits of these credits.2025-05-1919 minAlong Those LinesCo-ops Confront Growing Threat of Third-Party Cyber IncidentsCybersecurity incidents involving the systems and data of third-party vendors are on the rise for utilities in the U.S. It's a worrying trend that has directly impacted electric co-ops, and industry cyber professionals are working hard to counteract it. In this episode, NRECA's Carter Manucy discusses what co-ops are doing to enhance security and mitigate this threat, and Blue Ridge Energy's Tanner Greer discusses how his co-op dealt with a third-party cyber incident in 2023.2025-04-2231 minAlong Those LinesExecutive Actions Underscore Co-ops’ Reliability MessageEast Kentucky Power Cooperative's Tony Campbell joined President Donald Trump for a White House ceremony on April 8 to sign four major actions to boost power reliability and affordability. Campbell’s invitation to speak at this event is a high-profile recognition of the role that co-ops have played in shaping the national conversation about grid reliability. Hear from Campbell as well as NRECA CEO Jim Matheson about the impact these executive actions will have on co-ops.2025-04-1017 minAlong Those LinesGetting to Know New NRECA President Mike PartinEarlier this month, Mike Partin was elected president of NRECA at the PowerXchange conference in Atlanta. Partin has been CEO of Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative in central Tennessee since 2015. He joined the co-op in 1998 and has represented Tennessee on the NRECA board of directors since 2019. Hear from Partin about his thoughts on leadership, what the future looks like for electric cooperatives and what specific things he’ll focus on during his two-year tenure as president.2025-03-2525 minAlong Those LinesThe Electric Co-op Policy Outlook in a Rapidly Changing WashingtonThe 2024 elections were pivotal for policies affecting electric co-ops. President Donald Trump’s victory and Republicans’ majorities in Congress could bring major changes to environmental rules, permitting requirements, funding programs and tax incentives that touch on co-ops’ daily operations. Hear from NRECA's Louis Finkel about what those changes could be and what they mean for co-ops, as well as how co-op leaders can engage with policymakers.2025-02-1126 minAlong Those LinesAn Inside Look at NRECA’s PowerXchange and TechAdvantageNRECA's annual gathering of members is a critical touchpoint for co-ops and a place to exchange ideas and stay connected. 2025 PowerXchange and TechAdvantage come amid a period of unprecedented disruption—soaring demand from data centers and other load drivers, shrinking supply caused by misguided federal and state policies, and increasing changes in co-op leadership and work culture. Hear from NRECA's Erin Pressley about how this year's events will help attendees confront today's challenges.2025-01-1424 minAlong Those LinesHelene and Milton—Two Co-op Leaders Share Their Hurricane StoriesElectric co-ops in the Southeast grappled with unprecedented damage from back-to-back hurricanes this fall, with Helene and Milton making landfall just a couple of weeks apart. This month, we hear from the CEOs of two of the many electric cooperatives impacted by these storms to talk about their preparation, response and recovery: Matt Stanley of Laurens Electric Cooperative in South Carolina and David Lambert of Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative in Florida.2024-11-2029 minAlong Those LinesFederal Funding Accelerates Energy Innovation Among Co-ops Electric co-ops have always been energy innovation leaders, but a surge in public funding is taking that to the next level. The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 includes billions for clean energy projects—including the New ERA program designed specifically for co-ops—and the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law funded a wide range of programs that benefit co-ops. Hear from NRECA's Lauren Khair, Golden Valley Electric Association's Travis Million and Flathead Electric Cooperative's Jason Williams.2024-10-1431 minAlong Those LinesBalancing AI’s Benefits With Cybersecurity RisksArtificial intelligence, with its remarkable ability to digest and analyze enormous amounts of data, has nearly limitless positive applications for utilities. But it could be used just as effectively as a malicious tool by hackers and scammers. Co-ops are moving cautiously with AI, finding ways to safely implement new, enhanced systems while marginalizing tools that could increase cyber risk. Learn more from NRECA's Carter Manucy as well as Dairyland Power Cooperative's Nate Melby and Vlad Tsoy.2024-09-0932 minAlong Those LinesIn Small-Town Illinois, Co-op Broadband Makes a World of Difference Nestled along the upper Mississippi River and surrounded by farms and villages tucked into rolling hills, the town of Galena, Illinois, has charm to spare and regularly ranks among the country’s top small towns to visit. Now, with the coming of high-speed internet, Galena is seeing a surge not only in tourism but in new residents—and the driver behind this trend is the local electric co-op. Hear from JCE Co-op officials and Galena residents on how broadband can transform rural communities.2024-08-1325 minAlong Those LinesProtecting Electric Cooperative Consumers From ScamsScams that target electric utility consumers have been around for almost as long as the industry itself, with criminals using the latest technologies over the years to defraud victims. Electric co-ops have a unique advantage in combating scams, being locally owned, community focused and eager to share information with one another. Learn more from Monica Martinez of Utilities United Against Scams and Joan O’Fallon of Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative.2024-07-1522 minAlong Those LinesAll Eyes on the 2024 Hurricane Season The 2024 hurricane season could be especially challenging for electric co-ops and their members. NOAA is predicting above-normal Atlantic hurricane activity with up to 25 named storms—a record high for its May forecast. Learn more from Matt Rosencrans, lead hurricane outlook forecaster with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, and hear from Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative General Manager Mike Heinen about his co-op’s efforts to strengthen its system against hurricane damage.2024-06-1026 minAlong Those LinesImmediate, Irreparable Harm: The Impacts of EPA's Power Plant RuleThe EPA recently finalized its new rule to aggressively cut carbon dioxide emissions from power plants—a sweeping move that NRECA CEO Jim Matheson called “unlawful, unrealistic and unachievable." Critics across the industry have decried the regulation as a threat to reliability at a time when an already-stressed grid faces soaring demand. Hear from NRECA's Ashley Slater and Minnkota Power Cooperative's Mac McLennan about the rule, its impacts and how co-ops are working to reverse it.2024-05-2126 minAlong Those LinesIn the Blink of an Eye—Devastating Incident Becomes Teaching ToolIn 2021, Branden Bauer was working at United Electric in Pennsylvania as a journeyman lineman with nearly 10 years of experience. During a system improvement project, he made contact with a live conductor that he'd mistakenly thought was a neutral and suffered devastating injuries. Hear from Branden and his wife, Caitlin, about how he's made a mission of telling his story in the hope that it’ll help others. Graphic content warning: Contains detailed descriptions of high-voltage contact injuries.2024-04-2227 min
