Search Results

Resolve to tone up your home's energy use for slim and trim energy bills in 2026. As the old year comes to a close, now is the perfect time to review your home's energy efficiency and identify ways to enhance its comfort and indoor air quality. With these simple projects, you can improve your indoor space and enjoy lower energy bills in the new year and beyond. Install low-flow showerheads Standard showerheads use 2.5 gallons per minute or more.  WaterSense-labeled models  can save water and energy while still providing a comfortable flow. Turn off water sources for both hot and cold at the faucet. Unscrew your existing showerhead by turning counterclockwise. Clean off the shower arm threads and make sure they are dry. Apply Teflon thread-sealing tape, wrapping the tape two or three times around the threads. Hand-tighten the new showerhead onto the shower arm. Be careful not to over-tighten. Run the shower and check for leaks. If it leaks, gently tighten with a wrench using a cloth to protect the finish. Air seal your basement Air leaking into your basement can make the space feel colder and increase your winter energy bills. Check for gaps in the rim joists, where the wall meets the ceiling, as well as plumbing and wiring holes on outside walls. Caulk is best for sealing gaps or cracks that are one-quarter inch or smaller. Use spray foam insulation to fill gaps up to three inches. Fill larger gaps by cutting and stuffing pieces of insulation into them. Insulate hot water pipes Heat loss through unprotected hot water pipes can cost you. Pipe insulation is readily available at your local DIY retailer. Starting at the water heater, measure the length of insulation needed to cover accessible pipes. Cut the insulation to the lengths needed. Place the insulation on the pipe with the seam or opening facing down. Tape the insulation every foot or so to secure it to the pipe. Air seal your attic Leaks in unfinished attics can waste energy, even when adequate insulation is installed. Locate all ceiling fans, recessed lighting fixtures, and electrical outlets in the ceiling below your attic. Each of these is a potential source of air leakage. From the attic, pull back the insulation to find the cutouts and seal them with caulk or expandable foam. Check for and seal gaps around plumbing vents, furnace flues, and ductwork. Seal the attic access with weatherstripping. Switch to smart outlets Replace older electric outlets with smart models. Smart outlets automatically shut off power to unused plugged-in devices. And, you can control them from your smartphone or with a voice assistant. Turn off the power to the outlet you're working on. Remove the outlet trim and disconnect the old outlet. Connect the new outlet wires — white to white and black to black. Attach the green wire to the bare ground wire. Attach the wired outlet to the box and install the new trim. Download the outlet control app and add the outlet to your system. Contact a qualified electrician if you don't feel comfortable doing the work yourself. Take a little time now to tone up your home's efficiency for more slim and trim energy bills in 2026!

Plug into electrical safety by knowing what you should and shouldn’t be doing. Electricity is safe and reliable, but it can be hazardous if used improperly. Here are some things you should and shouldn’t do in your home when working with electricity or using powered devices. Do: Shut off power before performing electrical work . Shut off power at the circuit before performing any work on outlets, switches, light fixtures, and other electrical equipment. Install ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets . GFCIs monitor current flow in a circuit and shut it off if an imbalance is detected. Install them in the kitchen, bathrooms, outside, and other areas that are potentially damp. Use safety covers on unused outlets . Children can suffer serious shock or burn injuries if they insert objects into outlets. If children are present, install safety covers on all unused outlets. Check for frayed, cracked, or otherwise damaged electrical cords . Damaged cords may have exposed live wires that can be shock and fire hazards. Replace any damaged cords or other equipment if needed. Unplug small appliances when not in use . Even when they’re turned off, plugged-in devices can be a shock hazard if they fall into water. Unplug all small kitchen and bathroom appliances (such as blenders or hair dryers) when you’re not using them. Don’t: Use extension cords on a long-term basis . Extension cords are not as safe as permanent house wiring or cords that go with equipment. Install more outlets if necessary or move the powered device closer to an outlet. Overload electrical circuits . Overloaded electrical circuits are a major cause of residential fires. To prevent circuit overloads, ensure that all major appliances are plugged into a single wall outlet and avoid plugging multiple devices into a single outlet. Use indoor extension cords outside . Cords intended for indoor use are not made to withstand the climate and mechanical stresses of outdoor conditions. Use only weather-resistant extension cords marked for outdoor use. Hide powered electrical cords under rugs or furniture . Pressure from heavy weight or foot traffic can damage cords, creating a fire hazard. Move cords or furniture so that the cords are not covered. Plug generators directly into an outlet or circuit panel . The electricity generated can backfeed to outdoor power lines, where it can injure or kill utility service personnel. Permanent standby generators can be connected to the home via an automatic transfer switch, which prevents this from happening. Is your home wiring safe? Signs of trouble include flickering lights and frequently blown circuits. If you suspect unsafe wiring conditions or other electrical problems, hire a qualified electrician to inspect your home.

