Boone Power members gathered on the evening of Tuesday, March 3, to learn more about the regional electric grid.

Our guest speaker was Dana Cochran, manager of stakeholder relations at the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO). She provided an overview of MISO to help Boone Power members understand how large-scale grid operations influence the delivery of power to homes and businesses every day.

The evening began with light refreshments and networking among Boone Power members, employees, and board directors, followed by a presentation from Cochran covering what a regional transmission operator is and how MISO interacts with organizations such as the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and how these oversight structures ensure consistent, continent-wide reliability standards.

Cochran was joined by Bob Kuzman, MISO’s executive director of external affairs (central region) to answer questions from our members.

The presentation highlighted several key functions.

• GRID OPERATIONS: MISO operates the high-voltage transmission system much like an air-traffic controller — moving electricity safely and efficiently from generation facilities to local utilities around the clock.

• ENERGY MARKETS: MISO helps keep wholesale prices competitive and transparent.

• PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE: By working with utilities, regulators, and other stakeholders, MISO studies long-term reliability needs and helps design the grid of the future as the energy mix evolves.

Another point of discussion was the diversity of MISO’s stakeholder community, from electric cooperatives and municipal utilities to independent power producers, public consumer groups, and environmental representatives.

Members asked thoughtful questions throughout the evening. The strong turnout demonstrated growing interest in regional issues that affect reliability, affordability, and long-term planning. Thank you to all our members who attended to stay informed about these important issues.

Boone Power hosts occasional Member Ambassadors of the Cooperative events to keep you informed about the electric industry and our programs and services. Visit boonepower.com/member-ambassadors to sign up for our distribution list for these events.