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Want to pay less for home insurance? These energy-efficient upgrades just might have you covered. When you think of energy-efficient home upgrades, the first benefit that typically comes to mind is lower utility bills. But did you know those same upgrades can potentially help you save on your home insurance, too? Insurance companies increasingly view energy-efficient homes as lower-risk properties worth rewarding with better rates. Improvements that may qualify Energy-efficient improvements can make your home safer and better protected against common hazards such as fire, water leaks, and extreme weather. Understanding which upgrades might earn you a discount can help you make smarter choices that benefit both your wallet and your home. Impact-resistant roofing:  This type of roofing reflects more sunlight, decreasing cooling costs in summer while providing superior protection during severe weather. Its durability helps it withstand hail, high winds, and flying debris that would damage conventional roofs. Smart home devices:  Smart thermostats optimize heating and cooling cycles, reducing energy consumption and preventing strain on the system. Water leak detectors can identify plumbing issues before they cause catastrophic damage, while smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors provide faster alerts during emergencies. Modern HVAC systems:  High-efficiency HVAC systems or heat pumps reduce the risk of breakdowns, electrical fires, and even water leaks from condensation. Smart-enabled systems also monitor performance and alert you to issues early. Quality insulation and energy-efficient windows:  These features maintain consistent indoor temperatures, reducing structural stress from extreme weather fluctuations. In colder regions, energy-efficient windows can protect against frozen pipes -- one of the most common and costly insurance claims in winter. Updated electrical system:  Outdated wiring is a common cause of house fires and often struggles to efficiently support today’s appliance loads. Replacing outdated panels and wiring lowers your risk profile, especially when combined with surge protection or LED lighting. Many insurers recognize this as a proactive step that minimizes the likelihood of electrical-related claims. Before you get started Prior to revamping your home, it’s a good idea to talk to your insurance provider. Not all companies offer discounts for energy-efficient features, and requirements can vary. Keep detailed records of any improvements you make, and consider getting a home energy audit to verify and document your home’s upgrades. Make it a habit to check in with your insurer regularly, especially after any big changes. And don’t be afraid to shop around — another provider could offer better discounts. With the right improvements and a little research, you might find yourself saving in more ways than one.

Lineworker Appreciation Day is Monday, April 13, 2026. In April, we take time to pause and recognize the brave men and women who make that possible every single day—our lineworkers. When storms impact our communities and outages occur, many people experience the inconvenience, but our lineworkers see a call to action. Our crews are always ready when it matters most—leaving family dinners, heading into the night, and working in challenging conditions to restore power as safely and quickly as possible. That readiness is not accidental. It comes from rigorous training, deep experience, and a shared commitment to serving others. What makes lineworkers especially remarkable is that they aren’t just restoring power to a system—they’re restoring power to their own communities. They live here. They raise their families here. They understand that electricity is more than a convenience; it’s essential to daily life; to local businesses; to schools, farms, and emergency services. Powering the places we call home is personal to lineworkers. Electric cooperatives were built on the principle of neighbors helping neighbors, and our lineworkers embody that spirit every day. They are the first to respond and the last to leave, often working long hours behind the scenes. At times, serving our neighbors means going beyond our own service territory through a process known as mutual aid. During major outage events, crews stand ready to assist neighboring co-ops––sometimes close to home, and sometimes across state lines––to help restore power. This spirit of mutual aid strengthens all cooperatives and ultimately benefits the members we serve. We understand any time the lights go out can be frustrating, bringing everyday life to a halt. We are grateful to our members for your patience and encouragement during these times. Linework is demanding; physical; and at times, it can be dangerous. Our crews approach each job with a focus on safety and teamwork. They take pride in their craft and in the trust our members place in them. On April 13, 2026, we will recognize Lineworker Appreciation Day, but one day is hardly enough. Every day, we thank lineworkers (as well as the many cooperative employees who work hard in the field and in the office) for their service and dedication, which are the backbone of our service to our members.In April, we take time to pause and recognize the brave men and women who make that possible every single day—our lineworkers. When storms impact our communities and outages occur, many people experience the inconvenience, but our lineworkers see a call to action. Our crews are always ready when it matters most—leaving family dinners, heading into the night, and working in challenging conditions to restore power as safely and quickly as possible. That readiness is not accidental. It comes from rigorous training, deep experience, and a shared commitment to serving others. What makes lineworkers especially remarkable is that they aren’t just restoring power to a system—they’re restoring power to their own communities. They live here. They raise their families here. They understand