HIGHLINE notes
A 1903 treasure lives on, page 4
Spring cleaning & efficiency checklist, page 6
editorial
Paul Matthys, president/CEO
Guiding
our energy future with a Navy SEALs mantra
As the conversation around decarbonizing our nation’s electric grid gains momentum, I’ve been reflecting on a piece of wisdom borrowed from an unlikely source: the U.S. Navy SEALs. Their mantra, “Slow is smooth, smooth is fast,” has stuck with me—and I believe it offers an important lens through which to view the energy transition.
At first glance, the phrase may seem counterintuitive. But its meaning is clear: When the stakes are high, rushing leads to mistakes—and mistakes slow us down. When it comes to
transforming the systems that power our homes, businesses, and economy, this principle should be front and center.
The electric grid is the backbone of modern life. Every time we flip a switch, charge a device, or power up a farm, we rely on a system that must work without fail. As newer technologies— like wind, solar, and battery storage—play a growing role in the mix, we must also be honest about what keeps the lights on around the clock: our nation's baseload power plants. These include coal, natural gas, and nuclear resources that provide dependable, around-the-clock electricity, regardless of the weather or time of day.
Transitioning too quickly away from these proven resources, without first ensuring that newer technologies and grid infrastructure are fully ready to take the load, risks more than just inconvenience. It could result in price spikes, reliability concerns, or even blackouts. That’s not a future any of us want.
We also must recognize that the demand for electricity is
growing—and growing fast. New energy-hungry industries like data centers, artificial intelligence, and electrified transportation are expanding rapidly. Meeting that demand with resilience will require thoughtful planning, diversified energy resources, and time to let innovation catch up.
At Cass County Electric Cooperative, we believe in being proactive—but also pragmatic. We support progress toward a cleaner energy future, but not at the expense of reliability and affordability. Our members depend on us for both.
The path forward will require balance, vision, and a steady hand. It’s not a sprint—it’s a marathon. And if we keep the SEALs’ mantra in mind—slow is smooth, smooth is fast—we can move forward with purpose, avoid costly missteps, and build an energy future that’s not just sustainable, but also dependable.
As always, we remain committed to serving you with integrity and keeping your power safe, reliable, and affordable—no matter what the future holds.
DIG RESPONSIBLY
Power outages caused by damage to underground cables increase every spring. These occurrences are extremely dangerous. Safety is the number one priority at CCEC, which is why we remind you to always call 8-1-1 before you dig.
The Cass County Electric board of directors met in person on March 4, 2025, and discussed the following topics: Moved to approve the February 2025 consent agenda of the regular board meeting consisting of minutes, monthly department reports, director expense report, and the January Purchased Power Adjustment (PPA). Received the chairperson’s report.
• President/CEO Paul Matthys gave the president’s report, providing updates from meetings attended.
• Received the January 2025 financial report.
• Moved to approve changes to the Minnkota allocation.
• Received reports from the directors who attended the NDAREC Annual Meeting.
• Received a report from the Mid-West Electric Consumers Meeting from Director Hoff.
Received the system reliability report from 2024.
• Received a report on the construction work plan.
• Received a report on switches.
• Received a report on the 2024 financial audit as prepared and presented by Eide Bailly, LLP.
• Moved to approve the January 2025 capital credit estate payments.
• Reviewed upcoming meetings and events.
• Voted Director Kalvin Hoff as Minnkota Power Cooperative director nominee for 2025.
• Voted Director Terry Kraft as Square Butte Electric Cooperative director nominee for 2025.
BOARD MEETING HIGHLIGHTS - MARCH 2025
The Cass County Electric board of directors met in person on March 25, 2025, and discussed the following topics:
• Moved to approve the March 2025 consent agenda of the regular board meeting, which includes minutes, monthly department reports, the 2024 year-end plant damage report, the director expense report, and the February Purchased Power Adjustment (PPA).
• Received the chairperson’s report.
• President/CEO Paul Matthys gave the president’s report, providing updates from meetings attended.
• Received the February 2025 financial report.
• Received a report from the Minnkota Power and Square Butte board meeting.
• Received a report from the NRECA PowerXchange Conference.
• Received the Operation Round Up annual report.
