Manager's Message

At Central Electric, our top priority is keeping your power reliable and affordable—and that responsibility doesn’t stop at maintaining lines or restoring service after a storm. It also means making sure your voice is heard where critical energy policies are decided.

This spring, I had the honor of representing you at two major advocacy events: the Rally in Raleigh at our state legislature and the NRECA Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C. I was joined by several other members of our co-op staff as we met with lawmakers to discuss the important issues facing electric cooperatives like ours.

We talked about the real and growing challenges of meeting America’s rising demand for electricity. Data centers, manufacturing, and a growing economy are fueling the highest electric demand growth in more than two decades, yet reliable power sources are being retired faster than they can be replaced. That’s why we emphasized the need for smart energy policies that strengthen grid reliability and affordability.

At the state level, we highlighted the importance of expanding North Carolina’s Megasite and Selectsite Readiness programs to attract new industry and jobs to our communities. We also advocated for the Utility Worker Protection Act, which would help ensure the safety of the lineworkers and crews who serve on the front lines every day, often in hazardous conditions.

In Washington, our conversations with lawmakers centered on several major priorities: the urgent need for permitting reform to speed up energy projects, the defense of always-available power sources against flawed EPA regulations, and continued support for critical federal loan and grant programs. These programs allow cooperatives like ours to invest in innovation, harden the grid against natural disasters and cyber threats, and deliver cleaner, more efficient power without placing a financial burden on our members.

While some of these national and state issues may seem distant from our daily lives here at home, the truth is they have a direct impact on the service you receive and the price you pay. That’s why it’s so important that Central Electric stays actively involved. Advocacy isn’t a one-time effort—it’s an ongoing commitment to standing up for the communities we serve.

I want you to know whether we’re meeting face-to-face with legislators or quietly working behind the scenes, every step we take is with you, our members, in mind. It’s a responsibility we take seriously—and it’s one I am proud to carry on your behalf.

Thank you for your trust in Central Electric. We are here for you today and are working hard to build an even stronger future for generations to come.

Until next time,