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More than 185 Tennessee lineworkers answer the call for assistance following Hurricane Helene

NASHVILLE – Power restoration efforts are still underway today as communities across East Tennessee work to recover from the impact of Hurricane Helene. Heavy rain and strong winds left nearly 100,000 electric co-op consumers without power on Friday morning. Crews worked through the weekend to restore power to many of those impacted, but some 900 electric co-op members across eastern Tennessee remain without power today.  

“At TECA we are always ready to answer the call for mutual aid,” said Todd Blocker, vice president of member services for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association and coordinator of electric co-op mutual aid efforts in the state. “18 of Tennessee’s electric cooperatives have answered the call for mutual aid assistance. Two of the seven cooperative principles that are the cornerstones of electric cooperatives throughout the country are ‘concern for community’ and ‘cooperation among cooperatives.’ Our members take pride in helping other communities in getting the power back on as safely and quickly as possible.” 

The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association has continued to coordinate assistance from Tennessee cooperatives. 

Assisting cooperatives in Tennessee are: 

  • Eight lineworkers from Fayetteville Public Utilities and eight lineworkers from Tennessee Valley Electric Cooperative are assisting Mountain Electric Cooperative in Mountain City 
  • 20 lineworkers from Middle Tennessee Electric are assisting Appalachian Electric Cooperative in New Market 
  • 18 lineworkers from Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation, 10 from Duck River Electric Membership Corporation, 4 from Forked Deer Electric Cooperative, 10 from Pickwick Electric Cooperative, six from Plateau Electric Cooperative, 10 from Southwest Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation and 16 from Volunteer Energy Cooperative are assisting Holston Electric Cooperative in Rogersville 
  • 50 contractors from Volunteer Energy Cooperative are assisting Powell Valley Electric Cooperative in New Tazwell 

Assisting cooperatives in other states are: 

  • 15 lineworkers from Upper Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation are assisting Rutherford Electric Membership Corporation in Morgantown, North Carolina
  • Five lineworkers from Tri-County Electric Membership Corporation are assisting Blue Ridge Energy in Lenoir, North Carolina
  • Six lineworkers from Chickasaw Electric Cooperative, five from Meriwether Lewis Electric Cooperative and 15 from Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative are assisting Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation in Pickens, South Carolina  
  • 10 lineworkers from Caney Fork Electric Cooperative, five from Fort Loudoun Electric Cooperative and eight from Gibson Electric Membership Corporation are assisting Excelsior Electric Membership Corporation in Metter, Georgia
  • Eight lineworkers from Gibson Electric Membership Corporation are assisting Planters Electric Membership Corporation in Millen, Georgia
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Helene impacts Tennessee co-ops

NASHVILLE – Power restoration efforts are underway this afternoon as the remnants of Hurricane Helene move through the Volunteer State. Heavy rain and strong winds have left some 60,000 electric co-op members without power across eastern Tennessee.

“Electric co-op crews are working tirelessly to restore power to every affected home and business,” said Mike Knotts, CEO of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “The damage in eastern Tennessee is significant, and ongoing flooding is hampering restoration efforts. During situations like this, the hard work and dedication of electric lineworkers cannot be overstated. They are performing a dangerous job under difficult conditions, and their commitment to serving their neighbors is truly inspiring.”

As of Friday afternoon, the hardest-hit cooperatives are:

  • Mountain Electric Cooperative, Mountain City – 25,000 consumers affected
  • Appalachian Electric Cooperative, New Market – 11,900 consumers affected
  • Holston Electric Cooperative, Rogersville – 11,900 consumers affected
  • Powell Valley Electric Cooperative, New Tazewell – 11,200 consumers affected

The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association is coordinating assistance from Tennessee cooperatives. Appalachian Electric Cooperative is being assisted by Middle Tennessee Electric and Upper Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation. Holston Electric Cooperative is being assisted by Middle Tennessee Electric. Mountain Electric Cooperative is being assisted by crews from Fayetteville Public Utilities and Tennessee Valley Electric Cooperative. Several additional cooperatives have pledged to send crews once the storm system moves through their own service territories.

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How Pocket Change Can Change the Community (and the Co-op)

Cooperatives are special because they are owned by the consumers they serve and guided by a set of seven principles that reflect the best interest of those consumers. Two of those principles are having concern for the community and education, training and information. Mountain Electric Cooperative is exemplifying both principles through their Operation Pocket Change (OPC) program.

OPC is a voluntary round-up program that helps local organizations and members during difficult times through the generosity of the co-op. Members can choose to round up their monthly electric bills to the next whole dollar amount. The extra pocket change flows into a special fund that is managed by a board of volunteer members who have a desire to help the service area. To date, more than $2 million has been provided to the community as a result. A quarter of those contributions are designated for scholarships. This fall MEC awarded 43 $1,000 scholarships and one of the recipients is currently attending lineman school.

Another way MEC serves the youth in the community is through their annual career day.

