Bon Homme Yankton Electric July 2018 Vol. 19 No. 3
Navigating Emerging Efficiency Technologies Page 8
Savings to Count On Page 12
MANAGER’S COLUMN
Recovering after disruption:
What is Grid Resiliency? Resiliency of the grid is one of the most popular concepts being talked about in the electric industry today. This concept recently made headlines in the wake of Hurricanes Irma and Maria, which caused extraordinary damage to Puerto Rico’s electric grid resulting in the longest sustained outage in U.S. history. Lack of resilience became the go-to phrase to describe Puerto Rico’s grid. Here in South Dakota, what does grid resiliency mean for you?
Stephanie Horst horst@byelectric.com
Our goal is to find a problem before it becomes one.
Resiliency is many things – it’s reliability in your electric service, it’s our ability to efficiently restore your power, it’s being able to meet the demands of new technology and it’s how we serve you with various generation sources without skipping a beat. Ultimately, resilience is how we deliver on our promise to improve the quality of life for our member-owners. When it comes to having a resilient electric grid, it begins with a system that is designed and built to withstand high winds, powerful storms, cybersecurity threats and other disruptions that could result in outages. A resilient grid is also flexible and adaptable by allowing different types of generation – such as wind, solar, coal and hydro – to seamlessly work together to provide you with safe and reliable power. The way our systems react to advancements in technology – from demand response investments to serving the needs of electric vehicles – all factor into the resilience of our grid. Resiliency is a 24/7, 365-days-a-year task. Whether it’s the power lines, substations or generation facilities on our grid, it takes proactive maintenance and investment to keep them running smoothly. With thousands of consumers without power for months, the lack of resiliency in Puerto Rico’s power grid wasn’t solely caused by hurricane damage; it was the result of years of neglect in taking care of their system and preparing for a worst-case scenario. In a similar way to how we maintain our vehicles with regular oil changes, inspections and tire rotations, a grid must also be properly maintained. Throughout the year, we regularly conduct pole and line inspections. Our goal is to find a problem before it becomes one. For example, if we find weak poles through routine pole testing, we replace that pole. Doing so ensures that pole is as strong – or as resilient – as it can be. Living in South Dakota we know that significant power outages can occur. Whether we’re at the mercy of ice, snow and wind in the winter or severe thunderstorms and tornadoes in the summer, we have confidence in the resiliency of our system to recover from these situations with as little disruption as possible. In the dictionary, resilience is defined as “the ability to bounce back, recover quickly and go back into shape or position after being stretched.” When it comes to providing our member-owners with resilient service, this is what we work toward – day in and day out!
2
Cooperative Connections | July 2018
Bon Homme Yankton Electric
CO-OP NEWS
Need An Electrician? Call Bon Homme Yankton Electric! Whether you are in need of residential or commercial electrical services, our electricians are qualified to meet your every need. We offer wiring services for your home, grain bin site, shop, irrigation panels and more! New construction and remodeling projects Generator hookups
(USPS No. 018-973)
Bon Homme Yankton Elecric Association, Inc PO Box 158 134 S Lidice St Tabor, SD 57063 Office Hours: Monday through Friday 7:30am - 4:30pm To report an outage call: Local call from Tabor, Tyndall and Yankton: 605-463-2507 Toll Free in South Dakota: 1-800-925-2929
Lighting-security, home or business Underground locating and fault repair Electric troubleshooting Trenching and backhoe Overhead to underground conversion Electric panel upgrades Contact the Member Service Department for more information or to schedule your job at 605-463-2507. Guess what we are building in the back yard of the main office??? Drive through Tabor or check out the August issue of the Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connections for all the details!
NOTICE: Electric bills must be paid by 10:00am on the 20th of each month to avoid a $10 late fee. Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connections is published monthly by Bon Homme Yankton Electric Association, Inc., PO Box 158, 134 S. Lidice St., Tabor, SD 57063-0158 for its members. Families subscribe to Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connections as part of their electric cooperative membership. Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connection’s purpose is to provide reliable, helpful information to electric cooperative members on matters pertaining to rural electrification and better rural living. Subscription information: Electric cooperative members devote $6.00 from their electric payments annually for a subscription. Nonmember subscriptions are available for $12 annually. Periodicals Postage Paid at Tabor, SD 57063 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connections, Bon Homme Yankton Electric, PO Box 158, Tabor, S.D. 57063 TELEPHONE (605)463-2507: FAX (605) 463-2419. Design assistance by TDG Communications, Deadwood, S.D.
