We encourage electric members to remember that the electric and internet sides of the co-op are separate. Fiber-only subscribers will not receive the same benefits that electric members do; we recognize that this is your cooperative. However, the fiber network we are building will benefit members because it benefits the electric system, strengthening our grid and reducing outage times due to better communication between equipment at substations.

The addition of internet will reduce risk and create long-term stability for the co-ops electric side. How?

1. Diversified revenue stream: Internet provides a second source of income that is not tied to electricity sales. This reduces reliance on kilowatt-hour sales, which are under pressure from efficiency improvements, renewable energy, and lack of growth from new homes or businesses.

2. Member retention and satisfaction: Offering both electric and internet services strengthens engagement, as satisfied members ensure stronger long-term community support. This cycle ensures the community quality of life remains strong.

3. Operational benefits to the electric grid: Fiber networks improve grid management: smart meters, outage detection, load management, and system automation. These efficiencies lower costs, reduce outage times, and improve reliability, which stabilizes the electric business financially.

4. Community and economic stability: By providing fiber internet, the co-op helps keep rural areas viable for families and businesses. Just as we did in the 1930s with electric service when no other utility would provide it, we are stepping up today to provide the same quality-of-life internet service necessary for our digital world. Stronger local economies also mean healthier load growth and a more stable member base for electricity.

5. Long-term risk management: Fiber positions the co-op to adapt to future technologies like electric vehicles, renewable energy resources, and smart appliances that rely on high-speed connectivity. Staying ahead of technology shifts protects the electric side from being left behind or facing declining relevance.