Gift ideas that show you care about responsible energy use. Energy efficiency is a gift that keeps on giving in lower utility bills and increased home comfort year-round. These energy-saving gift ideas make great stocking stuffers for the do-it-yourselfers or gadget lovers on your list. Many are fairly inexpensive, so they won't break your holiday budget. LED bulbs  are at least 75% more energy efficient than conventional bulbs, and they are rated to last up to 25,000 hours or more. It's a gift that will last for years. Smart LEDs can automatically dim or change color tones according to your preferences. Smart thermostats  optimize energy savings by automatically adjusting household temperatures according to your family's schedule. They offer the convenience of remote control, and some models offer advanced features, such as self-programming. Advanced power strips  also optimize savings and convenience by automatically shutting off power to unused electronic devices. No more wasting energy on standby power, and those devices will still be ready when needed. Water-efficient showerheads  use less water while still providing a comfortable flow. Your lucky gift recipient will also save on the energy required to heat that water. Voice assistants  aren't just for ordering takeout or looking up trivia. With a connected app, users can easily adjust a smart thermostat, turn off smart bulbs, and use other smart devices in the home. Looking to spend a little more for that special someone on your list? Look for ENERGY STAR®-certified TVs, appliances, and electronics.  ENERGY STAR products  use less energy than standard models while still providing the same level of performance.

Power lines and utility equipment are often out of sight - and out of mind - especially in wooded areas. Photo: Safe Electricity. As hunting season approaches, excitement builds for time outdoors. But before you head into the woods, make sure electrical safety is part of your preparation checklist. Power lines and utility equipment are often out of sight — and out of mind — especially in wooded or rural areas. Ignoring them can lead to serious injuries or even death. Keep these tips in mind to stay safe and avoid costly or dangerous incidents: Scout the area.  Before hunting, take time to scout your area during daylight. Look for power lines, poles, and electrical equipment. Note their locations to avoid them later. Power safely.  If you’re using a portable electrical generator on your hunting trip, don’t use it inside a cabin, an RV, or in a confined area. Make sure it’s used outside where there is plenty of ventilation. Avoid aiming toward power lines or equipment.  Never fire near or toward poles, lines, substations, or transformers. A stray bullet could knock down a line, interrupt power, or create a deadly hazard. Keep your distance.  Always stay at least 10 feet away from overhead lines, poles, and other electrical infrastructure when setting up or taking down tree stands. Never climb a utility pole.  Even if it looks like the perfect vantage point, don’t do it. Poles carry high-voltage lines, and climbing them can be deadly. Don’t use utility poles for support.  Tree stands or blinds should never be attached to or supported by power poles or electrical equipment. Know the danger of downed lines If you come across a downed power line or damaged electrical equipment, stay at least 50 feet away, even if it doesn’t appear to be live. Power lines can still carry electricity when on the ground, posing a risk of shock or electrocution. Call 911 or your utility right away to help prevent a dangerous situation. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or heading out for the first time, staying aware of your surroundings could save your life. For more tips on staying safe around electricity, visit  SafeElectricity.org .

