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SP-Teri to Expand Operations in Humphreys County

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bob Rolfe and SP-Teri officials announced today that the company will relocate its headquarters and manufacturing operations from Nashville to McEwen, creating 35 new jobs.

“We appreciate SP-Teri’s continued commitment to Tennessee,” said Gov. Bill Lee. “This expansion of 35 new jobs and relocation to Humphreys County will positively impact this community that continues to recover and rebuild from the flood in August.”

SP-Teri chose to relocate following the 2020 Nashville tornado when its facility was destroyed. Through this new expansion and relocation, SP-Teri will invest $435,000 in its new McEwen operations, located at 55 High Street West.

“TVA and Meriwether Lewis Electric Cooperative congratulate SP-Teri on its decision to expand operations in Humphreys County,” said John Bradley, TVA senior vice president of Economic Development. “It’s always an exciting day when we can celebrate a company’s commitment to continued growth in the Valley. We are proud to partner with the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development and the Humphreys County Economic Development Council to support companies, like SP-Teri, to create job opportunities and investment in the region and celebrate this announcement together.”

For over 50 years, SP-Teri has created high quality boots for elite figure skaters. After being shut down for almost a year, this expansion will allow SP-Teri to not only restart its operations, but expand its product offerings to make roller plates and trucks as well as inline skates.

In the last five years, TNECD has supported more than 200 economic development projects in Northern Middle Tennessee resulting in nearly 50,000 job commitments and roughly $8.4 billion in capital investment.

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Lodge Manufacturing Company to Expand Marion County Operations

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bob Rolfe and Lodge Manufacturing Company officials today announced the company will invest $56 million to expand its South Pittsburg facility, where it has operated for 125 years.

“For 125 years, Lodge has called South Pittsburg home and relied on skilled Tennesseans to make products that last for generations,” said Gov. Bill Lee. “I’m proud that this respected brand continues to thrive in our state, and we thank the company for its additional investment in Southeast Tennessee.”

In order to meet increased demand, Lodge will expand and reconfigure its existing facility and add additional manufacturing equipment to enhance production capabilities. Lodge will create 239 new jobs as a result of the expansion.

“TVA and Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative congratulate Lodge Manufacturing on its decision to expand operations in Marion County,” said John Bradley, TVA senior vice president of Economic Development. “It’s always an exciting day when we can celebrate one of our region’s most long-standing companies and its continued commitment to growth in the Valley. We are proud to partner with Marion County Government, City of South Pittsburg Government, and Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development to help support companies, like Lodge Manufacturing’s business success.”

Founded in 1896, Lodge is a fifth-generation, family-owned company that manufactures the largest selection of American made cast iron cookware. Lodge operates two foundries in South Pittsburg, the second of which opened in 2017 and increased the company’s manufacturing capacity by 75%.

Lodge offers a variety of products ranging from its signature seasoned cast iron to enameled cast iron and carbon steel cookware. Customers can also shop a wide range of items specifically made for grilling or baking.

For more information about Lodge Manufacturing Company, visit lodgecastiron.com. To view open positions, visit lodgecastiron.com/careers.

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20 Projects Completed During 2021 Tennessee Electric Co-op Day of Service

Nashville, TENN. – Nearly 300 electric co-op employees participated in the fifth annual Tennessee Electric Cooperative Day of Service on Thursday, Oct. 21. Twenty individual service projects were completed across the state with 292 employees from 10 electric co-ops volunteering more than 700 hours in service to their local communities. This year’s projects included painting and repairing playground equipment, cleaning a small business damaged in the Waverly flood and coordinating food, clothing, classroom supply and toy drives.

“Our commitment to the people and places we serve runs deep,” says Trent Scott, TECA’s vice president of corporate strategy and organizer of the event. “Our employees are raising families in these communities, and they want to give back. The Day of Service is an opportunity for our employees to complete projects that have a real impact.”

Sponsors for the 2021 Day of Service were Bass, Berry and Sims, Calix, Silicon Ranch, Tennessee811 and The Tennessee Magazine.

In the five-year history of the Day of Service event, 1,900 employees have volunteered more than 4,900 hours to complete 116 individual projects in co-op communities across the state.

Co-ops participating in the 2021 Day of Service and the projects they completed were:

  • Caney Fork Electric Cooperative – Coordinated Christmas toy drive for area children
  • Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation – Painted playground equipment for local schools
  • Fayetteville Public Utilities – delivered gift bags to residents in local assisted living and nursing facilities
  • Gibson Electric Membership Corporation – Provided classroom supplies for 11 teachers and 96 students
  • Pickwick Electric Cooperative – Assisted the Jesus Cares Thrift Store and packed and delivered care packages to nursing home residents
  • Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association – Helped clean a small business impacted by the Waverly, Tenn., flood
  • Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative – Donated meals to local healthcare workers and raised money for a veterans group
  • Volunteer Energy Cooperative – donated food to food banks and a back pack program

In the photo: Caney Fork Electric Cooperative employees collect toys to ensure that area children have a special holiday.

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Conserve energy as weather cools

It’s tempting to turn the heat on as soon as the weather starts to cool down in the fall. But holding off for a few weeks until you really need to rely on heat can keep your energy bills low.