“The high school students take a field trip to our facilities where they climb poles, take bucket truck rides, operate equipment and talk to our employees about what an average day at MEC is like,” said Sally Snyder, MEC’s director of member services.

Logan Barnett received the OPC scholarship, attended the annual career day and is now in MEC’s apprenticeship program.

“Operation Pocket Change helped me get to the dream job I have today,” Barnett said. “I don’t know if I’d been able to do it without it!”

Over the years, more than ten of MEC’s current employees received this scholarship or attended the cooperative’s annual career day.

“It has been amazing to see the amount of employees we have now that attended as a high school student,” Snyder said. “I absolutely love this program and how much it has changed our communities with just a small amount of pocket change.”

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Making Each Meeting Better Than the Last

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, or some might say – especially in the cooperative world – the most tiring time of the year. Summer has come to an end, school is back in session, holidays are right around the corner and to top it off, it is annual meeting time. A time where local cooperatives come together to meet with members, handle official business, celebrate the year and what’s to come.

We spoke with annual meeting planners from a few Tennessee co-ops to learn about their planning process, the new things they are trying out and how they are working to best engage their members at this year’s event.

Caney Fork Electric Cooperative

Caney Fork Electric Cooperative has a little bit of time left to plan for their annual meeting. Each year the event is held on the Saturday before the third Sunday in October, which falls on October 19. This year members will vote on a couple of bylaw changes and one area has a contested election.

Of course, there is fun to be had at the meeting, too. The cooperative will have its normal BBQ lunch and entertainment. This year it will be a fan favorite band that is local to the area who has a following with both the younger and older members.

“We are striving to get our younger members to attend to better understand the importance of the cooperative and the value it brings to the rural communities in which they live,” John Chisam, Caney Fork Electric Cooperative’s director of member services, said.

Chickasaw Electric Cooperative

In the southwest corner of the Volunteer State, Chickasaw Electric Cooperative is gearing up for its annual meeting next month. Their team’s methods may be a bit different from most because its meeting is held virtually. The annual meeting is in the form of a video. It will be posted on the co-op’s YouTube channel on September 1 and be live for two weeks until September 15. Members from across the cooperative participate to make it a huge success, even with a silly blooper video to follow. Viewers can text a specific code to be entered to win a door prize.

“We started this in 2021, and it has been a huge hit with our membership,” Andrea Kee, Chickasaw Electric Cooperative’s communication specialist, said. “Our views grow each year.”

Southwest Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation

Moving one cooperative north, Southwest Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation is even closer to its annual meeting, which will be Friday, August 9. The co-op always has its yearly event on the second Friday of August, but planning, like many others, begins at the beginning of the year.

“We have a meeting with our department, executive staff and a couple others that are a huge help to start brainstorming ideas,” Kenley Mitchell, Southwest Tennessee Electric’s community relations specialist, said.

The planning includes the gift (this year, a cast iron skillet with the STEMC logo on the back), entertainment, door prizes and what they can do differently to better engage members. They have been actively engaging with members by explaining what and when the annual meeting is on social media, through The Tennessee Magazine, on their website and monthly bills. The cooperative works hard too to make sure the engagement is worth it by keeping the event fun for all ages through live music, free food and children’s activities.

“The annual meeting at STEMC is the marketing department’s most important task throughout the year. This is nearly a year-long, tiring project, but it is so rewarding to see the smiles on our members’ faces at the event,” Mitchell said. “Like most co-op’s, our numbers have dwindled since Covid. We do our best to make each meeting better than the last, and we are looking forward to seeing what this year brings.”

Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative

Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative is making the final planning touches on their annual meeting as it takes place on Thursday, August 8. They are celebrating their 85 anniversary, and as a commemoration of the co-op’s connection efforts over the years, they have created a show poster highlighting the beauty of the counties they serve.

SVEC is working with local industry Lodge Manufacturing to create custom skillets for their members. They are bringing in a local band to entertain guests at dinner, and they will have an ice cream truck on site to serve everyone’s favorite sweet treat. Most importantly, SVEC takes the busy season as a time to step back and reflect on the previous year.

“It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and not look at the monumental accomplishments that we in the electric utility industry make to ensure our members don’t have to worry when they flip the switch,” Kari Crouse, SVEC’s vice president of communications and business strategy, said.

This year the event will focus on the theme “There wouldn’t be an us without you”, which will be debuted at the meeting, in their annual report and echoed throughout all speeches.

“It’s not just the big moments that make up a legacy, it is powering Friday night lights so communities can come together to support their favorite team. It is the look on a child’s face when they learn the power behind the switch. It’s customizing community training to ensure our friends and family serving as first responders come home safe each day to their families,” Mike Partin, SVEC’s President and CEO, said. “It’s knowing that when you flip the switch we are there, because we know that there wouldn’t be us without a you.”

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Tennessee’s electric co-ops, 4H sponsor STEM camp

KNOXVILLE – More than 150 sixth and seventh graders from across the state learned about energy, science and engineering during the 2024 4-H Electric Camp. The annual event was held on the campus of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville on Tuesday, June 25 through Friday, June 28.