Statement of non-discrimination
This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. If you wish to file a Civil Rights program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, found online at http:// www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, or at any USDA office, or call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. You may also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send your completed complaint form or letter to us by mail at U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or email at program.intake@usda.gov. July 2018 | Cooperative Connections
3
SAFETY TIPS
Safety Before and After Storms Severe storms are more common in the spring and summer, but they can occur any time of year. Be prepared for storms and know how to stay safe.
Before the storm: Assemble a kit of essentials, like water, battery-operated flashlights, and radios. Keep a list of emergency phone numbers, including the electric utility. If severe weather is on its way, pay attention to local weather reports and recommendations. A tornado or severe storm watch means conditions are favorable for those weather conditions forming. A warning means dangerous weather conditions are imminent. Lightning can travel up to 10 miles away from a storm, so seek shelter when you hear thunder. Consider installing ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) or purchasing a portable GFCI. GFCIs detect dangerous electrical situations and cut off power before a person can be shocked. These dangerous electrical situations are likely to occur around water, so GFCIs should be installed in bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens, basements and outdoors – anywhere water and electricity may meet. If power goes out, switch off lights, large electronics and appliances to prevent overloading circuits and damaging appliances when power is restored. Leave one lamp or switch on as a signal for when your power returns.
After the storm:
When venturing outside, stay away from downed power lines and be alert to the possibility that tree limbs or debris may hide an electrical hazard. Assume any dangling wires you encounter are energized and dangerous. Warn others to stay away and contact the electric utility. If you are driving and come upon a downed power line, stay in your vehicle, warn others to stay away and contact emergency personnel or electric utility. Also, when driving, be careful at intersections where traffic lights may be out. Stop at all railroad crossings and treat road intersections with traffic signals as a four-way stop before proceeding with caution. Before re-entering storm-damaged buildings or rooms, be sure all electric and gas services are turned off. Never attempt to turn off power at the breaker box if you must stand in water to do so. If you can’t reach your breaker box safely, call your electric utility to shut off power at the meter. Never step into a flooded basement or other area if water is covering electrical outlets, appliances or cords. Be alert to any electrical equipment that could be energized and in contact with water. Never touch electrical appliances, cords or wires while you are wet or standing in water. Do not use water-damaged electric items until a qualified electrician has inspected them and ensured they are safe. When using a portable generator, follow all manufacturers’ recommendations. Keep the generator dry and never plug it into a wall outlet or directly into the home’s wiring. This could inadvertently energize the utility lines and injure yourself or others working to restore power. A permanent standby generator should be professionally installed and include a transfer switch to prevent electricity from leaving
your generator and going into power lines where it can kill line workers.
Source: safeelectricity.org 4
Cooperative Connections | July 2018
Pledge to be a co-op voter Find key election information Learn about the issues Register to vote Pledge to be a co-op voter Find key election information Learn about the issues Register to vote
VOTE.COOP KIDS CORNER SAFETY POSTER
VOTE.COOP
“Don’t fly kites near power lines.” Sophia Bad Warrior, Second-grader at Dupree Public School
Sophia is the daughter of Dugan and Peg Bad Warrior, Dupree, S.D. They are members of Moreau-Grand Electric Cooperative, Timber Lake, S.D. Kids, send your drawing with an electrical safety tip to your local electric cooperative (address found on Page 3). If your poster is published, you’ll receive a prize. All entries must include your name, age, mailing address and the names of your parents. Colored drawings are encouraged.