If you must turn the heat on during the early fall:

  1. Set it no higher than 68 degrees. This will make your indoor air comfortable without wasting energy.
  2. Move furniture and drapes away from warm air registers and baseboard heaters so they don’t block the heat from circulating. The freer the air flow, the lower you can set your thermostat.
  3. Close the flue damper of your wood-burning fireplace. In fact, consider fitting an electric fireplace into it so you can enjoy a light show without sending heated air up the chimney.
  4. Have an HVAC pro inspect your heating system before it gets too cold outside. Regular maintenance can prevent an expensive, inconvenient problem later in the winter when it would be uncomfortable to go even a day without a working heating system.
  5. Caulk indoor openings on external walls, like around the areas where the cable and phone lines come into the house and around penetrations for water pipes and sewer lines. Sealing those openings can keep your heated air in and the cool air out.
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Shoo away vampires this Halloween

Little ghosts, goblins and princesses are a welcome sight on Halloween night. But beware of the vampire lurking inside your home.

You could be paying for vampire energy—electricity that leaks from your appliances, computers and entertainment systems—if you leave them plugged in even when they’re turned off.

Any cord that is plugged into an electrical outline draws electricity. So if you leave your mobile phone charger plugged in after you’ve removed the phone or you leave your computer and scanner plugged in after you shut down for the evening, you could be wasting—and paying for—unused energy.

Most people leave electronics plugged in all the time because it’s convenient to be able to turn them on without having to plug them in again and again, day after day. The worst offenders are “remote-ready” appliances, like computers, cable boxes, stereos, TVs, microwave ovens, garage door openers and video game consoles.

As long as they’re plugged in, they remain in a “ready” state so they don’t have to wake up or warm up when you turn them on.

That can cost you between $165 and $440 per year in wasted electricity, depending on how many devices you have.

A tip: Invest in a high-quality power strip—one that will sacrifice itself during a power surge rather than letting the surge ruin the appliance. Plug multiple items into the power strip and unplug the strip before bedtime. That’s easier than unplugging and replugging lots of appliances.

A caution: Don’t overload your home’s electrical circuits by plugging too many appliances into a single power strip. Especially if you live in an older home, consult an electrician about how much of an electrical load your single outlets can handle.

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Ford to invest $5.6 billion on 3,600-acre megacampus in electric co-op territory

DETROIT – Ford Motor Company announced Monday that it has selected the Memphis Regional Megasite for one of the largest battery and vehicle manufacturing campuses in the U.S. The partnership between Ford and SK Innovation is a $5.6 billion investment that will bring 5,800 new jobs to the region. Called Blue Oval City, the complex will be constructed on a nearly 6-square-mile site near Stanton in West Tennessee and build next-generation electric F-Series pickups and advanced batteries.

“This is a watershed moment for Tennesseans as we lead the future of the automotive industry and advanced manufacturing,” said Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee.

The site, located approximately 25 miles east of Memphis and 32 miles west of Jackson, lies within the service areas of two electric cooperatives: Southwest Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation and Chickasaw Electric Cooperative. While the assembly plant is expected to be directly served by the Tennessee Valley Authority, both co-ops expect the project to have a significant impact.

“The scope of this project is unlike anything Tennessee has ever seen,” said Kevin Murphy, CEO of Southwest Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation and board president of TECA. “This development will have a lasting impact on the communities we serve and all of West Tennessee. We are honored that Ford selected our region to for this historic investment, and we are celebrating the exciting opportunities that this will create.”

“This week’s Ford announcement will have a lasting, positive affect on our region,” said Loyd Muncy, CEO of Chickasaw Electric Cooperative. “The economic opportunities created by a project of this size will benefit Chickasaw Electric, our consumers and all the communities we serve for generations.”

Blue Oval City will be designed to be the largest, most advanced and most efficient automotive production campus in Ford’s history. The campus will include the Ford assembly plant, a supplier park and a battery manufacturing plant operated by BlueOvalSK, Ford and SK Innovation’s joint venture. The site will become a vertically integrated ecosystem with key suppliers and battery manufacturing on the same campus where Ford will assemble next generation all-electric F-Series trucks.

The Ford buildout of the Memphis Regional Megasite is anticipated to result in significant job creation and capital investment. The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development projected the following:

  • The project is anticipated to generate more than 27,000 new jobs, both directly and indirectly, to support the site’s operations. This will result in more than $1.02 billion in annual earnings.
  • This project is anticipated to contribute $3.5 billion each year to Tennessee’s gross state product.
  • This project is also expected to generate temporary construction benefits, including $5.6 billion spent on land, buildings and other real property improvements. Additionally, more than 32,000 jobs are expected to support the construction period with around $1.87 billion in salaries related to construction activity.

“Today is a historic day as we welcome Ford Motor Company and SK Innovation to Tennessee,” said Tennessee Department of Economic Development Commissioner Bob Rolfe. “The ripple effect resulting from these projects will be transformational for our state, especially West Tennessee, and we are most grateful for this enormous investment and the addition of two top global brands. To have such a world renowned, American company land as our first tenant at the Memphis Regional Megasite underscores the site’s strength and potential for additional joint venture partners and suppliers.”