• Moved to approve the March 2025 capital credit estate payments.
• Received a report from the Rate, Audit, and Finance Committee.
• Reviewed upcoming meetings and events.
The next board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
Communications:
Morgan Bachelor
Sara Hand
Andrew Head
Jocelyn Lura Hovland
Printer:
Forum Communications Printing
Board of Directors:
Paul White, Secretary
Douglas Anderson
Vanessa Kummer
Stacey Ackerman
Tom Seymour
Glenn Mitzel, Board Chair
Wendy Loucks
Kalvin Hoff, Treasurer
Terry Kraft, Vice Chair
Executive Staff: Paul Matthys, President/CEO
Jodi Bullinger, VP of Engineering & Operations
Chad Brousseau, VP of Member & Energy Services
Andy Weiss, VP of Corporate Services & CFO
Mitchell Lyter, VP of Information Technology & CIO
Highline Notes (USPS 244-740) is published monthly by Cass County Electric Cooperative Inc., 3312 42nd St. S., Suite 200, Fargo, ND 58104. Periodicals postage paid at Fargo, North Dakota 58104, and at additional mailing offices.
Postmaster: Send address changes to Highline Notes 3312 42nd St. S., Suite 200 Fargo, ND 58104
A 1903 treasure lives on
Reviving Barnes County’s Carnegie Library's legacy
The lasting legacy of Carnegie Libraries: A story of community and preservation
In the heart of Barnes County, North Dakota, a historic treasure stands as a testament to the power of knowledge and community effort—a 1903 Carnegie Library. This library, like many across the country, was born out of the vision of 19th-century industrialist Andrew Carnegie, who believed that free public libraries were essential tools for education and social mobility. Today, thanks to dedicated local advocates like Hilde van Gijssel and Anita Tulp, this century-old institution is not only surviving but thriving.
A library built on determination Hilde van Gijssel, the library's board president, recounts the library’s remarkable origin story. "In the late 1800s, a group of 20 women decided they needed more materials to study and learn," she explains. "They formed the Tuesday Club, a women's club dedicated to the idea of building a library. They started with just 10 cents left from their membership dues, which they used to fundraise."
After collecting $700, they sought financial assistance from Andrew Carnegie. However, being women at the turn of the 20th century, they couldn't get past his secretary. Undeterred, they enlisted the help of the North Dakota governor, who successfully secured $15,000 from Carnegie. The library officially opened on Oct. 5, 1903, and has since served as a cornerstone of the community.
Carnegie’s vision: Libraries for all Andrew Carnegie’s library initiative,
which spanned from 1883 to 1929, resulted in the construction of 2,509 libraries worldwide—nearly 1,700 in the United States alone. Of those, 13 were in North Dakota. His philosophy was simple: If a community demonstrated a commitment to maintaining a library, he would help fund its construction. These libraries weren’t just about books—they were investments in self-improvement, lifelong learning, and the future of communities.
Many of these libraries, including the one in Barnes County, continue to serve their original purpose, while others have been repurposed into museums, community centers, or office spaces. Of the Carnegie Libraries built in the U.S., around 800 are still active as libraries, proving that Carnegie’s vision of accessible knowledge remains relevant today.
In Barnes County, the Carnegie Library stands as a testament to the enduring power of education and community investment. With
its historic restoration completed, it will continue serving generations to come—much like the cooperatives and local organizations that sustain and empower communities today.
A hidden gem rediscovered
Over the decades, changes were made to the Barnes County Carnegie Library, including covering up its beautiful dome in the 1960s or '70s. When Library Director Anita Tulp and her team began renovations, they uncovered something unexpected.
"The start of it was the leaky roof," Tulp says. "We really needed to fix that. Our architects, who love working on old buildings, were curious and started investigating. That’s when we saw what the dome looked like underneath. It was a hidden gem. So, we thought, ‘Why not bring it back?’"
This revelation led to a larger restoration effort, ensuring that the library could retain its historical integrity while remaining functional for modern visitors.
Funding a historic restoration
Restoring a historic building comes with challenges, particularly financial ones. That’s where community partnerships and lowinterest funding through the Rural Development Finance Corporation (RDFC) played a crucial role.