Iowa builders and contractors are invited to discover the latest advancements in energy efficiency technologies at the 2026 Momentum is Building Conference, set for February 19-20, 2026, at The Sheraton West Des Moines in West Des Moines, IA.   The annual conference offers opportunities for contractors to earn CEUs (continuing education units) in Iowa’s plumbing/mechanical, HVAC, and electrical codes. Attendees will also have the chance to network with industry peers, learn from leading experts in energy efficiency and the building trades, and gain insights into current energy-efficiency regulations and incentives.   Sponsored by the Iowa Cooperatives for Energy Efficiency (ICEE), the annual Momentum is Building Conference connects Iowa’s construction industry with the services and resources provided by local electric cooperatives, which serve nearly 650,000 Iowans across all 99 counties.   “Electric cooperatives have long supported energy efficiency, and one of our key goals is to help member-consumers use energy wisely,” says Angela Catton, vice president of communications and development at Northwest Iowa Power Cooperative. “We invest in this conference to build relationships between cooperatives and the contractors who serve our members.”   “We’re kicking off our conference with Justin Wilson from Construction Instruction as our keynote,” said Ryan Cornelius, vice president of corporate relations at Corn Belt Power Cooperative. “Wilson, who spoke in 2013, will discuss current policies, technologies, and consumer trends affecting home building and remodeling.” The conference also welcomes back Bill McAnnally, who can be heard monthly on Iowa Public Radio’s “Talk of Iowa – Home Improvement Day.” CEU providers, Dave Sullivan (Electrical), Terry Moorman, and Jeff Reichart (PMSB), who have been long-time partners and presenters at the conference, will return to offer their specialized training to attendees.   Building trades pros learn about energy-efficient best practices during one of the breakout sessions offered during the 2025 Momentum is Building Conference. The conference will close with Kenyon Murray on Friday, Feb. 20. Kenyon is the CEO of Murray Legacy Management and the business manager to his sons, Kris and Keegan, who are professional basketball players in the NBA. He is a host of “The Leave Your Legacy Show” and is a CPLC (Certified Professional Life Coach). In his session, attendees will be introduced to a simple and digestible way to embrace personal growth. The goal is to share tools for creating a systematic personal routine that can impact their lives at multiple levels.   For almost 35 years, the Momentum is Building Conference has provided a platform for electric cooperatives and contractors to collaborate in delivering safe, efficient, and cost-effective home comfort solutions to Iowans.   Don’t miss this chance to stay ahead of the curve in energy efficiency and enhance your professional skills. For more information or to register for the 2026 Momentum is Building Conference, visit www.MomentumIsBuilding.com . Discounted Early Bird registration runs until Monday, January 19, 2026.

July 4th Independence Day celebrations wouldn’t feel authentic without some sort of fireworks display. Many Americans enjoy professional, public displays of awe-inspiring pops and bursts of colors lighting the skies, but others create their own fireworks displays. If you plan to purchase and use fireworks this year, take safety precautions. Even if you just stick with what we think of as "safer" options, such as sparklers, similar safety precautions apply. Sparkler stats Before handing sparklers over to children, consider these details from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC): Sparklers reach a temperature of up to 2,000 degrees, the same as a blow torch. For that reason, young children, who most likely won’t understand the dangers of touching them, should not be allowed to handle them. In a real-life example from CPSC of sparkler abuse, a 17-year-old male created a “sparkler bomb” of about 300 sparklers taped together. When he attempted to put a bucket over the mass of lit sparklers, they exploded and killed the teen. About 12% of all fireworks injuries are caused by sparklers. Fireworks stats According to the National Fire Protection Association: From 2009-2013, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 18,500 fires caused by fireworks. These fires included 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and 16,900 outside and other fires. In 2017, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 12,900 people for fireworks related injuries; 22% of those injuries were to the head, ear or face and 31% involved fingers or hands. The risk of fireworks injury is highest for males (70%) and for people age 25-44 (34%). However, in a close second, children under the age of 15 experience 31% of all accidents. Fireworks safety The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display put on by professionals, rather than creating your own display. If you do use fireworks, however, read and follow these safety suggestions from the National Safety Council: Never allow young children to handle fireworks; Older children should use fireworks only under close adult supervision; Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear; Never light fireworks indoors; Only use fireworks away from people, houses, and flammable material; Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting; Never ignite devices in a container; Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks; Soak unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding; Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire. Subscribe to Smart Choices! Smart Choices is a monthly e-newsletter, provided by Woodbury County Rural Electric Cooperative that features the latest information on energy-efficiency, electric safety and more.