Power PlaysHow NRECA’s Microgrid Consortium is Creating ‘Wired Resilience’After demonstrating clean energy projects can succeed in rural areas, NRECA is putting more partnerships into practice. Its CARED project is creating a consortium of seven rural co-ops ops — including Minnesota Valley Electric — to deploy microgrids. In this episode of Power Plays, NRECA’s Tolu Omotoso explains how the DOE-funded project will create solutions hundreds of co-ops can scale and replicate.2024-03-2721 minAlong Those LinesLower Snake River Dams Deal Threatens Reliability in NorthwestA long-simmering dispute over the Lower Snake River dams burst onto the headlines in November with news of a backroom deal between the Biden administration and plaintiffs in a lawsuit against the Bonneville Power Administration and other agencies that manage the dams. The deal has raised fears about the possibility of breaching the dams and compromising the availability of reliable, carbon-free electricity. Hear from NRECA's Louis Finkel and Fall River Rural Electric Cooperative's Bryan Case.2024-03-2628 minAlong Those LinesLessons in Succession Planning From a Small Co-opThe electric utility industry is in the midst of a “skills and people shortage,” brought on by a steady stream of senior leaders reaching retirement age, a marked increase in non-retirement turnover and an evolution toward more advanced technologies that’s making it more difficult to find qualified employees. Electric co-ops are responding with creative initiatives on succession planning and employee development. Learn more from NRECA's Delaine Orendorff and Wells Rural Electric's Clay Fitch.2024-02-1328 minAlong Those LinesWhat the AI Revolution Means for Electric Co-opsArtificial intelligence is poised to have a rapidly expanding impact on many facets of our lives—and the power industry is at the tip of the spear. How are electric co-ops already using AI, and how will it shape and change the way we approach operations, member services and our workplace culture in the years to come? Hear from Mike Walsh, a futurist, author and the founder and CEO of the consulting firm Tomorrow as well as a keynote speaker for NRECA's 2024 PowerXchange and TechAdvantage.2024-01-1624 minAlong Those LinesACCESS Project Delivers Benefits of Solar to Co-ops’ Lower-Income MembersThe Achieving Cooperative Community Equitable Solar Sources (ACCESS) project, a three-year, Department of Energy-funded effort in which electric co-ops have worked on innovative ways to bring the benefits of solar power to their low- and moderate-income members, is winding down at the end of the year. Learn more about ACCESS from Lisa Slaughter, NRECA research engineer, and Marshall Cherry, president and CEO of Roanoke Cooperative.2023-12-1826 minAlong Those LinesMiddle-Mile MuddleA key piece of the broadband puzzle is the “middle mile,” which connects local networks to the broader web—a particularly critical facet for rural areas. Many electric co-ops in the broadband space are finding it difficult to access reliable, affordable third-party middle-mile networks, and some are starting to take matters into their own hands. Learn more from NRECA’s Katie Culleton as well as Steven Bandy, general manager of OzarksGo, the broadband subsidiary of Ozarks Electric Cooperative. 2023-11-2023 minAlong Those LinesProactive Safety: Commitment to Zero Contacts and Virtual Reality TrainingThe Commitment to Zero Contacts program, a joint effort of NRECA, Federated Rural Electric Insurance Exchange and statewide co-op associations to eliminate injuries and deaths caused by accidental electrical contacts, hit its five-year mark earlier this year. Phase 2 of the program includes a VR training kit that’s being rolled out to statewide associations across the country. Learn more from NRECA's Bud Branham, Federated's Corey Parr and North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives' Farris Leonard.2023-10-2623 minAlong Those Lines‘We Don’t Want This to Happen to Another Cooperative’: Lessons Learned From a CyberattackIn November 2021, Delta-Montrose Electric Association was hit with a ransomware attack that quickly spread through the co-op’s network and took over key systems like phone and email, customer information and meter data management. It took months of work to re-create and restore DMEA’s network, build new cyber protections and get back to a new normal. Hear from DMEA Chief Information Officer Bob Farmer and IT Manager Jay Suckey on the details of the attack and the valuable lessons learned.2023-09-2525 min
Intentional Leaders Podcast with Cyndi WentlandLeading through Vision, Communication & Consensus with Jim Matheson, CEO NRECAWhat happens when you sit down with a seasoned leader and let the conversation flow? I found out in a recent chat with Jim Matheson, CEO of NRECA (National Rural Electric Cooperative Association), where he generously shares his insights from years at the helm, and what primarily drives his leadership strategy. This episode is teeming with revelations, particularly around the power of communication in leadership - a refreshing and much-needed perspective amidst the often polarized rhetoric of today's world.He shares the challenges and opportunities that lie within the industry, and how balancing the immediate problems with...2023-09-1733 minAlong Those LinesEPA's Proposed Power Plant Rule Threatens ReliabilityThe EPA’s proposed power plant rule is set to go into effect in the spring of 2024. This sweeping set of new restrictions on emissions from new and existing power generation facilities is being criticized by many in the industry for setting unrealistic timelines, relying on untested technologies and threatening the affordability and reliability of electricity. Hear from Ashley Slater, NRECA’s vice president for regulatory affairs, on the proposed rule and the electric cooperative response.2023-08-2420 minAlong Those LinesAlong Those Lines: Filling the Rural Housing GapA pandemic-era trend has many Americans relocating from urban areas to smaller cities and towns, but they're facing a growing shortage of available, affordable housing. What’s causing this unprecedented housing gap, and what are rural leaders, including electric co-ops, doing to fix it? Hear from Alex Horowitz, project director of the Housing Policy Initiative at the Pew Charitable Trusts, and Lea Hoover, director of member and strategic services at Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative.2023-07-2531 minAlong Those LinesRaising the Alarm on Grid ReliabilityThe reliability of America's electric grid is no longer a guarantee amid government regulations forcing the disorderly closure of always-on power plants in favor of renewables and demand exceeding supply during critical times in several regions of the country. What have electric co-ops been doing to raise the alarm and offer solutions? Hear from NRECA CEO Jim Matheson and Associated Electric Cooperative CEO David Tudor.2023-06-2231 min
Co-op Energy TalkS9E10 - The Big Picture: Discussing National Energy Issues and Solutions with NRECA CEO Jim MathesonCherryland Electric Cooperative had the exciting opportunity to host National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) CEO Jim Matheson at our 85th Annual Meeting. He spoke with members about what's happening with electric cooperatives at a national level. In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Cherryland CEO Rachel Johnson and NRECA Board President Tony Anderson sat down for a deeper discussion on the challenges at hand and what members can do to be part of the solution.
