Committed to the Traditions & Principles that put Members First
These are exciting times to be in the electric industry. We are witnessing a huge transition in the most critical commodity of our lives. The shift toward low or no carbon generation, the expansion of beneficial electrification and the development of innovative technologies generate engaging conversations with members and are driving some of the greatest changes we have seen in society in the past 75 years.
I joined United Power in March, and as I enter my third month as the cooperative’s President and Chief Executive Officer, I could not be more excited to be here. United Power is one of Colorado’s largest rural electric cooperatives and one of the most innovative cooperatives in the country. It is an honor to be able to serve you, our members, as we plan for the future.
United Power is already at the forefront of programs that will power our territory for decades to come. We have started to see significant growth in electric vehicles among our members. More than 6,000 members have installed rooftop solar systems on their homes. Farms, ranches and commercial members are becoming more connected as technology advances. Soon, electric tractor-trailers will be plying the roads in our communities. All of these emerging technologies require electricity.
As we have seen in the past 14 months, electricity is the critical force in all our lives. It has allowed many of us to transition to working or attending classes from home. It has permitted families to shelter in the safety of their own homes and neighborhoods and businesses to adapt to this new normal.
We must continue to focus on the need for security, quality, resiliency and availability of power for all our members. We must ensure members see the benefits of lower rates and lower carbon options. We must be proactive in removing barriers to things like energy efficiency and never forget the critical needs of our members, especially those whose circumstances may not enable them to take advantage of advances in technology. We must show flexibility in managing a changing electric grid while developing a two-way relationship with our members.
As United Power’s President and CEO, I am committed to upholding the cooperative tradition and its principles in serving members first. As we close in on 100,000 meters this summer, I am excited to help guide the organization through these amazing times and work with United Power employees to support your needs. I welcome feedback from our members as we work together to define the future.