that electricity is more than a convenience; it’s essential to daily life; to local businesses; to schools, farms, and emergency services. Powering the places we call home is personal to lineworkers. Electric cooperatives were built on the principle of neighbors helping neighbors, and our lineworkers embody that spirit every day. They are the first to respond and the last to leave, often working long hours behind the scenes. At times, serving our neighbors means going beyond our own service territory through a process known as mutual aid. During major outage events, crews stand ready to assist neighboring co-ops––sometimes close to home, and sometimes across state lines––to help restore power. This spirit of mutual aid strengthens all cooperatives and ultimately benefits the members we serve. We understand any time the lights go out can be frustrating, bringing everyday life to a halt. We are grateful to our members for your patience and encouragement during these times. Linework is demanding; physical; and at times, it can be dangerous. Our crews approach each job with a focus on safety and teamwork. They take pride in their craft and in the trust our members place in them. On April 13, 2026, we will recognize Lineworker Appreciation Day, but one day is hardly enough. Every day, we thank lineworkers (as well as the many cooperative employees who work hard in the field and in the office) for their service and dedication, which are the backbone of our service to our members.In April, we take time to pause and recognize the brave men and women who make that possible every single day—our lineworkers. When storms impact our communities and outages occur, many people experience the inconvenience, but our lineworkers see a call to action. Our crews are always ready when it matters most—leaving family dinners, heading into the night, and working in challenging conditions to restore power as safely and quickly as possible. That readiness is not accidental. It comes from rigorous training, deep experience, and a shared commitment to serving others. What makes lineworkers especially remarkable is that they aren’t just restoring power to a system—they’re restoring power to their own communities. They live here. They raise their families here. They understand that electricity is more than a convenience; it’s essential to daily life; to local businesses; to schools, farms, and emergency services. Powering the places we call home is personal to lineworkers. Electric cooperatives were built on the principle of neighbors helping neighbors, and our lineworkers embody that spirit every day. They are the first to respond and the last to leave, often working long hours behind the scenes. At times, serving our neighbors means going beyond our own service territory through a process known as mutual aid. During major outage events, crews stand ready to assist neighboring co-ops––sometimes close to home, and sometimes across state lines––to help restore power. This spirit of mutual aid strengthens all cooperatives and ultimately benefits the members we serve. We understand any time the lights go out can be frustrating, bringing everyday life to a halt. We are grateful to our members for your patience and encouragement during these times. Linework is demanding; physical; and at times, it can be dangerous. Our crews approach each job with a focus on safety and teamwork. They take pride in their craft and in the trust our members place in them. On April 13, 2026, we will recognize Lineworker Appreciation Day, but one day is hardly enough. Every day, we thank lineworkers (as well as the many cooperative employees who work hard in the field and in the office) for their service and dedication, which are the backbone of our service to our members.In April, we take time to pause and recognize the brave men and women who make that possible every single day—our lineworkers. When storms impact our communities and outages occur, many people experience the inconvenience, but our lineworkers see a call to action. Our crews are always ready when it matters most—leaving family dinners, heading into the night, and working in challenging conditions to restore power as safely and quickly as possible. That readiness is not accidental. It comes from rigorous training, deep experience, and a shared commitment to serving others. What makes lineworkers especially remarkable is that they aren’t just restoring power to a system—they’re restoring power to their own communities. They live here. They raise their families here. They understand that electricity is more than a convenience; it’s essential to daily life; to local businesses; to schools, farms, and emergency services. Powering the places we call home is personal to lineworkers. Electric cooperatives were built on the principle of neighbors helping neighbors, and our lineworkers embody that spirit every day. They are the first to respond and the last to leave, often working long hours behind the scenes. At times, serving our neighbors means going beyond our own service territory through a process known as mutual aid. During major outage events, crews stand ready to assist neighboring co-ops––sometimes close to home, and sometimes across state lines––to help restore power. This spirit of mutual aid strengthens all cooperatives and ultimately benefits the members we serve. We understand any time the lights go out can be frustrating, bringing everyday life to a halt. We are grateful to our members for your patience and encouragement during these times. Linework is demanding; physical; and at times, it can be dangerous. Our crews approach each job with a focus on safety and teamwork. They take pride in their craft and in the trust our members place in them. On April 13, 2026, we will recognize Lineworker Appreciation Day, but one day is hardly enough. Every day, we thank lineworkers (as well as the many cooperative employees who work hard in the field and in the office) for their service and dedication, which are the backbone of our service to our members.