"We needed cash flow," van Gijssel recalls. "I visited the NDAREC headquarters in Bismarck in November 2023 and asked about running a capital campaign. That’s when I learned about the community development program that provides loans. Initially, we requested $180,000, but thanks to strong fundraising, we only needed $100,000. Without it, [the RDFC loan] this wouldn’t have happened."
Van Gijssel passionately advocates for more small towns to explore similar funding opportunities. "I wish every little community knew that this exists—co-ops that are there for the people, by the people. They make these projects possible."
A future rooted in the past As digital technology reshapes how we access information, the value of libraries continues to evolve. However, institutions like the Carnegie Library in Barnes County prove that physical libraries still hold a vital place in communities. They are repositories of history, gathering spaces, and symbols of what collective determination can achieve.
Much like these libraries, Cass County Electric Cooperative (CCEC) has a long history of serving its members, fostering growth, and investing in education as a core
Curious how it all came together? Scan to watch Tulp and van Gijssel break down the project in their own words.
value. Just as libraries empower communities through knowledge, CCEC remains committed to illuminating futures—whether through electricity, innovation, or supporting initiatives that preserve history and promote lifelong learning.
With restoration efforts completed and the rotunda and dome once again on full display for visitors and patrons alike, the Valley City Barnes County Public Library is poised to serve many more generations of readers, researchers, and dreamers. Thanks to the foresight of Carnegie, the resilience of past generations, and the dedication of local people like van Gijssel and Tulp, this historic library remains a beacon of learning in Barnes County—just as CCEC is dedicated to powering the communities it serves.
Spring Cleaning, Safety, & Maintenance Checklist
FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY
KITCHEN
____ Clean refrigerator coils. Roll your refrigerator away from the wall and use a vacuum hose to clear the dirt and dust from the coils.
____ Check the rubber gasket along the edge of the opening of your fridge to ensure that the door seals tightly when shut.
____ Cook outside. On warmer spring days, keep the heat out of your home by using an outdoor grill instead of an indoor oven.
____ If you’re growing glaciers in your deep freeze, you’ll use more energy to keep the internal temperature low, so defrost that guy.
LIVING SPACES
____ With more light coming in windows later in the day, consider the best utilization of your space lighting.
____ Turn off the TV, computer, and lights before heading outside to enjoy the spring weather and extra daylight.
____ Set your ceiling fan direction to rotate counterclockwise for the summer. Setting your ceiling fan counterclockwise pushes air down and creates a breeze that helps keep you cool. Turn off ceiling fans when not in the room. Ceiling fans help you feel cooler, but do not cool the room.
____ Open windows in the late spring when temperatures are mild. If it’s warmer during the day, open the windows in the evening and close them during the day.
LAUNDRY
____ Clean the exterior exhaust vent for your clothes dryer.
____ Cleaning your lint trap regularly helps improve the efficiency of your dryer. Remember to empty it after every drying cycle to cut down on drying time and save energy.
____ If you wash on hot, you’re dumping water and money down the drain. Reserve warm and hot settings for heavily soiled loads.
BATHROOM
When replacing an older, inefficient showerhead, look for the WaterSense label on showerheads, faucets, faucet accessories, and toilets to help you identify models that save water and perform well.
THROUGHOUT HOME
____ While cleaning, note any AC adaptors and battery chargers plugged in but not in use and unplug them.
____ Dust off electronics, light bulbs, and vents for efficient use of energy.
____ Change incandescent and compact fluorescent bulbs to more efficient LEDs.
____ Change batteries in smoke detectors (yearly) and make sure units are free of dust.
____ Check the more common filters in a home, such as in-sink water dispensers, vacuum cleaners, whole-house air filters, and room and central air conditioners. Some filters need to be replaced outright, but some are washable/reusable.
OUTSIDE
____ Consider putting up (and using) a clothesline.
____ Clean lawn debris from around your outside HVAC equipment.
____ Sealing cracks and openings in your home with low-cost caulk keeps unconditioned air out and cash in your wallet.
____ Trimming trees and bushes away from your house will help to discourage the growth of mold and mildew, as well as prolong the life of your siding and roof.
____ Seal gaps and cracks around your windows and doors with caulk or weatherstrips to help keep your home comfortable year-round and reduce your energy use.
