If you were among the co-op members who attended our annual meeting last month, thank you! The event is an opportunity to gather, share news, celebrate and conduct co-op business. We look forward to it every year.

As we reviewed the financial health of the co-op over the last year, you may have noticed that a significant portion of our expenses go toward investing in upgrades to the operation and maintenance of our system. Reliable electricity doesn’t happen by accident. It requires ongoing investments in our local grid to help us operate smarter and more efficiently.

Maintaining system performance and safety

Since 1938, our cooperative has repaired, replaced, updated and upgraded our infrastructure to maintain performance and safety. From poles and wires to transformers and substations, every part of our grid has a lifespan. We are continually monitoring and assessing where improvements are needed, as well as where we can be proactive and fiscally responsible with where we place our dollars.

We keep all these things in mind while at the same time, new technologies are reshaping how we operate in response to the growing demand for power. Smart meter and advanced monitoring systems allow us to detect problems faster and respond more effectively. Using these tools, we can isolate problems, reroute power to minimize outages and provide real-time data that helps us plan and maintain our equipment more efficiently.

We scrutinize these investments knowing the return is significant. A strong grid supports economic growth, improves service quality and enhances safety for our crews and community. Most importantly, it ensures that the essential power you rely on is available whenever you need it.

Please take a moment to look at our 2025 Annual Report, available on our website or by request by contacting the co-op office. Your investment in our cooperative matters, and we want to make sure you’re getting the most out of it.

Thank you, again, for being a co-op member and staying engaged in our bottom line. As we continue into 2026, you can be sure we’re doing everything we can to make smart choices and be responsible with your investment in us.

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Cozy Nelsen is the CEO of Guthrie County REC.