2023-06-2024 minAlong Those LinesGetting to Know NRECA President Tony AndersonTony Anderson, general manager of Cherryland Electric Cooperative in Michigan, recently kicked off his two-year term as NRECA president. He’s a familiar figure in the electric cooperative program, with a career that has included working at five co-ops in five states and a high-profile charitable campaign that involved running a marathon in every state. Hear from Anderson about his career track, what he’ll focus on as NRECA president and what his priorities are going forward.2023-05-1526 minAlong Those LinesPowering Electric School Buses in Rural AmericaElectric school buses are becoming a more common sight in rural school districts, thanks in part to new federal funding created by the bipartisan infrastructure law. For electric co-ops that serve these districts, what are the opportunities and challenges posed by this new demand for electricity? Hear from NRECA's Stephanie Crawford, Bradley Cherry of Grayson Rural Electric Cooperative Corp. in Kentucky and Travis Mathes of Lewis County Rural Electric Cooperative in Missouri.2023-04-1320 minAlong Those LinesThe Next Generation of Electric Co-op LeadersOver the last 50 years, the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour has sent over 75,000 rural teenagers to Washington, D.C., for the “trip of a lifetime,” where they meet with their elected officials and build relationships. Through the Youth Tour and Youth Leadership Council, NRECA works to cultivate our next generation of co-op leaders. Learn more in this episode from NRECA Youth Programs and Training Manager Beth Knudson and 2023 Youth Leadership Council national spokesperson Rukaya Alrubaye. 2023-03-2319 minAlong Those LinesHow Direct-Pay Incentives Will Change the Game for Co-opsElectric co-ops saw a major victory last year with the inclusion of direct-pay incentives in the Inflation Reduction Act. The law gives co-ops and other tax-exempt entities the ability to receive reimbursements from the government for deploying new energy technologies, putting them on a playing field with for-profit providers. How does this change the game for co-ops going forward? Hear from NRECA's Paul Gutierrez, Minnkota Power Cooperative's Mac McLennan and Northeastern REMC's Eric Jung. 2023-02-2120 minAlong Those LinesWhat It Takes for Co-ops to Enter the Broadband SpaceMore than 200 electric co-ops have already built or started work to offer broadband either on their own or in a partnership, and that number will only grow with billions in funding on the way to help close the digital divide. But what does it take for a co-op to create and run a broadband business? Hear from Craig Eccher, former CEO of Tri-County REC in Pennsylvania and its broadband subsidiary, Bill Gerski of Beacon Broadband, a subsidiary of Coos-Curry EC in Oregon, and NRECA's Paul Breakman.2023-01-2423 minAlong Those LinesCo-ops Explore 'Tremendous Potential' of Small Modular Nuclear ReactorsSmall modular reactors and their smaller cousins, microreactors, are getting plenty of buzz as an important potential source of carbon-free power amid the energy transition. Are they capable of delivering on their many promises from a technological and financial standpoint, and how long will it take until we could realistically expect these devices to be added to the grid? Learn more from NRECA's Dan Walsh and Copper Valley Electric Association's Travis Million.2022-12-0822 minAlong Those LinesCo-ops Navigate Historic Influx of Infrastructure FundsThe $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure law passed in late 2021 offers an unprecedented opportunity for electric co-ops to add services and improve their systems, but it also presents a challenge in terms of navigating the complicated and time-consuming process of applying for federal grants. Hear from NRECA’s Lauren Khair on the association’s infrastructure resources for co-ops and Victoria Electric Cooperative's Jessica Gray on how her co-op is managing the grant application process.2022-11-2126 minAlong Those LinesWhat Does an Electric Co-op Look Like to a Hacker?Cybersecurity Awareness Month edition: What do an electric cooperative’s internal and operational networks look like to a hacker, and what can co-ops do to tighten their defenses? Hear from Ryan Newlon, NRECA’s cybersecurity solutions principal, and Bryan Hatton, a cybersecurity researcher at the Idaho National Laboratory whose work includes “white hat hacking.”2022-10-1826 minAlong Those LinesHow Co-ops Are Meeting Evolving Member ExpectationsThe advent of more engaged and empowered consumer-members is driving broad changes in the way electric co-ops do business and how they communicate about the services they offer. Hear from two co-op leaders who work closely with the co-ops in their states to help them keep up with member expectations: Nelle Hotchkiss of North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives and Lisa Johnson of Seminole Electric Cooperative in Florida.2022-09-2322 min
Everything Co-op with Vernon OakesDan Waddle, Sr VP of NRECA International, discusses the History of NRECA, and his Career in Co-opsAugust 25, 2022
Everything Co-op continues its recognition of the 2022 Cooperative Hall of Fame Inductees with Dan Waddle, Senior VP of NRECA International. Dan discusses his Career in Cooperatives and shares the history of NRECA's electrification efforts in Rural areas throughout the world.
