News Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Aug. 28, 2024 

CONTACT:
Vicki Estes
vestes@kec.org

McCloud Promoted to KEC’s Director of Government Relations

Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. (KEC) announces the promotion of Reagan McCloud to director of government relations effective Aug 1. He joined KEC on Aug.1, 2022, as manager of government relations.

McCloud steps into his new role with the departure of Leslie Kaufman who now heads up the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives. McCloud has been KEC’s lobbyist and main presence at the statehouse during the legislative sessions since joining the organization. Additionally, he focuses his efforts on state and federal legislative advocacy, promoting member engagement in grassroots initiatives, and developing strategic policy initiatives.

McCloud is a native of the Newton, Kansas, area where his family farms and ranches. He is a spring 2022 graduate of Washburn University School of Law and has interned with a lobbying firm during recent sessions.

KEC is the Kansas statewide service organization for 26 electric distribution cooperatives and three generation and transmission cooperatives. Headquartered in Topeka, KEC represents the interests of and provides needed services and programs to electric cooperatives that serve member-consumers within the state. KEC functions for the mutual benefit of its members to promote rural electrification and foster the principles on which electric cooperatives were founded.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – June 27, 2024

Contact: Angela Lingg | 202-228-6519

Sen. Moran Joins Colleagues to Protect American Power Plants & Overturn Burdensome Regulations

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) joined Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.) – Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee – in introducing a resolution to disapprove of the Biden administration’s regulations intended to shut down American power plants. 

The resolution comes after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued its final rules that impose harmful emissions requirements on existing coal-fired power plants and newly constructed gas-fired power plants. This attempt to force the closure of power plants that supply America’s baseload electricity was previously tried under President Obama and overturned by the Supreme Court in West Virginia v. EPA.

“American energy production bolsters our economy and keeps us on track towards energy independence,” said Sen. Moran. “Energy generated from existing power plants help support families and communities in Kansas and across the country, and imposing harmful emission regulations will only drive-up energy costs for ratepayers.”

“With this Congressional Review Act resolution of disapproval, every member of Congress will have the opportunity to protect America’s energy future, heed the warnings of our nation’s electric grid operators, and adhere to the precedent set by the Supreme Court,” said Sen. Capito. “This vote is an important one because the Biden administration’s Clean Power Plan 2.0 makes it clear it will stand with climate activists, regardless of the harm that is sure to be done to families, workers, and communities across West Virginia and the rest of the country. I appreciate so many of my Senate and House colleagues for joining this bipartisan effort to reject another unrealistic, overreaching regulation, and I look forward to the vote,”

# # #

Bluestem Electric Cooperative Announces Retirement of General Manager

Wamego, Kansas – 3/06/24 – Michael M. Morton, General Manager of Bluestem Electric Cooperative, a leading provider of electricity to rural communities in North Central Kansas, informed the Bluestem Board of Trustees of his intention to retire effective early January 2025.

Born and raised in Wamego, KS, Michael is a graduate of Kansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management. With the exception of a few years as a grain merchandiser for Farmer’s Union Cooperative in Ulysses, Wamego, and St. Mary’s KS, Morton’s entire professional career has been in the rural electric industry.

Serving our members for forty plus years, Michael M. Morton began his career in August of 1984 as the office manager for what was then P.R.& W. Rural Electric Cooperative Association. With the continued growth of the cooperative and consolidation, Morton became the assistant manager of Bluestem Electric Cooperative in January 1999. Morton has served as the General Manager since January 2018, demonstrating unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and a deep commitment to serving our members and community. Under Morton’s guidance, Bluestem Electric has achieved significant milestones, expanded its services, and maintained a strong financial position, ensuring safe and reliable energy for our members.

Throughout Morton's tenure, he has been instrumental in fostering a progressive mindset in a culture of collaboration, and excellence within Bluestem Electric, positioning the cooperative for continued success and growth in the years ahead. His leadership has been characterized by a relentless focus on member satisfaction, operational efficiency, and community engagement, leaving a lasting impact on our cooperative and the communities we serve.

"On behalf of the Board of Trustees and all Bluestem Electric employees, we extend our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to Michael Morton for his outstanding leadership and dedicated service to our cooperative," said Mark Diederich Board President. "Under his guidance, Bluestem Electric Cooperative has grown, and he leaves behind a legacy of integrity, innovation, and commitment to our members."

Michael M. Morton will be deeply missed by all who have had the privilege of working with him, but he has helped to establish a strong foundation for Bluestem Electric Cooperative to build upon as we continue our mission of delivering safe and reliable electric energy.

A search for Micheal M. Morton's successor is currently underway, and Bluestem Electric is committed to ensuring a seamless transition to new leadership. The Board of Trustees will provide updates on the selection process as they become available.

Please join us in congratulating Michael M. Morton on his well-deserved retirement and wishing him all the best in his future endeavors.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

HR Partners | (785) 233-7860

Those interested in applying can access the job description and requirements, as well as apply, at: https://hrpartnersks.com/jobs/2065-BEC-General-Manager

About Bluestem Electric Cooperative

Bluestem Electric Cooperative, Inc. is a nonprofit and member-owned electric cooperative headquartered in Wamego, Kansas

In 1999, P R & W Electric Cooperative Association, Inc. (1940) and C & W Rural Electric Cooperative Association, Inc. (1938) consolidated to form Bluestem Electric Cooperative, Inc. These two cooperatives were incorporated over 75 years ago by groups of rural citizens.

Bluestem Electric exists today to provide its members with safe and reliable electric energy and other services to our members as efficiently and economically as possible.

Bluestem serves parts of Pottawatomie, Riley, Wabaunsee, Jackson, Clay, Washington, Cloud, Ottawa, Dickinson, Geary, and Marshall counties.

Over the years, the cooperative has added valuable programs and services for its members so that they can fully enjoy the many benefits of rural living.

Pioneer Electric Cooperative Names New CEO and Assistant CEO

The Pioneer Electric Board of Trustees voted to instate Lindsay Campbell and Chantry Scott in their respective roles as CEO and Assistant CEO of Pioneer Electric. The announcement follows the news of former Pioneer Electric CEO Steve Epperson being selected as president and CEO of Sunflower Electric Power Corporation (Sunflower) beginning immediately. Epperson has served as Interim CEO of Sunflower since the summer of 2023.

“Our congratulations to Steve,” said Campbell. “We thank him for his years of dedication to Pioneer Electric and its members; we know he will lead Sunflower with the same commitment to service demonstrated within our cooperative.”

Campbell and Scott have served in their roles over the past months and look forward to continuing their work.

“We are going to continue serving our members with the same dedication to provide reliable and safe power,” said Campbell. “I look forward to stepping into this role and being a part of the future at Pioneer Electric.”

Sunflower Names New CEO

Feb. 28, 2024 — The Sunflower Electric Power Corp. Board of Directors selected Steve Epperson as the company’s president and CEO, effective immediately. Headquartered in Hays, Kansas, Sunflower has 413 employees serving a generation and transmission system extending across central and western Kansas.

Epperson acted as the interim president and CEO since July and was chosen for the permanent position after a nationwide search beginning last fall. Prior to the interim position, he served as the CEO of Pioneer Electric Cooperative and Southern Pioneer Electric Company — two of Sunflower’s seven distribution member-owners — since 2011.

“We had a pool of strong candidates for this position,” said Wes Campbell, Sunflower’s board chairman. “And the final nod went to Steve. He has effectively guided Sunflower since last July, and we believe his business knowledge, industry experience and expertise, servant leadership, and desire for excellence make Steve the person to lead Sunflower into the future.”

Epperson is the seventh president and CEO to serve in this position since Sunflower was formed by six distribution cooperatives in 1957 to provide wholesale generation and transmission services.

“The Sunflower board has high expectations and criteria for this position, and I am both honored and humbled by their confidence in me to accomplish their vision for Sunflower’s future,” Epperson said. “Sunflower was founded on the seven cooperative principles, and those principles are still our North Star. We will keep learning from leaders and staff who have paved the way, capitalizing on new opportunities so we can continue providing our member-owners with reliable energy at the lowest possible cost.” 

Sunflower Electric Power Corporation Announces Third Solar Project

State’s largest commercial solar facility coming to Dodge City

Sunflower Electric Power Corp. is partnering on a 150-megawatt solar energy project near Fort Dodge Station, the company’s electric generating facility one mile southeast of Dodge City, Kansas. Expected commercial operation is during the first half of 2026.

Sunflower is a cooperatively operated wholesale generation and transmission utility serving seven member distribution utilities located in western Kansas. The Boot Hill Solar Project will join Sunflower’s 20-megawatt Johnson Corner Solar Project (JCSP), which came online in April 2020, and Sunflower’s 20-megawatt Sunflower Electric Solar @ Russell Project, scheduled for commercial operation in January 2025, in providing solar power to Sunflower’s members and those they serve.