During the event, students rotated through STEM (science, technology engineering and math) earning centers that taught them to program robotics, wire an extension cord, fly a drone and design a model electric grid. Participants also learned about electrical safety and climbed inside an electric vehicle.

Electric camp is a partnership between 4-H, Tennessee’s cooperative and municipal electric utilities, the University of Tennessee, Tennessee State University, TVA and Tennessee Valley Robotics.

“STEM education is vital in preparing the next generation of innovators and problem solvers,” said Todd Blocker, vice president of member services for TECA and co-op representative on the planning committee. “The students who participated in this year’s 4-H Electric Camp demonstrated remarkable curiosity, creativity, and a strong commitment to learning. Their enthusiasm was inspiring and gives us great hope for the future.”

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Electric co-ops take Tennessee students to Washington, D.C.

Nashville – 139 high school juniors had the opportunity of a lifetime to spend a week in our nation’s capital as delegates of the 2024 Washington Youth Tour, a weeklong trip that began on Friday, June 14.

This annual event is sponsored by Tennessee’s electric cooperatives and the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. The students were selected for the trip by writing a short story titled “Co-ops Connect” that explains how co-ops connect Tennessee communities with energy, education, broadband, economic development and more.

“It’s so rewarding to see these students experience the nation’s capital and witness their growth throughout the week,” said Rachel Human, a chaperone from Plateau Electric Cooperative. “The Washington Youth Tour is not just a trip; it’s an investment in the future leaders of our communities.”

The Washington Youth Tour’s nonstop, seven-day itinerary is jam-packed with places to visit and experiences to give the Youth Tour delegates a trip that they will never forget. Highlights include a guided memorials tour around the city, visiting museums at the Smithsonian Institute, touring Washington’s Mount Vernon and Jefferson’s Monticello and taking a trip to Arlington National Cemetery. Delegates also got to see Washington, D.C., staples like the White House, U.S. Capitol and the Washington National Cathedral.

“The Washington Youth Tour is more than a trip,” said Todd Blocker, vice president of member services for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association and tour director. “Transformative. Unforgettable. Life-changing. Whether the trip cultivates a love for history, leadership or active citizenship, we are empowering young minds to shape the future. Seeing the impact the trip has had on many over the years is awe-inspiring.”

While in D.C., winners were announced in the statewide competition for the Robert McCarty Memorial Scholarships. Charlsie Strech from Meriwether Lewis Electric Cooperative, Elijah Jones from Appalachian Electric Cooperative and Ayden Anderson from Gibson Electric Membership Corporation were awarded $3,000, $2,000 and $1,000 Robert McCarty Memorial Scholarships for having the first, second and third place papers of the thousands of papers submitted across the state for this year’s contest. The scholarships are named in memory of Robert McCarty, an employee of Volunteer Energy Cooperative and longtime chaperone on the annual Youth Tour.

Yuridia Garcia, a senior from Appalachian Electric Cooperative, was awarded a $10,000 Cooperative Youth Ambassador Scholarship. Garcia was a 2023 delegate on the Washington Youth Tour. Delegates who remain engaged with their sponsoring cooperative during their senior year and complete certain community service requirements are eligible for the scholarship. Garcia’s name was randomly selected among the delegates from across the state who completed the requirements.

“An investment in the Washington Youth Tour delegates today is also an investment in the future of co-op communities across Tennessee,” said Mike Knotts, CEO of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “The future is bright for this group of Youth Tour delegates. We are honored to be a part of supporting their academic journeys and look forward to seeing what the future has in store for them and the impact they will have on their communities.”

The Washington Youth Tour was inspired by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1957 when he encouraged electric cooperatives to send young people to the nation’s capital. Since then, more than 6,000 young Tennesseans have participated in the Washington Youth Tour as delegates.

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$16,000 in scholarships awarded to Tennessee students in D.C.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tonight Tennessee’s electric cooperatives awarded $16,000 in scholarships to Washington Youth Tour delegates in Washington, D.C.

Yuridia Garcia, a senior from Appalachian Electric Cooperative was awarded a $10,000 Cooperative Youth Ambassador Scholarship. Garcia was a 2023 delegate on the Washington Youth Tour. Delegates who remain engaged with their sponsoring cooperative during their Senior year and complete certain community service requirements are eligible for the scholarship. Garcia’s name was randomly selected from among the delegates from across the state who completed the requirements.

Charlsie Strech from Meriwether Lewis Electric Cooperative, Elijah Jones from Appalachian Electric Cooperative and Ayden Anderson from Gibson Electric Membership Corporation were awarded $3,000, $2,000 and $1,000 Robert McCarty Memorial Scholarships for having the first, second and third place papers of the thousands of papers submitted across the state for this year’s contest. McCarty was an employee of Volunteer Energy Cooperative and long-time chaperone on the annual youth tour. McCarty lost a battle with cancer in 2015, and sponsoring cooperatives renamed the scholarship in honor of his love for young people.