This month, prep wisely with RV electrical safety tips. As the calendar turns, so does the season. Use April Fool’s Day as a good reminder that, as warmer weather approaches and camping activities go along with it, safety must be a priority. Don’t be an April Fool….use this month to prep wisely with some electrical safety tips from Safe Electricity  to take along on your next camping trip. When an RV frame is electrically charged, it is often referred to as “hot skin.” Improper wiring or connections, lack of grounding, reversed polarity, and loose or worn outlets are just some of the potential causes. If a hot skin hazard exists, simply opening the door or coming into contact with the hitch can cause shock or electrocution. Safety starts even before you head out on the road with your RV To help prevent “hot skin,”  your RV’s electrical system needs to be regularly tested and maintained. A professional electrician can help you make sure the wiring in your RV is safe. Perform a visual inspection of cords, plugs, and outlets.  If cords are cracked or frayed, or outlets and plugs are broken or discolored, do not use them. Have them replaced or repaired. Fire extinguishers, as well as permanently installed carbon monoxide and fire detectors, should also be on the checklist of safety precautions before traveling. Always use electrical cords rated for the use they will get.  Make sure the power demand of the appliances that will be used does not exceed the cord’s rating. To plug your RV into a campground power pedestal, you will need a heavy-duty, four-wire cord with a grounding wire -- not an extension cord. Whether you are powering your RV with a generator or a campground hookup, you need to know the amperage your RV draws and the available amperage.  If you try to draw more amperage than is available, you can cause serious damage to the electrical source and your RV. You could even start a fire. Also, make sure you know where your electrical panel and switches are located. If you use a generator, know the rules of the campground.  Some do not allow generators, and some allow them only during certain hours. Also, be aware of where the generator exhaust is blowing. Always leave a roof vent open when you are operating a generator. Turn your generator on and keep it running before you turn on appliances. Never sleep with the generator on. Before using a campground hookup, do a visual inspection of the area. If a campground hookup appears to be damaged, put safety first and request another spot. Making the campground aware of the damage will also help future campers at that site. With proper preparation, the great outdoors and modern conveniences can be enjoyed at the same time. No foolin’!  For more information on electrical safety, visit  SafeElectricity.org .

Iowa’s electric cooperatives are lucky to work hand-in-hand with member-owners every day to find ways to save energy and money. This partnership is built on trust, innovation, and shared goals for a more efficient and sustainable energy future. Saving energy and money with programs offered by Iowa's electric co-ops is always a bright idea! Special Rate Programs for Peak Load Control One of the most effective ways members can partner with their cooperative is through programs that offer special rates in exchange for allowing energy load to be controlled on qualifying equipment during peak times of use. By shifting or reducing usage when energy demand is highest, members help keep costs down for everyone while supporting grid reliability. Energy-Efficiency Rebates Cooperatives also provide rebates on the purchase and installation of qualifying energy-efficient equipment and materials. Whether it’s upgrading to high-efficiency heating and cooling systems or installing specific types of insulation, these incentives help turn energy-savings upgrades into a real pot of gold – lower bills today and long-term savings tomorrow. Bill Analysis and Assistance Does your energy bill feel more mysterious than a four-leaf clover? Understanding what drives your energy bill can be challenging. Cooperative energy advisors are available to help identify usage patterns and pinpoint areas where improvements can make a big difference. This personalized assistance empowers members to take control of their energy costs and uncover hidden savings. Education for Smarter Energy Use Knowledge is power—literally. Through energy-efficiency education (much like what we provide each month in Smart Choices!) , cooperatives equip members with practical tips and strategies to reduce consumption without sacrificing comfort. From seasonal advice to technology insights, these resources help members make informed decisions. After all, a little know-how can go a long way toward greener habits and more green in your pocket. The Bottom Line Iowa’s electric cooperatives are lucky to have engaged, forward-thinking members who value collaboration and smart energy management. Together, Iowa’s electric cooperative member-owners have discovered the proverbial “pot of gold” at the end of the energy savings rainbow! That’s the true “Luck of the Iowa-ish.” Call our office or visit our website to learn more about programs that help save energy and a little green – year ‘round.

