NRECA Asks Trump to Streamline Deployment of Key Rural Broadband Program
The program is a “golden opportunity” to deploy fiber broadband, NRECA said.
We Are America’s Electric Cooperatives
Keeping the lights on has never been more important. That’s why electric co-ops are fighting for smarter energy policies that prioritize reliability and affordability for all.
About Us
NRECA is the national trade association that represents America’s nearly 900 local electric cooperatives. These co-ops power 56% of the American landscape and serve 42 million people.
- 832 distribution cooperatives are the foundation of the electric cooperative network. Built by and belong to their local communities, distribution co-ops bring electricity to millions of American families and businesses.
- 64 generation & transmission cooperatives generate or purchase power and deliver it to distribution co-ops for use in the local community.
NRECA works to advocate for electric co-op priorities in Washington and help ensure the long-term success of local co-ops and rural communities.
From booming suburbs to remote rural communities, America’s electric co-ops are energy providers and engines of economic development. Electric co-ops keep the lights on and play a vital role in transforming communities.
Smart Energy Policy Keeps the Lights On
American families and businesses expect the lights to stay on at a cost they can afford. But that’s no longer a guarantee. Over the next 10 years, peak power needs are expected to rise by over 18%. At the same time, critical generation resources are being retired faster than they can be reliably replaced. Bad public policy is making the problem worse.
We need smart energy policies that will help meet growing demand. America’s electric cooperatives have a vision for our energy future: addressing skyrocketing demand, removing regulatory burdens and promoting the long-term well-being of rural communities.
The stakes are too high to get this wrong. Electric co-ops are putting people first by keeping the lights on at a price families and businesses can afford.
Spotlight Feature:
Meeting Demand
A recent POLITICO energy policy event sponsored by NRECA featured discussions with NRECA CEO Jim Matheson and members of Congress on bolstering the grid amid surging demand.
Leaders
in Rural Broadband
Millions of rural American families and businesses are stuck on the wrong side of the digital divide. And where no one else will provide the service, electric co-ops have found a way. Motivated by people, not profits, and the needs of their communities, electric co-ops are making rural broadband a reality.
Featured Content on Co-ops and Broadband
Alabama Co-ops Closing In on Broadband Middle Mile to Serve Entire State
Co-op-built middle mile network offers rural Alabama the fastest broadband at fair rates.
Let There Be Fiber: Co-op Staffer Leads Volunteers to Connect Bible Camp
“Camp was a place where I learned volunteering is where I get the most joy.”
Powering Stronger Communities
Electric co-ops are built by, and belong to, the communities they serve. As we innovate to meet tomorrow’s energy needs, that focus on people instead of profits will lead to stronger rural communities.
Featured Content on Co-ops' Community Impact
Training Grants From South Carolina Co-ops Help Boost Local Businesses
S.C. co-ops help commercial members shoulder costs to train workers on new equipment.
Montana Co-op's $50K Grant Helps Support Adults With Developmental Disabilities
In Montana, a “beautiful pairing” of unclaimed credits, support for underserved adults.
G&T Plays Long Game to Bring Economic Growth, Opportunity to Western Kansas
When economic opportunity knocks, Kansas G&T Sunflower Electric positions co-ops to strike.
Building the Grid of the Future
America’s electric cooperatives are innovating to meet tomorrow’s energy needs. From advancing the world’s largest carbon capture project to bundling solar energy and battery storage, co-ops are transforming the electric sector. As we work to meet tomorrow’s energy needs, smart investment in the future of their communities is key.
Featured Content on Co-op Energy Projects
USDA Takes Steps to Release Co-op Funding That Will ‘Unleash American Energy’
Co-ops sent nearly 50 letters to USDA describing projects that will benefit from the funding.
Co-ops Ask DOE to Support Vital Projects Underpinning Grid, Rural America
Without DOE funding, many projects “would not be affordable,” NRECA CEO Jim Matheson said.
Elective-Pay Credits Bearing Fruit for Co-ops and Their Members
Co-ops are starting to receive the tax credits, supporting members’ evolving energy needs.