Allison Hoesel, a delegate from Middle Tennessee Electric, was selected as Tennessee’s representative on NRECA’s Youth Leadership Council. Hosel will attend NRECA’s 2025 PowerXchange meeting in Atlanta, Georgia..

One hundred and thirty-nine high school Juniors from across the state are in the nation’s capital this week for the 2024 Washington Youth Tour. The annual event teaches students about public policy, history, leadership and electric cooperatives. The tour is coordinated by local electric cooperatives, the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

“Embracing the potential of these young individuals not only nurtures their growth but also secures the future of rural and suburban Tennessee,” expressed Todd Blocker, tour director and vice president of member services for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “Envisioning the positive influence these talented youth will bring to their communities is truly exciting, and electric cooperatives take pride in supporting their educational pursuits.”

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2024 Washington Youth Tour Heads to Nation’s Capital

Nashville, TN – This morning, 185 high school juniors, teachers and co-op chaperones from across Tennessee left for the nation’s capital as part of the 2024 Washington Youth Tour. Sponsored by Tennessee’s consumer-owned electric cooperatives and the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association, these students will spend the week learning about the nation’s government, history and public policy.

“We are thrilled to provide this opportunity for Tennessee’s young leaders,” said Todd Blocker, tour director and vice president of member services for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “The Washington Youth Tour is a life-changing experience that empowers students with knowledge about our government and inspires them to be active, informed citizens. Our electric co-ops are proud to support the growth and development of these exceptional young individuals.”

One of the participating students, Blake Goodman from DeKalb County High School and delegate from Caney Fork Electric Cooperative, shared her excitement about the trip. “I am excited to have this opportunity!” she said. “I’ve already made great friends, and I am super excited to learn more about our country’s history.”

The chaperones, who are employees of electric cooperatives across the state, play a crucial role in guiding and mentoring the students throughout the tour. Rachel Human, a chaperone from Plateau Electric Cooperative, expressed her enthusiasm for the program. “It’s so rewarding to see these students experience the nation’s capital and witness their growth throughout the week,” she said. “The Washington Youth Tour is not just a trip; it’s an investment in the future leaders of our communities.”

The Washington Youth Tour began over 50 years ago and demonstrates electric cooperative commitment to fostering leadership and education among young people. By providing this unique learning experience, Tennessee’s electric co-ops are helping to shape the next generation of informed, engaged citizens.

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Union University honors Matthew Keen with $10,000 Washington Youth Tour scholarship

JACKSON – Union University is pleased to announce that Matthew Keen of Halls, Tennessee, is the recipient of the school’s first $10,000 Washington Youth Tour Creative Writing Competition scholarship. Keen plans to attend Union University this fall.

“Matthew is an exceptionally bright young man, academically gifted and musically talented,” said Robbie Graves, Assistant Vice-President for Undergraduate Admissions at Union University. “We believe that he will thrive here and are so excited to keep this family’s Union legacy alive.”

Keen, a student from the Forked Deer Electric Cooperative service territory, had the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. as a part of the 2023 Washington Youth Tour to learn more about leadership, history and public policy.

“Forked Deer Electric is proud and honored to have a local student receive such an award,” said Jeff Newman, general manager of Forked Deer Electric Cooperative. “Mathew is an exceptional student with so much potential. Forked Deer Electric will continue to support our community and encourage others to follow Mathew’s example of what is possible.”

Keen, along with 6,000 other high school students from across the state, have participated in the Electric Cooperative Creative Writing and Scholarship Competition since its start in the 1960s.

“This scholarship means a lot to me as it allows me to attend college at an affordable cost,” said Matthew Keen, scholarship winner. “The Washington Youth Tour was an eye-opening experience that changed the way I view our country. I believe that every American should visit Washington at least once, and the depth that we were allowed to go on with the tour was a big bonus. It truly gave me memories that will last a lifetime.”

The scholarship is part of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association’s partnership with both Carson Newman and Union University. Union University will also award 24 $4,000 per year scholarships for other delegates who plan to enroll at the school for the fall semester immediately after high school graduation.

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Electric co-op leaders discuss Tennessee issues with D.C. lawmakers

Nashville – Leaders from Tennessee’s electric cooperatives traveled to Washington, D.C., on Monday and Tuesday, April 22 and 23, to advocate for policies that could impact Tennessee’s rural and suburban communities. The delegation was made up of board members, executives and other leaders from electric cooperatives across Tennessee.

In meetings with legislative staff, co-ops discussed reliability, energy policy, broadband and other issues that directly impact Tennessee’s electric co-ops and the consumers they serve. Lawmakers were also invited to visit their local co-ops to meet employees, attend annual meetings or tour co-op facilities.

“Meetings with lawmakers are important opportunities to build bridges between policymakers and the communities they represent,” says Mike Knotts, CEO of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “These conversations are not merely exchanges of words; they truly help shape policy that impacts our communities. I’m grateful for each co-op member who took time away from work and family to serve their co-op in this way.”

