Electrical Safety: Grounding 101

Q: What is grounding, and why is it important? A: Many people believe if an electrical device is working, then it must be hooked up to a properly wired outlet. Be aware that some electronics will operate even if connected improperly, but this can severely injure the user. To ensure your hair dryer, clothes dryer, […]
Co-ops Innovate with Energy Storage Solutions

Like every electric utility in Colorado, your local electric cooperative is managing a lot of change right now. State policies are phasing out the old workhorse of electrical generation — coal-fired power plants — and rapidly expanding wind and solar power, which have many benefits but only produce electricity when the wind blows or the […]
Data Centers; The high-tech hubs of our digital lives

Think about how often you interact with a digital service every day, whether that’s asking Siri for directions to an appointment, taking pictures with your phone, or sitting down to stream the latest season of The Great British Baking Show. We take for granted that these services will be available when we need them. And […]
Wrap Up Your Home and Save

DIY energy audits can help Q: How do I perform an energy audit on my home? A: An energy audit can be as easy as creating a checklist of improvements based on what you see around your home. To find opportunities to save energy and money, gather a flashlight, dust mask, tape measure, and cooking […]
Advocacy from the Ground Up

Grassroots efforts can influence energy policies As Director of Government Relations for the Colorado Rural Electric Association, Taylor Ward keeps tabs on proposed legislation affecting the state’s electric co-ops — issues that can impact utility rates and reliability, how electricity is generated, and how utilities operate. Ward lobbies lawmakers daily on behalf of CREA’s 21 […]
Many Giving a Little Helps a Lot

Many people giving a little to help a lot is key to the philanthropic efforts of electric cooperatives across Colorado. Each of the 22 electric co-ops in Colorado has some type of charitable giving program that best matches the geographic area and membership needs, co-op communication managers said. The founding mission of electric cooperatives was […]
Simple Ways to Save in the Kitchen

Q: How can I save in the kitchen during the most expensive time of the year? A: The holiday season brings opportunities to enjoy meals with friends and family, leading to spending more time in the kitchen. Whether hosting a few or a crowd, consider making new energy efficiency traditions this year with these tips […]
Parts and Pieces of a Utility Pole – Overhead equipment keeps you electrified

Have you ever wondered what’s on an electric utility pole? Let’s go over the basics. First and most importantly, utility poles are packed with electrical devices, so stay away from them. The equipment and devices up there vary from pole to pole, but think of a utility pole as a layer cake, with the electric […]
Best Smart-Home Tech on a Budget

Q: How can smart-home technology help me lower my power bill? A: Smart technology can make it easier to save energy by simplifying or automating tasks. It can also optimize energy use to reduce waste and improve efficiency. When upgrading to smart technology at home, consider the purchase cost as well as long-term savings. For […]
Celebrating Cooperative Month All Year

October’s traditions of football, leaf peeping, Halloween, and all things pumpkin spice include the annual celebration of Cooperative Month — a month dedicated to recognizing the vital service that cooperative businesses deliver to local economies and communities across the United States. The designated month is an opportunity for co-ops to educate their members on the […]