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Vanessa Hickman joins MTE Board of Directors

Murfreesboro, Tenn. – The Nominating Committee of Middle Tennessee Electric (MTE) announced today that Vanessa Hickman will serve on the MTE Board of Directors, completing the term of the seat vacated by the retirement of Tom Purkey.

Hickman was nominated to the Board after submitting her candidacy during the submission period and completing an interview process.

She will fill the Wilson County District 4A seat left open by the retirement of Tom Purkey, who moved out of the MTE service territory after serving on the Board for nine years.

Regarding Hickman’s nomination, MTE’s Board Chairman Mike Woods said, “Vanessa is a dedicated and highly respected member of our community, and we have no doubt her skills will be an asset to our Board. We’re honored to have her fill this role, and we appreciate the work of the Nominating Committee in exercising its duty to fill the board vacancy through an open process.”

Hickman recently retired from the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority as Assistant Vice President of Information Technology and was the Authority’s first Chief Information Officer. Over the course of a career spanning more than 40 years, including roles at Gaylord Entertainment and IBM, she provided information systems advice on managing IT applications and applying technology to support business goals.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in business management from East Tennessee State University and a master’s degree in healthcare informatics from Lipscomb University. Hickman is a Certified Member of the American Association of Airport Executives and serves as an adjunct professor of healthcare informatics at Trevecca Nazarene University. In addition to her new role on the MTE Board, she has been heavily involved with various community organizations throughout the years. Currently, she is a member of Women of Technology in Tennessee and the Nashville Technology Council (NTC), of which she recently was inducted into their Hall of Fame.

Additional recognitions and honors throughout her prestigious career include Fifty Forward’s 2019 Harriet Folley Leadership Award and being named a 2019 finalist for the NTC CIO of the Year award.

Hickman lives in Mt. Juliet with her husband, James, and they have a daughter, Jamette.

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Tennessee co-ops rally to assist with Hurricane Ida restoration

Sixty-three lineworkers from 7 Tennessee electric cooperatives are assisting with Hurricane Ida recovery efforts. The massive hurricane left widespread damage across Louisiana where power restoration is expected to take weeks.

“Our crews have a reputation for responding quickly, working safely and showing compassion to those who have been impacted by storms like this one,” says David Callis, executive vice president and general manager of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “We commend their desire to serve and wish them well in the days to come.”

Jean Sutton, a resident of St. Gabriel, Louisiana, who is originally from Morristown, Tennessee, took to Facebook earlier this week to thank Appalachian Electric after meeting one of their contract crews restoring power to her home. “You don’t have any idea the hope you give us after such destruction and the life you restore when the power comes back on!,” reads her post.

“We know that there is a long road ahead for the people of Louisiana,” says Todd Blocker, vice president of member relations and coordinator of statewide mutual aid for TECA. “Our Tennessee co-ops are proud to be able to assist them during this time of need.”

Below is a list of Tennessee co-ops providing assistance and the name and location of the co-op they will be helping. This information is likely to change as the storm nears the coast.

  • Appalachian Electric Cooperative in New Market, Tenn. – eight lineworkers to DEMCO in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
  • Chickasaw Electric Cooperative in Somerville, Tenn. – six lineworkers to Washington St. Tammany Electric Cooperative in Franklinton, Louisiana
  • Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation in Clarksville, Tenn. – 10 lineworkers to DEMCO in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
  • Fayetteville Public Utilities in Fayetteville, Tenn. – nine lineworkers to DEMCO in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
  • Holston Electric Cooperative in Rogersville, Tenn. – 10 lineworkers to DEMCO in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
  • Southwest Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation in Brownsville, Tenn. – 10 lineworkers to Washington St. Tammany Electric Cooperative in Franklinton, Louisiana
  • Upper Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation in Carthage, Tenn. – 10 lineworkers to DEMCO in Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Photo by David Abernathy. CEMC crews depart Clarksville to assist with power restoration following Hurricane Ida.

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Carlton appointed assistant commissioner of rural development

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bob Rolfe announced today the appointment of Brooxie Carlton as assistant commissioner of Community and Rural Development.

Carlton, a member of the department for more than 13 years, has most recently served as deputy assistant commissioner of Rural Development since 2015. She replaces Sammie Arnold, who has taken on the role of chief of staff to House Speaker Cameron Sexton.

“Brooxie has proven herself to be an extraordinary leader and valued team member at TNECD, and I have no doubt that this will be a seamless transition,” Rolfe said. “Brooxie’s experience and the relationships she has built with communities throughout the state demonstrates that she is the best fit for this role and will carry out the department’s mission to expand economic opportunities across rural Tennessee. We appreciate Sammie Arnold for his leadership and time at TNECD and for making rural Tennessee a priority. We look forward to working with him as he begins the next step in his career.”

Assisting and advancing rural Tennessee is one of the main focuses of TNECD and supports Gov. Lee’s first executive order, which required each executive department to submit recommendations on how to better serve rural Tennesseans. Over the past eight years, the number of distressed counties in Tennessee has decreased from 26 to nine. In her new role, Carlton will lead TNECD’s long-term rural strategy, which is built around a full suite of community development grants and enhanced efforts to support job creation in Tennessee’s most economically vulnerable communities.

As deputy assistant commissioner of Rural and Community Development, Carlton oversaw federal grant funding from the Delta Regional Authority, the Appalachian Regional Commission and the Community Development Block Grant program.

