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This article was originally published in the April 2026 Special Edition of North West REC's newsletter and was written by CEO/General Manager Lyle Korver. Over the course of the last couple years, we have been providing regular updates regarding our increasing purchased power costs. We often report that approximately eighty percent (80%) of our operating expenses are what we pay for wholesale purchased power. This power is a blend of hydro, coal, wind, natural gas, solar and other sources. Our power suppliers have increased wholesale rates by 8% in January of each of the last two years. We have been able to pass along some of these increased power costs through our power cost adjustment (PCA). However, we are at a point now where we need to cover these and other increased operating expenses through a base rate adjustment in order to continue to provide the safe and reliable power our member-owners expect and deserve. This will be North West REC’s (NWREC) first base rate adjustment in eleven years. The 20% of our operating expenses that are not purchased power related, are the costs associated with delivering the power from the substations to our end consumers – our members. Insurance costs, interest rates, material, equipment and labor are all expenses that are part of our normal operating expenses, and they have all been increasing since the COVID-19 pandemic occurred. As we reported in January, we have been working with our lender on a rate study to determine how much additional revenue your cooperative needs to collect from our members in order to meet our financial obligations and maintain margin levels that are acceptable to our lender. As a Cooperative, we set our rates at levels that just cover our expenses and provide a small margin. We are not motivated or required to generate large profits for shareholders. It is never an easy decision to increase our rates for our member-owners. However, following a detailed cost of service study, our Board of Directors has approved an increase in our base rates that will take effect on June 1, 2026. Based on projected sales, the new rates are expected to increase annual revenues by approximately 12.5%. The impact on each member’s monthly bill will vary depending on electric usage levels and rate class. In addition, on June 1, we will also be reducing the PCA factor back down to the pre-January, 2026, level of 7 mills (7/10th of a cent). You may recall that in January, we increased the PCA from 7 mills to 13 mills. This was done as a temporary step prior to completing and implementing the base rate adjustment. Taking this PCA reduction into consideration, the increase will be a net overall adjustment of five percent (5%). Here is some additional information regarding rates that we hope will be informative for you: What are the base rates? We refer to our various rate structures including single phase, three phase large power, irrigation and electric heat rates, as our base rates. For example, the following illustration shows our current single phase base rate and our new single-phase rate that will be effective June 1, 2026: Why is there a monthly Facility Charge? The monthly facility charge covers the fixed costs of delivering power to a home, farm or business, regardless of how much energy they use. This flat, recurring fee is designed to pay for a portion of the infrastructure costs like poles, wires, transformers and meters, that are necessary for NWREC to provide safe and reliable electric service. The Cost of Service study shows that we should actually have a higher facility charge, than $26 per month for single phase, and that is why we have a higher energy rate for the first 400 kWh’s, to try to recover the balance of the fixed costs that all members should be responsible for. Is the increasing demand for electricity from large loads like data centers, the main cause of the rate increase? No. While part of the increasing wholesale purchased power costs is related to the investment that our power suppliers are making in new transmission and distribution facilities, it’s not the main driver. Load growth has been occurring naturally throughout the 80 plus year history of electric cooperatives through the growth and development of agriculture, business and industry, housing and other developments. With the recent growth of large data centers, our power suppliers have developed a new large load policy, that will require these types of large loads to pay for this new investment in electric infrastructure that will be needed to serve these loads. The purpose of this new policy is to insulate our members from the impacts of these investments. Is normal load growth good for the Cooperative and our members? Yes. As you can see, NWREC’s electric sales have increased significantly over the last 25 years. This is due to our progressive and economically strong and diverse service area and our involvement in economic development. As a result of the increase in kWh sales, we are able to spread our fixed costs over more kWh’s and this helps to keep our rates very competitive. This graph highlights how our costs associated with delivering the kWh from the substation to our members, is only 1.6 cents per kWh. This is well below the U.S and Iowa median. How do NWREC’s rates compare to other REC’s? Our electric rates have been some of the lowest in the U.S. and we are pleased to share that we will continue to have very competitive rates after this increase. According to our lender’s annual Key Ratio Trend Analysis, our electric rates have been in the bottom 5% when compared to the other 800 REC’s in the U.S. This graph shows our total revenue divided by our kWh sales and that we are well below the median. So even with this increase, NWREC’s rates will continue to be very competitive. Will rates continue to increase? As previously stated, this is our first base rate adjustment in eleven years. We may need to use some of our Margin Stabilization Funds to hold the base rates and PCA steady next year but that is our goal for 2027. Beyond 2027 and based on our most recent Ten Year Financial Forecast, we anticipate that future rates will increase but at less than the rate of inflation. We are committed to continuing to keep rates as low as possible for our members. Thank you for your understanding and support. We will continue to keep you informed of any new developments relating to future electric rates. If you have any questions, please contact our office at 1-800-766-2099.