____ According to the USDA, a tree-row windbreak, when planted properly, can reduce heat loss in your home by 10%, possibly even as much as 25%.
____ Well-placed shade trees can reduce the radiant heat of the sun on your home’s exterior and even shade the interior, reducing energy costs.
MECHANICAL
____ Use the change of season as a reminder to replace your furnace filter regularly.
____ Clean your air conditioner or heat pump’s condensor coil annually to ensure optimal system performance.
____ Turning down the water heater’s temperature to the warm setting (120°F) can help reduce your energy consumption.
____ If your furnace is old and inefficient or is on its last legs, it may be time to consider a new, more energy-efficient furnace.
____ Setting a programmable thermostat to a higher setting when you are not at home can help reduce your energy costs by approximately 10%.
safety
As with all summer fun, being safe needs to be a priority
Camping is an outdoor leisure activity that many people take advantage of during the summer season. Cass County Electric Cooperative wants you to stay safe and has some electrical safety tips 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 connection, no 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 there are cracked or frayed cords or broken or discolored plugs or outlets, 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 for safety precautions prior to 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 with a campground hookup, you need to know the amperage your RV draws and the amperage available. 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 major switches are.
• 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 generator exhaust is blowing. Always leave a roof vent open when you are operating a generator. Turn your generator on and have it running before you turn appliances on. 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.
In addition, be sure to have the proper cord. Never plug more than one RV into a single hookup. As with a generator, plug your RV in before turning appliances on.
With proper preparation, the great outdoors and modern conveniences can be enjoyed at the same time. For more information on electrical safety, visit CassCountyElectric.com.
Welcome to the team
Sara Hand, Communications Specialist
Hometown:
Bemidji, Minnesota
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism with a minor in Advertising from MSUM
Tell us about your career: I have a background in video production, communications, and digital marketing. I began as a wedding videographer, moved into communications at Cass County Electric Cooperative, and later led video strategy at Steffes Group. I’ve recently returned to CCEC, bringing expertise in storytelling, multimedia strategy, and audience engagement.
Tell us about your family:
My husband and I got married in 2020. We have two cats, Echo and Brewtus. We’ve struggled with infertility and are still praying for a miracle to grow our family.
Hobbies:
My husband and I enjoy going to all the MN State Parks and hiking their Hiking Club Trails. Our goal is to hit every park and get the password to
fill our book. I also enjoy fostering cats from Cats Cradle Shelter and creating content for my YouTube channel “FAITH • FERTILITY • US”.
What advice have you received that was the most impactful? Whatever task lies before you, tackle it with such passion and attention to detail that you want to #PutYourNameOnIt, and you’re proud to say, "I did that." This mantra, which my dad and uncle instilled in me, serves as a powerful reminder to own every project I take on.
If you won the lottery, what is your first purchase?
I’ve always wanted to tip someone an amount that makes a difference in their lives, so I would probably go out to eat and give a generous tip.
What’s your favorite season?
Fall. Something about all the colors amazes me every year.
What’s your favorite food? If I am going out it’s Brew Bird –GF fried chicken. If I am staying at home, it’s stir fry.
Aaron Hauge, Meter & Apparatus Technician
Hometown: Makoti, North Dakota
Education:
Associate’s degrees in Electrical Technology and Robotics, Automation, and Mechatronics Technology
Tell us about your career: I have ten years of experience in industrial and commercial electrical contracting, with the past year spent in electrical maintenance. I'm also a licensed Master Electrician.
Tell us about your family:
Three siblings. I have a wife, dog, and baby on the way.
Hobbies:
Exercising, outdoor activities, spending time with the family
What advice have you received that was the most impactful?
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” Luke 6:31
If you won the lottery, what is your first purchase?
Pay off my house
What’s your favorite season? Fall
What’s your favorite food? It's hard to beat steak and potatoes.
Annual meeting: Driven to Deliver
Clear skies and a cooperative spirit fill the room at Cass County Electric’s 87th Annual Meeting
With calm skies, light winds, and temperatures in the low 50s, the weather matched the pleasant energy inside the Delta by Marriott in Fargo on the evening of April 15 as Cass County Electric Cooperative (CCEC) hosted its 87th annual meeting.