In addition, Carlton managed the administration of more than 3,000 grants totaling more than $650 million, including federal funding in excess of $500 million. She serves as Gov. Bill Lee’s alternate to the boards of the Appalachian Regional Commission and the Delta Regional Authority.

“I have had the opportunity to work with Tennessee’s rural communities for several years now. We have developed programs that benefitted our communities and citizens from downtown development to industrial site development to water and sewer projects,” Carlton said. “I am honored to be able to expand that work and lead a great team that is committed to making our state a great place to live and work.”

Born and raised in Dyersburg, Tennessee, Carlton attended Birmingham-Southern College in Birmingham, Alabama, where she graduated Phi Beta Kappa and with honors. Carlton went on to receive her master’s degree in human, organizational and community development from Vanderbilt University.

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MTE Reflects on historic year at 2021 Annual Meeting

MURFREESBORO, TN – Middle Tennessee Electric (MTE) leadership updated cooperative members on the organization’s health and answered questions directly from its members during its Annual Meeting, held virtually Aug. 28.

In their report to the membership, Board Chairman Mike Woods and CEO Chris Jones discussed the major components that made 2020 an unusual but successful year. MTE’s merger with Murfreesboro Electric Department in July of 2020 increased the organization’s membership to 315,000 members, making it the second-largest electric membership cooperative in the United States. To celebrate the merger and the start of a new era, MTE rolled out a new branding campaign, including a new logo, for the combined company. It was just the third such change since MTE’s founding.

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted every element of the way MTE operates, and leadership acted quickly to implement policies and practices that would ensure the safety of members and its employees while continuing to maintain high standards of service. MTE line crews worked tirelessly last February to restore power after a devastating ice storm wiped out power for thousands of members. In addition, Woods and Jones touched on subsidiary United Communications’ continued efforts to expand its broadband footprint to members.

“Though 2020 was a difficult year in many ways, I am proud of how the entire MTE team pushed through and stepped up to provide assistance to our members when it was needed the most,” said Jones. “Ultimately, this year allowed us to evolve and expand in ways that will continue to have a positive impact on our community.”

A business session followed the video presentation, during which Treasurer Jim Mills spoke about the healthy financial position of the organization.

Per the cooperative’s bylaws, the results of the election for five seats on the Board of Directors were announced during the Annual Meeting. Five members were re-elected: Ann Little – Williamson County, David Lee – Rutherford County, Ross Bradley – Rutherford County, Dr. Shervondalonn Brown – Rutherford County, and Jim Mills – Wilson County.

MTE board members serve staggered three-year terms, and the Nominating Committee is responsible for nominating next year’s board of director candidates.

The 2021 Nominating Committee election resulted in the appointment of Donald Lampley, Karen Paris and Juanita Patton from District 1 – Williamson County; Thomas “Teb” Batey, Jamey Faulkner, Danny Sapp and Richard Stone from District 2 – Rutherford County; Jeanne Melton from District 3 – Cannon County; and Zachary Butler, Ken Howell and Quintin Smith from District 4 – Wilson County.

In an organizational meeting following the Annual Meeting, the board re-elected Mike Woods of Rutherford County as chairman, Steve Seger of Williamson County as vice chairman and Jim Mills of Wilson County as secretary-treasurer.

A Q&A session was conducted and questions from members were answered live. Members inquired about broadband, COVID, member programs and a variety of current topics.

“It would have been wonderful to see our members in person at this year’s Annual Meeting, but we are grateful that we are still able to share information, gather feedback and keep our members updated in a comprehensive manner,” said Woods. “Our members are the backbone of MTE, and we are honored to fulfill our purpose of making their lives better.”

Robert White (L), Vice President of Member Services and Community Relations, and Chris Jones (R), MTE President and CEO, during the Q&A session. Image via WGNS.

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Amazon to Create 500 New Jobs in Clarksville

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bob Rolfe and Amazon officials announced today that the company will establish a new, state-of-the-art fulfillment center in Clarksville.

“This fulfillment facility comes on a wave of recent announcements of Amazon investing in Tennessee,” said Gov. Bill Lee. “The creation of 500 new jobs will bolster the economic growth that Montgomery County is experiencing, and it will support Amazon’s initiatives across our state.”

“TVA and Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation congratulate Amazon on its decision to locate operations and create hundreds of new job opportunities in Clarksville,” said John Bradley, TVA senior vice president of Economic Development. “Working with our partners, like the Clarksville Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation and Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, to support job creation and investment in the Valley is fundamental to TVA’s mission of service. We are proud to celebrate this announcement and look forward to Amazon’s continued business success in the region.”

Amazon will create 500 full-time jobs with comprehensive benefits at the new one-million-square-foot fulfillment center, where employees will pick, pack and ship larger customer items, such as bulk paper goods, sports equipment, patio furniture and larger home goods and electronics. The facility, which will house innovative Amazon technologies and energy efficient, zero-emission power industrialized truck (PIT) equipment, is expected to launch in 2022.

The Clarksville facility will be Amazon’s tenth fulfillment and sortation center in Tennessee and the fourth to be announced in the past 19 months. In 2020, Amazon committed to creating 1,000 jobs at new facilities in both Memphis and Mt. Juliet and most recently in February 2021, the company announced a new fulfillment center project in Alcoa, tacking on an additional 800 new jobs.