RECIPES
Delectable Desserts Rhubarb Dessert
Raspberry Almond Crumb Bars
1 white cake mix
1 (3 oz.) pkg. strawberry jello
2-1/2 cups flour
4 cups diced rhubarb
Whipped topping
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 cup sugar Prepare cake according to package directions. Spread in a 9x13-inch pan. Layer rhubarb over cake batter. Sprinkle with sugar and dry jello. Bake at 350°F. for 35 to 40 minutes. Serve with Cool Whip. Pam Hofer, Carpenter, SD
Best Ever Chocolate Chip Cookies 1 cup white sugar
2 tsp. baking soda
1 cup brown sugar
2 tsp. cream of tarter
2 cups butter-flavored Crisco
2 tsp. baking powder
2 eggs 2 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. salt 3-1/2 cups flour 12 oz. chocolate chips
Cream together the first 5 ingredients; add next 5 ingredients. Stir in chocolate chips. Bake on air bake pan at 350°F. for 10 to 12 minutes. Let set a few minutes before removing from pan. Sharon Sunvold, Renville, MN
Honey Bun Cake 1 yellow cake mix
1 T. cinnamon
4 eggs
Icing:
2/3 cup vegetable oil
1-1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 (8 oz.) container sour cream
3 T. butter, melted
1 cup brown sugar
2 T. milk (or to desired consistency)
Combine cake mix, eggs, oil and sour cream. Pour 1/2 of batter into a greased 9x13-inch pan. Mix together brown sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle over batter in prepared pan. Pour remaining batter over top of cinnamon mixture. Run a butter knife through to marble the batter. Bake at 350°F. for 45 minutes. Let cake set 5 minutes, then frost with icing. For icing, mix together powdered sugar, butter and milk; pour over cake. Let cool at least 30 minutes before serving. Sheryl Fromm, Hartford, SD
1 tsp. McCormick® Pure Almond Extract
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup (1-1/2 sticks) cold butter, cut into chunks
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 cup raspberry preserves
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1 egg Mix flour, sugars, baking soda and salt in food processor until well blended. Add butter; pulse until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Mix egg and almond extract in small bowl. Add to food processor while pulsing. Reserve 1/3 of crumb mixture for topping. Press remaining crumb mixture into an even layer in foil-lined 9x13-inch baking pan. Spread raspberry preserves over top. Sprinkle clumps of the reserved crumb mixture over preserves. Sprinkle with almonds. Bake at 350°F. 35 to 40 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool in pan on wire rack. Cut into bars. Makes 24 servings. Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories 175, Total Fat 7g, Sodium 129mg, Cholesterol 23mg, Carbohydrates 26g, Protein 2g, Dietary Fiber 1g Pictured, Cooperative Connections
Mother’s Day Pie 1 cup sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
2 T. all-purpose flour
3 eggs
1/4 tsp. salt
1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk
6 T. butter, melted
1 cup shredded coconut
In a medium bowl, combine sugar, flour and salt. Stir in butter and vanilla extract. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in evaporated milk followed by coconut. Pour into a greased and floured 9-inch pie plate or quiche pan. Bake at 325°F. for 35 to 40 minutes or until custard is nearly set and a knife inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool. Refrigerate before serving. Joy Hagen, Webster, SD
Please send your favorite salad, garden produce and pasta recipes to your local electric cooperative (address found on Page 3). Each recipe printed will be entered into a drawing for a prize in December 2018. All entries must include your name, mailing address, telephone number and cooperative name. July 2018 | Cooperative Connections
5
CO-OP NEWS TOPIC
East River Electric Power Cooperative
Power Reliability Investment It would be difficult to drive on Highway 50 between Tabor and Yankton and not notice all the new high voltage poles and lines going in on the side of the road. What you may not know is that East River Electric Power Cooperative, our wholesale power provider, is making a substantial investment over their entire system. The goal is to increase their overall reliability for heavily loaded substations and substations on single source radial feeds like the four impacted by this project. This new 69,000 volt tie line will provide a back-up feed to four substations that are currently on single source radial feeds: Tabor, B-Y Water, Yankton, and Gavins Point. This means that if there is a power supply issue in a certain area, it is more likely that they can feed electricity to our members from another direction. The eight miles of line runs between the B-Y Water substation southeast of Tabor and connects to the line feeding the Gavins Point substation which is located in the Lewis & Clark Lake area. You may have noticed that a few of the poles are not the normal round poles. Laminated wood poles are used for two main reasons. First, all of the switch poles are laminated square poles so the switch is
6
Cooperative Connections | July 2018
mounted on a flat square surface that will not warp as the wood dries out over time. This keeps the switch adjusted properly over a longer period requiring less maintenance and increases reliability of service. Second, self-supporting laminated poles allow them to construct the line when they can’t obtain an easement for the use of guy wire and anchors which are usually installed by roads, approaches or corners. They are a less desirable option because they are not as robust in storm situations, but many landowners will not provide an easement to install anchors on their property making their use a necessity. Most of the poles are in the 65-75 foot range but the tallest pole is 85 feet tall. The typical framing setup is two insulators road side and one field side. This design provides the best line separation for high reliability while using a shorter pole which is less expensive. They will place all three insulators on one side when an easement is not
granted by the adjacent property owner or when there are buildings or farming activity close by. To give more clearance and avoid overhanging the property, the lines need to stay in the public right of way. This requires a taller pole to maintain the proper clearances between the lines but still reduces the separation between wires. This increases the potential for momentary service interruptions in severe weather situations. East River Electric anticipates that the line will be fully functional in July. We appreciate East River Electric making this improvement which will directly benefit our members with improved power supply reliability.