For more than 40 years, Dan Waddle’s professional focus and personal passion has been to support rural communities to improve living conditions and stimulate income growth by supporting community-owned, affordable, and sustainable energy solutions. Understanding the power of the cooperative business model in developing countries, Dan has drawn on his academic background and experience to evaluate the viability of ru...2022-09-2248 min
Everything Co-op with Vernon OakesLaura Vogel, Sr Advisor at NRECA, discusses Co-ops Vote and National Voter Registration DayAugust 18, 2022
Laura Vogel, Senior Advisor for NRECA Political Affairs discusses Co-ops Vote, and National Voter Registration Day.
Laura Vogel is the Senior Advisor for NRECA Political Affairs. As a member of the Political Affairs team, she is responsible for developing programs to encourage Co-op member and staff engagement in political issues that matter to the Co-op family and is the program manager for their voter initiative, Co-ops Vote. She is involved in NRECA’s political training programs, serving as an instructor for the Grassroots Course for co-op Directors. Laura also provides strategic input for NRECA’s annual Youth Tour program.
Laur...2022-09-1449 minAlong Those Lines'Perfect Storm' of Supply Shortages—The Causes and the Co-op ResponseThe ongoing global supply chain crisis has spurred double-digit inflation, frustrated companies and consumers and driven the U.S. economy to the brink of recession. Electric co-ops are feeling the brunt of the impact, facing unprecedented challenges in procuring key grid components like transformers, conductor and power poles. How are co-ops leading the industry in managing this supply crunch? Hear from Arkansas co-op leader Buddy Hasten and NRECA's Martha Duggan.2022-08-1924 minAlong Those LinesIntroducing NRECA BroadbandMore than 200 electric cooperatives already provide broadband, and co-ops' role in this space is poised to become more prominent amid new government funding and an unprecedented resolve in the wake of the pandemic to close the digital divide. NRECA Broadband, a new service tier launched this summer, will leverage NRECA’s expertise, influence and reputation in helping co-ops enter the telecommunications sector. Learn more from NRECA CEO Jim Matheson and Chief Operating Officer Jeffrey Connor.2022-07-1525 minAlong Those LinesCo-ops Play Leading Role in Community RevitalizationAs many rural areas have suffered population loss and stagnating economic growth, electric co-ops have stepped up to try to reverse this trend through broad community development efforts. Hear from Touchstone Energy® Cooperative Executive Director Jana Adams, Erica Shehane of Lynches River Electric Cooperative in South Carolina and Dan Boysel of Consolidated Cooperative in Ohio on co-ops’ efforts to bring vitality and growth back to the regions they serve2022-06-2724 minAlong Those Lines‘Super-Power’: The Impact of Hydroelectric DamsHydropower plants are marvels of engineering that have helped bring development and prosperity to the regions they serve. But they're also in the crosshairs of interest groups that say they should be closed because of their environmental impacts and others who want to sell the facilities to private industry. Learn more from three hydropower experts: Kurt Miller of Northwest RiverPartners, Benton REA's Troy Berglund and NRECA's Ashley Slater.2022-05-2326 minAlong Those LinesUtility Drones 101Electric cooperatives, whose rugged territories and unique operational needs are ideally suited to the capabilities of drones, are leading the way as unmanned aircraft take on a heightened role in the utility industry. Hear from NRECA's Stan McHann and Sangre de Cristo Electric Association's Bill Hovanec about how co-ops are pushing the limits of drones and where this promising technology is heading.2022-04-1926 minAlong Those LinesHow Co-ops Foster a Strong Workplace Culture in Changing TimesWorkplaces had already been changing rapidly before COVID-19 hit, but the pace of change has accelerated to an unprecedented level since then. For co-ops, advances in technology, more interest in remote work, surging retirements and evolving member expectations have made it essential for managers to ensure that their workplace culture fosters learning and leadership development and attracts the right new talent. Learn more from Sioux Valley Energy's Tim McCarthy and NRECA's Delaine Orendorff.2022-03-2224 minAlong Those LinesWhat's In Store for NRECA International in 2022?The mission of NRECA International is to bring the insights, experience and expertise of America’s electric cooperatives to the world. But the impacts of the pandemic have complicated that mission, curtailing global electrification efforts and curbing travel. How is NRECA International overcoming these challenges and continuing to adapt? Hear from Dan Waddle, the group's leader, as well as Nick Allen, international projects director. (NRECA International is a separate legal entity from NRECA.)2022-02-1521 minAlong Those LinesEV Uptake in Rural AmericaElectric vehicle sales are skyrocketing in the U.S. as Americans embrace these highly efficient, fun-to-drive machines and more car manufacturers commit to releasing all-electric models. But EV popularity has largely been centered on urban and suburban areas and slower to catch on in rural America. What are the reasons for this dynamic, and what are electric cooperatives doing about it? Hear from NRECA's Brian Sloboda and Wright-Hennepin Cooperative Electric Association's Wendy Youngren.2022-01-2526 minAlong Those LinesHow Electric Co-ops Are Navigating the Energy TransitionAs changes in policy, energy markets and consumer expectations drive major changes in how utilities generate and deliver electricity, the industry faces one of its most challenging times. Co-ops have been adding wind and solar to their generation portfolios, but how does the acceleration of the energy transition affect the ability to provide reliable, affordable power? Hear from Seminole Electric Cooperative's Lisa Johnson and Pat O’Loughlin of Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives and Buckeye Power.2021-12-1434 minAlong Those Lines'You're Here to Take Care of a Community': Veterans Thrive in Co-op JobsAs co-ops face workforce challenges due to retirements and changes in the industry’s key technologies, military veterans rotating out of active duty and into civilian life bring training and expertise that's often ideally suited to co-ops’ needs. Hear from three veterans who served their country and now focus their skills on their communities as co-op employees, and learn about the Vets Power Us program from NRECA’s Desiree Dunham, who manages this effort to help veterans explore co-op careers.2021-11-0821 minAlong Those LinesAmid Rise in EVs, New Cybersecurity Considerations EmergeWith the influx of electric vehicles into the U.S. market, utilities—including electric cooperatives—and