The second Cooperative Principle is Democratic Member Control This year, we are devoting some time in our monthly Smart Choices  newsletters to talk about the value of the Seven Cooperative Principles and why they provide value to you: our member. In January, we explored how Voluntary and Open Membership  forms the foundation of our cooperative. This month, we're highlighting what makes cooperatives truly unique: Democratic Member Control. Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting policies and making decisions. Elected representatives (such as cooperative directors) are elected from the membership by the membership and are accountable to the membership. Members have equal voting rights (one member, one vote). This principle means something powerful: leadership isn't chosen by corporate boards or outside investors—it's chosen by members like you. Every year, you elect directors who represent our communities and make decisions that affect reliability, affordability, and growth. Decisions are made close to home because our directors are your neighbors: farmers, teachers, business owners, and others who live and work in the same communities you do. Unlike investor-owned utilities, where decisions are made in distant boardrooms by people focused on shareholder returns, our cooperative operates differently. Here, each member has one vote—whether you use 100 kilowatt-hours or 10,000. A small household has the same voice as a large farm operation. That's democracy in action. This accountability keeps your cooperative transparent and local. Your vote matters. Your voice shapes how we move forward. Together, we keep the power—and the decision-making—right here at home. When you participate in cooperative elections and meetings, serve on a nominating committee, or enter your name as a candidate for a director representative, you help ensure decisions reflect our local values and priorities. You determine how we invest in infrastructure, plan for future growth, and serve our communities. Your vote. Your voice. Your power. That's the cooperative way—powering real change, one member at a time.

The spring planting season is just around the corner, and it is the time of year when we urge our agricultural community to be aware of electrical equipment in and around areas to be prepped and planted. It is also a good time to remind our members that agricultural producers and non-producers alike share the road to safe spring planting. Steven A. Freeman, a professor at Iowa State University and author of the article “Roadway Safety Tips for Motorists and Farmers During Planting Season,” provides the following safety tips for Bremer County’s Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. The following article is used with permission: “Roadway Safety Tips for Motorists and Farmers During Planting Season” April 24, 2024 | Steven A. Freeman Agricultural producers and non-producers alike share the road to safe spring planting for everyone. AMES, Iowa - As temperatures rise, rural roadways will soon see an increase in farm equipment. Planting season has begun with vigor, and it is crucial for motorists to be aware of safety precautions while sharing the roadways with farm machinery. Steven Freeman, a professor in agricultural and biosystems engineering at Iowa State University, shares his top advice for motorists, along with farm equipment operators. “We all rely on farmers who are in the fields planting and doing their job. It is important for them to get to those fields safely to do what they need to do,” said Steven Freeman. “Both farmers and motorists need to be reminded that they need to share the roads.” As a motorist, you are almost always traveling at a higher speed than those driving farm equipment. When traveling at these speeds, the gap between farm equipment and motorists closes very quickly. Therefore, it is extremely important to remember to slow down early on, when approaching farm machinery. Motorists are also advised to be patient. Pass with care and avoid inappropriate honking. The reason the farmer may not be pulling over could be due to unforeseen safety concerns. For example, the edges of roadways along county highways cannot always support the weight of the machine to allow the farmer to pull over. Safety Tips for Farmers Along with motorists, farm machinery operators also have safety precautions to be aware of. While driving a piece of equipment onto the roadways, it is important to check that all lights and reflective markers on the machine are working, visible and clear. During this time of the year, the Iowa sun is low in the sky, making it extremely difficult to see what is in front of you, especially at dusk. If possible, try not to travel during these busy times. Freeman also wants to remind farmers to take care of themselves. Even when the rush is on to get crops in the ground, farmers should still be getting enough sleep and eating healthy to minimize unfortunate events. By remembering to share the road safely, the risk for disaster can be minimized.  