SAFETY PROGRAMS
4-H Farm Safety Member Service Advisor Bob Felber, Operations Manager Robert Ulmer and Maintenance/Custodian Aaron Melichar presented the electrical safety demonstration at the recent Yankton County 4-H Farm Safety Day Camp.
time that caused the breaker to trip, but then the breaker is set to automatically reset so the power can come back on and then trip again if a fault is still present. This type of equipment is why you may see power blinks from time to time.
Linemen wear quite a bit of equipment and some of it is designed to directly protect against electric shock. The equipment on display included: hard hats, safety glasses, rubber gloves, rubber sleeves, flame retardant (FR) clothing and a set of pole climbing hooks.
If you are in an accident with any electric equipment, the best thing to do is stay put. If you have a phone, call 911. Do not try to get out of the vehicle unless it is more dangerous to stay in. If it is necessary to exit, Robert demonstrated the proper way to jump as far away from the vehicle as possible and hop away with both feet together until reaching a safe distance. You never want to be touching the vehicle and the ground at the same time.
Robert held up some fabric while Aaron lit it on fire with a torch. This showed the difference between regular fabric that will keep burning even when the flame goes away compared to the FR fabric that goes out without a fuel source. The next demonstration involved a tree branch touching both lines at the same
They demonstrated the effects of electrical contact by simulating the burns to a person’s heart and internal organs by zapping a grapefruit
and a hot dog. As Aaron showed these items to the onlookers, they appeared fine on the outside, but they could see the burn path inside and feel the heat from the electricity. The participants learned that electricity is invisible and is always looking for a path to ground. Bon Homme Yankton Electric employees are available for safety demonstrations for any group of any age in our area using the Safety Town display or the larger outdoor safety trailer. Contact the office at 605-463-2507 for more information. Check out our Facebook page for more photos and videos of the 4-H Farm Safety Program: www.facebook.com\ BonHommeYanktonElectric.
Robert Ulmer gets ready to simulate electrical contact with a hot dog.
The attendees try on the rubber gloves.
Aaron Melichar shows the burn path in the grapefruit.
(L-R) Aaron Melichar, Bob Felber and Robert Ulmer present the 4-H kids with important safety information that could save lives. July 2018 | Cooperative Connections
7
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
New and emerging technologies are continuously offering innovative ways to effectively manage and reduce energy consumption. Unfortunately, not all technologies can live up to their hype. Your local electric co-op can help you navigate these emerging technologies and provide the most cost-effective and beneficial energy management solutions.
8
Cooperative Connections | July 2018
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
NAVIGATING Emerging Efficiency Technologies Kaley Lockwood National Rural Electric Cooperative Association
Investing in energy efficient technology is becoming an increasingly attractive way to cut costs for homeowners and renters alike. This rings true especially in the deep heat of summer. Hotter days often result in higher energy bills, partially due to A/C units working overtime to keep homes cooled and comfortable.
Electric cooperatives know it’s important to help our members navigate these emerging technologies and provide the most cost-effective and beneficial energy management solutions.
