Across the U. S., the demand for power is climbing at one of the fastest rates in decades. As the economy becomes more reliant on electricity and data centers continue to pop up in many parts of the country, electric cooperatives are preparing to meet the challenges that skyrocketing demand brings.

The North American Reliability Corporation — the watchdog for the U.S. electric grid — recently released the 2025-26 winter reliability assessment, which echoed other recent reports, including longer-term outlooks that expect sufficient energy resources during normal conditions but potential supply shortfalls and outages under more intense weather conditions.

Extreme weather, coupled with additional factors that are driving increased demand, creates challenges for electric utilities, including cooperatives, in their mission to provide reliable power around the clock.

Several key factors are driving increased demand — including economic growth, expanded manufacturing, data center development, and increased electrification in transportation. Together, these trends are reshaping the amount of electricity we consume and how quickly utilities like Orange County REMC must adapt to meet future needs.

One of the biggest drivers of rising demand is increased electrification. More homes and businesses are transitioning to electricity for home heating, water heating, and transportation. Electric vehicles are becoming more common on the road, and many states are offering incentives to help consumers make the switch. Additionally, electric heat pumps are replacing traditional furnaces in many homes due to their efficiency. These transitions result in increased energy use and pressure on the grid.

Economic and manufacturing growth are also contributing to higher electricity use. As businesses expand and new industries take root, especially in rural and suburban areas, the demand for reliable, high-capacity power is increasing. This growth brings jobs and investment, but it also puts new pressures on the electric grid.

Every day life is becoming increasingly energy-dependent as well. Smart appliances, connected devices, home offices, and entertainment systems are adding to overall consumption, even as efficiency improves.

Electric co-ops are responding to increased demand by planning carefully for the future — investing in grid modernization and offering programs and services to help co-op members conserve energy.

Orange County REMC, along with our power provider — Hoosier Energy, is exploring additional generation sources, strengthening transmission systems, and implementing technologies that help manage peak load.

Electricity powers nearly every aspect of today’s economy, and its role will only grow stronger. As electrification accelerates, long-term planning becomes more important than ever.

Orange County REMC is ready to meet rising demand in our local communities. Through innovation, investment, and collaboration, we are preparing for a more reliable and resilient energy future.