Michigan Hosts 2024 Regions 1 & 4 Meeting in Grand Rapids, MI

The 2024 NRECA Regions 1 & 4 Meeting, held in Grand Rapids, MI, from September 4–6, brought together electric cooperative CEOs, general managers, directors, voting delegates and key staff to discuss critical industry challenges, share knowledge, and explore the future of energy for rural America.

The event kicked off with NRECA COO Jeffrey Connor emphasizing the essential role cooperatives play in their communities, driven by a mission to serve, not profit. He also stressed the increasing importance of cooperatives in shaping energy policy, noting the anticipated doubling of U.S. electricity demand by 2050 and the need for a robust, pro-energy regulatory system.

“Electric cooperatives are one of the most effective advocacy groups in the nation,” said Connor. “Smart energy policy turned the lights on in rural America and smart energy policy is what’s going to keep the lights on.”

An Advocate for Cooperatives and Rural Prosperity

Sen. Debbie Stabenow was awarded the NRECA Distinguished Service Award for her commitment to rural communities for over twenty years as U.S. Senator for Michigan. Stabenow commended cooperatives for their role in rural development over the past 80 years. She highlighted the importance of continued advocacy for broadband access, emphasizing the need to leave no rural community behind. Stabenow also praised cooperatives for their dedication to investing in the future and urged attendees to keep advocating for their communities.

“I am so honored to receive your Distinguished Service Award,” said Stabenow. “It’s been such a wonderful partnership over the years.”

The Cooperative Way

Eric Baker of Wolverine Power Cooperative focused on the importance of innovation in the cooperative space, discussing the strategic efforts behind projects like the planned restart of the Palisades Nuclear Power Plant. Baker talked about this historic, once-in-a-generation opportunity and how it was possible because of the co-op model.

“Because of the trust and respect we have for our members and our fellow co-ops, we’re able to make big things happen,” said Baker. “I don’t believe something like this [Palisades] could have happened outside the co-op space.”

Another panel included Thumb Electric Cooperative CEO Brad Essenmacher and Thumb’s board of directors Chair Jon Findlay – as they talked through a tumultuous time they recently underwent.  At the same time the Thumb board was managing the retirement of their previous CEO and the search for his replacement, while managing their new fiber build out, finding and securing a new power supplier, and a workforce that had doubled over just three years.

“Communication was critical. Transparency was everything,” said Findlay.

Findlay expressed the help he received by reaching out to resources like MECA President Craig Borr to share and discuss ideas with, include bankers and lawyers in discussions along the way, and leveraging NRECA resources, as he and the board faced challenges on many fronts.

“In a co-op, you’re never on your own.”

Optimism and Unity for the Future

NRECA President Tony Anderson delivered an inspiring keynote address, reflecting on his personal journey and the optimism he learned from his mother. Her ability to see beyond today’s difficulties and see tomorrow’s promise.

“She taught me to see not only what is, but what can be,” said Anderson. “As cooperatives, we need to be just as optimistic.”

He urged the community to continue looking forward with hope and unity, emphasizing that the cooperative model is built to face the industry’s challenges.

“Together. That’s a powerful word,” said Anderson. “We may be small, but together we’re strong.”