Because it produces on-peak energy during the hottest days of the year when the Sunflower system experiences its peak demand for electricity, the Boot Hill Solar Project will complement the company’s other generation resources, which are powered by natural gas, coal and wind. In addition to providing on-peak renewable energy, the project will also provide the system with incremental capacity.

The Victory Electric Cooperative Assn., Inc., located in Dodge City, joins Sunflower’s six other member-owners in supporting the Boot Hill Solar Project, which will surpass the JCSP and the Sunflower Electric Solar @ Russell projects as the largest operating solar facility in the state. Strategically locating the Boot Hill Solar project near existing Sunflower assets will provide cost and schedule benefits to all of the member-owners.

“We are always glad when we can provide more value to our members,” said Shane Laws, Victory CEO. “But having what will be the state’s largest operating solar facility located in our community makes this project even more exciting. Thank you to everyone who has helped us get to this phase.”

Sunflower is partnering with Alluvial Power to design and construct the project, and the two entities have executed a power purchase agreement for the energy generated by the Boot Hill Solar Project. The facility will generate approximately 400,000 megawatt hours annually, which represents about 9% of the Sunflower system’s energy needs. The facility, located on approximately 1,000 acres in Ford County, Kansas and will have over 300,000 solar panels mounted on a single-axis solar tracking system designed to maximize the amount of energy captured from the sun.

“We are excited to bring the Boot Hill Solar Project to the Ford County community,” said Brian Kirk, an Alluvial Power executive. “Our team enjoyed collaborating with the Sunflower team, Victory and Sunflower’s other members, Ford County officials and local community members. We look forward to delivering a high-value, cost-effective resource to Sunflower’s members and system.”

Sunflower is again working with the National Renewables Cooperative Organization (NRCO) of which Sunflower is a founder and member-owner. NRCO was also instrumental in bringing the JCSP to fruition and is partnering with Sunflower in developing the Sunflower Electric Solar @ Russell Project.

“NRCO is honored to support its member Sunflower in adding additional solar capacity. This project brings unique economic benefits to Sunflower’s members,” said Todd Bartling, NRCO vice president of renewables development.

Construction is scheduled to begin in 2025. During the approximately one-year construction phase, the project will require approximately 200 workers at peak buildout.

“Each energy generation resource type has benefits, so Sunflower supports an all-of-the-above approach to our generation portfolio,” said Steve Epperson, Sunflower president and CEO. “Sunflower’s Board of Directors has carefully analyzed the factors and variables associated with adding more solar energy to our system and believes the time is right to capitalize on the economic efficiencies and other benefits of this project for our members.”

Midwest Energy Selected for $97M Grant

Midwest Energy has been named as a selectee of a $97 million U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships grant, to provide upgrades in substations and to rebuild 150 miles of transmission lines across seven western Kansas counties.

Under the terms of the grant, Midwest Energy will address $145 million in transmission system and substation protection upgrades, with $97 million in grant funding from DOE. Projects must be completed within five years and will focus on several 115 kilovolt transmission lines primarily in Rush, Ness, Ellis, Graham, Sheridan, Thomas and Rawlins counties, as well as upgrades to relay and protection equipment in substations in Hodgeman, Stafford, Ness and Ellis counties.

“This grant will help keep rates affordable for our customers as we address projects where assets are nearing the end of their service lives,” said Patrick Parke, Midwest Energy’s CEO. “Our customers and our communities will benefit as our system is improved through better reliability, increased line capacity to facilitate renewable energy access, and mitigated wildfire risk.” 

The grant to Midwest is part of $10.5 billion being made available through DOE under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, to improve the resilience of the power system against growing threats of extreme weather and climate change, and to ensure American communities have access to affordable, reliable and clean electricity.

Parke noted that several organizations wrote letters of support for the grant application stating how they would be positively impacted by the project’s goals. These included the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 304; the City of Hays; the Rush County Commission; Kansas State University and Fort Hays State University; High Plains Mental Health; the Citizens Utility Ratepayer Board, and ENGIE North America, a renewable energy developer.

“Having support for our application from such a broad spectrum of labor, educational, local government, community services and renewable energy groups underscores the impact these projects will have on Kansas,” Parke said. “We also thank Senators Moran and Marshall for their strong support of our application, and for ensuring Kansas received consideration for these historic grants.”

Midwest Energy is an electric and natural gas cooperative serving 50,000 electric and 43,000 natural gas customers, located in 40 central and western Kansas counties. Midwest Energy also provides transmission services to several other electric cooperatives and municipal utility systems.

Sunflower Appoints New Chief Operations Officers

Kyle Nelson announces 2024 retirement

The Sunflower Electric Power Corp. Board of Directors appointed Corey Linville as senior vice president and chief operations officer of generation and power supply and Al Tamimi as senior vice president and chief operations officer of transmission, effective immediately. Linville and Tamimi succeed Kyle Nelson, who will retire at the end of 2024 after 35 years at Sunflower.

Nelson joined Sunflower in 1989 and was promoted to senior vice president and chief operating officer in 2008. He served on the executive team, managed both the generation and transmission operations departments, and worked with Sunflower’s generation expansion task force since May 2001. He will assist with the transition of his duties to Linville and Tamimi during his remaining tenure at Sunflower.

“I cannot express enough gratitude to the Sunflower Board of Directors, both former and current members, for allowing me to spend more than three decades at Sunflower,” Nelson said. “It’s been a rewarding career filled with great people and amazing opportunities and challenges. I’ve taken immense pride in helping Sunflower meet our mission to provide wholesale energy services at the lowest possible cost to our member-owners. It will be hard to leave, but I’m confident Sunflower is in good hands with the recent appointments of Corey and Al.”

Linville joined Sunflower in 1993 and was promoted to vice president of power supply and delivery in 2013. A member of Sunflower’s executive team, his responsibilities have included system operations, resource planning, power contracts, market operations, and member services. As senior vice president and chief operations officer of generation and power supply, he will also lead generation operations and generation engineering.

Tamimi joined Sunflower in 2001 and was promoted to vice president of transmission planning and policy in 2015. Also a member of Sunflower’s executive team, his responsibilities have included planning and designing transmission and distribution facilities, along with engagement in transmission and market policy issues. As senior vice president and chief operations officer of transmission, Tamimi will also lead transmission operations and transmission engineering.

Linville and Tamimi concurred that Nelson’s impact on Sunflower, especially on the operations department, will long remain and are honored to succeed him.

“The decision by the Sunflower board illustrates their dedication and commitment to our member-owners and to the Sunflower staff,” said Steve Epperson, Sunflower’s interim president and CEO. “There is no question that Kyle’s retirement will leave big shoes to fill, so the board chose to make organizational structure changes early to ensure a smooth transition. I have no doubt the appointments of Al and Corey will do just that.”

The Pioneer Electric Board of Trustees voted to instate Lindsay Campbell, executive vice president – assistant chief executive officer and general counsel, as interim CEO for Pioneer Electric. Steve Epperson, Pioneer Electric CEO, has been appointed to serve as interim president and CEO of Sunflower Electric Power Corp. Chantry Scott, executive vice president and chief financial officer, was appointed to serve as the cooperative’s interim assistant CEO.

Campbell has served the cooperative as its general counsel since her hire in 2014. In 2020, Campbell assumed the role of assistant CEO.

Scott has served the cooperative since 2011 as CFO. Scott was promoted to executive vice president in 2020.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to lead Pioneer Electric and Southern Pioneer during this transition,” Campbell said. “Pioneer Electric will remain member-focused, continuing forward with the progress Steve has made and our mission of providing safe and reliable electricity to the members we serve.”

Sunflower Electric Power Corporation Appoints Interim President, CEO

The Sunflower Electric Power Corporation Board of Directors has appointed Steve Epperson as interim president and CEO effective immediately.

Epperson will replace Todd Hillman, who served as Sunflower's president and CEO since January.

"We want to thank Todd for his service to Sunflower and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors," said Wes Campbell, Sunflower's Board Chairman. "We believe Steve is an excellent choice to serve in this interim role and lead Sunflower. These changes will enable Sunflower and our members to continue building on our success."

Epperson has served as the CEO of Pioneer Electric Cooperative and Southern Pioneer Electric Company — two of Sunflower's seven distribution member-owners — since 2011.

"I am honored to be chosen by my fellow Sunflower Board Members to lead Sunflower during this transition period," Epperson said. "As always, our focus will be on taking care of our members and those they serve by supplying reliable energy at the lowest possible cost. The Sunflower Board and staff remain committed to delivering excellent service and innovation our members and communities have come to expect from us."

A search for a permanent successor is expected to begin as soon as possible.

Butler Electric Begins Fiber Project

Butler Electric Cooperative received a $10 million Kansas Capital Project grant to provide high-speed fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) internet access to approximately 3,300 rural Kansans living and working within their territory.

The current project will provide fiber internet to approximately half of Butler’s membership and is anticipated to be completed within two years. Current wireless customers in the grant project area will be upgraded to a FTTH network as construction reaches their area.