In addition to visits with members of Congress, attendees also heard from industry and policy experts, including Xochitl Torres Small, deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture; David Turk, deputy secretary of the Department of Energy; and Bret Baier, chief political anchor for FOX News.

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Hard to Comprehend, Easy to Understand

Numbers can be tough to grasp — especially the really big ones. How tall do you think a stack of dollar bills might be? One hundred would be less than ½ inch thick, easy enough to put in your pocket. But what about 1 billion? That stack of cash would be a whopping 68 miles tall, extending practically into space.

That scale is hard to comprehend. But you have a good handle on numbers that matter to you, right? Your spouse’s birthday? How much you owe your friend for lunch? Well, maybe numbers are pretty tough.

If you are a frequent reader of this publication, you know that we often highlight the important work that electric co-ops do across the state. Whether it is economic development, youth programs, broadband or making sure the lights come on when you flip the switch, electric co-ops work behind the scenes to make your community stronger, more resilient and better prepared to face the future.

New research conducted by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association and Cooperative Finance Corporation assigns economic value to these efforts, and the numbers are — forgive the pun — shocking.

The report, “Economic Powerhouses: The Economic Impacts of America’s Electric Cooperatives,” details the economic impacts of the activities conducted by co-ops through the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity as well as capital investments in the grid, operations and maintenance.

Across the nation, electric co-ops support 622,832 American jobs and contribute more than $111 billion each year to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product. There are 11 states that contribute less to the U.S. GDP than electric co-ops do. That is staggering.

While the national numbers are important, the study also looked at economic impact on a state-by-state level.

Electric co-ops in Tennessee create 10,085 jobs annually. Of these, about 3,300 Tennesseans work directly for co-ops, and the remainder are employed by contractors or other businesses that support co-ops. Each year, these 10,085 jobs produce $780 million in income for Tennesseans.

One of the most notable findings to me is that 95% of these jobs and income are created in the rural and suburban communities that co-ops serve.

The study also examined the taxes paid by electric co-ops, their suppliers and other businesses impacted by the work of electric co-ops. This amounts to $113 million in federal taxes, $240 million in state taxes and $112 million in local taxes each year. Your county commissioners will know that the electric co-op is almost always the largest taxpayer in the county.

So what’s the bottom line? Electric co-ops contribute $1.9 billion each year to Tennessee’s economy. Instead of stacking them up, if you laid that many dollar bills out like a blanket, it would cover nearly 4,500 acres. That’s roughly 16 times larger than the entire landmass of New York City.

The findings of the study are interesting, but they point to something more fundamental. Your electric co-op is a foundational institution in your community. Co-ops are local and care about people and the places we call home.

So even if it is easy to get lost in the numbers, you can trust that your co-op wants to do what is best for you and your family. The good people who work there know that connecting you to what is important makes a difference, and they want to make your home a better place. And that is easy to understand.

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Young leaders learn about government during co-op event in Nashville

NASHVILLE – Forty-six high school juniors from across the state were in Nashville this week for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association’s annual Youth Leadership Summit. Delegates to the event receive a hands-on look at state government, learn networking and leadership skills and develop a better understanding of their local electric cooperatives.

Tre Hargett, Tennessee Secretary of State, welcomed the students to the Capitol where they visited with legislators, sat in on committee meetings and debated and voted on a mock bill.

In addition to meeting lawmakers and experiencing the state Capital, students also developed their leadership and team-building skills at the Joe C. Davis YMCA Outdoor Center at Camp Widjiwagen, participated in an electric safety demonstration and completed a leadership training course with leadership expert Amy Gallimore. Delegates also attended a Nashville Predators hockey game as special guests of the Preds.

“When I was invited to go on the Youth Leadership Summit, I never thought I would be leaving with new friends and memories like the ones I have now,” said Nathan Salvador, a junior from Chester County High School and a YLS delegate from Southwest Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation in Henderson. “I am deeply honored to have been nominated to go and am forever grateful to the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. The knowledge I have now of electric cooperatives, specifically the teamwork and networking aspects, will stay with me for the rest of my life.”

Delegates to the Youth Leadership Summit are encouraged to be leaders and use their talents to improve their communities. “The future of Tennessee is only as strong as the next generation of leaders,” says Todd Blocker, vice president of member services for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association and director of the Youth Leadership Summit. “Investing in these young people is a great opportunity to make a lasting impact on the communities we serve. These students are selected by their local electric co-ops, school officials and guidance counselors, and they are among the most talented students in the state. It is an honor to help them learn and grow.”

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Electric co-ops build relationships during day on the hill

NASHVILLE – More than 175 electric cooperative leaders from across the state gathered in Nashville on Tuesday and Wednesday, Feb. 20 and 21, for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association’s 2024 Legislative Conference. Electric co-op members and employees in attendance had important conversations about energy and policy that will impact electric co-ops and the rural and suburban communities they serve.