Amazon currently operates fulfillment and sortation centers in Charleston, Chattanooga, Lebanon, Memphis, Murfreesboro and Nashville. The company is in the midst of building Amazon Nashville, a new downtown office that will bring more than 5,000 tech and corporate jobs to Nashville.

Since 2010, Amazon has invested more than $13 billion in Tennessee, including infrastructure and compensation to thousands of its employees in the state. Amazon’s investments in Tennessee contributed an additional $13 billion into the state’s economy, and using methodology developed by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Amazon estimates its investments in the state have created an additional 39,000 indirect jobs on top of the company’s more than 25,000 direct hires in Tennessee.

Amazon’s innovative Career Choice program pre-pays 95 percent of tuition for courses in high-demand fields. Since the program’s launch, more than 30,000 employees have pursued degrees in game design and visual communications, nursing, IT programming and radiology, to name a few. In addition, Amazon has pledged to invest over $700 million to provide upskilling training for 100,000 U.S. employees for in-demand jobs. Programs will help Amazonians from all backgrounds access training to move into highly-skilled roles across the company’s corporate offices, tech hubs, fulfillment centers, retails stores, and transportation network, or pursue career paths outside of Amazon.

Over the last five years, TNECD has supported nine economic development projects in Montgomery County, resulting in approximately 2,550 job commitments and $708 million in capital investment.

To learn more about working at Amazon, visit www.amazondelivers.jobs.

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Working Together to Combat Cyber Attacks

Computer hacking is a top news story these days, and for years electric cooperatives have focused on blocking cyber threats from interfering with the nationwide electric grid of wires and poles that keeps our lights on.

You can also help defend against that electronic mischief. And you should. Because when use internet-connected devices like your smart phone, you’re instantly connected to the grid.

The network of power lines, transformers and substations adds up to an incredibly complex system that reliably brings us conveniences of modern life. That network is transforming into a “smart grid” that does an even better job of delivering electricity. It’s adding renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, which calls for sophisticated software to figure out how to keep power flowing at night or when the wind isn’t blowing. Computer algorithms make plans for the most efficient and reliable operations when forecasts call for storms, wildfires or times of high-power use.

Making such modern miracles happen means joining with another dominant part of today’s world—the internet.

The blink-of-an-eye speed of balancing the generation of electricity with your flip of a light switch relies heavily on the electronically connected world. The internet is incredibly useful, but also a target of troublemakers from lone, self-taught experts to international crime rings.

Electric utilities know this and work every day through their own offices and national organizations on cyber safety.

You can take smart steps too, to protect yourself, and the electric grid. Because the power grid uses the internet, that means that any of your internet-connected devices are also part of the grid: computers, security cameras, printers, smart TVs, health monitors––even cars and light bulbs can be connected to the internet.

Here are the top tips experts advise to defend against hackers:

Lock the front door.

If you have wireless internet in your home, the traffic comes in through the router. If you take just one step, create a strong password for that router, and set a reminder to change the password regularly.

Use a secret code.

Weak passwords make things easier for hackers. A study found the most-used password in 2021 was, you guessed it, “123456.” A more secure option uses combinations of upper-case and lower-case letters, combined with numbers and special symbols like “&” or “!”

There are apps to help you remember passwords. A simple old-fashioned notebook can also work, as long as you’re certain you’ll never lose it and no one else has access to it. And be aware that every major internet-connected appliance comes with its own factory-installed password you should change right away. The password for my smart TV was, you guessed it, 123456.

Stay vigilant.

If you receive an e-mail with an attachment you weren’t expecting, don’t open the attachment. If you get a message with a link you didn’t know was coming, don’t click it. Even if it’s from a friend, phone them and ask if they sent it—hackers can send messages using your friend’s address.

Stay state-of-the-art.

Your computer and other devices will regularly offer updates—install them. They often contain security updates to protect against the latest cyber threats. And they will come to you directly through your computer, phone or printer—don’t be fooled by an e-mail or message saying it’s an update. You can also go online and ask about any updates to your device.

Next month is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and the Department of Homeland Security has titled this year’s theme, “If you connect it, protect it.” That’s good advice for your home—and for the electric grid.

Paul Wesslund writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives. From growing suburbs to remote farming communities, electric co-ops serve as engines of economic development for 42 million Americans across 56% of the nation’s landscape.

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We’re Ready for Storm Season. Are You?

Now that summer is in full swing, like many of you, I welcome more opportunities to be outdoors and enjoy the warmer weather. Summertime brings many of my favorite activities like cooking out with family and friends, afternoons on the water and simply slowing down a bit to enjoy life.

But summer months also make conditions right for dangerous storms. From ordinary summer storms to hurricanes that can impact our entire region (The 2021 hurricane season kicks off on June 1), these potential weather events can cause destruction to our electrical system. Despite the threats posed by summer weather, crews at your local electric co-op are ready and standing by to respond should power outages occur in your area.

When major storms knock out power, co-op line crews take all necessary precautions before they get to work on any downed lines.  You should also practice safety and preparedness to protect your family during major storms and outages.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends the items below as a starting point for storm and disaster preparedness, but you can visit www.ready.gov for additional resources.