New and emerging technologies are continuously offering innovative ways to effectively manage and reduce a home’s energy consumption. Smart thermostats, for example, have proven their worth in shaving 10 to 15 percent off an average home’s electric bill. These thermostats, in time, will effectively pay for themselves which make them an attractive option to many. Unfortunately, not all technologies can live up to their hype and some even come with side effects that can arguably overshadow their benefits. The Mistbox Air Conditioner Cooler is one such technology. Mistbox claims to save its customers between 20 to 38 percent on their electricity bills. This technology requires a simple installation to a home’s outdoor A/C unit and works by spraying a mist to precool the air around the unit. In using this evaporative cooling method, you’re a/C unit theoretically doesn’t have to work as hard to pump cool air into your home. This may be beneficial when air temperature is at its highest. In the short term Mistbox may work, but there are some real caveats that need to be considered. A primary point of concern is that an A/C unit is not designed to be sprayed down with such frequency. Although the Mistbox system comes with a water filter, the company only recommends using its technology if your home’s water has a hardness less than 500 parts per million. This automatically rules out anyone who uses well water. Even if you do have a
home with the required water hardness, the filtration system can’t completely prevent your system from rusting. Corrosion will occur resulting in a damaged unit. Electric cooperatives know it’s important to help our members navigate these emerging technologies and provide the most cost-effective and beneficial energy management solutions. If you’re interested in taking steps to become more energy efficient, we recommend these tried and true tips:
Clean and change the filters on your HVAC system regularly to make your unit run more efficiently, keeping your house cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. In spring and summer months, set your ceiling fans to turn in the counterclockwise direction to create a cool breeze. In autumn and winter months, set your fan to turn in the clockwise direction. This will redistribute warm air throughout the room. Add caulk or weather stripping to seal air leaks around leaky doors and windows. Insulation is important. Properly insulating your home reduces heating and cooling costs, and improves comfort. Remember, there are easy steps you can take now to improve the energy efficiency of your home. To learn about additional ways to save, contact the energy experts at your local electric cooperative. Kaley Lockwood writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives. From growing suburbs to remote farming communities, electric co-ops serve as engines of economic development for 42 million Americans across 56 percent of the nation’s landscape. July 2018 | Cooperative Connections
9
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
CLASSIFIEDS August Issue Deadline: July 1, 2018. Email your classified ad to: by@ byelectric.com. Members can post one free ad per year. Repeats or longer ads are $1/column inch. FOR RENT: 1 bedroom apartment. Tabor Manor. Contact Gary at 605-463-2209 or Ron at 605-463-2256. Beseda Hall, Tabor, SD for rent for any special occasion such as weddings, anniversaries, graduation or birthdays! For more information contact Linda Bares at 605-661-6220 or snlbares@ gmail.com. FOR RENT: Tabor Self Storage. Call 605-660-0274 or 605-6603497.
WELCOME MEMBERS Mission Hill Neil & Sharon Promes Jerry & June Dykstra Scotland Carissa Miller Tabor Michael Bouza Abagayle Disberry Yankton Max Korus Bret Dolphay Michael Wuebben Jacob Manning Amanda Garcia Scott Pfeifer Bradley & Sandy Murphy
10
Cooperative Connections | July 2018
MARKETPLACE HEATING & COOLING
2401 Broadway Suite #3 Yankton, SD 57078
60 5- 665- 9 4 61 800-491-9461
Warm Air, Air to Air, Geothermal Heat Pumps
GT Repair & Autobody Glenn Tycz Tyndall, SD 57066
605-589-3018 Marine Boat Repair Aluminum & Fiberglass We Repair and Install Windshields
BOHEMIAN FARMERS R. Martin Koch, Secretary PO Box 206 Tabor, SD 57063
Koranda Well Company LLC Tabor, SD 57063
605-463-2244 Well drilling, repairing and cleaning Water Systems – Artesian Wells Sales and Installation Earth-Coupled Heat Pump
Emergency Service Free Estimates
MUTUAL
605-463-2558 605-589-3572
If only the future was predictable. Farming is always a gamble. You never know when bad weather or other problems will strike. The only thing you can be sure of—you need quality insurance protection. Call our office today for a competitive quote.
