As we move into summer, electricity use naturally increases as air conditioners work harder and homes and businesses rely more heavily on electricity to stay comfortable. At Bartholomew County REMC, this season is an important reminder of why local decision-making and responsible planning matter, especially when it comes to affordability.

As a not-for-profit, member-owned electric cooperative, we operate differently from investor-owned utilities. We don’t have shareholders, and we don’t operate to generate profits. Our rates are designed to recover the cost of providing safe, reliable electric service. When margins are generated, they are returned to members through capital credits, a key benefit of the cooperative model. This structure ensures decisions about costs and long-term planning are made locally, with members first in mind.

Those decisions are guided by your board of directors, individuals who live in the communities we serve and bring a firsthand perspective to every discussion. They work closely with our team to balance affordability, reliability, and the investments needed to keep our electric system strong. Every rate decision is reviewed and approved by this locally elected board, providing transparency and accountability close to home.

Summer also brings some of our highest demand days of the year. In fact, in 2025, the day we held our annual meet and greet at the Bartholomew County 4-H fair turned out to be the hottest day of the year. On days like that, demand across the system rises sharply, and wholesale power costs are highest.

Our Beat the Peak article in this issue highlights how member participation during high-demand days, through small but meaningful actions, helps protect affordability for everyone.

That same spirit of participation also plays an important role in shaping your cooperative’s long-term direction. Participation in the board of directors and nominating committee election is one of the most direct ways members help influence decisions related to affordability, reliability, and financial responsibility.

Voting materials were mailed in mid-May, with options to vote online or by mail. The election wraps up on June 15, and I encourage you to take advantage of the quick and easy online voting option to make your voice heard.

Election results will be announced during our virtual Annual Business Meeting on June 16 at 7 p.m. We also invite you to join us for our annual meet and greet at the Bartholomew County 4-H fair on June 23. Stop by our tent outside the livestock pavilion, meet your directors and the BCREMC team, and receive $30 in fair food vouchers to use at participating vendors.

At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to you, providing reliable electricity at the lowest responsible cost. Thank you for your involvement, your trust, and for being an engaged member of Bartholomew County REMC.

See you at the fair!