other interests are working to build EV infrastructure that can keep pace with the expected demand, and this growing web of connected charging stations will create a host of new cybersecurity vulnerabilities. To learn more about what those vulnerabilities are and how to mitigate them, we're joined by Shannon Murry with the FBI's Cyber Division along with NRECA's Brian Sloboda.2021-10-1916 minAlong Those LinesHow Can Electric Co-ops Avoid Becoming Victims of Ransomware? First in a two-part series for Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Ransomware became a household word earlier this year when the Colonial Pipeline, a major fuel delivery source on the East Coast, was shut down for several days after hackers attacked the company’s billing system. These highly disruptive and costly network intrusions are on the rise in the United States and globally, and businesses across the spectrum are being targeted. How can electric cooperatives avoid becoming victims of this sophisticated malware? And what should they do if they are attacked? To answer those and other questions, we're joined by...2021-10-1124 minAlong Those LinesStorm Recovery -- Working With FEMA To Rebuild Stronger After a DisasterTypically, when a state is hit with a natural disaster and the power grid is impacted, utilities will work with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to rebuild to where the grid was before the event. Lately though, electric co-ops have been working to secure federal reimbursements for restorations that go further to harden their system and create more resilience. Learn more from Mike Heinen, general manager of Jeff Davis Electric Co-op in southwest Louisiana, and Martha Duggan, NRECA’s senior regulatory issues director. This episode is sponsored by PLP.2021-09-2824 minAlong Those LinesUnderstanding Essence, a Co-op-Created Cyber-Defense SystemAs utilities have deployed new connected technologies to monitor the grid, the need for strong cybersecurity on the operations technology side has grown exponentially. NRECA worked with co-ops and other partners to develop the Essence tool, which began as an innovative way to quickly identify anomalies on downline systems and evolved to become a robust method for detection, visualization and reporting of potential cyberattacks. Learn more about Essence from Emma Stewart, NRECA’s chief scientist. 2021-08-2421 minAlong Those Lines‘A Cultural Reset’—How the Pandemic Has Elevated the Value of Soft Skills at Co-opsThe concepts of emotional intelligence and soft skills in the workplace have been around for a long time, but the COVID-19 pandemic has brought them to the forefront. As electric cooperatives assess how they've managed the challenges of the past 18 months, how have lessons they've learned informed business practices going forward? Hear from NRECA's Tracey Steiner and Charlie Dunn, CEO of Farmers Electric Cooperative in Greenfield, Iowa.2021-07-2627 minAlong Those LinesHarnessing Distributed Wind: Inside the RADWIND ProjectThe electric utility industry has been moving dramatically in the direction of renewable generation in recent years. Solar has found widespread adoption, with a broad mix of residential, community and utility-scale installations, while wind power has been nearly all at utility scale. Now, the Department of Energy is working to change that with a new program called Rural Area Distributed Wind Integration Network Development (RADWIND). In this episode, we go inside this innovative initiative with Michael Leitman, NRECA’s system optimization director and the RADWIND project manager, and Aaron Ruschy, vice president of operations and engineering at Iowa Lakes El...2021-06-2223 min
Along Those LinesLessons Learned From the Texas Power CrisisWhen an unprecedented Arctic blast and winter storm hit the Midwest and South in February, Texans faced days of outages and crippling power supply shortages. What happened in Texas, why was it so much worse there than in other states, and what can we learn from this situation? Hear from Mike Williams, CEO of Texas Electric Cooperatives, as well as Mark Jones, who was part of a University of Houston research team the surveyed Texas power consumers in the immediate aftermath of the storm.2021-05-2527 min
Along Those LinesMaking Solar Power Accessible to Low-Income MembersNRECA’s Achieving Cooperative Community Equitable Solar Sources project, a three-year initiative funded by the Department of Energy, aims to bring the benefits of solar into low- and moderate-income communities. NRECA is partnering with seven co-ops across the country to deploy solar projects that help LMI consumer-members and share the lessons they learn. Hear from ACCESS principal investigator and technical adviser Deb Roepke, NRECA's Keith Dennis and Oklahoma Electric Cooperative's Nick Shumaker.2021-04-2224 min
Along Those LinesAlong Those Lines: Hear From Women Making Inroads in Male-Dominated Job RolesThe bulk of the electric cooperative workforce has traditionally been filled by men due to the nature of the work that co-ops do. But over time, women have been stepping into more and more jobs across the industry spectrum. In honor of Women’s History Month, hear from several of the women making strides and taking on leadership positions in the co-op world: Amanda Opp of Flathead Electric Cooperative, Libby Calnon of Hood River Electric Cooperative and Janet Rehberg of Tri-County Electric Cooperative.2021-03-2318 min
Along Those LinesThe Ins and Outs of the FCC’s Biggest Rural Broadband AuctionThe need to close America’s digital divide is as crucial as ever, and the Federal Communications Commission’s Rural Digital Opportunity Fund stands to have a huge impact, with billions in funding for deploying broadband to unserved communities. NRECA’s Brian O’Hara and NRTC’s Greg Santoro break down how the RDOF auction works and outline concerns about winning bidders with unproven technologies, and Tri-County Rural Electric Cooperative’s Rachel Hauser gives the perspective from a co-op that’s looking to use RDOF funding to make major progress in its broadband efforts.2021-02-2326 min
Along Those LinesAdvocating for Co-op Priorities in a New Political LandscapeWith a new Congress and new administration in place, how will electric cooperatives engage with the government on their policy priorities—from the immediate COVID-19 health and economic crises to infrastructure to climate policy? Hear from Stacey Alexander, a former congressional staffer and now a political and policy consultant with the firm Subject Matter, and Louis Finkel, NRECA’s senior vice president of government relations.2021-01-2631 min
Everything Co-op with Vernon OakesCurtis Wynn, NRECA's Board Pres, discusses how electric co-op industry manages change and innovationCEO Curtis Wynn, President of NRECA's Board of Directors discusses the five pandemics facing the US, and how the electric co-op industry is managing change and innovation.