A total of 551 members and guests (368 members and 183 guests) gathered for the event, enjoying a night of community, connection, and cooperative updates. Attendees were treated to a delicious dinner before the evening's program began—an evening that reflected the co-op’s ongoing commitment to service, innovation, and progress.
The agenda opened with remarks from Board Chair Glenn Mitzel (District 6) and continued with President and CEO Paul Matthys, who highlighted CCEC’s priorities in power supply, the cooperative advantage, and a year-in-review for 2024. Throughout the discussion, the message was clear: Cass County Electric is driven to deliver reliable energy and trusted leadership— today and into the future.
Andy Weiss, VP of Corporate Services & CFO, presented the financial report and shared another year of clean audits and sound financial management, underscoring the cooperative’s dedication to fiscal responsibility and operational excellence.
Director elections were held for three districts. District 1 incumbent Paul White ran against challenger Marcy Svenningsen, earning reelection with 244 votes to Svenningsen’s 174. A total of 418 votes were cast (76 absentee, 342 in person). Meanwhile, Treasurer Kalvin Hoff (District 8) and Chair Glenn Mitzel (District 6) were both reelected unopposed.
The national anthem was beautifully performed by a string quartet from Davies High School, featuring:
• Mara Smith – Violin
• Dannie Yang – Violin
• Jeffery Mindemann – Viola
• Karina Repina – Bass
CCEC would like to extend a special thank you to the teller committee: Karen Egeberg and
Jane Lindemann, both former executive assistants, for their service in ensuring a smooth and accurate election process.
This year’s meeting also welcomed several notable guests from across the region, including West Fargo Mayor Bernie Dardis, Reid Kemp with Senator Kevin Cramer’s office, and representatives from Minnkota Power, NDAREC, Border States, Dakota Valley, and SRT.
In addition to the evening’s presentations, 20 lucky members went home with $100 gift cards for a random drawing.
As always, we’re incredibly thankful for the trust and engagement of our members and the communities we serve. With a legacy of reliability and a focus on the future, we remain driven to deliver—for our members, for our region, and for the energy needs of tomorrow.
A special thanks to Delta by Marriott, Mobile Pro, and everyone who helped bring this event to life.
Guiding with knowledge, serving with integrity
Cass County Electric Cooperative’s (CCEC) board of directors plays a vital role in shaping the future of your cooperative. Elected by fellow members to serve threeyear terms, these directors must live in the district they wish to represent—ensuring local leadership and a direct connection to the communities they serve. In addition to districtspecific representation, one director serves in an at-large role, representing all CCEC members across the cooperative’s service area.
Once seated on the board, directors take on two key responsibilities: crafting policy and overseeing the cooperative’s financial health. In partnership with CCEC’s CEO and leadership team, they help establish long-
range strategies and set the direction for the cooperative’s success. This requires a strong understanding of both the bigpicture energy landscape and the inner workings of the co-op’s daily operations. Their fiduciary duty includes reviewing financial performance, evaluating risks, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations.
Additional duties of the board include:
• Acting as the voice of the membership.
• Hiring and supervising the CEO or general manager.
• Authorizing and reviewing independent financial audits.
To perform their roles effectively, CCEC directors are committed to continuous learning. Through
training in governance, utility operations, and oversight, they build the knowledge necessary to lead confidently. Each board member is also expected to earn their Certified Cooperative Director credential during their first term, underscoring their dedication to professional development.
As stewards of the cooperative model, your directors are elected by you—and work for you. They take that responsibility seriously, upholding the democratic principles that set CCEC apart from investor-owned utilities. While others may focus on profits, CCEC’s mission is rooted in accountability to its members. Your board is proud to carry that mission forward with purpose and integrity.
Tom Seymour District 5, West Fargo
Paul White District 1, Stirum
Doug Anderson District 2, Arthur
Vanessa Kummer District 3, Colfax
Stacey Ackerman District 4, Reiles Acres
Glenn Mitzel District 6, West Fargo
Kalvin Hoff District 8, Fargo
Wendy Loucks District 7, Fargo
Terry Kraft District At-large, West Fargo
Members are helping members. For less than $1 per month, you can make a difference in your community. Participation is simple: Your monthly electric bill is rounded up to the nearest dollar, an estimated average of $6 per year. You can see your current contribution on your electric bill. A volunteer board meets quarterly to distribute the funds used primarily within Cass County Electric Cooperative’s service area for charitable, educational, environmental, and emergency assistance purposes. The funds are never used for political purposes or utility bills.