As with other electrical appliances, it’s critical to keep fans and AC units in good working order and to use them correctly. Lack of maintenance or improper use can lead to electric shocks or fires. For example, National Fire Protection Association research shows that each year, fans cause 6% of home fires and air conditioners cause 3%. The Consumer Products Safety Commission estimated in 2017 that air conditioning equipment accounted for 33,000-plus emergency room visits annually and approximately 16 electrocution deaths each year. The Basics Floor- and ceiling fans and central- and window-air conditioners all have one thing in common: They are powered by electricity so electrical safety precautions apply to each of them. For example: Have an electrician check to be sure your home’s wiring can handle the appliance before installing it. Call a licensed professional to install any hard-wired equipment. Replace any frayed or damaged appliance power cords and don’t use extension cords with the unit. Don’t use the units in any wet or damp area, and dry your hands before working on (or even touching) the appliance. Only purchase appliances and equipment with a label showing that it is approved by a recognized testing laboratory. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and care. Fan Safety Box or floor fans and ceiling fans can be useful tools for keeping you cool on a budget. Used properly and with other methods (keeping draperies closed, opening windows at night and keeping them closed during the heat of the day, reducing humidity and more) fans can reduce energy costs. However, when the inside temperature reaches about 95 degrees fans can’t prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke. That’s because fans simply move air around; they don’t cool it. Below that temperature, the fan’s breeze helps evaporate sweat from your skin, making you feel cooler. There are ways to position fans to maximize cooling, such as bringing in cooler outdoor air or blowing out hot air when it’s cooler outside, creating cross ventilation with multiple fans and checking to be sure your ceiling fan is set for the summer season (it should rotate counterclockwise in the summer). Be sure that ceiling fans are installed as high as possible (at least 7 feet from the ground) to stop people from touching the blades, and any fans on the floor or at a window should be placed to avoid tripping and tipping over, and located in a spot where children or pets can’t poke fingers (or paws) into the blades. Wherever you place the fan, check to be sure that air intakes aren’t blocked (for example, a curtain might get pulled tight against the fan). Air conditioner safety Whether your AC unit is a central air or a window unit, service and maintenance should be provided by a licensed professional. Be sure to check and change the filter regularly. Since window units are more prone to problems because they are readily accessible, it’s important to keep children and pets from getting too close to the unit. In addition: Be sure the window and frame are in good condition so they can securely hold the unit in place. Plug the unit into a dedicated outlet. Don’t put anything on top of the window unit, such as bird feeders or plant containers. Don’t place the unit in a window that serves as a fire escape. Keep pets and children from drinking the drip water from the outside of the unit. To secure window units from being pushed into your home by a burglar, install an air conditioner bracket outside or add sliding window locks to each side of the frame. For greater efficiency and safety, consider replacing window units with a ductless mini-split system, especially if you operate multiple window units. Contact our office for information about mini splits. Central air units (including heat pump units) have an outdoor condenser that requires good airflow. For that reason, trim back foliage at least 3 feet and keep the area clear of other debris. Before clearing the area, turn off the power to the unit. The outdoor unit should also be hosed down to clean the condenser coils; while some homeowners do this themselves, it’s safest to call on a professional who knows how to safely clean the unit without damaging the fins. Since mold can grow in the indoor section of an air conditioner, you may need to have your ductwork checked periodically. Subscribe to Smart Choices! Smart Choices is a monthly e-newsletter, provided by Woodbury County Rural Electric Cooperative that features the latest information on energy-efficiency, electric safety and more.