  • Stock your pantry with a three-day supply of non-perishable food, such as canned goods, energy bars, peanut butter, powdered milk, instant coffee, water and other essentials (i.e., diapers and toiletries).
  • Confirm that you have adequate sanitation and hygiene supplies including towelettes, soap and hand sanitizer.
  • Ensure your First Aid kit is stocked with pain relievers, bandages and other medical essentials, and make sure your prescriptions are current.
  • Set aside basic household items you will need, including flashlights, batteries, a manual can opener and portable, battery-powered radio or TV.
  • Organize emergency supplies so they are easily accessible in one location.

In the event of a prolonged power outage, turn off major appliances, TVs, computers and other sensitive electronics. This will help avert damage from a power surge, and will also help prevent overloading the circuits during power restoration. That said, do leave one light on so you will know when power is restored. If you plan to use a small generator, make sure it’s rated to handle the amount of power you will need, and always review the manufacturer’s instructions to operate it safely.

Listen to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio for storm and emergency information, and check your local co-op’s app or website for power restoration updates.

After the storm, avoid downed power lines and walking through flooded areas where power lines could be submerged. Allow ample room for utility crews to safely perform their jobs, including on your property.

Advance planning for severe storms or other emergencies can reduce stress and anxiety caused by the weather event and can lessen the impact of the storm’s effects. Sign up for NOAA emergency alerts and warnings, and download our app to stay abreast of power restoration efforts and other important co-op news and information.

While we hope Tennessee doesn’t experience severe storms this summer, we can never predict Mother Nature’s plans. Your local electric co-op recommenda that you act today because there is power in planning. From our co-op family to yours, we hope you have a safe and wonderful summer.

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Gov. Lee signs law protecting Tennesseans from improperly installed electric generation equipment

NASHVILLE – A new law that protects Tennesseans from improperly installed electric generation equipment was signed into law by Gov. Bill Lee on Tuesday, April 20.

The law requires owners of generators, solar panels, wind turbines or other electric generation equipment that is connected to the power distribution grid to notify their local power company and to install an automatic disconnect switch that is accessible to the local utility.

Gov. Lee, a longtime friend of electric co-ops, expressed his support for the legislation. “Lineworkers power Tennessee, and this legislation will ensure they stay safe on the job,” says Gov. Lee. “Our homes, hospitals, farms, factories and everything in between depend on well-managed infrastructure, and this law is an important part of that.”

To protect the public from danger, the local electric distribution grid is designed to interrupt the flow of power to an area when the system detects damage such as a pole broken during an automobile accident or power lines damaged during a storm.

“Unfortunately, privately owned generation equipment that is connected to the grid might continue generating power onto the grid if it is not properly installed,” says Mike Knotts, vice president of government affairs for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association, “and this could create a very dangerous situation for the public, first responders or utility lineworkers.”

“If you don’t know where these electric producing instruments are, you could have a tragic accident,” said Rep. Patsy Hazlewood, sponsor of the legislation, from the House floor on March 11.

Tennessee’s electric cooperatives championed the law throughout this year’s legislative session. “We appreciate the General Assembly and Gov. Lee for sharing our concern for public safety,” says David Callis, executive vice president and general manager of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association.

Owners of grid-connected generation equipment should contact their local electric utility for more information.

H.B. 252 discussion and vote during the Commerce Committee on March 2

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Electrical Safety Month is here!

This month is set aside every year as a time to pay special attention to staying safe around electricity — something everyone at your local electric co-op believes in wholeheartedly. By designating May as Electrical Safety Month, the National Safety Council seeks to remind everyone of the hazards associated with electricity and provide tips you can follow to stay safe around it.

With this in mind (and a whole summer full of fun just around the corner), now’s a great time to focus on safety lessons for young people. Consider these tips for kids that can prevent accidental shock or other injuries:

  • Flying a kite is great fun on a breezy day, but keep it far away from power lines. If your kite accidentally comes close to one, drop the kite string or reel immediately. Better to lose your kite than come in contact with electricity, which can travel straight down your kite string to YOU!
  • This next one applies to adults as well: Never fly a drone near power lines. Even “toy” drones can cause an outage if they hit a power line. (They can also cause a downed power line, which is extremely hazardous.) Those shiny “metalized” balloons are another no-no. Balloons of all kinds are best kept well away from power lines.
  • Never play around or climb on those green metal boxes that might be found at locations throughout subdivisions. These pad-mount transformers contain electrical equipment that helps bring underground electricity to your house and your neighbors’ homes.
  • Don’t climb trees that are anywhere near power lines. Even if the branches are just close by, a windy day (plus your added weight) could bend them in such a way as to bring them into contact with a power line. If that happens, the whole tree (with you in it!) could become energized.
  • If you should ever see a downed power line lying on the grass or in the road or a driveway, never EVER get close to it! Let an adult know right away so they can notify your local electric co-op.
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Tennessee electric co-op leaders discuss energy issues with D.C. lawmakers

NASHVILLE – This week, electric co-op leaders from across the state held online meetings with Tennessee’s congressional delegation as part of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s 2021 Legislative Conference. During the meetings, co-op leaders discussed issues that are important for electric co-ops and for rural and suburban Tennessee.