Operation Round Up
Cass County Electric Cooperative Foundation
March 2025
Featured recipient: Fort Ransom Sodbuster Association
The Fort Ransom Sodbuster Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the agricultural and pioneer heritage of the Fort Ransom, North Dakota, area. They organize community events like the biannual Sodbuster Days, featuring demonstrations of traditional farming techniques, cooking, threshing, and more. Through education and hands-on experiences, the association helps keep the spirit and history of early homesteading alive for future generations.
Check out our Pinterest page for more recipes!
May these recipes be the perfect excuse to head outside, fire up the grill, and savor the smoky flavors of backyard barbecues with friends and family this month. There’s something about the sunshine, good food, and laughter that makes outdoor cooking the highlight of the season!
to
or
Grilled bruschetta chicken
Ingredients
Bone and skinless chicken breast
Olive oil
Balsamic vinegar
Garlic, minced
Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper
Plum tomatoes
Red onion
Italian cheese (alt. Parmesan)
Basil, finely chopped
Preparation:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken in a large Ziploc bag and pour half of the olive oil mixture into the bag. Seal the bag closed and shake to coat the chicken evenly. Allow to marinate for a minimum of 15 minutes. Preheat the grill to medium heat (350°F).
In a medium bowl, combine the other half of the marinade with the diced tomatoes and red onion. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer chicken to a serving plate and sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Spoon bruschetta chicken on top of each chicken breast and top with fresh basil.
Grilled sliders
Ingredients:
1 package (dozen) Sweet Hawaiian rolls
2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 pound ground beef
6 ounces cheddar cheese, grated
Stone ground mustard
Pickles
Salt and pepper
Preparation:
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. On a baking sheet, shape ground beef into a slightly larger rectangle than the buns. Season well with salt and pepper. Cut the buns in half lengthwise with a serrated knife. Spread a very thin layer of butter on the bottom half of the buns. Add the buns to the grill, cut side down, for 30 seconds. Remove. Top buns with a drizzle of mustard and pickles.
Add the beef rectangle to the grill. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on the first side. Then flip carefully (you might need to use two spatulas). Grill on the second side for about 1-2 minutes. Then add cheese. Cover the grill. When the cheese is melted, transfer the beef off the grill and transfer it to prepared slider buns. Add the top buns and cut up individual sliders.
tech
Built for tomorrow: CCEC's battery storage pilot powers progress
Depending on your situation, battery storage systems may offer an effective way to manage energy use at home. These systems typically include three key components:
• Batteries that store energy as direct current (DC).
• An inverter to convert DC into alternating current (AC) for household use.
• A charge controller to regulate energy flow throughout the system.
Types of home batteries
The most common residential battery types are lithium-ion and lead-acid.
• Lithium-ion batteries are more expensive but require less maintenance and can operate with partial charges. Their sleek, wall-mounted designs also make them easy to install.
• Lead-acid batteries are more affordable upfront but require full charges regularly and need proper ventilation and upkeep for safety.
How battery systems operate
Battery systems typically run in one of three modes:
• Emergency backup: Keeps batteries charged in case of a
power outage.
• Self-powered: Balances solar generation, battery use, and home energy consumption.
• Time-of-use (TOU) load shifting: Charges during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper and discharges during peak pricing periods.
Benefits of battery storage
The future of battery storage may offer many advantages. It could boost energy reliability by enhancing grid flexibility and reduce the impact of outages. It could also improve energy security, giving homeowners short-term, temporary power when sections of the grid go down.
Planning for installation
Battery systems are growing in popularity, especially when paired with solar PV (photovoltaic) systems. They can help save money and offer peace of mind during outages.
Homeowners considering installation should call CCEC to discuss their goals before signing any contracts or making a purchase. A qualified and trusted contractor could also help with
system sizing, safety, permitting, and identifying tax credits.