Homes and businesses in these areas will have access to multi-gigabit symmetrical (same upload and download speed) service delivered by their broadband division, Velocity.

“We know the need for high-speed internet options is dire throughout our rural communities, and we are actively seeking additional funding to expand the fiber network,” Kevin Brownlee, manager, Butler Electric Cooperative.

Sunflower Announces Plans to Develop Solar Facility in North Central Kansas

Sunflower Electric Power Corporation announced the addition of a solar facility near Russell. The second solar facility in Sunflower’s generation system, the 20-megawatt Sunflower Electric Solar @ Russell project, will be developed, owned and operated by Sunflower.

Sunflower’s first solar project, the Johnson Corner Solar Project (JCSP) in southwest Kansas, was co-developed with the National Renewables Cooperative Organization (NRCO). Sunflower is the sole energy recipient on the JCSP, which came online in April 2020. The JCSP is currently the largest commercial solar facility in Kansas, and it will be matched in size in January 2025 with the expected commercial operation of the Russell solar facility.

Sunflower is again working with NRCO on this project. Sunflower is a founder and member-owner of NRCO, an organization formed by electric cooperatives across the country to develop and deploy renewable energy resources.

Solar energy is desirable because it is available during times of peak energy use, which aids in ensuring affordability and reliability. The project near Russell will also reduce or eliminate the cost of expensive transmission upgrades due to its interconnection location on the bulk electric grid and offer an affordable solution for electric co-op members who want solar energy without the hassle of owning and maintaining their own solar panels.

Sunflower — which provides wholesale energy from natural gas, coal, solar and wind resources — supports an all-of-the-above approach to its electric generating mix.

“Each energy generation resource type has benefits,” said Corey Linville, Sunflower vice president, power supply and delivery. “Solar resources produce energy during the hottest days of the year when our system experiences its highest demand. The declining cost of utility-scale solar energy, combined with available tax credits and the opportunity to mitigate transmission costs, will further benefit Sunflower’s members and those they serve.”

Sunflower is partnering with DEPCOM Power to design and construct the Russell project, which will produce approximately 53,000 megawatt-hours annually, a total constituting 1% of the Sunflower system’s total energy needs. The facility, which will be located on 140 acres 3 miles east of Russell, will have approximately 45,000 bi-facial solar panels on a single-axis solar tracking system.

“As a member-owned cooperative, we make every decision with the best interest of our members in mind,” said Tom Ruth, general manager of Western Cooperative Electric, which serves parts of Russell County. “We analyze and consider new technologies to determine if and when they add value to our system and, ultimately, to those we serve. This is definitely the right time and place for the Sunflower Electric Solar at Russell project.”

Rolling Hills Electric Cooperative Announces Appointment of Jason Rabe as New CEO, General Manager

Rolling Hills Electric Cooperative, Inc. announced that Jason Rabe has accepted the CEO/General Manager position effective June 1, 2023.

Rabe currently serves as the city manager for the City of Beloit. He has a combined 20 years of private and public sector management experience including leading multiple successful organizations and providing a unique perspective on problem-solving, facilitation and efficiency.

"I am excited to join the Rolling Hills Electric Cooperative team as their next general manager. The opportunity to build on the great foundation that Rolling Hills has with their system, staff and facilities is what drew me to the position," he said. "I am looking forward to meeting our members, learning our system and operations, and tackling our challenges head on."

Rabe received his bachelor's degree in marketing management from Bob Jones University and holds a master's degree in public administration from Arkansas State University. He has over 13 years of general utility experience and six and a half years of electric utility experience. He and his wife, Julia, live in Beloit along with their three kids: Kaden, Keira and Kael.

Rabe will replace Doug Jackson who has announced his plans to retire as general manager of Rolling Hills Electric Cooperative effective June 30, 2023. Jackson has 41 years of electric utility experience and has served as general manager at NCK Electric and Rolling Hills Electric Cooperatives since 1992. He will continue to lead Rolling Hills Electric until the transition date.

Heartland’s Scheibe Elected to National Rural Telecommunications Cooperative Board of Directors

Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. CEO Mark Scheibe will advocate for the technology needs of cooperatives in Kansas, Colorado, Nebraska and Wyoming following his election to the National Rural Telecommunications Cooperative (NRTC) Board of Directors representing District 7.

NRTC is a national cooperative that helps rural electric and telephone providers deploy advanced technology solutions in rural communities. Scheibe said he is particularly interested in helping cooperatives leverage smart grid technologies to improve reliability, security, and efficiency of the electric grid.

“NRTC has always been there for major technology decisions at every co-op I’ve been at,” Scheibe said. “Whether it’s advanced metering infrastructure, solar, battery technologies, or electric vehicles, they’re always there to provide support and help solve problems.

Scheibe said his background in data analytics and engineering lends him a unique perspective. He sees many opportunities for cooperatives to make better use of the data and streamline operations through automation of repetitive tasks.

 “I want to ensure people are able to do the hard work once to get things automated and then reap the rewards in the future,” Scheibe said.

Scheibe was elected to the District 7 seat, which became open in 2021 upon the retirement of Dale Short as CEO of Butler Rural Electric Cooperative in El Dorado, by vote of the other NRTC board members, who considered several impressive cooperative leaders and conducted interviews prior to their vote. His election was effective Jan. 13, 2023, and his term continues until March 2025.

Scheibe is a licensed professional engineer and holds a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering from the University of Iowa. Prior to coming to Heartland, Scheibe worked his way up from distribution engineer to director of engineering for Maquoketa Valley Electric Cooperative in Anamosa, Iowa.

FOR RELEASE:                                                                                    Media Contact: Cindy Hertel

11/21/22 @ 11:30 a.m.                                                                          Office: (785) 623-3341

                                                                                                              Cell: (785) 259-4822

                                                                                                              chertel@sunflower.net

Sunflower Electric Power Corporation Selects New CEO

Todd Hillman to replace Stuart Lowry

Hays, Kan.—Nov. 21, 2022—Sunflower Electric Power Corp. announced today that its board of directors has named Todd Hillman as the corporation’s next president and chief executive officer.

Hillman will begin his tenure on Jan. 16 to succeed Stuart Lowry, Sunflower’s current president and CEO, upon his retirement. Hillman is the sixth person to lead Sunflower since it was formed in 1957.

Since 2004, Hillman worked for Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), a member-based, regional transmission organization (RTO) and independent system operator (ISO) serving in 15 U.S. states. In his most recent role as senior vice president and chief customer officer, Hillman was responsible for all customer interface for the three MISO offices, including member and regulatory relationships, training, the call center, and customer experience (CX) and facilities.

Hillman led the MISO south region integration, which included 52 load-serving entities, 136 transmission customers with 35,000 MW of load, 16 balancing authorities, 10 transmission owners and 16,000 transmission line miles. He also led MISO’s strategic and regulatory outreach for MISO’s 15-state footprint.

Steve Epperson, CEO of Pioneer Electric Cooperative and Southern Pioneer Electric Company—two of Sunflower’s seven distribution member-owners—chaired the nation-wide CEO search and selection process.

“After participating in many committee discussions and multiple interviews, I believe that Todd Hillman represents the best fit for Sunflower moving forward in an industry facing vast disruption as well as transformation,” Epperson said. “Mr. Hillman’s breadth of experience, knowledge of energy markets and RTOs, and leadership approach are the best fit for Sunflower’s talented employees. I see great teamwork, collaboration and courageous decisions in our future and am confident that Mr. Hillman will deliver.”

Among other commendable traits, Hillman supports strategies and goals that lead to strong relationships and growing success for members, employees, and other customers.

“Mr. Hillman is a strong leader and visionary who brings with him a wide range of knowledge and experience. Through that experience he has developed valuable relationships in the industry,” said Wes Campbell, Sunflower’s board chairman and Wheatland Electric Cooperative director. “I have no doubt that his focus on innovation and the value of strong relationships will lead to further success for our members, helping ensure the vitality of western Kansas and those we serve. We welcome Todd to the Sunflower family.”

“It’s truly an honor to be selected as Sunflower’s next CEO,” Hillman said. “I can’t wait to get started and be a servant leader to our members and the people in western Kansas.”

About Todd Hillman — Todd Hillman earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in International Affairs and Commerce from the University of the Pacific and a graduate degree from the University of Chicago Executive Institute Graduate School of Business. He also completed the Advanced Management Program at the Institut Européen d'Administration des Affaires (INSEAD).

He was born in New Jersey to a father who worked for Gulf Oil Company, giving Hillman his first introduction to the energy business.

