Electric Co-ops Suspend Disconnects
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Michigan electric cooperatives have temporarily suspended disconnection of delinquent electric and gas accounts. While not required, all Michigan co-ops have agreed to abide by a non-disconnect affirmation that largely mirrors a Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) order which directs investor-owned utilities to suspend disconnects and waive late fees until [...]
Online Safety Training Resources Now Available
MECA has launched a new online "Safety Shorts" video series for safety program partners during the COVID-19 crisis. "Traditional classroom-style safety training is still the most effective approach," says MECA safety director, Joe McElroy. "But we want to provide some meaningful safety resources until we can get back to meeting [...]
New Michigan Laws Clear Hurdles for Co-ops That Choose to Pursue Broadband
Just as cooperatives electrified rural homes and businesses in the last century, they now play an essential role in bringing high-speed connectivity to rural America today. The Michigan Legislature recently passed House Bills 4266 and 5266, which make it easier for electric co-ops to bring high-speed broadband access to their members. Three of Michigan’s nine [...]
MECA and Its Members Respond To COVID-19
Mandatory shutdowns of schools, businesses and public gathering spaces related to the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic have had a significant impact on our personal and professional lives. But, through all the uncertainty and constantly-changing conditions, Michigan’s electric cooperatives have remained dedicated to keeping the power on. Safety preparedness and response has always been a vital [...]
Crews Spend Thanksgiving Battling Storm Aftermath
No one invited winter storms Dorothy and Ezekiel to Thanksgiving, but they showed up anyway—leaving hundreds of thousands without power over the holiday. While others were busy planning a holiday feast, MECA safety director and mutual aid coordinator, Joe McElroy, was keeping a close eye on the weather forecast. “Holidays and widespread storm outages [...]
Great Lakes Energy Hosts Washington Official
Three northern Michigan electric cooperatives welcomed the Administrator of Rural Utilities Services (RUS), Chad Rupe, to Great Lakes Energy’s headquarters in Boyne City on Oct. 10. Rupe visited the area from Washington, D.C. to meet with and learn more about the work of the three local electric cooperatives who all receive loan funding through [...]