Regardless of the setup, careful planning ensures your system fits your home’s needs and layout.
CCEC's battery storage
pilot
As your trusted energy advisor, CCEC is leading a battery storage pilot project to evaluate how residential systems perform in real-world settings. We’re installing a test battery programmed around our Time-of-day (TOD) rate, off-peak use, emergency backup, and outage scenarios.
The goal is to gather valuable performance and financial data to better understand how battery systems can benefit our members. We will be monitoring energy use, standby losses, and inverter performance to evaluate longterm value.
By learning from this project, CCEC aims to offer future programs that empower members to take control of their energy use, increase savings, and support a more sustainable future. Stay tuned for updates in Highline Notes later in 2025.
For Sale:
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4-drawer steel file cabinet, grey, $50. Elliptical machine, like new, $300. Porcelain tiles, 13"x13" sq, white, enough for small bathroom, about 60 sq ft, $100/OBO. 701-7991356
New 8' x 12' wooden storage sheds, 16"on center studs, rafters, joists, plywood floor, pine paneling siding, shingled gable roof., double doors 56"W x 71"H. $3,000/ea, no delivery. 701-840-5438
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Cross-cut saw, 6', excellent cond. w/
ads
Member Market
All ads must be 40 words or fewer and will be abbreviated following our guidelines. No real estate or commercial ads will be accepted. Ads are published for members at no charge as space permits on a first-received, first-printed basis. Ads are due by the 10th of the month prior to publication. Members may submit only one ad per issue. Editor reserves the right to edit or reject any ad. Email ads to: ccec@kwh.com
removable handles, $110/OBO. 701799-1114
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1991 GMC pickup 350 engine, black w/ visor, 2-wheel drive, Tonneau cover, $2,200/OBO. 701-210-2631
Drive medical Sentra extra heavyduty wheelchair, variable, adjustable leg & footrests, rear tripping brace. Used very little, like new, $250. 701967-8982
1999 Harly Davidson motorcycle 1200 Sportster, 7,800 mi., detachable windshield, screaming eagle pipes, $3,500. Toro power max 826 walk behind snowblower w/ elec. start, $375. 701-367-3993
47 - 5.5’ & 6’ Chicago heights steel studded fence posts, reg. $4.89/ea. $2/ea. 701-588-4413
Leather couch & matching chair, deep brown, modern style, in great cond., $900/OBO. 701-793-1065
Char-Broil elec. patio bistro grill, used 3 times, heavy-duty grill cover, $100. 218-790-8131
Tractor tires, 12.4 X 36, near 100% tread, 12.4 X 38, 90% tread, one of each size. 701-680-7632
Oliver 77 nose tin, grill, right side rear side curtain panel, & belt pulley K691A. Oliver 1750 hood side panel “1850” piece only, 701-799-3217
2019 Jayco Series M-26 BH travel trailer, $13,000. 2008 Silverado Duramax ¾ ton pickup, $10,000. Sell together for $20,000. 701-318-2446
Several 1,000-yard spools of Berkley 40lb monofilament line, $ 79 value, sell for $30 a spool. 701-540-7929
Solid oak two-drawer filing cabinet, $200/OBO. 218-790-8131
2021 Ford Class B Motorhome, Pleasure-way Ontour 2.0, exc. cond., 41-K mi., $96,000. 701-367-0115
1992 Cadillac Seville, red & white, Landau roof, white leather interior, Arizona edition, rust-free, always stored indoors, 4.9 liters, AC & all electrical options work, new tires & brass rims, OG Cadillac wheels & tires included, exc. cond., 66,000 mi. $11,500. 701-361-2629
Small 2-drawer chest, 23"L x 16"W x 24"H (great side table or nightstand), gray weathered wood finish, like new, $125. 701-361-3039
Free:
Antique records from 1920-1930, 78RPM, mix of music. Leave message. 701-781-4282
Wanted:
Motorcycles or ATVs, any make/ model, prefer complete but will consider parts bikes, cruisers, street, dirt, or motocross. 701-361-7289
Metal staircase w/ approx. 8’ rise, for outside use. 701-437-3259
Railroad ties suitable for use as fenceposts, prefer to pick up in West Fargo or Valley City area. 701866-3737