Attendees at the event heard from political strategists and policy advisors as well as Tennessee leaders, including advisors to Gov. Bill Lee and Secretary of State Tre Hargett.

“Reliability took center stage during discussions with legislators this year,” said Ryan King, vice president of government affairs for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “From cybersecurity to EPA regulations, co-op leaders advocated for specific legislation that will harden the grid and protect energy supply.”

Meetings were also about building relationships. “When a bill crosses a legislator’s desk that can impact energy or rural and suburban Tennessee, we want them to know who to call,” said King. “Building strong relationships with lawmakers can have a significant impact on bills that are passed and, ultimately, an electric co-op’s ability to provide safe, reliable and affordable energy to its communities.”

“We have great legislators serving Tennessee’s rural and suburban communities, but energy is an incredibly complex industry,” said Dan Rodamaker, CEO of Gibson Electric Membership Corporation and chairman of the TECA board of trustees. “It is critical that electric co-ops are at the table, helping lawmakers understand the real-world impacts of policy and law.”

More than 100 legislative visits were made during the conference, and many elected officials from across the state attended a reception honoring members of the Tennessee General Assembly.

The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association provides leadership, advocacy and support for Tennessee’s 23 electric cooperatives and 3 million consumers. The association also publishes The Tennessee Magazine, the state’s most widely circulated periodical. Visit tnelectric.org or tnmagazine.org to learn more.

 

Photos from the event are available here.

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800 co-op employees volunteer for 2023 Day of Service

Nashville, TENN. – The seventh Tennessee Electric Cooperative Day of Service takes place today. More than 800 electric co-op employees are scheduled to volunteer some 2,100 hours to complete twenty-six individual service projects across the state. This year’s projects include cleaning up litter and storm damage and building beds and playgrounds to hosting supply and food drives and luncheons to celebrate educators and first responders.

“Each day co-op employees work to make life better for their communities, but the Day of Service takes that up a notch,” says Trent Scott, TECA’s vice president of communications and organizer of the event. “This event gives them the opportunity to light up more than homes and street lights. Across the state today, co-op volunteers are eagerly rolling up their sleeves and working on projects that will have a meaningful impact on their neighbors. Co-op care, and that is especially clear to see today.”

Sponsors for the 2023 Day of Service were TVA, Bass, Berry and Sims, Ervin Cable Construction, Silicon Ranch, Tennessee811  and The Tennessee Magazine.

In the seven-year history of the Day of Service event, 3,500 employees have volunteered more than 8,700 hours to complete 179 individual projects in co-op communities across the state.

Co-ops participating in the 2023 Day of Service and the projects they completed were:

  • Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation – Building a playground for Judy’s Hope. 
  • Fayetteville Public Utilities – Volunteering at the Hands of Mercy Mobile Food Pantry. 
  • Forked Deer Electric Cooperative – Hosting “A Drop in the Bucket” supply drive for Lauderdale and Dyer County Carl Perkins Centers. 
  • Fort Loudoun Electric Cooperative – Completing mission critical tasks for Second Harvest Food Bank and Isaiah 117 House. 
  • Gibson Electric Membership Corporation – Supply drive for Isaiah 117 House 
  • Meriwether Lewis Electric Cooperative – Volunteering with litter pick up and at a food distribution event and hosting a food drive.
  • Middle Tennessee Electric – Providing lunch for educators on Teacher Appreciation Day, revitalizing a playground at a local school and participating in a community tailgate at a Cannon County High School football game. 
  • Pickwick Electric Cooperative – Volunteering at the Jesus Cares Thrift Store. 
  • Powell Valley Electric Cooperative – Hosting First Responders Luncheons. 
  • Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative – Build beds for Sleep in Heavenly Peace. 
  • Southwest Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation – Hosting a canned food drive to donate to various food pantries throughout their service territory. 
  • Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association – Sorting food at Second Harvest Food Bank. 
  • Upper Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation – Participating in Rock the Block with Habitat for Humanity, helping the chamber decorate the town square in Gainesboro, cleaning up tree damage from storms at Smith County Middle School and painting at “The Spot.” 
  • Volunteer Energy Cooperative – Volunteering at Meigs Ministries and Crossville Mission Bible Training Center and collecting supplies for Monterey Headstart and money for Birchwood Cares Center. 
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Co-ops connect

October is Co-op Month — a time to celebrate the unique spirit of electric cooperatives and the profound connections they forge. It is a great time to consider the important role electric co-ops play in empowering rural Tennessee — fostering opportunities, connecting us to the world and paving the path from today to a brighter tomorrow.

Co-ops connect energy and community: At the heart of a co-op’s mission lies the commitment to power homes, schools, factories and businesses in your community. Co-op energy powers education, healthcare, commerce, connectivity and even transportation.

Co-ops connect people and opportunity: Tennessee’s electric co-ops are working to create new opportunities for the people and places we serve. From creating jobs through economic development to inspiring students through our educational programs, electric co-ops connect individuals with opportunities they might not otherwise have.