Tips for the Rural Driver Be prepared for farm vehicles. Farm vehicles travel significantly slower than automobiles. You may only have a few seconds to react and slow down before overtaking a farm vehicle. Be prepared to slow down and follow; you may not have room to pass. Slow down and keep your distance. Don’t assume that the farmer can pull over and let you pass. Shoulder conditions may make it unsafe for the farmer to pull heavy equipment to the side of the road. Be sure of the farmer’s intentions before passing. Don’t assume that a farm vehicle is turning right or pulling over to let you pass if it pulls to the right side of the road. A farmer may have to swing right in order to make a left turn. Wait until you know what the farmer is planning to do. Be patient and enjoy the scenery if you find yourself following a farm vehicle. Even if you have to follow a farm vehicle for a couple of miles, it will only take a few minutes of your time. Be especially alert in the evenings; farmers are returning from the fields and dusk makes farm vehicles more difficult to see. Tips for the Farmer Only allow licensed, or appropriately trained, operators to take farm machinery onto the road. Youth who are able to operate machinery in the field may not be able to deal safely with traffic and other road hazards. Make sure farm machinery is equipped with the lighting and marking safety devices recommended by the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers and required by state and local laws. Be sure to remind all operators to use the appropriate hazard lights and turn signals when traveling on roads. Minimize total vehicle width and secure equipment in the transport position before entering roadways. Watch for approaching traffic and vehicles trying to pass. If possible, pull over and let traffic pass safely, but be alert for roadside hazards. Obey all traffic laws and signs. Signal intentions to motorists and avoid sudden or unexpected maneuvers. Exercise additional care when entering roadways, approaching unsigned or “blind” intersections, crossing narrow bridges, going around sharp corners or going over hills.

Don't know your amps from an electrical ground? Like many fields of knowledge, the electric power industry is full of terms and acronyms that can be difficult for non-experts to understand. If you’re looking to gain a better understanding of electrical terminology, this guide to electric system lingo can help power your industry knowledge. Amperage (amps) . The amount of electrical current flowing through a circuit, or the maximum amount of current that a circuit can safely handle. Circuit . A path for transmitting electric current. Every circuit includes a power source (generator), an energy-using device (such as lights or motors), and a connecting wire or power line. Current . The flow of electric charge through a circuit. Direct-current (DC) moves continuously in one direction. Alternating current (AC) changes direction 60 times per second. Demand . Demand is the amount of power a home or business is using at any given time. A 10 kW (10,000-watt) motor draws 10,000 watts of power at any given time while it’s running at full speed. Distribution . The final stage of the delivery of power. A distribution system includes substations, power lines, transformers, and other equipment that deliver to members at the proper voltage. (Our cooperative is an electric distribution cooperative!) Generation . Electricity is created by a generator, a device that converts some form of energy into electricity. Utility-scale generators utilize fossil fuels, hydropower, solar energy, wind energy, and nuclear reactions. Grid . A network of power plants, substations, transformers, power lines, and other equipment that delivers electricity from the source of generation to consumers. Ground . A common return path for electric current in a circuit. Exposed conductive parts of electrical equipment are connected to ground to protect users from potential shock hazard. Kilowatt (kW) . A kilowatt is equal to 1,000 watts of power and is a measure of the rate of electricity generation or consumption. Kilowatt-hour (kWh) . A measure of the amount of electricity a device uses when it’s running. If a device uses 1,000 watts over an hour, that’s a kilowatt-hour. Phase . The distribution of an electrical load in a circuit. Single-phase circuits have one power wire and one neutral wire. Three-phase circuits have three power wires carrying the load. Because voltage peaks and dips in a cycle, single-phase power supply isn’t consistent. Three-phase circuits separate the peaks and dips, delivering power at a constant rate. Power factor . The difference between real power (what electric devices use to operate) and apparent power (additional magnetic power required by some devices). Expressed between 0 and 1, a low power factor indicates that more apparent power is being used. Smart grid . A set of advanced technologies — such as smart meters, sensors, microgrids, and energy storage — designed to improve grid connectivity, efficiency, and reliability. Substation . A set of equipment that increases power voltage for transmission or reduces voltage for distribution to consumers. Transformer . A device that transfers electric current from one circuit to another, either increasing (stepping up) or reducing (stepping down) voltage. Transmission . The initial stage of power delivery. Transmission lines carry extremely high-voltage power over long distances to distribution substations. Voltage . The pressure from a power source that pushes current through a conductor, such as a power line, is measured in volts (V). Watt . A unit of electric power that measures the rate at which energy is expended per unit of time. A 40-watt lightbulb draws 40 watts of power at any given time. See this  glossary of electric industry terms  from the U.S. Energy Information Administration for more information.