Gerry Holtrup (Hospers, Iowa) was awarded $3,000 in 2025 toward his charitable organization, Partners for Patriots. Guided by our cooperative commitment to community, Iowa’s electric cooperatives encourage members to participate in the statewide Shine the Light contest in June to celebrate and recognize local volunteers. Sponsored by the Touchstone Energy Cooperatives of Iowa, the contest will accept nominations in June and select three winners, each of whom will receive a $3,000 donation to their local charity or nonprofit. “In the six years since this contest began, we have been impressed by the many individuals contributing meaningful work within the communities our cooperatives serve,” stated Erin Campbell, director of communications for the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives. “The Shine the Light contest enables cooperatives to formally acknowledge and celebrate their positive influence. Three $3,000 charitable donations will be awarded to the most outstanding nominees selected from all contest entries received through June 30.” Member-consumers and employees of Iowa’s electric cooperatives are eligible to nominate local volunteers during the month of June. If you receive electricity from an Iowa electric cooperative, you’re a co-op member-consumer, and we invite you to nominate someone who is making a positive impact in the community. The volunteer being nominated does not need to be a co-op member-consumer. Minors may be nominated with the consent of their parents or legal guardians. Nominees from previous years may be nominated again for another chance to win. The three winners will be announced in September and featured in Iowa Electric Cooperative Living magazine and on social media. Go to www.IowaShineTheLight.com to review the contest rules and submission guidelines. Contest entries will be accepted on this website starting June 1. Help us shine the light on community volunteers this summer and consider honoring a local volunteer by making a nomination.

June is National Safety Month. Watch out for these common home safety hazards this month and every month. Your home is your safe place. It's where you can go to relax and get away from it all. Unfortunately, your house may also harbor safety hazards that could put you and your family at risk. Watch out for these common household safety issues and take steps to keep your family out of harm's way. Neglected alarms Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors won't do you any good if they're not functioning. Test them regularly and change batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure they're installed on every level of your home. Sharp objects Items with sharp edges can pose a danger to children. Keep knives, razor blades, and other sharp tools and equipment safely locked away or stored out of children's reach. Fall hazards Unsecured rugs, cords, toys, and other fall hazards can cause injuries or worse. Make sure rugs are secured with non-slip pads. Keep cords and other trip hazards clear of stairways and walkways. Make sure your home is adequately lit for good visibility. Harmful substances Cleaning products, insecticides, medicines, and other potentially harmful substances can be tempting to children and pets. Make sure these items are safely stored away. Unsecured furniture Unsecured furniture and equipment — such as dressers, bookcases, and TVs — can tip over and injure people or pets. Anchor top-heavy furniture to a wall stud. Mount TVs to a wall if possible, or secure them to the TV stand. Clogged dryer vent Lint build-up in your dryer vent can become a fire hazard over time. Clean your dryer vent at least once per year and clean your lint filter after every load. Radon Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can enter your home through gaps in the foundation. Breathing in too much radon can increase your risk of lung cancer. Testing is the only way to determine how much radon is in your home. You can find test kits at your local DIY retailer. You can also hire a qualified radon tester. See radon on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency website for more information. Be on the lookout for anything that could become a safety hazard around your home. Keeping your home and family safe should be a top priority year-round.