Co-ops connect small towns and global knowledge: Thanks to our investments in broadband, electric co-ops are connecting the communities they serve with the world. Co-ops bring the latest advancements in technology to the heart of our communities, ensuring that the benefits of progress are accessible to all.

Co-ops connect today and tomorrow: The world is changing rapidly, and electric co-ops are investing today to prepare for a brighter tomorrow. We’re building a robust and resilient electric grid to ensure that our communities are prepared for whatever lies ahead.

This Co-op Month, let’s remember that the very essence of our electric cooperative is to connect — energy and community, people and opportunity, small towns and global knowledge, today and tomorrow. Together, co-ops are not just utilities; they are a vital links in the chain that makes our community thrive. Let’s celebrate the power of connection and the cooperative spirit that keeps our lights shining brightly.

 

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TVA announces 4.5 percent increase to base wholesale rates

CHATTANOOGA – Today the TVA board of directors approved a 4.5 percent base rate increase effective on Oct. 1, 2023. This, combined with the end of the 2.5 percent Pandemic Relief Credit set to expire on the same date, constitutes a  7 percent increase in the amount TVA charges local utilities for wholesale power. On average, 75 percent of an electric cooperative’s revenue goes to TVA for the purchase of wholesale power.

In response to today’s board action, Mike Knotts, CEO of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association made the following statement.

“Tennessee’s electric co-ops are concerned about the impact this rate increase will have on rural and suburban Tennessee. While we understand and support TVA’s need to invest in additional generation to ensure the lights stay on, rate actions of this magnitude will have real impacts on the families and businesses we serve. Co-ops will continue to work with TVA to ensure that Tennesseans continue to enjoy reliable and affordable energy.”

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MLEC activates EV fast chargers at Hohenwald office

As automakers retool their factories to build electric vehicles (EVs), many more EVs will be on the roadways in the next decade. Meriwether Lewis Electric Cooperative is helping to make sure that Tennessee is ready with charging infrastructure.

On June 29, MLEC announced that it has installed two chargers at its 28 Park Avenue South, Hohenwald, Tennessee office as part of Fast Charge TN, a partnership between the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), and Seven States Power Corporation.  This Fast Charge TN installation is part of the regional Fast Charge Network that will cover major travel corridors across TVA’s seven-state service area and will complement the broader efforts of the National Electric Highway Coalition, which seeks to enable long-distance EV travel by placing fast chargers along interstates and major highways throughout the United States.

“We moved quickly to participate in Fast Charge TN because we want to make it easy for people to choose EVs so our community can enjoy the environmental and economic benefits of electric transportation,” said MLEC President and CEO Keith Carnahan. “The funding from TVA and TDEC makes it possible to add fast chargers in our community by providing 80% of the project cost.”

TVA and TDEC have brought together local power companies, state and local government partners, and others to pave the way for over 200,000 EVs on Tennessee Valley roads by 2028. The benefits that these EVs bring to the Tennessee Valley region are significant:

  • Attracting good jobs — $13.8 billion in EV and battery manufacturing have helped create over 10,000 EV-related jobs.
  • Reducing carbon emissions from gasoline vehicles by almost 1 million metric tons per year or the equivalent of the carbon sequestered by 1 million acres of US forests in one year.
  • Reinvesting $120 million in the local economy every year from electric refueling.
  • Saving drivers up to $1,000 in fuel and maintenance costs every year.

“TVA is partnering with local power companies like Meriwether Lewis EC and state agencies like TDEC to invest in charging infrastructure across the Tennessee Valley region because electric vehicles benefit everyone,” said Justin Maierhofer, TVA regional vice president. “These investments allow TVA to save drivers money and attract good jobs and tourism– all powered by electricity from TVA and your local power company.”

“Tennessee’s air is cleaner as measured by federal air quality standards than it has been in generations, and a clean environment helps drive economic development,” TDEC Deputy Commissioner Greg Young said. “TDEC is partnering with TVA and MLEC on the development of this station to continue Tennessee’s environmental and economic momentum while further entrenching our state as the epicenter of the electric vehicle transition.”

“This charging location does more than charge cars — it connects Hohenwald to the Fast Charge Network and plays an important role in putting our region on the leading edge of the new electric economy,” said Carnahan.

“As the go-to technology partner for local power companies across the Tennessee Valley, Seven States is proud to support the growing demand for EV charging infrastructure,” said Betsey Kirk McCall, President and CEO of Seven States Power Corporation. “This project is the latest example of how partnerships between private, public, and nonprofit entities can produce lasting real-world impacts on our economy and environment.”

To learn more about the Fast Charge Network, calculate how much money an EV could save you or locate EV charging stations on your travel route, check out  https://energyright.com/ev/.

Learn more about Fast Charge TN here:  www.tn.gov/EVFastCharge.

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Tennessee electric cooperatives respond to announcement of more than $800 million of funding to expand broadband access in Tennessee

Today the U.S. Department of Commerce and the Biden administration announced Tennessee will receive $813 million as part of the federal Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. This funding will strengthen Tennessee’s broadband infrastructure and address inadequate service that remains a challenge for many areas of the state.