• After graduating from the University of the Pacific, Hillman began working in 1992 for the New York Mercantile Exchange where he directed the largest new product marketing campaign in Exchange history, focusing on the world’s first exchange-traded electricity futures and options contracts.
• In 1995, Hillman began work with Dupont Conoco (Houston’s largest consumer of electricity and gas), where he learned electricity and gas origination and trading.
• In 1998, Reliant hired Hillman to develop a business plan to move and trade western U.S. natural gas.
• In 1999, Reliant purchased a utility business in the Netherlands, and Hillman became the Director of Transition Activity. He developed and led five electricity, three natural gas, three district heating, and two large scale transmission contracts. He established a European satellite office in Frankfurt, Germany, and developed a green power trading strategy.
• After sale of the Netherlands business, he returned stateside to work for Reliant in corporate planning and then as Director of National Accounts.
• In 2004, Hillman began his tenure at MISO.

Hillman and his wife, Dara, have two children.

About Sunflower — Sunflower Electric Power Corporation is a regional wholesale power supplier that operates a system of solar, wind, natural gas, and coal-based generating plants and a transmission system of approximately 2,400 miles for the needs of its seven Members, who serve customers living in central and western Kansas. Visit Sunflower’s website at http://www.sunflower.net 

Sunflower’s member cooperatives include Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative, Dighton; Pioneer Electric Cooperative, Ulysses; Prairie Land Electric Cooperative, Norton; The Victory Electric Cooperative Association, Dodge City; Western Cooperative Electric Association, WaKeeney; and Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Scott City, Kansas. Southern Pioneer Electric Company is also a Member of Sunflower. 

###

For Immediate Release
Jennah Denney – Today’s Power, Inc. (501) 400-5548
jdenney@todayspower.com

DSO Electric Cooperative Maximizes Financial Security for Members and Harvests Solar Energy with Two Projects.

June 22, 2021  LINDSBORG, KS — DSO Electric Cooperative dedicated two solar farms with a “Flip the Switch” event today.  One of the farms is located north of Lindsborg and the other is within the city of Junction City.  Both farms were built to minimize the cooperative's peak demand and maintain stable rates for its members.

Originally announced in November of 2020, DSO’s two solar farms were formally linked to the grid by Today's Power Inc. (TPI) of North Little Rock, Arkansas.  These farms are among the first of the 22 systems to be built as part of the Kansas Cooperative Sun Power Program (KCSPP), a TPI solar power services agreement program that ensures low-cost renewable energy to 12 participating Kansas electric cooperatives.

Both of DSO’s solar farms were customized in the design process to maximize output during peak demand hours, when power is most expensive.  Lowering the peak demand charges helps DSO keep power affordable for its members.  Along with the other participating Kansas electric cooperatives, DSO negotiated very competitive long-term pricing.  In addition, these solar farms will add to DSO’s diverse fuel mix.  With these projects generating power, approximately 67% of DSO’s power will come from wind, solar, hydro, and nuclear sources.

Michael Henderson, president of TPI said, “we are very excited to partner with DSO Electric Cooperative on this project.  I have spent my career serving electric cooperative members and having able to provide direct, quantifiable savings through projects like KCSPP is very gratifying.”  He went on to say, “the leadership of DSO should be commended for their forward-thinking efforts in serving their members.”

Tim Power, CEO of DSO, noted that, “A lot of work went into these solar projects.  Mike Olberding, our operations manager, did a great job managing the projects and making sure things stayed on schedule.  I also want to give a shout-out to the owners of the land we purchased for the solar farms, the city and county officials, and people with Today’s Power; they were all easy to work with and instrumental in helping us get to this day.”

TPI was chosen by the Kansas Cooperative Sun Power Program in 2020 to provide solar-produced power for cooperative use.  Work on the two sun farms began in early 2021 and was completed in May 2021, after all regulatory and engineering approvals were issued.  For the length of the 25-year-or-more agreement, the cooperative will purchase electricity generated by the solar farms at a fixed-low cost.  TPI operates and owns 100% of the solar arrays.

DSO ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE SUN FARM STATISTICS:

Location: JUNCTION CITY, KANSAS

• Size: 1.42-Megawatt (MW) DC / 1 MW AC
• Modules: 3,450 Solar Modules
• Racking: Single-Axis Sun Tracking Technology
• Inversion: 8 125 kW String Inverters

Location: LINDSBORG, KANSAS

• Size: 1.42-Megawatt (MW) DC / 1 MW AC
• Modules: 3,500 Solar Modules
• Racking: Single-Axis Sun Tracking Technology
• Inversion: 8 125 kW String Inverters

###

More Information:

This opportunity to participate in the Kansas Cooperative Sun Power Program began when the wholesale power contract between all participating cooperatives and their forward-thinking generation and transmission cooperative, Kansas Electric Power Cooperatives, was recently modified to provide Kansas electric cooperatives with the ability to self-procure up to 15% of peak demand – with 5% of that amount specifically allowing for the addition of solar (or some other renewable).

Using the sixth cooperative principle of cooperation among cooperatives, twelve cooperatives in Kansas joined together to secure low-cost power and reduce their peak demands for the next 25 years or more.

        PO Box 4267 * Topeka, KS66604-0267 * (785) 478-4554 * (785) 478-4852 FAX

Feb. 15, 2021; 4 p.m.
For Immediate Release
Contact: Vicki Estes, 785-221-3083                                                   

Extreme Temps Result in Southwest Power Pool Issuing Level 3 Alert Earlier in the Day

KEC Urges Electric Consumers to Reduce all Unnecessary Electricity Usage

The Southwest Power Pool (SPP), which balances electricity production and use for a 14-state region including Kansas, declared an Energy Emergency Alert (EEA) Level 3 just hours after issuing a Level 2 alert. The Level 3 declaration resulted in the SPP directing its member companies to implement controlled interruptions of service. That load-shed was ordered at 12:15 p.m. and rescinded approximately an hour later. The service disruptions lasted between 30-60 minutes and then power was restored. The SPP remains at EEA Level 2, however conditions will remain tight over the next 48-72 hours and the SPP could reactivate EEA Level 3 if necessary.

Kansas electric cooperatives are asking their members to conserve energy wherever possible and safe to do so to prevent worsening system conditions that could impact a broader area or have longer-lasting effects.

“We are already seeing high electric use and are anticipating record-breaking demand in the next 24 to 48 hours,” said Lee Tafanelli, CEO of Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc.

The record-breaking cold is also putting a significant strain on natural gas supplies. The cold weather is freezing off natural gas production, making less gas available for delivery to customers.

“We are facing several critical days where both electric and natural gas supplies will be extremely tight,” Tafanelli said. “By reducing power usage where safely possible, we can help protect the integrity and reliability of the electric grid.”

Kansans can conserve energy by turning down thermostats and not using high energy-consuming appliances, such as clothes washers and dryers, ovens and dishwashers, beginning now and continuing through mid-week.

Other ways Kansans can do their part to help conserve electricity include:

• Turn down thermostats to between 65-68 degrees if your health permits.
• Set your water heater at 120 degrees.
• Check and change furnace filters if needed to ensure optimum airflow. Rule of thumb: change filter every 3 months; 2 months if you have pets or family members have allergies.
• Close furnace registers and doors to unoccupied rooms to keep occupied rooms warmer, which will help reduce consumption.
• Keep vents clear. High efficiency furnaces have vents leading outside. Make sure they are not blocked with ice or debris. Inside, make sure vents are not covered by rugs or furniture.
• Resist the urge to crank up the thermostat as it’s unlikely to make much of difference except to put a strain on the furnace and your energy bill. Instead, wear an extra layer or use blankets to keep warm. Lowering the temperature just a couple of degrees will protect your furnace.
• Reprogram thermostat if it’s set to lower significantly at night or when no one is home. During extreme cold weather like we are experiencing now, the furnace will have a hard time raising the temperature to the desired level and it will use more energy to do so.
• Close blinds and curtains to reduce the amount of heat lost through windows.
• Turn off and unplug non-essential lights and appliances.
• Make microwave or toaster-oven friendly meals to save energy.
• Unplug electronics and other items not in use.
• Businesses should minimize use of lighting and electric-consuming equipment as much as possible.

To prepare for more potential planned outages, KEC urges the public to make sure phones and other electric devices are charged at all times, keep flashlights with batteries on hand, have several blankets, sweaters, gloves and coats at the ready, and have a “go kit” with food, water, medicine and other must-haves in case you need to head to a local warming center.

The winter weather is affecting all of Kansas and several surrounding states, and Kansas electric cooperatives are monitoring conditions and staging personnel and resources so in the event there are power outages, restoration work can begin as quickly and safely as possible.

###  

KEC advocates on behalf of 27 electric distribution cooperatives and three generation and transmission cooperative serving rural Kansas. The association’s primary services are government and regulatory relations at the state and federal level, communications including a monthly magazine that is distributed statewide, loss control and safety training and consulting, employee and director training, youth outreach and public relations services. The association is headquartered in Topeka and has 14 employees. Visit https://kec.coop/.