The dad on your list probably doesn't need another tie. Maybe he could use a lower energy bill? Dads are tough to buy for. After all, they usually already have everything they need and more. If the dad on your list is a do-it-yourselfer or has a passion for gadgets, we've got a few gift ideas. They'll help save energy year-round and maybe give him a little project to work on. LED bulbs These lightbulbs use at least 75% less energy than traditional incandescents, and they last up to 25 times longer. After all the lights are switched out, dads will enjoy lower energy costs and not have to change another bulb for years. Advanced power strips Many household devices, such as TVs and video game consoles, are always plugged in and continue to draw power, even when they're not in use. Advanced power strips look similar to regular power strips, but they can sense when a device is turned off or not in use and automatically shut off power. Smart plugs Smart plugs take things a step further. Just plug them in, and you can make any outlet brighter. With a smart plug, you can charge multiple types of electronics, track the energy use of plugged-in devices, and control them from anywhere using a smartphone app or a voice assistant. Connected thermostat Wi-Fi-enabled programmable thermostats save energy by automatically adjusting home temperatures based on the family's schedule; they also provide advanced features, such as remote control. Smart models can even program themselves, making them a great gift for gadget-loving dads. Water-efficient fixtures The average American uses 88 gallons of water a day! Water-efficient showerheads and faucet aerators can reduce some of that usage while still providing a comfortable flow. They're inexpensive and generally take only a few minutes to install. Look for products with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense label. For dads who really like to stay busy, the U.S. Department of Energy's guide to Do-It-Yourself Energy-Saving Projects should provide plenty of ideas to keep their weekends full.

Respect electricity's potential wrath. [Photo: Safe Electricity.] Electricity can be extremely dangerous, but it is often "out of sight, out of mind." “While you can see, smell, or hear some electrical hazards — outlets that are warm to the touch or lights that constantly flicker, for example — many others are invisible and undetectable,” says Erin Hollinshead, executive director of  Safe Electricity . “Always respect electricity and the potential danger that comes with its distribution and use.” Hollinshead says there are precautions you can take both inside and outside your home to avoid possible electrical dangers. “When outside, always be aware of overhead power line locations and never come within 10 feet of a line — for example, while trimming trees or carrying a tall ladder or other far-reaching object,” she advises. “Also, if you see a downed power line near your home or in your travels, always assume it is live (energized) and NEVER go near one.” Safe Electricity offers these other electrical safety tips: Cell phones make strange bedfellows:  Do not sleep or lounge in bed with a cell phone or other device that is charging; this can cause burns to your skin or ignite the soft bedding materials. Do not use cheap chargers:  Instead, use the original charging components that came with your cell phone or other electronics. When it comes time to replace them, spend a little extra to buy brand-specific chargers and cubes. Using cheap, generic chargers with your electronics can cause injury (shock/burns) or even a fire, as they may be defective. Charging devices and water don’t mix:  Do not use a plugged-in (charging) cell phone near water. Take a break from your phone while bathing, swimming, or sitting in a hot tub. Deaths have occurred when a plugged-in cell phone has fallen into water. DO NOT use items that are plugged in near water. Do not overload outlets or circuits.  While it can be tempting to plug several items into one outlet or on one circuit, drawing too much power can damage your electronics or your home’s wiring or cause more serious problems, such as a fire. If too much current is drawn, usually a circuit breaker will trip, or fuses may blow, but this is never guaranteed. Never leave portable heaters unattended  or operate them near children or pets. Keep flammable items away from space heaters. Test your GFCI buttons once a month.  Set a reminder on your phone or mark it on your calendar. GFCIs help prevent ground faults that can shock or injure you, but they can’t do their job if they are not working properly. Do not ignore odd electrical symptoms in your home.  If your lights flicker often, if your outlets are warm to the touch or appear discolored, or if you smell odors like something overheating but can’t determine where they're coming from, there may be problems with your home’s electrical systems. There might also be a problem if your circuits trip or fuses need to be changed often. If you notice any of these symptoms or other unusual electrical oddities in your home, consult a qualified electrician. Make sure your home is protected with AFCIs,  which stands for arc fault circuit interrupters. When there is an arc fault, it means that an electrical source in your home is malfunctioning. When that happens, an arc (intense heat or light) can be discharged. Because of that, AFCIs are required by the National Electric Code since they help prevent home fires. Have a professional electrician assess your home to make sure AFCIs are installed, especially if your home is older. Include electrical sources when baby- or childproofing your home.  There are many electrical components that toddlers and children can tamper with, such as exposed outlets, dangling cords, and accessible power strips or surge protectors. Be aware of potential electrical dangers throughout the home by getting down on the floor and seeing what is at eye level or within reach. Tamper-resistant outlets became required by the NEC (National Electric Code) in 2008; many homes built before then do not have them. For more tips on electrical safety, visit  SafeElectricity.org .

