Poudre Valley REA: A Cooperative Powerhouse
Poudre Valley Rural Electric Association (REA) is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 42,000 homes and businesses in Northern Colorado. For nearly 80 years, Poudre Valley REA has been dedicated to providing reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy solutions to its members.
A History of Innovation and Progress
In 1940, a small group of farmers and ranchers in Larimer County, Colorado banded together to form Poudre Valley REA. Their goal was to bring electricity to rural areas that had been left behind by the rapid electrification of urban centers.
Over the decades, Poudre Valley REA has continued to innovate and grow. In 1995, the cooperative became one of the first in the nation to establish a renewable energy program. Today, Poudre Valley REA generates over 50% of its electricity from renewable sources, including wind, solar, and hydropower.
Commitment to Sustainability
Poudre Valley REA is committed to reducing its environmental impact while providing affordable energy to its members. The cooperative has invested heavily in renewable energy projects and has implemented a number of energy efficiency programs.
- Renewable Energy Generation: Poudre Valley REA currently generates over 230 megawatts of electricity from renewable sources, enough to power over 70,000 homes.
- Energy Efficiency Initiatives: The cooperative offers a variety of energy efficiency programs to help members reduce their energy consumption. These programs include energy audits, appliance rebates, and energy-saving workshops.
Member-Owned and Community-Focused
As a member-owned cooperative, Poudre Valley REA is accountable to its members. The cooperative’s board of directors is elected by the members and is responsible for overseeing the operations of the cooperative.
Poudre Valley REA is also a strong supporter of the local community. The cooperative provides financial support to a variety of local organizations and events. Additionally, the cooperative has established a scholarship program for students pursuing careers in the energy industry.
Looking Towards the Future
Poudre Valley REA is well-positioned to continue to provide reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy to its members for years to come. The cooperative is constantly exploring new technologies and opportunities to reduce its environmental impact and meet the needs of its growing membership.
Benefits of Joining Poudre Valley REA
There are numerous benefits to joining Poudre Valley REA, including:
- Competitive Electricity Rates: Poudre Valley REA offers some of the most competitive electricity rates in Northern Colorado.
- Reliable Service: The cooperative’s experienced lineworkers and engineers ensure that members receive reliable electricity service, even during severe weather conditions.
- Commitment to Sustainability: Poudre Valley REA is a leader in renewable energy generation and energy efficiency.
- Community Involvement: The cooperative is actively involved in the local community and supports a variety of organizations and events.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When working with Poudre Valley REA, there are a few common mistakes that you should avoid:
- Not paying your bill on time: Paying your electric bill on time helps to ensure that you receive uninterrupted service.
- Tampering with electrical equipment: Tampering with electrical equipment can be dangerous and can result in serious injury or death.
- Overloading outlets: Overloading outlets can cause electrical fires.
- Ignoring safety hazards: If you see a downed power line or other electrical hazard, call 911 immediately.
Why Poudre Valley REA Matters
Poudre Valley REA plays a vital role in the Northern Colorado community. The cooperative provides reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy to its members. Additionally, the cooperative is a strong supporter of the local community and is committed to reducing its environmental impact.
How Poudre Valley REA Benefits Members
Poudre Valley REA members benefit from a number of advantages, including:
- Competitive electricity rates: The cooperative offers some of the most competitive electricity rates in Northern Colorado.
- Reliable service: The cooperative’s experienced lineworkers and engineers ensure that members receive reliable electricity service, even during severe weather conditions.
- Commitment to sustainability: Poudre Valley REA is a leader in renewable energy generation and energy efficiency.
- Community involvement: The cooperative is actively involved in the local community and supports a variety of organizations and events.
How Poudre Valley REA Impacts the Community
Poudre Valley REA has a positive impact on the Northern Colorado community in a number of ways, including:
- Economic development: The cooperative’s investment in renewable energy projects has created jobs and stimulated economic growth in the region.
- Environmental protection: The cooperative’s commitment to renewable energy generation and energy efficiency helps to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
- Community support: The cooperative provides financial support to a variety of local organizations and events.
Conclusion
Poudre Valley REA is a vital part of the Northern Colorado community. The cooperative provides reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy to its members while also supporting the local economy and protecting the environment.
