TRICOUNTY RURAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE LOCAL

of affordable, reliable electricity could be devastating to American families and businesses.

Advocating to preserve reliable electricity

The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), which represents more than 900 not-for-profit electric cooperatives, has been pushing the message to lawmakers and federal agencies that transitioning to intermittent renewable energy is happening too fast and is having disastrous consequences.

NRECA CEO Jim Matheson warns of the risks of energy shortfalls if too much baseload generation is retired before the end of its useful life. “We are facing the disorderly retirement of baseload coal and nuclear power plants because of poorly conceived and harmful energy policies.”

Despite the warning, baseload generation sources are still being retired and that is threatening our ability to keep the lights on.

In December, rolling blackouts hit nine states as demand for electricity exceeded available supply. Two-thirds of the U.S. could face energy shortfalls during periods of extreme heat this summer. We can’t afford to get this wrong. Today’s energy decisions determine if there are enough resources for the lights to come on tomorrow.

Even in Ohio, we have seen the supply of reliable electricity decrease due to the retirement of coal power plants. In 2009, Ohio had 21 coal power plants and by the end of 2023, just four will remain in operation. Intermittent sources of power, such as wind and solar, have come online but do not provide reliable electricity and are unable to meet electric demand.

“Rolling blackouts cannot become the new normal in America,” NRECA said in a statement. “Policymakers must recognize the need for time, technology development, and new transmission infrastructure before taking our nation down an energy path that prioritizes speed over practicality. And lawmakers must support policies that are inclusive of all energy sources to maintain reliability and affordability.”

Action needed

While Ohio is classified as having a “low threat” of experiencing rolling blackouts this summer, we want you to be informed and prepared.

To reduce the risk of rolling blackouts, Tricounty Electric Cooperative may need ask you to limit electric use during those high-demand times this summer. And if you or someone you care for is dependent on lifesupporting medical devices, you should have a backup plan in case you are without service.

Facing these challenges together

Reliably keeping the lights on is vital for local communities, the economy, and national security. Today’s energy decisions will determine if there are enough resources to meet tomorrow’s energy needs.

We will meet those challenges through investments in technology and through advocacy at the state and national level for smart, grid-enhancing infrastructure improvements that keep the lights on and keep electric bills affordable. Three Eight Eight One Zero Five

I will continue working with Buckeye Power to advocate to state and federal officials about the threat that unreasonable energy policies present to our ability to maintain reliable electric service. I’ll also work to keep our members informed as we receive more information on this important matter. In the meantime, if you have any questions, I invite you to talk to me and I’ll be happy to answer your questions.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Marvin Green President

Bradley Haupricht Vice President

Kenneth Brubaker Secretary-Treasurer

David Clapp

Kenneth Maag

Len Meyer

James Weber TRUSTEES

Brett Perkins GENERAL MANAGER

JACKPOT

Neither Gail Fisher of rural Swanton nor Aaron Kane of rural Napoleon reported spotting their hidden account number in the June issue of Ohio Cooperative Living. Had either done so, they would have won half the jackpot and received a check for $45

Your account number is on your bill statement. Disregard the zeros at the left in the number, but consider any zeros to the right when converting your number to words.

The hidden account numbers are always in Tricounty’s local pages of the magazine. The jackpot now stands at $110. So read Ohio Cooperative Living, find your hidden account number, report it, and win!

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