Sanders Heating & Cooling 300 W 17th Tyndall, SD 57066
Yankton, Tabor, Tyndall, Menno
605-665-9679
Preplanning will give you peace of mind and may save money
K CONSTRUCTION AND PAINTING New Construction Remodel - Roofing Flooring
Jason Finck Tabor, SD 57063
605-589-3228 1-800-894-3228 Furnaces, Heat Pumps and Air Conditioners Free Estimates
Feel the power of data in your hands with SmartHub mobile and web apps. SmartHub allows you to view your usage data and manage your account right from your mobile device in a secure environment. Go to www.byelectric.coop and follow the link to the SmartHub site or download the free app on Google Play or iTunes.
605-660-3204 July 2018 | Cooperative Connections
11
YOUR HOME
Energy Audits Savings You Can Count On Derrill Holly National Rural Electric Cooperative Association
Better energy efficiency at home starts with savings, not sales, and an energy audit conducted by a trained energy advisor can help you get there.
She also checks household systems many homeowners seldom see or consider unless they spend time with their HVAC technician. “One home I visited had an overflowing air handler water pan and extreme fungal growth” said Heyn. “Some members, particularly renters, don’t realize that their HVAC systems have an air filter. When they are dirty, they can freeze up the system and cause an increase in power consumption.”
“Members are our community and we are the experts in the electric energy arena,” said Manuela Heyn, an energy services representative for Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative, who is also a member of the Southport, Florida-based Co-op. “We have the tools, knowledge and commitment to assist our people. Saving energy can also help shave peak loads.”
Expert advice
Heyn conducted her first energy audits with very basic tools: a flashlight, laser temperature gun and candy thermometer (to check water heater output temperature). She now has access to more sophisticated equipment such as thermal imaging equipment.
Training focused on both new construction techniques designed to improve energy efficiency and retrofitting options for upgraded older housing are common. Specialized training for multi-family units and manufactured housing are also common.
Members become frantic when they see a major increase in the power bill and want almost immediate answers as to why. In conjunction with experience and the ability to refer to meter data reports, the process of identifying major power consumption problems has been simplified and resolved in many instances in the office. During on-site audits, she uses all her senses to find abnormalities such as hot water line leaks, running well pumps, damaged power cords, construction issues – one case leading to spongy drywall, disconnected ducts and lack of insulation to name a few. 12
Cooperative Connections | July 2018
Many of the electric co-ops that provide energy audits support professional development for energy advisors that includes exposure to building science concepts.
“By providing a picture of how energy is used in the home, people can concentrate on what can save them the most energy,” said Eileen Wysocki, an energy auditor with Holy Cross Energy, headquartered in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Wysocki starts with a baseload estimate of energy use based upon meter data. Talking with the consumer-member, she learns about household size and behavior patterns, and considers seasonal factors like heat tape used to prevent water lines from freezing. “We have many ‘second homes’ in our service territory,” said Wysocki, adding that even when those homes are empty, energy use continues. “Fan coil blower motors, whole house humidi-
YOUR HOME fiers, boiler pumps, ventilation systems, driveway snowmelt pumps, pool pumps, hot tubs, garage heaters, heated toilet seats and towel bars are using energy, regardless of occupancy.” The co-op serves Colorado’s popular ski areas around Aspen and Vail, and is currently designing a new audit form. It will stress benefits members can receive through efficiency upgrades, including comfort, said Mary Wiener, energy efficiency program administrator for Holy Cross Energy. Co-ops that offer energy audits use the service to reinforce their roles as trusted energy advisors, helping members save energy in an effort to help them control their electricity costs. While some co-ops provide complementary audits free of charge, especially when they are requested in response to high bill concerns, others may charge a small fee, offering rebates to members who implement some of the recommendations provided. Time spent with an energy auditor can help a member avoid ineffective upgrades or the purchase of outsized equipment
that might not improve their comfort or produce savings through recoverable costs.