“Save 50% on your energy bills!” “Stop paying your electric utility!” “Save thousands on your heating and cooling costs!” Have you ever received a postcard or an email featuring one of these headlines? The postcard usually includes an invitation to a free dinner at a local restaurant where you can learn more about how to “save big” on your energy bills. There’s even a local phone number you can call to reserve your spot, causing you to think that this effort is being organized by a reputable, local company. It almost always is not. As we move beyond the pandemic, these types of invitations will likely increase in our community. It’s easy to let our guard down because we all want to believe the incredible claims we find in our inbox and mailbox. These dubious marketing campaigns will tout power converters for your meter, radiant barriers for your attic and other technologies that promise to save you hundreds or thousands of dollars on your energy bills. Often there is some truth to the technology and products being pitched in these postcards. For example, an aluminum radiant barrier placed in your attic can help reduce heat gain during the summer but the efficiency claims are overstated and the product is overpriced. Do Your Research Before accepting an invitation or signing a long-term contract or financing program, please research the company on the Better Business Bureau website at www.bbb.org . We also encourage you to contact us to get our expert advice about the offer. As a reliable source of information you can trust, we can answer your energy-efficiency questions and suggest practical ways to save energy and money on your electric bills. Locally owned and governed by the member-consumers we serve, our cooperative fully supports energy-efficiency efforts. In fact, we offer several incentives, rebates and programs that can lower your electric bill. We can also provide information about which energy-efficiency products may qualify for state or federal tax credits. We just want to make sure you’re not deceived into spending your hard-earned money on products that don’t work as advertised. Be wary of exaggerated claims and overpriced products in these free dinner schemes. And if you do accept an invitation to a free dinner, don’t feel pressured to make a purchase or sign on the dotted line until you’ve had time to research the company and the claims it is making. Any reputable business would encourage you to take the time you need to make an informed decision. Please beware of these invitations – the real cost of your free dinner could be more than you’re willing to pay. Subscribe to Smart Choices! Smart Choices is a monthly e-newsletter, provided by Woodbury County Rural Electric Cooperative that features the latest information on energy-efficiency, electric safety and more.

Rooftop solar can benefit homeowners if installed correctly. Here comes the sun! Solar power is a popular way to go green, but there are a few things you should consider before making the decision to install photovoltaic (PV) panels on your property. Check out what you should do — and not do — before signing on the dotted line. Do: Gather your bills To correctly size a solar system for your home, you'll need to determine how much energy you use. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, an average American home uses about 870 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity each month, but your home's total usage may be higher or lower. Without this vital information, solar contractors won't be able to give you an accurate cost estimate. Examine your placement area Determine if your roof has adequate sun exposure during the day and is prepared to handle PV panels. South-facing roofs are best, but panels can be installed to capture the sun if your roof faces another direction. If your roof is in need of repair, it may be best to take on that project first, so you won't have to remove the panels to replace your roof in a few years. If you are planning a ground installation, make sure there are no trees, buildings or other structures that will shade the panels and reduce output. Consider going beyond PV Solar energy can do more than just generate electricity; solar-powered hot water systems can be a cost-effective way to generate hot water for your home. They're fossil fuel-free, cheaper, and can be used in any climate — unlike some other water heating systems. Ask your contractor if your roof can accommodate both solar PV panels and a water heating system. Don't: Ignore potential efficiency improvements Before sizing your solar system based on your home's energy needs, call our office to visit with one of our energy advisors to discuss energy-efficiency measures and strategies that might help you save money on your energy bills. Just choose the cheapest contractor The average national solar panel cost is just over $3 per watt, including installation and additional necessary equipment. For an average 6-kilowatt (kW) system, installation would cost about $18,000. Smaller contractors typically offer lower prices, but that doesn't mean they're the best option. Get multiple quotes from reputable contractors before making a decision. Don’t be swayed by exaggerated claims from contractors with smooth sales pitches. Call our office and we can offer guidance on choosing a trusted installer. Expect to go off-grid Though it's technically feasible to go off the grid by installing a solar-plus-storage system that saves unused energy in a battery for when you need it later, it's not often a cost-effective option. Research kilowatt-hour costs, credits, available rebates and our co-op’s policies regarding member-owned generation. Installing solar is a long-term investment, and it's important to make sure you know what's going into it and what you'll get in return. Our cooperative is your trusted energy partner and we want to help you make the best decision for your home or business.

