Electrical demand is rising faster than we’ve seen in decades. As our economy relies more on electricity, cooperatives like Kankakee Valley REMC are planning to keep power reliable for every home and business we serve.

The North American Reliability Corporation recently shared its 2025-26 winter outlook. The good news: under normal conditions, we have the resources we need. But extreme weather or unexpected events could create shortfalls, making careful planning and smart investments more important than ever.

Several trends are driving this growth. Economic development and new manufacturing are increasing demand, and electrification is accelerating as more homes adopt electric appliances and purchase electric vehicles. While newer technologies are cleaner and more efficient, they also increase overall energy use.

Even day-to-day life relies more on electricity than ever. Smart appliances, connected devices, home offices, and entertainment systems all add to energy use. Efficiency helps, but it’s only part of the picture, which is why we’re focused on ensuring we can keep up with your needs.

At Kankakee Valley REMC, we’re investing in the future. We’re building a new substation between Hanna and Union Mills to improve reliability. At the same time, we’re upgrading infrastructure and implementing advanced technologies to better manage peak energy use. Combined with our time-of-use rate, which helps members use energy wisely, these steps ensure safe, reliable, and affordable electricity.

Electricity powers nearly every part of our lives, and as communities grow and technology advances, long-term planning is critical. We are ready to meet rising demand while ensuring reliable power for you. Through careful planning, innovation, and strong partnerships, we’re preparing for a future where electricity continues to power everything we do.