Your Cooperative. Your Power. Your Connection. Valentine’s Day is all about connection—sharing warmth, light, and love with the people who matter most. But have you ever thought about what makes those moments possible? Reliable energy is the unsung hero behind every cozy dinner, heartfelt playlist, and glowing string of lights. From the first cup of coffee that starts your day to the late-night movie that ends it, electricity powers the experiences you cherish. It keeps your home comfortable, your devices charged, and your life moving—quietly working in the background so you can focus on what truly matters. At your electric cooperative, we believe love and energy go hand in hand. Just as a strong relationship depends on trust, commitment, and care, reliable energy does too. That’s why we invest in resilient systems, innovative technology, and dedicated teams to ensure your power is there when you need it most. Because when the lights come on, life feels brighter—and love shines even stronger. Connect with us to learn about programs designed for our members. From energy-efficiency rebates and tips to lower your monthly bill to initiatives that support youth, community engagement, and economic development, your cooperative is here to help you thrive. These programs aren’t just perks—they’re part of the cooperative difference, ensuring that your membership powers more than your home; it powers opportunity and growth for the entire community. This Valentine’s Day, as you celebrate the people who power your heart, take a moment to appreciate the energy that powers your world. After all, watts love got to do with it? Everything that powers YOU! Your Cooperative. Your Power. Your Connection.

Pad-mount transformers are essential to reducing electric voltage from higher-voltage power lines to your home or building. Electric utilities use a variety of equipment to deliver power to our members. Most familiar are the power poles and electric conductor lines strung 40 or more feet above the ground. However, one unassuming but often overlooked component is green metal boxes in yards, usually placed near homes and buildings. Pad-mount transformer boxes, commonly recognized as those little green boxes, are an integral part of an underground electric service connection. While you would never consider climbing a pole, pad-mount transformers are often not respected for performing a similar function in electrical infrastructure, given their accessibility at ground level to reduce electric voltage from higher-voltage power lines to systems that require lower-voltage levels such as a home or outbuilding. Pad-mount transformers provide utility workers like our cooperative access to repair and maintain the power supply, thus ensuring a reliable power delivery system. While these transformers are instrumental in this process, they can pose potential and severe safety risks when not handled with care. To ensure the safety of all, below are a few guidelines that everyone, especially children, should be aware of and follow. Never touch, climb, or play on pad-mount transformers. Remind children not to sit on or play around those little green boxes. Pad-mount transformers should only be accessed by trained and authorized personnel. Never open or tamper with doors or other elements on a transformer unit. Keep areas surrounding the pad-mount transformers clear so workers can safely maintain transformers as needed. Maintaining a 10-foot clearance around pad-mount transformer boxes is a good guideline. Pad-mount transformer boxes are grounded, so it is safe to occasionally mow or trim any vegetation that may accumulate around the base of the box. Never paint or cover the pad-mount transformer box. The design of a transformer box is an essential way for electric crews to identify the equipment and its safety markings. While it may be tempting to camouflage it with paint or decorative items, a clean and well-maintained pad-mount transformer reflects your respect for the safety of your family and utility workers, and really… what provides more curb appeal than that? Never dig near a pad-mounted transformer. Underground electric wires from a pad-mount transformer can stretch in any direction, and any contact with one of these wires can result in electrocution. Report any problems to the local utility provider.   If the unit is unlocked or open, or you hear or smell anything unusual, remain a safe distance away. If the transformer is one of ours, call our office immediately at 800-225-4532. Avoid the Big Green Box!