Curtis Wynn is President & CEO of Roanoke Electric Cooperative. With nearly 42 years of experience in the electric cooperative industry, Curtis began his career at West Florida Electric Cooperative. He has served on the NRECA Board of Directors since 2007, where he is entering his last year as Board President. A graduate of Troy University, Curtis holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration and management information systems. Curtis has led numerous movements at his...2021-01-2551 min
Along Those LinesCurtis Wynn on Co-ops and Diversity, Equity and InclusionNRECA President Curtis Wynn is coming to the end of his two-year term. When he took office, he set out to focus on how co-ops can navigate the rapid pace of change in our industry. This platform took on new meaning in 2020 with a heightened focus on racial inequality in America. In the latest episode of Along Those Lines, Wynn discusses diversity, equity and inclusion in the co-op workforce and reflects on how the industry is managing change and innovation. 2020-12-1421 min
Along Those LinesHow Data Is Revolutionizing the Electric Utility IndustryThe proliferation of sensors and other downline devices means electric cooperatives now have access to mountains of system data. During the 2020 NRECA TechAdvantage Conference and Expo, NRECA's Venkat Banunarayanan and Rappahannock Electric Cooperative's John Hewa discussed how co-ops are using that data to improve reliability, plan for the future and better serve their members. This episode is sponsored by IPKeys.2020-11-1625 min
Everything Co-op with Vernon OakesLaura Vogel of NRECA, and Kate LaTour of NCBA CLUSA, discuss Vote.coop and the 2020 ElectionLaura Vogel, Senior Advisor for NRECA Political Affairs, and Kate LaTour, Director of Government Relations for the National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International, discuss the importance of the 2020 Presidential election and resources provided through vote.coop for ALL voters.
Laura Vogel joined NRECA in 2014, and is a member of the Political Affairs team. She is responsible for developing programs to encourage Co-op member and staff engagement in political issues that matter to the Co-op family, and is the program manager for their voter initiative, Co-ops Vote. She is also involved in NRECA’s political training programs, serving as an instructor fo...2020-10-2350 min
Along Those LinesHeroic Co-op Employees Go Above and BeyondIn celebration of National Co-op Month, we talk to electric cooperative employees whose routine workdays turned into lifesaving rescue missions as they came to the aid of community members. Crew members describe rescuing a woman trapped in a flooded creek in Tennessee, pulling two men from a fiery armored truck crash in Missouri, and saving an older resident from his burning Mississippi home. Hear these stories of co-op heroism from Mollie Ingle and Rick Courtner of Mountain Electric Cooperative in Tennessee, Kurtis Brown of Southwest Electic Co-op in Missouri, and Wade O'Briant of Yazoo Valley Electric Power...2020-10-0621 min
Along Those LinesWhat Is the Beneficial Electrification League?The beneficial electrification movement—using electricity to replace fossil fuels for everything from mowing your lawn to powering your car—has gained momentum and led to the formation of the Beneficial Electrification League. With chapters in states across the country and a national board, the league's mission is to increase understanding of electrification's economic, consumer and environmental benefits. The league's co-chair, Gary Connett, formerly of Great River Energy, and Tri-State G&T CEO Duane Highley, who heads its Colorado chapter, chat with us about their goals for the group and how co-ops are getting involved. This episode is sponsored by N...2020-09-1622 min
Along Those LinesHow Co-ops Work With Federal Partners to Mitigate Wildfire RisksWildfires have caused massive destruction in Western states and across the country during recent summers. Electric cooperatives reduce fire risk by maintaining rights of way and keeping equipment up to date, but their efforts are often complicated by the need to coordinate with multiple government agencies that oversee federal lands. We talk to NRECA Regulatory Issues Director Janelle Lemen, Dave Markham, CEO of Central Electric Cooperative in Oregon, and the U.S. Forest Service's Jim Menakis about how these partnerships work and how they plan to make them better.2020-08-0624 min
Along Those LinesEngaging Co-op Members in the 2020 Election: Part TwoAs local and national campaigns gear up across the country, electric cooperatives work to ensure their consumer-members are informed of the issues that matter most to rural communities and have the opportunity to make their voices heard at the polls. In part two, Stephanie Johnson of Jasper County REMC in Indiana describes what these efforts look like on the ground in her rural service territory. This episode is sponsored by Sensus.2020-07-0715 min
Along Those LinesEngaging Co-op Members in the 2020 Election: Part OneAs local and national campaigns gear up across the country, electric cooperatives work to ensure their consumer-members are informed of the issues that matter most to rural communities and have the opportunity to make their voices heard at the polls. In this two-part episode, we talk first to NRECA's Laura Vogel and Nonprofit Vote's Brian Miller about national initiatives and resources for co-ops and possible changes to the election process. This episode is sponsored by Hubbell.2020-07-0723 min
Everything Co-op with Vernon OakesDr. Martin Lowery, Exec. VP Emeritus of NRECA disusses the role of co-ops in a post pandemic world.Dr. Martin Lowery, Executive VP Emeritus of NRECA discusses the role of cooperatives in addressing issues that have been raised by the two pandemics being experienced right now; COVID-19 and systemic institutionalized racism. He invokes the International Cooperative Alliance's "Declaration on Positive Peace Through Cooperatives."
