Rural electric co-ops are more than just poles and wires; they are economic drivers for the communities they serve. They are in the business of not only providing energy, but also social and economic benefits.
Broadband helps rural co-ops use new technologies.
CoBank, which provides financial services to rural public utilities, recently released a report, “Making the Move into Broadband: Rural Electric Co-ops Detail Their Experiences.” The report shares best practices from six electric co-ops that deliver both power and internet service to their rural members.
“[Rural cooperatives] are attracting new businesses, making it possible for their members to work from home, and improving education, health care, and overall quality of life,” said Jonathan Mann, a credit supervisor in CoBank’s Denver office.
Broadband provides multiple benefits to rural communities.
What does broadband have to do with energy? Actually, broadband has a lot to do with energy, and we must be concerned with communities that do not have modern-day access to both. Today, some energy technologies, such as smart meters and energy apps, depend on the internet to help the electric grid operate more efficiently.
Improve access to health care – Internet connectivity can increase access to medical professionals with telemedicine and other online resources. For example, the report cites medical record sharing and remote surgery.
Allow co-ops to communicate directly with electricity users – Two-way communication, such as the use of smart thermostats or load management devices on appliances, allow co-ops to run efficiently when demand is high. By better using resources, the co-op can improve its bottom line and pass savings to members.
In the business, energy, and environmental sectors, we often focus on individual missions. By seeking a holistic view, we can explore more opportunities and stronger outcomes. Having broadband available in rural communities is a big boost for local economies, families, and clean energy. Broadband must be available for rural co-ops to take advantage of more efficient energy technologies to improve grid security, reliability, and resiliency.
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Great article Marilynn. Your work to bring attention to the needs of rural communities is so vital in this field and finding solutions to climate change. Support and encouragement from the Chicago office!