Offering solutions
An energy advisor’s home visit usually gets far more attention than a brief discussion
On average, a member can reduce their energy use by about 5 percent if they follow the low-cost or no-cost advice given during the audit. about energy efficiency at a co-op district meeting, a county fair or other community event. Most audits are initiated following a request tied to high bill concerns, when members are really motivated to control their energy costs. On average, a member can reduce their
energy use by about 5 percent if they follow the low-cost or no-cost advice given during the audit. Additional savings of up to 20 percent can be achieved by addressing issues with big-ticket items, such as HVAC replacement, attic insulation or major duct repair discovered during the audit. Improved energy efficiency not only helps the co-op control peak demand and wholesale power costs, it also provides opportunities to discuss services available to members. Those include rebates, weatherization programs and payment assistance. To learn more about energy audits available to you, contact your local electric cooperative. Derrill Holly writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives. From growing suburbs to remote farming communities, electric co-ops serve as engines of economic development for 42 million Americans across 56 percent of the nation’s landscape.
July 2018 | Cooperative Connections
13
ON THE ROAD
Amanda Groethe and Whitney Ditlevson drove from Stearns Electric Association’s Melrose, Minnesota, headquarters to Salt Lake City in a Tesla Model 3. Their route took them along Interstate 90 through Worthington, Minn., Mitchell, Chamberlain, Murdo, Wall and Rapid City, S.D. (Photo Courtesy of Stearns EA)
EV ROAD TRIP Co-ops’ Road Trips Lead to Valuable Research on Long-Distance EV Travel Derrill Holly National Rural Electric Cooperative Association
Charging is the next big hurdle for long-haul travel in electric vehicles, and the nation’s electric cooperatives could play huge roles in delivering sustainable solutions for their consumer-members and other travelers. “Charging presents a challenge. We who live in and drive through rural America still charge our vehicles, but it often requires more creativity, more time, or help from a friend,” said Alan Shedd, director of energy solutions for Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives. “Ready access to public charging is not commonplace in rural areas.” The Touchstone Energy Drive to CONNECT Event, during which teams of co-op employees from different parts of the U.S. drove EVs to a conference in Utah, provided opportunities for real-time research on long-distance travel. The event involved the use of several different vehicles, including plug-in hybrids and a range of EVs produced by different manufacturers, and the research took into account the various routes, driving conditions and charging options. An EV enthusiast for nearly 45 years and a national expert on the topic, Shedd has made many trips covering more than 200,000 miles using both plug-in hybrid vehicles and EVs. That experience has paid off in knowing when, how and where to plug in. 14
Cooperative Connections | July 2018
“I’m a member of four different charging networks,” Shedd admits. But he still keeps extension cords, adapter plugs, a custom charger, tools and test equipment handy so he can plug in at a motel or other location where EV chargers are not available. “There are still large areas of the country that are underserved,” said Shedd. “You don’t have to stray far from an interstate or urban area to outrun charging convenience.”
Road-Tested Travelers
Shedd was among the co-op staffers who spent several days in May learning firsthand about the challenges facing motorists traveling long distances in electric cars. While electric vehicles are gaining popularity for commuter use, with home and workplace charging options becoming more common, experience with longrange travel remains limited. “Driving cross-country is part of the American psyche – the lure of the open road,” said Shedd. “We take the car for granted while not too many years ago a cross-country trip in a gas-powered car was a big undertaking and not altogether certain.” Sharing their adventures on social media using the hashtag #DriveEVent, teams started out in six states with a goal of arriving in Salt Lake City on or before May 7 so they could discuss their travels at a pre-conference workshop. While every team arrived in time, some faced more challenges than others.