For more than three decades, Dr. Martin Lowery has been a forceful advocate for the cooperative business model. He is Executive Vice President, Emeritus, of the NRECA, and the past chair of the National Cooperative Bank Board of Directors. Dr. Lowery was inducted into the Cooperative Hall of Fame in May 2014, the highest honor that...2020-06-1151 min
Along Those LinesHow Co-ops Come Together to Recover from StormsElectric cooperatives across the South have already seen massive storm damage across their systems, and the 2020 hurricane season is just now getting started. When outages are too much for one co-op to handle, neighboring co-ops from within their state and across state lines are quick to lend a helping hand to get power back up and running quickly and safely. Martha Duggan, who oversees NRECA’s state and national coordination initiatives, and Michael Kelley, safety and loss director at the Alabama Rural Electric Association of Cooperatives, talk us through how co-op mutual aid is coordinated and what it loo...2020-06-0922 min
Along Those LinesCo-op Communications in Times of CrisisElectric cooperatives, by their very nature, are accustomed to dealing with disruptions large and small. But the landscape for managing crises is changing dramatically. Stephen Bell, NRECA's senior director for media and public relations, and Bill Coletti, CEO of the reputation management firm Kith, talk us through their advice on how to plan for, respond to and recover from events that interrupt our normal course of business. This episode is sponsored by G&T Communications. 2020-05-2020 min
The (R)EV Diaries - EVs in Rural America Electric Cars - Electric VehiclesNRECA EVSE Study
The NRECA commissioned another study to look at pilot EVSE and load control projects in South Carolina and Delaware. A summary of the study can be found here.
2020-04-2413 min
Along Those LinesKeeping Crews and Members Safe, Powered and Connected During the PandemicWhile many Americans are working remotely to curb the spread of coronavirus, cooperative line crews and broadband technicians are essential workers, keeping members connected to power and internet. We talk to an expert at Great River Energy, a generation and transmission co-op in Minnesota, about how his co-op is maintaining the electric grid while keeping crews safe and cybersecurity tight. Then we hear from leaders at SEMO Electric Cooperative in Missouri and Jackson Electric Cooperative in Texas about safety measures for staff and meeting the challenge of growing demand for co-op broadband. This episode is...2020-04-2128 min
Along Those LinesWorkplaces Evolve Amid New Generations, Changing ExpectationsWith the American workplace changing dramatically due to new technologies and generational shifts, how are electric co-ops adapting while facing additional challenges unique to their rural environments? Hear from Cheryl Cran, a workplace and leadership expert, and Holly Wetzel, NRECA's senior director for marketing and member communications.2020-03-2022 min
Along Those LinesWhat’s Next for Co-ops and Battery StorageMore and more electric utilities are deploying large battery systems to store power, but it’s a technology that’s still very much in its infancy. How are co-ops integrating storage, and how are they using it to serve their members? Hear from NRECA’s Jan Ahlen about the state of this key technology and from Anza Electric Cooperative's Kevin Short and AEPCO's Barry Brown about a joint utility-scale storage project to help Anza battle resiliency challenges.2020-02-1424 min
Along Those LinesCo-op Voters and the 2020 ElectionsWe're kicking off the election year by delving into the critical role of rural voters: What issues are important to constituents in electric co-op territories, and what are co-ops doing to make sure their voices are heard? Hear from NRECA Chief Operating Officer Jeffrey Connor and pollster Keith Frederick on what to expect in terms of political engagement in co-op country this year.2020-01-1019 minThe (R)EV Diaries - EVs in Rural America Electric Cars - Electric VehiclesNRECA Study: Part 3-The Conclusion
In this episode, I wrap up my analysis of the NRECA EV Study with in-home charging incentives.
2019-12-2125 min
Along Those LinesHow Co-ops Are Ensuring Energy Access for AllAdvancing Energy Access for All, a new NRECA initiative, focuses on low- and moderate-income households who are at risk of being left out of some of the latest advances on the grid. Hear from NRECA’s Adaora Ifebigh, who oversees the initiative, as well as Tony Anderson, CEO of Cherryland Electric Cooperative in Michigan, which has several programs aimed at helping members in need.2019-12-1818 min
The (R)EV Diaries - EVs in Rural America Electric Cars - Electric VehiclesNRECA Study: Part 1-Knowledge is PowerNRECA posted an article titled NRECA Study: EV Owners Want Co-ops’ Help on Chargers and Special Rates. To summarize, the article summarizes a summary report published to summarize the study. As promised, I have said summary report and I want to explore some of the findings and offer my opinion on the matter.2019-12-1710 minThe (R)EV Diaries - EVs in Rural America Electric Cars - Electric VehiclesNRECA Study: Part 1-Knowledge is Power
NRECA posted an article titled NRECA Study: EV Owners Want Co-ops’ Help on Chargers and Special Rates. To summarize, the article summarizes a summary report published to summarize the study. As promised, I have said summary report and I want to explore some of the findings and offer my opinion on the matter.
2019-12-1710 min
Along Those LinesDealing With the Disastrous Effects of Flooding in the HeartlandMidwestern farmers faced devastating flooding last spring, with recovery efforts still ongoing. Nebraska farm owners Kristi and Drew Wolfe give a firsthand look at what it’s been like to cope with this disaster. Kim Christiansen, who was GM of the Nebraska Rural Electric Association before joining NRECA, discusses the overall impact in Nebraska, and Sam McDonald of NRECA’s legislative team sheds light on efforts to shape federal flood mitigation priorities.2019-11-1223 min
Along Those LinesCo-ops’ Role in Protecting the Electric GridSeason 2 of Along Those Lines kicks off with a look at co-ops' role in protecting the national electric grid. Hear from Co-Mo Electric Cooperative's Ryan Newlon, who works with the National Guard on projects that examine real-life threats and defense strategies for cybersecurity, and NRECA’s Barry Lawson, who discusses how co-ops work with key government agencies on cybersecurity.2019-10-1519 min
Everything Co-op with Vernon OakesDr. Martin Lowery, Executive VP Emeritus of NRECA is interviewed on Everything Co-opDr. Martin Lowery, Executive Vice President, Emeritus of National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) is interviewed on Everything Co-op. Vernon and Dr. Lowery discuss significant moments he has experienced as an advocate of cooperatives, and the work he is currently doing. He also chronicles many historical moments of the International Cooperative Alliance, NRECA, National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International, and many other organizations.