Mike Knotts, vice president of government affairs for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association, said that hearing from people back home is important. “Lawmakers consider hundreds of pieces of legislation, and co-op leaders can help them better understand the real-world impacts of laws and policies created in D.C.”

Lawmakers were encouraged to support broadband and other investments in rural infrastructure and to co-sign legislation that would allow electric co-ops to take advantage of historically low interest rates. Lawmakers were also invited to visit their local co-ops to meet employees and tour co-op facilities.

“Tennesseans know all too well the importance of keeping the lights on in the Volunteer State,” said Sen. Marsha Blackburn. “Thank you to Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association for mobilizing industry leaders and solving problems for hardworking Americans.”

Co-op leaders hosted meetings with Sen. Marsha Blackburn and Sen. Bill Hagerty’s staff, along with Reps. Tim Burchett, Scott DesJarlais, Chuck Fleischmann, Mark Green, Diana Harshbarger, David Kustoff and John Rose.

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General Motors and LG Energy Solution to Invest $2.3 Billion to Build Ultium Cells Manufacturing Plant in Spring Hill

Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee and Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bob Rolfe today announced Ultium Cells LLC, a joint venture of LG Energy Solution and General Motors, will invest more than $2.3 billion to build its second battery cell manufacturing plant in the United States.

Located in Spring Hill, the project will create 1,300 new manufacturing jobs in Maury County.

Ultium Cells LLC will build the new 2.8-million-square-foot, state-of-the-art plant on land leased from General Motors. Construction will begin immediately, and the plant is scheduled to be open in late 2023. Once operational, the Ultium Cells plant will supply battery cells to GM’s Spring Hill assembly plant.

In October 2020, GM announced it would invest $2 billion in its Spring Hill assembly plant to begin the transition to become the company’s third electric vehicle manufacturing site, and the first outside of the state of Michigan. The all-new Cadillac LYRIQ will be the first electric vehicle produced at GM’s Spring Hill assembly plant. GM will also continue to produce the Cadillac XT6 and XT5 at the facility.

GM’s proprietary Ultium battery technology is at the heart of the company’s strategy to compete for nearly every EV customer in the marketplace, whether they are looking for affordable transportation, luxury vehicles, work trucks, commercial trucks or high-performance machines.

“The addition of our second all-new Ultium battery cell plant in the U.S. with our joint venture partner LG Energy Solution is another major step in our transition to an all-electric future,” said Mary Barra, GM chairman and CEO. “The support of the state of Tennessee was an important factor in making this investment in Spring Hill possible and this type of support will be critical going forward as we will continue to take steps to transition our manufacturing footprint to support EV production.”

Ultium batteries are unique in the industry because the large-format, pouch-style cells can be stacked vertically or horizontally inside the battery pack. This allows engineers to optimize battery energy storage and layout for each vehicle design. Energy options range from 50 to 200 kilowatt hours, which could enable a GM-estimated range up to 450 miles or more on a full charge with 0-60 mph acceleration in 3 seconds*.

GM’s future Ultium-powered EVs are designed for Level 2 and DC fast charging. Most will have 400-volt battery packs and up to 200 kW fast charging capability while GM’s truck platform will have 800-volt battery packs and 350 kW fast charging capability.

With a 30-year history in the battery business, LG Energy Solution has made consistent, large-scale investments to accumulate enough stability, credibility and manufacturing experience to invent its own cutting-edge technologies. The company established its first research facility in the U.S. in the early 2000s. In 2010, the company built its first U.S battery plant in Holland, Michigan.

Through Ultium Cells, LG Energy Solution and GM will merge their advanced technologies and capabilities to help accelerate automotive electrification.

Tennessee claims nearly 40 percent of the Southeast’s electric vehicle manufacturing jobs and investment, with more than $4.2 billion invested by companies in Tennessee’s electric vehicle industry. In addition, more than 16,000 electric vehicles are produced in the state each year, which ranks Tennessee No. 1 in the Southeast for electric vehicle manufacturing.

“The decision to build this plant in Tennessee is a testament to our state’s position as a leader in the automotive industry,” said Gov. Bill Lee. “As automakers continue to shift production to electric vehicles, I am proud that Tennessee offers the business climate and skilled workforce to support their growth. I appreciate General Motors and LG Energy Solution for making this substantial investment in Spring Hill and for creating 1,300 new jobs for Tennesseans.”

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Tennessee Sunshine to Power Jack Daniel’s

LYNCHBURG, Tenn. – A little sunshine will soon be in your next glass of whiskey as Jack Daniel’s partners with the Tennessee Valley Authority, Duck River Electric Membership Corporation, and Nashville-based solar power producer Silicon Ranch to provide the iconic Tennessee whiskey maker’s Lynchburg distillery with 20 megawatts of solar energy.

TVA signed a long-term power purchase agreement with Silicon Ranch to build, own, and operate the solar facility just a few miles from the world-famous distillery in Moore County, Tennessee, pending environmental reviews.

This Middle-Tennessee solar project is another win for TVA’s nationally recognized Green Invest program, which has already secured solar farms to help meet the renewable energy goals of auto manufacturers, data centers, local power companies, cities, and universities.