Tennessee’s electric cooperatives fully support the state’s commitment to ensure that every resident has access to affordable and reliable broadband connectivity.

“Today’s announcement of BEAD resources is exciting for Tennessee,” said Mike Knotts, CEO of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “Electric cooperatives have established an excellent track record of rapidly deploying broadband networks to the most rural parts of our state. These funds will only accelerate the ability of electric cooperatives to provide that same service to even more unserved and underserved Tennesseans.”

Electric co-ops in Tennessee have taken swift action to tackle the challenges posed by a lack of reliable broadband service. Cooperatives have made remarkable progress in meeting the pressing demands for improved access. With the new opportunities presented by BEAD, electric cooperatives will continue to collaborate with partners at the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development to ensure the allocated resources are utilized effectively to establish robust and dependable broadband networks that will meet to the needs of Tennesseans.

“ECD is a strong partner for broadband providers in Tennessee, including electric cooperatives, and Tennesseans can be proud of the state’s stewardship of broadband deployment resources,” said Ryan King, Vice President of Government Affairs for TECA. “We have full confidence their administration of the BEAD program will hit the mark to extend broadband service to as many Tennesseans as possible, as efficiently as possible.”

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Electric Co-ops award $16,000 in scholarships to Tennessee students

2023 Robert McCarty Scholarship winners 3rd place, Claire Townley, Tennessee Valley Electric Cooperative; 2nd place, Cole Coffman, Southwest Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation; 1st place, Livia Benefield Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tennessee’s electric cooperatives awarded $16,000 in scholarships to Washington Youth Tour delegates on Monday evening, June 19, in Washington, D.C.

Ernee Webb, a senior from Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation was awarded a $10,000 Cooperative Youth Ambassador Scholarship. Webb was a 2022 delegate on the Washington Youth Tour. Delegates who remain engaged with their sponsoring cooperative during their Senior year and complete certain community service requirements are eligible for the scholarship. Webb’s name was randomly selected from among the 25 delegates from across the state who completed the requirements.

Livia Benefield from Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative, Cole Coffman from Southwest Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation and Claire Townley from Tennessee Valley Electric Cooperative were awarded $3,000, $2,000 and $1,000 Robert McCarty Memorial Scholarships for having the first, second and third place papers of the thousands of papers submitted across the state for this year’s contest. McCarty was an employee of Volunteer Energy Cooperative and long-time chaperone on the annual youth tour. McCarty lost a battle with cancer in 2015, and sponsoring cooperatives renamed the scholarship in honor of his love for young people.

Hannah Stokely, a delegate from Holston Electric Cooperative, was selected as Tennessee’s representative on NRECA’s Youth Leadership Council. Stokley will attend NRECA’s 2024 PowerXchange meeting in Austin, Texas.

One hundred and twenty-eight high school Juniors from across the state are in the nation’s capital this week for the 2023 Washington Youth Tour. The annual event teaches students about public policy, history, leadership and electric cooperatives. The tour is coordinated by local electric cooperatives, the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

“Investing in these young people not only nurtures their potential but is an investment in the future of rural and suburban Tennessee,” said Mike Knotts, CEO of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “It is exciting to consider the impact that these talented young people will have on their communities, and electric cooperatives are honored to support their academic journeys.”

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2023 Youth Tour underway

One hundred and seventy student-delegates, teachers and co-op advisors from across Tennessee are headed to Washington, D.C., as a part of the 2023 Washington Youth Tour. The annual event, which begins today, provides young leaders with an opportunity to explore the nation’s capital, learn about government and develop their leadership skills.

The Washington Youth Tour is sponsored by the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association and local electric cooperatives from across the state. Students were selected for the trip by writing a short story titled “Co-ops Connect” that explains how co-ops connect Tennessee communities with energy, education, broadband, economic development and more.

Delegates on this year’s trip will visit museums and monuments, including the Smithsonian museum complex, the White House and the Capitol Building. The group is also scheduled to meet with members of Tennessee’s Congressional delegation.

“The Washington Youth Tour is more than just a trip,” says Todd Blocker, vice president of member relations for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association and tour director. “It’s a transformative experience that ignites a love of history, inspires leadership, and empowers young minds to shape the future. Witnessing the awe-inspiring monuments, engaging with our nation’s leaders, and connecting with a community of peers, youth tour can cultivate a lifelong passion for active citizenship.”

President Lyndon Johnson inspired the tour in 1957 when he encouraged electric cooperatives to send youngsters to the nation’s capital. In the years since, more than 6,000 young Tennesseans have been delegates for the Washington Youth Tour. Politicians, business leaders, authors and athletes are Washington Youth Tour alumni, including Apple CEO Tim Cook.

“If you’ve ever been on youth tour, you know the positive impact it has on the lives of these young adults,” says Blocker. “It’s always exciting to watch them grow, learn and lead throughout the course of the trip.”

 

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