For more than three decades, Dr. Martin Lowery has been a forceful advocate for the cooperative business model. He is Executive Vice President, Emeritus, of the NRECA, and the immediate past chair of the National Cooperative Bank...2019-09-3051 min
Along Those LinesThe Push for Congress to Save Co-ops’ Tax-Exempt StatusAn unintended consequence of the 2017 federal tax law is threatening electric co-ops' tax-exempt status. NRECA's Louis Finkel explains why it's vital for Congress to pass the RURAL Act to fix this issue, and two co-op leaders discuss the impact of the tax dilemma firsthand: Tim Johnson of Otsego Electric Cooperative in New York and Scott Reimer of Federated Electric Cooperative in Minnesota.2019-09-1016 min
Along Those LinesHow Co-ops Can Be Part of the Rural Health Care SolutionWith access to health care diminishing in many of the country’s rural areas, hear from three co-op leaders who are prioritizing programs to get critical care to members of their communities: David Lambert of Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative, Shawn Taylor of the Wyoming Rural Electric Association and Geoff Oldfather of Arizona G&T Cooperatives.2019-08-2025 min
Along Those LinesBeneficial Electrification 101If you work in the energy industry or follow its developments, you’re probably familiar with the term “beneficial electrification.” But do you really understand what it means? Get the full rundown from NRECA’s Keith Dennis, Jeff Haase of Great River Energy in Minnesota and Sam Adair of Coles-Moultrie Electric Cooperative in Illinois.2019-07-1824 min
Along Those LinesNRECA President Curtis Wynn Looks to Co-ops’ FutureNRECA President Curtis Wynn first entered the electric cooperative world as a teenager. Now, he's charged with leading co-ops across the country through the challenges of a changing industry. Hear from Wynn on everything from his early career track—where his passion for community development came into focus—to his plans for helping co-ops navigate new consumer expectations and grid modernization.2019-06-1422 min
Along Those LinesSaving the Monarch ButterflyThe monarch butterfly is in trouble, with its numbers in decline for the last few decades, its habitat rapidly disappearing, and an Endangered Species Act listing on the horizon. We're joined by NRECA's Janelle Lemen and Stephanie Crawford along with Dairyland Power Cooperative's Brad Foss to discuss the challenges the monarch faces and the steps co-ops are taking to save this iconic species.2019-05-1423 min
Agri-Pulse Open Mic InterviewJim Matheson, CEO, NRECAThis week’s guest on Open Mic is Jim Matheson, CEO of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. The 900 member cooperatives of the NRECA have a keen eye on potential infrastructure legislation that may come before the 116th Congress. After serving seven terms in the House of Representatives, Matheson hopes a good portion of those funds will be directed to rural zip codes and pointed toward more than roads and bridges. Matheson speaks to a Trump administration proposal to sell some PMA assets, a need for investment in rural broadband and how potential climate change legislation could affect system reliability an...2019-04-2122 min
Along Those LinesZero Contacts: Keeping Line Crews SafeAs we spend April honoring lineworkers, it's time to zero in on safety and what it takes to ensure that crews don’t come into contact with live lines. Heath Martin, a co-op safety director, shares the harrowing story of a mistake early in his career as a lineworker that could have cost him his life. We're also joined by safety experts from NRECA and Federated Rural Electric Insurance Exchange.2019-04-1621 min
Along Those LinesThe Rise of Female LineworkersAs we celebrate Women’s History Month, we take you behind the scenes with a woman who’s making her way in a male-dominated industry. Hear the story of Kaitlyn Vaillancourt, a 21-year-old apprentice lineworker at Pedernales Electric Cooperative near Austin, Texas—the only woman among the co-op’s 200 lineworkers.2019-03-1509 min
Along Those LinesCo-op Innovation and the Evolving GridWhat is the evolving grid—and what does it mean for how we'll consume electricity in the future? We're joined by three experts to zero in on electric co-ops’ unique position to plug into this trend: NRECA's Jim Spiers, Patty Richards from Washington Electric Cooperative in Vermont, and Lee Ragsdale from North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives.2019-02-1222 min
Along Those LinesAdvocating for Co-ops in a Divided CongressWith a new year and a new Congress, what will emerge as key policy issues for co-ops in 2019? We're joined by Kirk Johnson and John Cassady of NRECA's government relations department to discuss how the association works with members of Congress and their staffs to represent co-op interests, and what to expect on issues ranging from infrastructure to distributed energy resources.2019-01-1520 min
Along Those LinesWaging a Comeback for Small-Town AmericaChanges in the rural population over recent decades have left many Main Streets across America looking like ghost towns. What factors can help reverse that trend in the coming years? We're joined by NRECA's Jeffrey Connor, Zack Mannheimer, a proponent of "creative placemaking," and Midland Power Cooperative's Norm Fandel to discuss community development and revitalizing small towns.2018-12-1124 min
Along Those LinesCan Electric Co-ops Bridge the Digital Divide?For electric cooperatives, the chance to play a role in bridging the digital divide brings a major opportunity to have lasting impacts on their rural communities. We’re joined by two rural broadband experts, Mike Keyser, CEO of BARC Electric Cooperative in Millboro, Virginia, and Brian O’Hara, regulatory issues director in NRECA’s government relations team, to talk about the key issues co-ops face in pursuing broadband projects.2018-11-0821 min