Because of new technologies and incentives, there has never been a better time to invest in a heat pump. According to Ross Welterlen, energy services engineering director for Corn Belt Power Cooperative, headquartered in Humboldt, Iowa: “Today’s air-source heat pumps are not your father’s heat pumps.” Air-Source Heat Pump (Photo: NRECA) There are a variety of reasons why it’s time to take another look at air-source heat pumps (ASHPs). They are: Much more energy efficient than other types of HVAC equipment such as fossil fuels (gas, oil, propane) and resistance electric units. ASHPs offer 200-250 percent efficiency in winter vs. gas, oil or propane units, which are only 80-97 percent efficient. Powered by electricity, the cleaner energy source. Rather than creating energy, air-source heat pumps remove energy from the air, concentrate it and push the heat either into or out of your home to provide heating or cooling. Able to provide year-round heating and cooling in the same unit. You don’t need to purchase a separate furnace and air conditioner. Customizable with ductless or ducted units, allowing various configurations to heat and cool individual rooms, zones or your entire home. Healthy and safe, with no worries about carbon monoxide or other gases, and the units can filter and dehumidify air to improve your home’s air quality. High performers in the coldest weather. Advances in technology have taken the industry from a primarily above-freezing-only appliance to one that can perform well in nearly any cold climate. Energy Star now has a cold-climate standard, which was to be launched in January 2023. Heat Pump Options The types of heat pumps available may be confusing. Here are the types you will want to learn about: Geothermal heat pumps are often considered to be the “gold standard” for heating and cooling. There are two types: ground-source and water-source. While these systems are exceptionally efficient, they are also more expensive than other HVAC systems and require either a horizontal or a vertical loop system. For more information on geothermal systems, check out what Energy.gov has to say about choosing and installing a geo system. “Original” ASHPs, that is, a model not necessarily rated for cold climates, may require a backup heat source, such as a gas furnace or resistance electric heat. While the traditional heat pump will usually handle heating until the temperature dips to about freezing, an additional heat source is needed to keep your home comfortable after that point. A dual system can make sense if you have a heat source and want to add a heat pump for greater efficiency. These units require ducting. A cold-climate heat pump is now considered a viable option for homes in almost any climate, without requiring a backup HVAC system. When checking for heat pump options, you’ll want to differentiate between “cold climate” and those not rated for our cold winter weather. It’s vital that if you choose this option, you’ll need to be thorough in sealing your home, purchase the right unit for your home and hire a reputable contractor who is experienced in installing heat pumps. Also recognize that these units require ducting. Mini-split units. These small units do not require ductwork. They are used to heat a room or an area of the house rather than conducting heat throughout the living space. First Steps When Considering an Air Source Heat Pump Tighten up your home. No heating system can be effective at keeping your home comfortable during the heat or the cold if you have leaks and drafts. Contact your electric cooperative for details about rebates, energy-efficiency information and more. Additionally, this podcast with energy expert Bill McNally on IPR Talk of Iowa, offers suggestions and resources. From this link, scroll to the program broadcast on Feb. 7, 2023. If you are interested in an energy audit to help determine your needs, Green Iowa AmeriCorps based at the University of Northern Iowa, may be able to help you; while they provide audits in some portions of the state, they can provide energy savers kits statewide. Find details here. Explore options. Again, the energy advisor at your REC can provide valuable information about the various types of systems available, details about reputable sales/installation companies operating in your area and more. One question to ask contractors about