Don’t Miss Out—Registration Still Open for the 2026 Momentum is Building Conference If you haven’t registered yet for the 2026 Momentum is Building Conference, there’s still time to secure your spot! This annual event, happening February 19–20, 2026, at The Sheraton West Des Moines, Iowa, is designed for Iowa builders and contractors eager to stay ahead in energy efficiency and building technologies. Attendees can earn valuable CEUs in Iowa’s plumbing/mechanical, HVAC, and electrical codes, while connecting with fellow professionals and industry leaders. The conference is a prime opportunity to learn about the latest energy-efficiency regulations, incentives, and best practices. Organized by the Iowa Cooperatives for Energy Efficiency (ICEE), the conference brings together contractors and electric cooperatives serving nearly 650,000 Iowans across all 99 counties. Justin Wilson of Construction Instruction The conference opens with keynote speaker Justin Wilson from Construction Instruction, who will share insights on current policies, technologies, and consumer trends in home building and remodeling. Returning presenters include Bill McAnally and CEU providers Dave Sullivan (electrical), Terry Moorman, and Jeff Reichart (PMSB), all long-time contributors to the event. On Friday, Feb. 20, the closing session will feature Kenyon Murray, CEO of Murray Legacy Management and business manager to NBA players Kris and Keegan Murray. Kenyon will introduce practical strategies for personal growth and routines that can positively impact attendees’ lives. For nearly 35 years, the Momentum is Building Conference has helped electric cooperatives and contractors collaborate to deliver safe, efficient, and cost-effective home comfort solutions to Iowans. Visit https://www.momentumisbuilding.com  to register. Registration is open until Feb.  12—so act now to reserve your place!

We're owned by the members we serve, not by distant shareholders focused on profits. As we begin 2026, we're dedicating time this year to exploring The Seven Cooperative Principles—the values that guide every decision we make. These principles distinguish us from investor-owned corporations and utilities. We're owned by the members we serve, not by distant shareholders focused solely on profits. The Seven Cooperative Principles are: Voluntary and Open Membership Democratic Member Control Members' Economic Participation Autonomy and Independence Education, Training, and Information Cooperation Among Cooperatives Concern for Community This month, we're starting with the foundation of the cooperative model: Voluntary and Open Membership. This principle means membership in a cooperative is open to anyone who can use its services and is willing to accept the responsibilities of membership—regardless of race, religion, gender, or economic circumstances. Decades ago, families across northwest Iowa came together to bring electricity to their farms and towns. They built something extraordinary: a member-owned cooperative that prioritized people over profit. That same cooperative spirit drives us today as we modernize our infrastructure, plan for growth, and invest in our long-term stability. We're proud of our history and excited about our future. Our story isn't just about power lines—it's about the strength of members working together to build resilient systems and thriving communities. Whether you remember when electricity first reached your home, or you're simply grateful when the lights come back on after a storm, know this: as a member-owner, you're part of something bigger. Together, we power what matters most.