“Our commitment to making great whiskey is only matched by our commitment to preserving the world we call home through sustainable practices,” said Jack Daniel’s Vice President and Assistant General Manager Melvin Keebler. “We’re excited to be the first distillery to sign a Green Invest deal that will provide nearly three-quarters of our electricity needs. Now the world’s most iconic whiskey is even greener.”

Jack Daniel’s runs its distillery with a zero-waste to landfill policy and has programs to protect the water and wood used to make its whiskey.

“This announcement demonstrates the environmental leadership of Jack Daniel’s and Duck River, fueled by our shared long-term commitment to renewable energy and community engagement,” said Chris Hansen, TVA vice president, Origination and Renewables. “TVA’s Green Invest program is the nexus for any organization interested in making renewable energy a part of their business.”

Since 2018, Green Invest has attracted nearly $2.7 billion in solar investment and procured over 2,100 megawatts of solar on behalf of its customers – maintaining TVA’s green energy leadership as the energy provider with the greatest amount of renewable generation in the Southeast.

“TVA, Jack Daniel’s and Duck River are excellent neighbors who are valuable assets to our community,” said Mayor Bonnie Lewis, Metro Lynchburg, Moore County, Tennessee. “Each year, hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world tour the distillery, and this solar farm from our newest corporate citizen Silicon Ranch will be another attraction as they provide additional construction jobs and tax revenue to Moore County.”

Silicon Ranch collaborated with local landowners Cumberland Springs Land Company, the leadership at Motlow State Community College, and officials in Moore County to develop the solar project.

“The Tennessee Valley is our home, and Silicon Ranch is honored to be part of this compelling story that demonstrates what’s possible when partners work together with a shared commitment to our local communities,” said Reagan Farr, Silicon Ranch Co-Founder and CEO. “Thanks to the leadership of our friends at TVA, local power companies such as DREMC, and visionary companies such as Jack Daniel’s, Silicon Ranch is on pace to invest more than $1 billion across the Valley, and we are proud to expand this legacy to Moore County.”

TVA sees a bright future for solar fueling the region’s economy and has increased its contracted solar capacity by 60% since October 2020.

“Duck River is honored to serve as Jack Daniel’s trusted energy provider,” said Scott Spence, DREMC president and CEO. “We have witnessed great things happen over the years through Jack Daniel’s investment in the Metro Lynchburg, Moore County community, and this is no exception. Duck River is thrilled to be a part of this project.”

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Thank a Lineworker on April 12

If you were asked to associate an image or a person with your local electric co-op, chances are you would picture a lineworker. One of the most visible employees of the utility industry, lineworkers work tirelessly to ensure your community receives uninterrupted power 24/7.

“Lineworker” is listed as one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S. This is understandable as they perform detailed tasks near high-voltage power lines. Regardless of the time of day, having to brave stormy weather and other challenging conditions, lineworkers must climb 40 feet in the air, often carrying heaving equipment to get the job done.

Being a lineworker is not a glamorous or easy profession. It takes years of specialized training, ongoing education, dedication, and equally important, a sense of service and commitment. How else can you explain the willingness to leave the comfort of your home to tackle a challenging job in difficult conditions, when most are sheltering comfortably at home? This dedication and sense of service to the community is truly what sets them apart. That’s why the U.S. Senate set aside the second Monday in April to celebrate and recognize the men and women who work around the clock to keep the lights on.

While lineworkers may be the most visible employees at your local co-op, it’s important to note that there is a team of highly skilled professionals working behind the scenes. Engineers provide ongoing expertise and guidance on the operations side of the co-op. Member service representatives are always standing by to take calls and questions. Information technology (IT) experts are continuously monitoring  systems to help safeguard sensitive data. And these are just a few of the folks who work together to ensure your co-op can deliver the service and reliability you expect and deserve. Without them, our lineworkers wouldn’t be able to “bring the light” to our community.

Lineworkers tend to be reluctant spokespeople, but and they deserve all the appreciation and accolades that come their way on Lineworker Appreciation Day.

On April 12 – and any time you see a lineworker –  join us in thanking them for their exceptional service. And remember that you have a dedicated team of professionals working behind the scenes at your co-op whose commitment to service runs just as deep.

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Congressman Kustoff Visits Gibson EMC

Congressman David Kustoff met with Gibson Electric Membership Corporation management Thursday, April 8. During the visit, Kustoff gave a Washington legislative update and asked questions about Gibson EMC’s broadband subsidiary, Gibson Connect.

“We really appreciate the information Congressman Kustoff shared with us and we are grateful for the work he is doing to help Gibson EMC and other electric cooperatives provide high-speed internet service to our member-owners and communities,” said Dan Rodamaker, President and CEO of Gibson EMC and Gibson Connect. “His discussion with us demonstrated a keen understanding of the importance of broadband to rural west Tennessee and a sincere concern for those we serve.”

Gibson EMC formed Gibson Connect in 2017 when the Tennessee Broadband Accessibility Act was passed, allowing cooperatives to provide and sell internet directly to their member-owners.

“Since then, we have worked diligently to build our fiber network and provide access to our eligible members,” Rodamaker said.  “Thanks to Congressman Kustoff and others in our state and federal government who have provided support, Gibson EMC has applied for and been awarded $7.5 million in state construction grants,” he said.  “This is extremely important to all of our members because it will enable us to provide access to this essential service more affordably.”

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