Taking on significant home renovations or upgrades can be challenging, especially when selecting the right contractor for the job. Choosing the wrong one can result in disastrous consequences, including extensive damage, insurance loss, and even injuries. Here are some tips from Safe Electricity  to help you select the right one for the job. Craft a detailed plan Before starting any home improvement project, it is crucial to have a detailed plan in place. The more detailed your plan, the more precise your cost estimates will be. Know your material costs Building material prices fluctuate. Understanding material costs before seeking a quote can help reduce the risk of sticker shock. Obtain referrals When searching for a contractor, always ask for references. Referrals from friends, coworkers, and family members can provide insight. Additionally, consider seeking recommendations from neighbors, local hardware stores, and past real estate agents. Interview several contractors To ensure you choose the right general contractor for your home improvement project, it is important to interview at least three candidates. During this process, use a checklist and ask each contractor numerous questions, including whether their business is licensed and insured. Before hiring someone, check with your local municipality to learn about necessary licenses. Additional questions for prospective contractors may include: What is your experience with this type of project? Can you provide references from previous clients? What is your timeline for completing the project? What is your process for communicating with clients? What is your approach to solving problems and handling unexpected issues? How do you handle change orders or additional work requests? What is your payment schedule and method? What does your contract include? (See next section.) Again, be sure to verify that prospective contractors have the appropriate insurance and licenses and a clear contract outlining the project scope, timeline, budget, and any other important details. Contract and ground rules Here are some important elements that should be included in a contract: Business name and contact information of the contractor. Contractor’s insurance and licensing details. A highly detailed description of the work to be completed, including a timeline and schedule. A materials list (including model numbers) and who is responsible for providing the materials. Payment terms: Expect to put down a deposit before work begins. Certain states have restrictions on the size of the down payment for home improvement contracts. Check your state’s laws and requirements before agreeing to a downpayment amount. Required permits and who is responsible for securing them. A process for handling changes and disagreements. A termination clause to protect both parties. Obtain lien releases and receipts To prevent a mechanic or construction lien from being placed on your property, request copies of receipts for all materials and lien releases from the general contractor and all subcontractors. This is especially important if your contractor fails to pay their subcontractors or suppliers, as attempts to collect the debt may result in the sale of your home to cover the unpaid amount. Hold onto your wallet Delay making the final payment until you are fully satisfied with the finished work and have received lien releases and receipts. This should be outlined in your contract and payment schedule to avoid any misunderstandings or disputes.

Take comfort to the next level with a few simple tips! Owners of two-story homes face the same problem every summer: The upstairs is hotter than the first floor. The choice seems to be to sweat it out or lower the thermostat to make up the difference. Unfortunately, doing nothing can lead to a lot of hot, sleepless nights, while adjusting the thermostat can give you a chill when you receive your summer energy bills. There has to be a better way. Why it's hotter upstairs The temperature imbalance in your home has to do with science, but you don't have to be a scientist to understand it. As the air gets warmer, its molecules spread farther apart, and it becomes lighter. The lighter hot air rises to the second floor. The denser cool air sinks and gets trapped downstairs. Striking a better balance You can't change the laws of physics, but there are things you can do to make your upstairs more comfortable and save money. Use window treatments . Close shades and curtains on south- and east-facing upstairs windows during the afternoon. This will help keep out unwanted heat gain. Install insulating shades to save even more energy and improve comfort. Circulate air . If you have ceiling fans, turn them on when you're upstairs. They circulate air, making you feel cooler. They don't actually cool a room, so turn them off when you and your skin leave to avoid wasting energy. Seal attic air leaks . Go to your attic; check for gaps around recessed light fixtures, plumbing, furnace flues, and ductwork. Seal with caulking or expandable foam. Add weatherstripping to your attic access or door. Cool your roof . Conventional roof materials absorb heat and bring it into your home. A cool roof reflects sunlight and radiates heat, making your upstairs and your entire home more comfortable. If you live in a warmer climate, look for lighter colored materials when replacing your roof. This will reflect some of the heat that would otherwise warm your house, particularly the upstairs area. If you have an older air conditioning system or one in need of repair, consider replacing it with an  ENERGY STAR certified system . ENERGY STAR® units use less energy than standard models. Contact us for information about rebates for new and replacement qualifying ductless mini-splits.

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

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

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

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

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