As we reflect on the progress we’ve made over the past year, we continue to focus on enhancing our system and ensuring we provide safe, reliable, and affordable electric service to our members. One of the key areas of development has been our distribution automation projects.

In the early stages, we worked on building a system that operated without communication—devices were programmed to function independently. As we progressed, we shifted to a more integrated approach, where downline devices could communicate with one another to make decisions. Today, we are implementing a cutting-edge solution that adds another layer of sophistication: a separate device that continuously monitors our equipment, allowing for real-time decision-making, Fault Location, Isolation, and Service Restoration (FLISR). This modern solution redefines the simplicity and reliability of our distribution automation. Featuring an intuitive user interface, FLISR offers enhanced transparency and ease of use, helping us minimize outages and effectively manage wide-area distribution. By rapidly detecting permanent faults, FLISR significantly reduces member outage times by continuously monitoring breakers, reclosers, and switches. This allows the system to take over after protection mechanisms have been triggered, further improving reliability and service to our members.

In parallel, we’ve been working to modernize various substations, including the replacement of outdated reclosers with state-of-the-art G&W Electric Viper reclosers. These upgrades not only replace aging equipment but also ensure that our line technicians will benefit from enhanced safety features when working on the system.
A key project that began last year and is set for completion in the second quarter of this year is the upgrade of our longest span of copper wire on Highway 111. This initiative will significantly improve the efficiency and reliability of our system in that area.

Looking ahead, we have developed a comprehensive work plan for the next four years, which includes several important projects aimed at enhancing service delivery. These projects will address infrastructure upgrades, system automation, and ongoing reliability improvements across our service area.
One of the major initiatives for the coming year is the rebuilding of our Mayo Dunbar substation. Due to its current location, which is prone to flooding, we will be relocating the substation to higher ground behind its existing location. This move will not only enhance the reliability of our power delivery but also protect critical infrastructure from potential flood damage.

As we continue to invest in infrastructure and adopt new technologies, we remain committed to providing our members with safe, reliable, and affordable electric service. We look forward to the opportunities that 2025 will bring as we continue to grow and evolve in the face of new challenges.

Cooperatively,
Ethan Thomas
Ethan Thomas