        PO Box 4267 * Topeka, KS66604-0267 * (785) 478-4554 * (785) 478-4852 FAX

Feb. 15, 2021, 11:30 a.m
For Immediate Release.
Contact: Vicki Estes, 785-221-3083

 Extreme Temps Result in Southwest Power Pool Issuing Level 3 Alert

KEC Urges Electric Consumers to Reduce all Unnecessary Electricity Usage

The Southwest Power Pool (SPP), which balances electricity production and use for a 14-state region including Kansas, has declared an Energy Emergency Alert (EEA) Level 3 just hours after issuing a Level 2 alert. The Level 3 declaration requires the SPP to direct its member companies to prepare to implement controlled interruptions of service if necessary.

Your electric cooperative will be preparing to implement controlled service interruptions if the SPP deems it necessary to safeguard continued reliability of the regional grid.

Kansas electric cooperatives are asking their members to conserve energy wherever possible and safe to do so to prevent worsening system conditions that could impact a broader area or have longer-lasting effects.

“We are already seeing high electric use and are anticipating record-breaking demand in the next 24 to 48 hours,” said Lee Tafanelli, CEO of Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc.

The record-breaking cold is also putting a significant strain on natural gas supplies. The cold weather is freezing off natural gas production, making less gas available for delivery to customers.

“We are facing several critical days where both electric and natural gas supplies will be extremely tight,” Tafanelli said. “By reducing power usage where safely possible, we can help protect the integrity and reliability of the electric grid.”

Kansans can conserve energy by turning down thermostats and not using high energy-consuming appliances, such as clothes washers and dryers, ovens and dishwashers, beginning now and continuing through mid-week.

Other ways Kansans can do their part to help conserve electricity include:

• Turn down thermostats to 68 degrees if your health permits.
• Check and change furnace filters if needed to ensure optimum airflow. Rule of thumb: change filter every 3 months; 2 months if you have pets or family members have allergies.
• Close furnace registers and doors to unoccupied rooms to keep occupied rooms warmer, which will help reduce consumption.
• Keep vents clear. High efficiency furnaces have vents leading outside. Make sure they are not blocked with ice or debris. Inside, make sure vents are not covered by rugs or furniture.
• Resist the urge to crank up the thermostat as it’s unlikely to make much of difference except to put a strain on the furnace and your energy bill. Instead, wear an extra layer or use blankets to keep warm. Lowering the temperature just a couple of degrees will protect your furnace.
• Reprogram thermostat if it’s set to lower significantly at night or when no one is home. During extreme cold weather like we are experiencing now, the furnace will have a hard time raising the temperature to the desired level and it will use more energy to do so.
• Close blinds and curtains to reduce the amount of heat lost through windows.
• Turn off and unplug non-essential lights and appliances.
• Make microwave or toaster-oven friendly meals to save energy.
• Unplug electronics and other items not in use.
• Businesses should minimize use of lighting and electric-consuming equipment as much as possible.

The winter weather is affecting all of Kansas and several surrounding states, and Kansas electric cooperatives are monitoring conditions and staging personnel and resources so in the event there are power outages, restoration work can begin as quickly and safely as possible.

###

KEC advocates on behalf of 27 electric distribution cooperatives and three generation and transmission cooperative serving rural Kansas. The association’s primary services are government and regulatory relations at the state and federal level, communications including a monthly magazine that is distributed statewide, loss control and safety training and consulting, employee and director training, youth outreach and public relations services. The association is headquartered in Topeka and has 14 employees. Visit https://kec.coop/.

        PO Box 4267 * Topeka, KS66604-0267 * (785) 478-4554 * (785) 478-4852 FAX

Feb. 15, 2021, 10:34 a.m
For Immediate Release.
Contact: Vicki Estes, 785-221-3083                                                                           

Kansas Electric Cooperatives Ask Co-op Members to Conserve Energy Where Possible; Extreme Temps Result in Southwest Power Pool Issuing New Alert

At 7:22 a.m. central Monday, Feb. 15, the Southwest Power Pool (SPP), which balances electricity production and use for a 14-state region including Kansas, declared an Energy Emergency Alert (EEA) Level 2. This Level 2 declaration requires the SPP to direct its member companies to issue public conservation appeals. Kansas electric cooperatives are asking their members to conserve energy wherever possible to avoid a potential Level 3 declaration, which would force the SPP to implement controlled service interruptions, also called “brownouts.” If this happens, utilities will responsibly implement temporary interruptions of service to certain customers, either residential or commercial, to prevent worsening system conditions that could impact a broader area or have longer-lasting effects.

“We are already seeing high electric use and are anticipating record-breaking demand in the next 24 to 48 hours,” said Lee Tafanelli, CEO of Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc.

The record-breaking cold is also putting a significant strain on natural gas supplies. The cold weather is freezing off natural gas production, making less gas available for delivery to customers.

“We are facing a several critical days where both electric and natural gas supplies will be extremely tight,” Tafanelli said. “By reducing power usage where safely possible, we can help protect the integrity and reliability of the electric grid.”

Kansans can conserve energy by turning down thermostats and not using high energy-consuming appliances, such as clothes washers and dryers, ovens and dishwashers, beginning now and continuing through mid-week.

Other ways Kansans can do their part to help conserve electricity include:

• Turn down thermostats to 68 degrees if your health permits.
• Check and change furnace filters if needed to ensure optimum airflow. Rule of thumb: change filter every 3 months; 2 months if you have pets or family members have allergies.
• Close furnace registers and doors to unoccupied rooms to keep occupied rooms warmer, which will help reduce consumption.
• Keep vents clear. High efficiency furnaces have vents leading outside. Make sure they are not blocked with ice or debris. Inside, make sure vents are not covered by rugs or furniture.
• Resist the urge to crank up the thermostat as it’s unlikely to make much of difference except to put a strain on the furnace and your energy bill. Instead, wear an extra layer or use blankets to keep warm. Lowering the temperature just a couple of degrees will protect your furnace.
• Reprogram thermostat if it’s set to lower significantly at night or when no one is home. During extreme cold weather like we are experiencing now, the furnace will have a hard time raising the temperature to the desired level and it will use more energy to do so.
• Close blinds and curtains to reduce the amount of heat lost through windows.
• Turn off and unplug non-essential lights and appliances.
• Make microwave or toaster-oven friendly meals to save energy.
• Unplug electronics and other items not in use.
• Businesses should minimize use of lighting and electric-consuming equipment as much as possible

The winter weather is affecting all of Kansas and several surrounding states, and Kansas electric cooperatives are monitoring conditions and staging personnel and resources so in the event there are power outages, restoration work can begin as quickly and safely as possible.

###

  KEC advocates on behalf of 27 electric distribution cooperatives and three generation and transmission cooperative serving rural Kansas. The association’s primary services are government and regulatory relations at the state and federal level, communications including a monthly magazine that is distributed statewide, loss control and safety training and consulting, employee and director training, youth outreach and public relations services. The association is headquartered in Topeka and has 14 employees. Visit https://kec.coop/.

Wheatland Electric Awards $2k to Four Organizations

FOR MORE INFORMATION: 

Jennah Denney - Marketing & Public Relations Coordinator

501-400-5548 or jdenney@todayspower.com

Kansas Electric Cooperatives Join Forces to Provide Rate Stability with Solar Power

Twelve Kansas Electric Cooperatives partner to develop Sun Farms across 800 Miles of the Sunflower State with Today's Power, Inc

.
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Mike Morton (Bluestem Electric), Ben Whiteside (Butler Electric), Mark Scheibe (Heartland Electric), Scott Ayres (Sedgwick County Electric), Tim Powers (DSO Electric), Michael Henderson (Today’s Power, Inc.), Dennis Svanes (4 Rivers Electric), Jackie Holmberg (Ark Valley Electric Cooperative), Angie Erickson (Twin Valley Electric), Teresa Miller (Ninnescah Electric), Steve Foss (FreeState Electric Cooperative)  - NOT PICTURED: Dale Short (Butler Electric), Coni Adams (Sumner-Cowley Electric), Kirk Thompson (CMS Electric)  

TOPEKA, WICHITA, & KANSAS CITY, KS & LITTLE ROCK, AR - Nov. 17, 2020 - Using the sixth cooperative principle of cooperation among cooperatives,twelve cooperatives in Kansas are joining together to make a small investment for the next 25 years or more in the harvesting of sunshine. Participating electric cooperatives will be able to procure low-up-front cost solar energy to serve their membership through the Kansas Cooperative Sun Power Program and reduce their peak demand.

Under their unique cooperative programming, the Kansas Cooperative Sun Power Program is a series of solar farms developed by Today's Power, Inc. (TPI)’s to harvest renewable energy in the state for participating electric cooperatives. This 25-year program has attracted the best possible long-term pricing and will result in the construction of more than 20 Megawatts (MW) of solar power spread out across more than 800 miles of the sunflower state.

This opportunity began when the wholesale power contract between all participating cooperatives and their G&T, Kansas Electric Power Cooperatives, was recently modified to provide Kansas electric cooperatives with the ability to self-procure up to 15% of peak demand, with 5% of that amount specifically allowing for the addition of solar.

