Sustaining a reliable electrical system

Nationally, there is increasing reliance on renewable energy sources at the same time we are seeing fossil fuel plants taken off-line, often ahead of schedule. Additionally, we are seeing more pressure on the electric grid due to the increasing frequency and intensity of severe weather events and rising electricity demand.

So how do we reconcile these challenges of grid pressure and a changing fuel mix? Solar and wind energy are certainly beneficial for the environment, but they are limited resources because the sun does not always shine, and the wind does not always blow. Our primary responsibility is to provide electricity 24 hours a day, seven days a week to you and our community. To do this, we need reliable sources of power meeting all the peaks and valleys of ondemand energy in our connected world.

April 2023

Co-op Comments

Official publication of Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. CO-OP COMMENTS is owned, controlled and directed by Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. It is printed monthly and mailed to members in Garvin, McClain, Comanche, Stephens, Grady and Carter counties in Oklahoma.

Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. 13942 Highway 76 • P.O. Box 609 Lindsay, OK 73052 405-756-3104 • 800-259-3504

Outage Number: 855-399-2683 www.recok.coop

We have all heard the phrase, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.” This popular adage is often used in conversation or a story when someone is about to do something foolish or risky. If they heed this advice, it means they did not commit to “one basket”, but instead hedged their bets with multiple options.

This strategy is how I describe Rural Electric’s common sense approach to the current energy transition. We know consumer interest in renewable energy continues to grow. We have seen this trend here in Oklahoma. 1805300

Recent innovations and advances in renewable energy technologies have led to sharp decreases in costs, making renewables more feasible, accessible and scalable. Over the last few years, Western Farmers Electric Cooperative has adjusted our fuel mix by utilizing more renewables, and today, 35% of our fuel mix is comprised of renewable energy, the majority of which is wind. WFEC is planning to grow to 47% renewable within the next five years.

While utilization of renewables is increasing, we still need to incorporate other forms of energy in the mix to ensure reliable service. Remember, solar and wind are intermittent power sources. This is why we spread our eggs into multiple baskets. There is great value in maintaining a diverse mix of fuel sources – fossil fuels and renewables to ensure reliability, resiliency and meet the growing demand for electricity.

Reliability also means repairing and replacing utility equipment to prevent wear-and-tear, ensuring our equipment can withstand severe weather. We are focused on providing our members with reliable, affordable energy. Which is why fuel diversity is essential to reliability.

As our nation increasingly depends on electricity to power the economy, REC is working to anticipate, plan and respond to market trends and policy shifts. Which is how we can power your home and our economy, while continuing to serve as your local energy provider.

Board of Trustees

Gary Jones, President, District 1

Scott Christian, Vice President, District 1

Brent Bacon, Sec./Treasurer, District 1

Larry Anderson, District 2

Johnny Harrel, District 2

Terri Hays, District 2

Mark Finch, District 3

Randy Griswold, District 3

Lisa Whitman, Attorney

Management and Staff

Dusty Ricks, Manager/CEO

Linda Ray, CFO

Kelli Lindsey, Administrative Assistant and Staff Coordinator

Elaine Gilreath, Manager of Customer Service and Data Processing

Jon Jones, Manager of Engineering

Mitch Gilreath, Manager of Information Technology Services

Megan Lawrence, Manager of Member Services and Marketing

Clint Yeary, Manager of Safety and Loss Control/Facilities

David Crull, System Superintendent

Jason Mays, Operations Superintendent