In November, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) released its 2025/2026 Winter Reliability Assessment. In that report, Southwest Power Pool (SPP)—our regional transmission operator (RTO)—is projected to have sufficient generation capacity to meet expected demand under normal winter conditions. While many RTOs across the country face elevated reliability risks this winter, our region is not among them. That’s encouraging news and a reflection of the extensive work happening behind the scenes to strengthen grid reliability. Our region is forecasted to have sufficient generation to meet expected demand under normal winter conditions. While we’ve recently shared updates about upcoming rate adjustments, we want to use this space to highlight the reliability work that often goes unseen but is critical to keeping your electricity dependable. What Is a Regional Transmission Organization (RTO)? Electric utilities nationwide are members of one of nine regional transmission organizations (RTOs) and independent system operators (ISOs), also called power pools. These entities are federally regulated by FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) and work on a regional scale to coordinate, control, and monitor supply and demand on the electric grid. RTOs do not own the power grid, but they work as “air-traffic controllers” of the grid to ensure reliable power supplies, adequate transmission infrastructure, and “day-ahead” electric market coordination of wholesale electricity prices on behalf of their members. While SPP is not listing reliability as being at a high risk level for the upcoming winter season, our industry continues to navigate significant long-term challenges in maintaining a resilient and reliable electric grid. The changing energy landscape presents both opportunities and challenges. While the SPP region has made substantial progress in bolstering its transmission infrastructure and adding renewable energy resources like wind and solar, the variable nature of these resources requires careful planning to maintain reliability. A key factor contributing to improved stability is SPP’s new Planning Reserve Margin policy. What Is a Planning Reserve Margin? Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative, SPP, and our power suppliers, Corn Belt Power and Northwest Iowa Power Cooperative, must be prepared for periods of extreme demand. To do that, we rely on reserve margins—extra generating capacity held in reserve to meet unexpected needs. Reserve margins represent the percentage of unused generation available during peak demand. Nationwide and within SPP, these margins are shrinking. When reserve margins tighten, there’s less buffer for unexpected outages (i.e. plant mechanical failure) or emergencies, increasing the risk of forced interruptions. Maintaining reliability requires a diverse mix of generation resources. Dispatchable resources—coal, natural gas, and nuclear—remain essential when renewable output drops. Yet many of these traditional plants face retirement pressures due to federal emissions regulations that often require technologies not yet commercially available or economically feasible.   Proactive Steps to Ensure Reliability Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative and its partners are taking decisive action to maintain grid reliability for our members through several key initiatives: Advocating for Reliability and Affordability: Electric cooperatives across the country are owned by you, the members we serve. This means that our cooperative works together with other electric cooperatives to educate lawmakers and advocate on behalf of our members to ensure that reliable power is also competitively priced. Resource Diversification:  Nationally, there is increasing reliance on renewable energy sources, and at the same time, we’re seeing fossil fuel plants taken offline, often ahead of schedule. Additionally, we’re seeing more pressure on the electric grid due to the ever-present severe weather events and historic rising demand, as we begin to electrify more sectors of our economy in the form of electric vehicles, data storage, and cryptocurrency. Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative believes and advocates for an all-of-the-above energy approach. The “all-of-the-above” approach promotes the idea that the United States relies on a reliable and sustainable fuel supply. There is great value in maintaining a diverse mix of fuel sources–fossil fuels and renewables- to ensure reliability and resiliency and meet the growing demand for electricity. Grid Infrastructure:  As a member of Corn Belt Power Cooperative and Northwest Iowa Power Cooperative, we pool resources and expertise to invest in technology, security, and infrastructure to deliver reliable and cost-effective power. Our operations are dedicated to strengthening our electric infrastructure through targeted upgrades and new construction projects, which will enhance regional connectivity and resilience. Emergency Preparedness : We work closely with SPP and neighboring utilities to protect our members from potential energy shortages and price spikes associated with having to purchase more power when demand is elevated. By having detailed response plans in place, we can take steps to reduce electricity demand during critical periods – helping avoid the need to purchase expensive power from the market when prices are at their highest. This coordinated approach helps keep your electricity both reliable and affordable. Regional Coordination:  We actively participate in SPP’s reliability initiatives and maintain close coordination with neighboring utilities to support regional grid stability. By preparing for and responding to energy shortfalls, we can follow protocols to reduce electric demand and avoid purchasing excess energy from the markets or interrupting power supply. Our wholesale power providers, Corn Belt Power Cooperative and Northwest Iowa Power Cooperative, work closely with SPP and other regional partners to address these long-term challenges while maintaining reliable and affordable electric service for our member-consumers. As we dedicate ourselves to powering your homes and communities throughout the winter season, know that we are committed to doing everything we can to maintain your trust and find solutions to keep your power reliable and your rates stable.