Proving that utility scale solar provides more cost-effective ways to benefit all consumer-member of the cooperatives, TPI was chosen to be the developer and energy partner for this venture through extensive research undertaken by participating cooperatives and a comprehensive Request For Proposals (RFP) process administered by GDS & Associates. 

Owned by Electric Cooperatives, TPI was created to provide solar facilities to  Arkansas’ electric cooperatives that could otherwise not utilize federal tax incentives.  Fellow cooperatives in neighboring states quickly learned of TPI’s program and wanted a “known business partner” to provide their solar system.

TPI has constructed solar arrays for 15 of the 17 electric cooperatives of Arkansas as well as cooperatives and cooperative organizations in Oklahoma and Tennessee.

All systems installed will be sized in the 1 MW range.  Each system is contracted through a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement with additional 5-year options.  Cooperatives will simply be responsible for the purchase of electricity generated from the solar farms and will have low-upfront costs associated with the development of renewable solar energy.

1-MW Sun Farm in Arkansas - Woodruff Electric Cooperative

This method of generation makes it possible for these cooperatives to increase the production of renewable energy year round and to reduce peak demand. The reduction of peak demand will enable each cooperative to provide financial stability to its members while also reducing their carbon footprint. This is just another way electric cooperatives in Kansas are helping support local businesses, industries, and individuals with the resources they need to grow as efficient, responsible, and successful contributors to our communities.

Currently, these projects are in the engineering process and construction will take place in phases beginning in 2021 and running to 2022. Individual projects for participating cooperatives will be announced as initiated and completed.

###

ABOUT
PARTICIPATING COOPERATIVES

4 Rivers Electric Cooperative, Inc. is a not-for-profit, member-owned electric cooperative. The company safely delivers reliable electricity to over 12,000 locations for over 7,000 residential and commercial consumers in Anderson, Chase, Coffey, Elk, Franklin, Greenwood, Labette, Linn, Lyon, Montgomery, Morris, Neosho, Osage, Wabaunsee, Wilson, and Woodson counties.
CONTACT: April D. Engstrom
(620) 364-2116 or april.engstrom@4riverselectric.com 

Bluestem Electric Cooperative is a nonprofit and member-owned electric cooperative providing safe and reliable electric energy, as efficiently and economically as possible,  to 7,309 meters throughout 11 counties.  Bluestem's 2,866 miles of line serves Pottawatomie, Riley, Wabaunsee, Jackson, Clay, Washington, Cloud, Ottawa, Dickinson, Geary and Marshall counties.
CONTACT: Kevin Heptig, Member Services Director
(785) 456-2212 or kevinh@bluestemelectric.com

Butler Electric Cooperative is owned by its members and governed by a Board of Directors elected from the membership by the members.  The cooperative supplies electric power to 7,000 meters in Butler, Chase, Cowley, Greenwood, Harvey, Marion and Sedgwick counties through 1,850 miles of transmission and distribution lines and 13 substations /delivery points.  Butler EC currently owns a 1MW solar farm in Butler County. For more information, visit www.butler.coop or our Facebook page.
CONTACT: Sarah Madden, Public Relations Director
(316) 321-9600 or smadden@butler.coop 

CMS Electric Cooperative, Inc., was founded in April 1945 and energized its first lines in June 1948.  Originally, CMS took its name from the three counties it was chartered to serve: Clark, Meade and Seward. However, soon Comanche County was also added to the service area. The service area covers approximately 4800 square miles with approximately 2500 miles of line. Today, the cooperative serves approximately 5800 meters, consisting of residential, small commercial, large power and industrial loads. Our main office is located in Meade, Kansas at 509 E. Carthage St, which is across the street from the Meade District Hospital on Highway 54. Our satellite office is located in Coldwater, Kansas at 603 N. Central. 
CONTACT: Kirk Thompson, General Manager
(620) 873-2184 or kthompson@cmselectric.com

DS&O Electric Cooperative is an electric utility located in Solomon, Kansas.   Today the Cooperative serves approximately 8,500 residential and commercial meters in some thirty communities spread throughout a nine-county area in Central Kansas. Its service area extends from Junction City to McPherson and from Glasco to Lost Springs. This area includes the City of Solomon and certain areas within the city limits of Junction City. The majority of residential customers continue to be found in Dickinson, Saline, and Ottawa counties. Significant numbers are also in Geary and McPherson counties.
CONTACT: Derrick Rutherford
(785) 655-2011 or Drutherford@dsoelectric.com 

With 15,368 members and 21,197 service points, FreeState Electric Cooperative is the largest rural electric cooperative in Eastern Kansas and the fifth largest rural electric cooperative in the state. FreeState serves nine Kansas counties and provides infrastructure to Fort Leavenworth. For more information visit www.freestate.coop, as well as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
CONTACT: Sarah Farlee, Public Relations & Marketing Director
800-794-1989 or sarah.farlee@freestate.coop 

Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative, provides power to more than 11,000 locations in Southeast and Eastern Kansas. Heartland’s service area includes consumer-members in 12 counties, including  Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, Cherokee, Coffey, Crawford, Labette, Linn, Miami, Neosho, Wilson and Woodson counties. Heartland REC traces its roots back to three original rural electric cooperatives, Cooperative Electric Power & Light Company, Sugar Valley Electric Cooperative Association, (which came together to form United Electric Cooperative in 1975) and Sekan Electric Cooperative Association (which combined to become Heartland in 1996.)

Formed in January 1939, Ninnescah Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. has been providing dependable electric energy to its members for over 75 years. As a member-owned, full-service electric utility, Ninnescah powers over 4,000 meters in all or part of ten counties in South-Central Kansas, including the counties of Barber, Comanche, Edwards, Harper, Kingman, Kiowa, Pawnee, Pratt, Stafford, and Reno.
CONTACT: Teresa Miller - General Manager
(620) 672-5538 or Tmiller@ninnescah.com 

On November 10, 1937, 21 men of Sedgwick County signed the Articles of Incorporation for a rural electric company. We now have 19 employees, over 6,900 services, over 5,900 members, approximately 1,175 miles of energized lines, 9 substations, and over 142 million kWh sold yearly.
CONTACT: Scott Ayres, General Manager/CEo
(316) 542-3131 or sayres@sedgwickcountyelectric.coop
Or Cindy Kill, Member Services Director ckill@sedgwickcountyelectric.coop

Sumner-Cowley Electric is a member-owned, member-focused electric distribution cooperative that strives to exceed our members' expectations by providing safe, reliable, cost-effective electric power, superior customer service and innovative energy solutions. Sumner-Cowley Electric proudly serves 3,585 members with 1,790 miles of line in the rural communities of Sumner, Cowley, Harper, Sedgwick and Kingman counties.
CONTACT: Jared McIntire, Member Services
(620) 326-3356  or jaredm@sucocoop.com 

Owned and governed by the members it serves,  Twin Valley Electric Cooperative, Inc, (TVEC) has been providing electricity in Southeast Kansas since 1945.  With its service territory located between the Verdigris and Neosho river valleys, Twin Valley serves rural homes, farms, and businesses in Labette, Neosho, Montgomery, & Cherokee counties.
CONTACT: Angie Erickson, CEO
(620) 784-5500 or aerickson@twinvalleyelectric.com

DEVELOPER

Today’s Power, Inc. (TPI) is one of the nation’s most experienced renewable energy companies with more utility-scale projects than any Arkansas-based company. A wholly owned subsidiary of Arkansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc., TPI is a full-service provider able to carry out all phases of any solar or battery storage project including, but not limited to, full bill / rate analysis, site evaluation, engineering procurement, design, commissioning, monitoring, operating and maintaining projects.
CONTACT: Jennah Denney, Marketing & Public Relations Coordinator
(501) 400-5548 or jdenney@todayspower.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                         

October 30, 2020                                                                              

CONTACT:

Vicki Estes

785-478-4630

vestes@kec.org

Kansas cooperative crews deploy to assist

with Oklahoma power restoration efforts

Freezing rain combined with high winds led to a large ice storm for parts of southwest Oklahoma. Following the extensive damage to power lines and poles, Kansas electric cooperative line crews are heading to Central Electric Cooperative, Cimarron Electric Cooperative, CKenergy Electric Cooperative, Northfork Electric Cooperative and Rural Electric Cooperative — all Oklahoma cooperatives that have requested mutual aid assistance. Organized by Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. (KEC), crews from 13 co-ops and one subsidiary are responding to thousands of power outages caused by the storm. Additional co-ops and lineworkers are on standby.

The combined response involves 68 line workers from: 4Rivers Electric Cooperative, Lebo; Ark Valley Electric Cooperative, South Hutchinson; Butler Electric Cooperative, El Dorado; DSO Electric Cooperative, Solomon; Flint Hills Rural Electric Cooperative, Council Grove; Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative, Girard; Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative, Dighton; Ninnescah Rural Electric Cooperative, Pratt; Pioneer Electric Cooperative, Ulysses; Rolling Hills Electric Cooperative, Beloit; Southern Pioneer Electric Company, Liberal; Twin Valley Electric Cooperative, Altamont; Victory Electric Cooperative, Dodge City; and Western Cooperative Electric, WaKeeney.