is ductwork. Ross Welterlen notes that converting a ducted conventional furnace to a ducted heat pump system may require larger ductwork. That’s because the heating discharge temperature of a heat pump is lower than a conventional furnace, which may require more airflow. More Good Advice These consumer guides offer details that will answer many of your questions. Air-Source Heat Pump Buying Guide from Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships (NEEP) includes detailed consumer information on the types of heat pumps, how they work, how to select the right unit for your home, finding a contractor and other guidance. Getting the Most Out of Your Heat Pump, also from NEEP , is a brief guide to getting the greatest comfort and most savings from your investment. Next month: We’ll recap tax benefits of purchasing a heat pump.

Iowa cooperatives celebrate community volunteers with third annual Shine the Light contest. Shine the Light contest entry submittal period is June 1 – 30, 2023. Guided by our cooperative commitment to community, Iowa’s electric co-ops are excited to participate in the statewide Shine the Light contest once again in June to celebrate local volunteers. Sponsored by the Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives of Iowa, the contest will accept nominations in June and select three winners who will each receive a $2,500 donation to their local charity or nonprofit. “We’ve been truly inspired by the contest entries we received in our first two years,” remarked Erin Campbell, director of communications for the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives. “We’re increasing our three charity donations from $2,000 to $2,500 each this year to encourage even more participation across the state.” Member-consumers and employees of Iowa’s electric cooperatives are eligible to nominate local volunteers during the month of June. If you receive electricity from our cooperative, you’re a co-op member-consumer and we encourage you to nominate someone who is making a positive impact in the community. The volunteer being nominated does not need to be a co-op member-consumer. Minors may be nominated with consent from their parents or legal guardians. In addition, previously nominated volunteers who did not win are eligible to be nominated again. The three winners will be announced in September and featured in Iowa Electric Cooperative Living magazine. Go to www.IowaShineTheLight.com to review the contest rules. Contest entries will be accepted at this website starting on June 1. Help us shine the light on community volunteers this summer and consider making a nomination.

On April 8, our cooperative will celebrate Lineworker Appreciation Day to honor the men and women who work hard, rain or shine, to power our lives and communities. These dedicated individuals scale poles, navigate hazardous conditions and work tirelessly to ensure we have reliable power when we need it. Lineworker Appreciation Day recognizes their unwavering commitment, often risking their lives to restore power during storms, emergencies, and natural disasters. Their expertise illuminates our homes and saves lives as they swiftly respond to outages and safeguard our power supply. Lineworkers must undergo years of training before reaching “lineworker” status. From learning the intricacies of the electric grid to mastering the skills necessary to climb utility poles carrying 40+ pounds of equipment, lineworkers not only must learn their trade, but they also spend thousands of hours of ongoing safety training throughout their career to ensure their personal safety, the safety of other members of their crew, and the safety of those they serve. Despite the challenges and dangers surrounding their work, lineworkers take great pride in serving our members, often stating that their biggest reward is restoring a member’s power and knowing our members appreciate it. Behind every flicker of light and hum of electricity lies their perseverance and expertise, ensuring our essential services and electric infrastructure operate seamlessly. Today and every day, let us extend our gratitude to these hard-working and dedicated men and women, acknowledging their work to keep our communities powered and connected. Thank you, lineworkers, for your unwavering commitment to service and safety...and for powering our lives.