“Linemen feel the need to help other cooperatives around the state and nation because they know it may be them who needs the help the next time,” Stacey Marston, KEC instructor of loss control, safety and compliance, said. “Long lasting friendships are made while the crews are working extended hours to get power restored to co-op consumer-members and many of the linemen stay in touch even after the storms have passed and the restoration is complete.”

The Kansas crews deployed between Oct. 28-30, will work seven-day, extended hour shifts until power is restored for the members of Central, Cimarron, CKenergy, Northfork and Rural electric cooperatives. If restoration extends beyond seven working days, many cooperatives will rotate lineworkers to ensure safety for all involved. At this time, Oklahoma is reporting more than 4,000 downed poles, however the largest problems across the state are downed power lines due to ice-covered tree limbs and leaves, and extensive mud, which slows access to downed poles and lines.

The Kansas crews are equipped with 23 bucket trucks, 14 digger trucks, pole trailers, foreman pickup trucks and more equipment.

KEC serves 27 distribution electric cooperatives and three generation and transmission electric cooperatives, providing electricity to more than 200,000 Kansas households and spanning across approximately 75% of Kansas. For more information, visit www.kec.coop.

###

November 12, 2020 UPDATE: In total, 93 linemen were sent to Oklahoma throughout several weeks of restoration efforts.

September 22, 2020

For Immediate Release

Butler Electric Cooperative Seeks New CEO as Longtime Leader to Retire

El Dorado, KS — Dale Short, chief executive officer of Butler Electrical Cooperative (BEC), will retire in February 2021 after 31 years of service to cooperative members, Gerald Staab, president of the cooperative’s Board of Trustees, has announced.

“We have some very big shoes to fill,” Staab said. “Dale has left his mark not only on our cooperative, but on the larger cooperative world in Kansas and nationally.”

Short joined Butler Electric in 1989 and became general manager and CEO in 2000. In addition to his CEO duties, he is president of the board of directors of the Kansas Electric Power Co. (KEPCO), and serves as District 7 representative to the National Rural Telecommunications Cooperative Board of Directors.

BEC is conducting a nationwide search for a replacement, Staab said. The cooperative has retained the services of CarterBaldwin Executive Search, which has served many electric cooperatives. Anyone seeking to apply, or to gain further information, may inquire at ButlerCEO@carterbaldwin.com.

BEC, headquartered in El Dorado, Kansas, provides electrical service to nearly 8,000 residential and business meters in portions of Butler County as well as Chase, Cowley, Greenwood, Harvey, Marion and Sedgwick counties. Butler utilizes 1,850 miles of transmission and distribution lines and owns 13 substations and delivery points.

Through its membership in KEPCO, BEC has access to nuclear-generated power from Wolf Creek and hydro-generated power from the Southwestern Power and Western Area Power administrations. Butler also has two solar farms on its system — Prairie Sky, which is owned by KEPCO, and its own Pony Meadows farm. Through these facilities and KEPCO’s providers, about 64% of the electric power provided to Butler’s members is derived from non-carbon-based sources.

Butler also provides high-speed broadband internet service through its Velocity division to more than 3,600 members and non-members in Butler County and adjacent areas. Velocity is connecting more than 100 new customers a month, most of whom have little to no other choice for quality broadband.

For more information, please call Staab at 316-734-5662.

###

Largest Solar Farm in Kansas Starts Commercial Operation

Sunflower Electric Power Corporation’s rural co-op members now enjoying clean, cost-effective energy from facility built, owned and operated by Lightsource BP

Johnson City, Kan. – Sunflower Electric Power Corp. and Lightsource BP have announced that the Johnson Corner Solar Project entered commercial operation on April 7. The $37 million project, which was financed and constructed by Lightsource BP, is located approximately two miles southwest of Johnson City in Stanton County, Kansas.

Lightsource BP, a global leader in the development, financing and management of utility-scale solar energy projects, is the project owner and operator. All the energy from the project is being sold under a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) to Sunflower, a not-for-profit electric utility providing wholesale generation and transmission services to six member-owners serving in central and western Kansas. The National Renewables Cooperative Organization (NRCO) played a key role in helping Sunflower develop this important project for the public power community.

“Sunflower is proud to have worked with Lightsource BP and NRCO to bring online the state’s largest solar project to date,” said Stuart Lowry, president and CEO of Sunflower. “The Johnson Corner Solar Project adds yet another renewable fuel source to our diversified generation portfolio, which is designed to protect both the affordability and reliability of the energy we provide to our members.”

The project delivers 20 megawatts (AC) of clean and affordable on-peak electricity – enough to power the peak demand of over 4,900 homes across Sunflower’s service territory and more than doubling the state’s utility-scale solar capacity, previously at 14.1 megawatts. In addition to providing low-cost, on-peak energy, the Johnson Corner Solar Project will reduce loading on a nearby transmission line that is approaching capacity. As a result, Sunflower’s members will save costs by deferring or ultimately canceling the requirement for expensive infrastructure upgrades.

“Lightsource BP is pleased to be part of this project and in helping to keep rates low for electric cooperative members due to value derived from clean and low cost energy supply and transmission savings,” said Kevin Smith, CEO of Lightsource BP in the Americas. “We applaud Sunflower Electric Power Corp. for their leadership in bringing the many benefits of solar energy to their communities in central and western Kansas.”

The project created more than 200 jobs during peak construction, with the workforce dispatched across 144 acres. Lightsource BP’s construction general contractor was Sterling and Wilson, who hired local subcontractors and recruited from the local labor pool. Precautions and guidelines provided by the CDC and public officials were followed on site, as well as implementation by Sterling and Wilson of additional strict measures to ensure the safety of the workers and mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

About Sunflower Electric Power Corporation

Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, established in 1957, is a regional wholesale generation and transmission supplier dedicated to serving its members by providing reliable power at the lowest possible cost consistent with sound business and cooperative practices. Sunflower’s member-owner cooperatives include Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative Inc., Dighton; Pioneer Electric Cooperative Inc., Ulysses; Prairie Land Electric Cooperative Inc., Norton; The Victory Electric Cooperative Association Inc., Dodge City; Western Cooperative Electric Association Inc., WaKeeney; and Wheatland Electric Cooperative Inc., Scott City, Kan. Sunflower also serves Southern Pioneer Electric Company, a member located in Ulysses, Kan.

For more information please visit www.sunflower.net.  
Sunflower Electric Power Corp. media contact: Cindy Hertel 
chertel@sunflower.net 
Office: +1.785.623.3341 
Cell: +1.785.259.4822

About Lightsource BP

Lightsource BP is a global leader in the financing, development and management of large-scale solar energy projects. They are a 50:50 joint venture with BP, working together to help drive the world’s transition to low carbon energy through competitively priced and sustainable electricity. With solar set to increase tenfold in the next 20 years, Lightsource BP is well-positioned to capitalize on this growth and aims to enact real change on the global energy landscape. Their ambition is to deliver 10 gigawatts of solar capacity by 2023.  

The team comprises of 500 industry specialists, active across 13 countries – providing a full-service to their customers from initial site selection and permitting through to long-term management of projects. Lightsource BP in the US is headquartered in San Francisco with development offices in Denver, Philadelphia, Atlanta and Houston.

For more information please visit lightsourcebp.com.
Lightsource BP media contact: Mary Grikas 
mary.grikas@lightsourcebp.com 
+1.732.429.3908

                   2223 N. A St. - Wellington, KS 67152 - 620.326.3356

February 18, 2020                                                                          CONTACT: Jared McIntire

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                  620-326-3356 – Office

                                                                                                          jaredm@sucocoop.com

WELLINGTON, Kan. – After a nationwide search, Sumner-Cowley Electric Cooperative and NRECA Executive Search are pleased to announce that Coni Adams has officially accepted the position of CEO for Sumner-Cowley Electric and will begin serving in that capacity in April.

“The Board worked hard through the process and interviewed candidates from across the nation,” said Sumner-Cowley Electric Board of Directors President John Schon. “We feel that we got the best candidate for the job and we are excited for Coni to lead Sumner-Cowley into the future.”

Adams began her career at Sumner-Cowley in 2000 as receptionist and has served as Manager of Administration/Human Resources since 2011. She earned the title of Assistant CEO in 2018. Adams received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Southwestern College and is a graduate of NRECA’s Robert I. Kabat Management Internship Program.

“I am honored to have been chosen as the next generation leader for Sumner Cowley Electric,” said Adams. “I look forward to working with the Board of Directors and Staff to continue to provide safe, reliable and affordable power to the member-owners of Sumner-Cowley Electric.

Adams will fill the CEO position that is opening with the upcoming retirement of current CEO Clete Rains. Rains joined the cooperative in 1977 and has served as CEO since 1996.

“I am both excited and proud the Board of Directors has selected Coni to serve as the next CEO of Sumner-Cowley Electric,” said Rains. “Coni has proven herself to be a leader and I have complete faith she will be successful in leading Sumner-Cowley Electric into the future.”

ABOUT THE COOPERATIVE

Established in 1938, Sumner-Cowley Electric Cooperative, Inc. is a not-for-profit, member-owned utility located in southeast Kansas. Sumner-Cowley Electric provides electric service to rural areas in all of Sumner County, half of Cowley County and parts of Kingman, Sedgwick and Harper counties. The co-op serves approximately 3,600 members with 1,900 miles of line. For more information, visit sucocoop.com or visit our Facebook page.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Jan. 13, 2020

CONTACT: 

Vicki Estes

785-228-4630

vestes@kec.org

KEC announces appointment of Tafanelli as new CEO

Topeka, KS - Major General Lee Tafanelli has accepted the position as chief executive officer of Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. effective on or about May 1, 2020.

Tafanelli currently serves as the Kansas Adjutant General, responsible for three primary duties: ensuring the wartime readiness of over 7,000 soldiers and airmen of the Kansas Army and Air National Guard, coordinating the overall emergency preparedness for the state’s response to natural disasters and emergencies, and serving as the Homeland Security Advisor for the state of Kansas. 

Tafanelli served in the Kansas House of Representatives from 2001-2005, when he took a leave from office to command the 891st Engineer Battalion in Iraq. After his deployment, he resumed his legislative post in 2006 where he served until January 2011, when he was appointed Kansas Adjutant General.

During his time in the Kansas Legislature and as Adjutant General, Tafanelli developed a deep interest and focus on issues affecting rural Kansas. “I‘m honored and excited to have the opportunity to lead a group that does such important work for Kansans in rural areas,” he said. “I have deep respect for the complex challenges faced by KEC members who work hard everyday to provide critical and reliable service for Kansas communities.”

“Major General Tafanelli has dedicated himself to public service and defending our nation,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “In addition to his work with the Kansas National Guard, the Adjutant General led the Kansas Department of Emergency Management, where he has been responsible for marshalling resources to communities that have been impacted by disasters such as tornadoes, flooding and more recently wildfires. His efforts and leadership have benefited Kansans statewide, and I have no doubt that he will continue this same level of commitment and dedication in his new role outside of government.”  

Tafanelli received his commission from Pittsburg State University, Army Reserve Officer Training Corps, and holds a master’s degree in Environmental Planning and Management from Kansas State University and a master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College.

Tafanelli will replace Bruce Graham who has announced his plans to retire as CEO of KEC. Graham has 40 years of association and electric cooperative industry experience and has served as KEC CEO since 2012. He will continue to lead KEC until the transition date.

###

KEC advocates on behalf of 28 electric distribution cooperatives and three generation and transmission cooperative serving rural Kansas. The association’s primary services are government and regulatory relations at the state and federal level, communications including a monthly magazine that is distributed statewide, loss control and safety training and consulting, employee and director training, youth outreach and public relations services. The association is headquartered in Topeka and has 14 employees. Visit https://kec.coop/.

Sunflower Electric Power Corp. and Mid-Kansas Electric Company merge 
Hays, Kan.—Jan. 2, 2020—Sunflower Electric Power Corporation announces its merger with Mid-Kansas Electric Company Inc. effective Jan.1, 2020. The merger of the two cooperatively operated, wholesale electric utilities incorporates Mid-Kansas into Sunflower.    
Regulatory filings for the merger were submitted in August 2018 to the Kansas Corporation Commission, which approved the merger in March 2019. Sunflower and Mid-Kansas also filed with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to obtain approval to combine transmission zones and rates.  
Sunflower is owned by six distribution cooperatives that serve in western Kansas. In 2005, Sunflower’s members formed Mid-Kansas to bid on the sale of Aquila’s Kansas Electric Network properties. Member-owners of Mid-Kansas include five distribution cooperatives and one wholly owned subsidiary of a distribution cooperative that serve in central and western Kansas. Mid-Kansas began operation on April 1, 2007. 
“The formation of Mid-Kansas by the Sunflower members gave more Kansans the opportunity to be served by the cooperative business model,” said Stuart Lowry, president and CEO of Sunflower and Mid-Kansas. “The success of Mid-Kansas has benefitted everyone—the members of Sunflower and Mid-Kansas and the thousands of Kansans they serve.” 
Since 2007, the intent of Sunflower’s and Mid-Kansas’ member-owners has been to merge the two generation and transmission providers to capitalize on synergies and offer added value to their members. 
“Merging Sunflower and Mid-Kansas results in a single wholesale rate that can better sustain our recent rate decreases for our end-users,” said Steve Epperson, Mid-Kansas’ board chairman.  
Savings will result from operational efficiencies and access to lower financial lending rates due greater financial stability of the merged entities. 
“In addition to simplifying the two companies into one, there are multiple ways we will save costs,” said Davis Rooney, vice president and CFO of the two utilities. “The merged entity will be both operationally and financially stronger.”  
About Mid-Kansas—Mid-Kansas Electric Company Inc is a coalition of five rural electric cooperatives and one wholly owned subsidiary of a distribution cooperative. Mid-Kansas’ members include Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative Inc., Dighton; Prairie Land Electric Cooperative Inc., Norton; Southern Pioneer Electric Company, Ulysses; The Victory Electric Cooperative Association Inc., Dodge City; Western Cooperative Electric Association Inc., WaKeeney; and Wheatland Electric Cooperative Inc., Scott City, Kan.  
About Sunflower— Sunflower’s member cooperatives include Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative Inc., Dighton; Pioneer Electric Cooperative Inc., Ulysses; Prairie Land Electric Cooperative Inc., Norton; The Victory Electric Cooperative Association Inc., Dodge City; Western Cooperative Electric Association Inc., WaKeeney; and Wheatland Electric Cooperative Inc., Scott City, Kan. For more information, please visit Sunflower’s website at http://www.sunflower.net. Sunflower is an equal opportunity provider and employer. 

###

Read the full news release

2019 SEPC MKEC Territory Map

KEC is excited to sponsor a special agricultural forum held on September 7, 2019 at the Kansas State Fair. The forum will feature Ambassador Gregg Doud, Cheif Agricultural Negotiator; Mike Beam, Kansas Secretary of Agriculture; and Dr. Roger Marshall, Member of the U.S. House Agricultural Committee. Learn more about the forum.

Natural Gas and Electric Companies Partner to Educate Customers About Utility Scams

Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. is standing with other local utilities, including Black Hills Energy, Kansas Gas Service, Kansas Municipal Utilities, Westar Energy and Kansas City Power and Light Company, to educate consumers about scams targeting utility customers and ways they can protect themselves.

November 14 is National Utility Scam Awareness Day, which raises the awareness of scammers posing as utility company employees in an attempt to steal customers’ private information.

Typically, these scammers use telephone, mail, email or door-to-door tactics to target customers. They pose as electric, water or natural gas company employees, and threaten customers by saying their service will be disconnected or shut off if they fail to make an immediate payment – typically using a prepaid card or other non-traceable form of payment.

Tips to help you avoid being the victim of a utility scam:

• You should never purchase a prepaid card to avoid service disconnection or shutoff. Legitimate utility companies do not specify how customers should make a bill payment and always offer a variety of ways to pay a bill, including accepting payments online, by phone, automatic bank draft or mail.
• If someone threatens immediate disconnection or shutoff of service, customers should hang up the phone, delete the email or shut the door. Customers with delinquent accounts receive an advance disconnection notification, typically by mail and included with their regular monthly bill.
• If you suspect a scam, you should hang up, delete the email or shut the door. Then you should then call your utility company at the number on your monthly bill or the company’s website, not the phone number the scammer provides.

You can learn more about avoiding scams on our website at www.UtilitiesUnited.org.

November 5, 2018

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONSOLIDATION VOTE PASSES

On Nov. 5 during the Special meeting of the Members at Lyon-Coffey’s BETO office, a vote to consolidate Lyon-Coffey Electric Cooperative and Radiant Electric Cooperative into 4 Rivers Electric Cooperative, Inc. was brought before the membership. The consolidation vote passed by over 93 percent of the voting members during the scheduled meeting.

On the same Monday evening, Radiant Electric Cooperative conducted a similar Special meeting of the Members at their office near Fredonia, Kansas. Radiant’s membership also approved the consolidation with 94 percent of the members present in favor of the consolidation.  

The two cooperatives plan to become 4 Rivers Electric Cooperative, Inc. on Jan.1, 2020.

“We are looking forward to joining this partnership with Radiant Electric Cooperative. This is a great opportunity to stabilize rates for the future and continue to provide the safe affordable service our members expect and deserve” said Lyon-Coffey Board President Robert Converse.  

For more information, contact:
Mike Tweedy, Director of Member Services
Lyon-Coffey Electric Cooperative, Inc.
2731 Milo Terrace
Lebo, Kansas 66856
620-364-2116