Mike Smith and his son Colin, 16, drove a Chevy Bolt from Cayce, South Carolina, to Salt Lake City by way of Interstate 80 and documented parts of the trip on Twitter. “The route we chose had everything to do with charging availability and avoiding the mountains if we could,” said Smith, vice president of business and technology strategy for The Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina. In Wyoming, they used a 240-volt dryer outlet to charge the car at one stop and a 50 amp campground power pedestal at another. “We did a 5,000 mile road trip in a first-generation Honda Insight gasoline-powered car last year, and sometimes covered 1,100 miles a day,” said Smith, who traveled 2,116 miles one-way to Utah. “This time we had trouble doing 300 to 400 miles a day through Nebraska and Wyoming because of the lack of fast chargers.” Direct current fast chargers (DCFC) operate at high power outputs of between 20 and 150 kilowatts, said Smith. “The fastest we have been able to charge the Bolt is 45 kW, which adds 170 miles of range per hour of charging. If a DCFC is not available, our next choice is a Level II charger, which adds between 20 and 30 miles of range per hour.” Mike Smith of The Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina and his son, Colin, recharged their Chevy Bolt at a public library in Park City, Utah. (Photo Courtesy of ECSC)
“This is what we had to use on the last half of our trip,” Smith added “If we are really desperate for a charge, which we weren’t this time, we can get a Level I charge from a standard 20 amp 120 volt outlet, delivering a paltry five miles of driving range per hour. At that rate, a full charge would take about 46 hours for our car.”
The event involved the use of several different vehicles. “We could drive for about three hours and then we had to charge for six,” said Colin Smith. “Our days and nights got mixed up towards the end. When the car was fully charged, we went; but when the car needed a charge we stopped and slept while the car was charging.” Two employees of Melrose, Minnesota-based Stearns Electric Association made much better time in a Tesla Model S, in part because they had access to Tesla’s fast-charging network. Amanda Groethe and Whitney Ditlevson, who staff Stearns Electric’s communications and marketing department, made the 1,216-mile trip to Salt Lake City with just nine recharging stops, and none of those
ON THE ROAD
lasted more than two hours.
With planning, they were able to time charging stops to coincide with meal breaks or sight-seeing, and the Tesla charging stations were always conveniently nearby. “Generally the Tesla was fully charged by the time we were done with everything we wanted to do,” said Groethe. She added that on a typical road trip with her family, she’d stop every two or three hours to see to the needs of her younger children.
The Cooperative Key
Teams from Montana and Colorado also completed the trip, but William Boyd Lee, vice president of strategic planning at CKEnergy, faced big challenges trying to get his Chevy Bolt from Binger, Oklahoma, to Salt Lake City. “Charging facilities west of Oklahoma City and up to Albuquerque, New Mexico are very lacking,” said Lee, who blogged about facing frustrating detours and charging equipment performance issues, in Amarillo, Texas. Lee and his son, Jay, 27, decided to tow his EV to Salt Lake City from Oklahoma with a gasoline-fueled F150 pickup truck, but his data will help provide a comparison to EV travels to be discussed in an upcoming Touchstone Energy national webinar. Increased consumer demand for EVs and the need for manufacturers to ensure that charging options are available will create opportunities for private-sector investment in charging stations, said Lee. He added that it could also offer new markets for power sales for electric cooperatives. “With more automotive manufacturers entering the EV market, there’s a lot of incentive for building out a reliable charging network,” said Lee. “Electric vehicles are going to be a huge part of our world in the years ahead.” Derrill Holly writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives. From growing suburbs to remote farming communities, electric co-ops serve as engines of economic development for 42 million Americans across 56 percent of the nation’s landscape.
July 2018 | Cooperative Connections
15
DATELINE
June 21-23
Crystal Springs Rodeo, Clear Lake, SD, 605-874-2996
June 21-23
Senior Games, Mitchell, SD, Contact Howard Bich at 605-491-0635 Oahe Days Arts & Music Festival, Pierre, SD, oahedaysinfo@gmail.com
June 22-24
Annual Main Street Arts and Crafts Festival, Hot Springs, SD, 605-440-2738
July 29: 13th Annual Langford Car Show, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., trophies awarded at 1:30, Park of the Pines, Langford, SD, Contact Russell Nickelson at 605-493-6597
June 29
Naja Shrine Circus, Wall, SD, 605-342-3402
June 29-July 1
Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Annual Wacipi, Agency Village, SD, 605-698-8284
July 6-7
Senior Games, Madison, SD, Contact Bernie Schuurmans at 605-270-3327
July 6-8, 13-15, 20-22
June 30
Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant, 8 p.m., Pageant Site, De Smet, SD, 800-880-3383
June 30-July 1
July 7, 21, Aug. 25, Sept. 8, 22
Naja Shrine Circus, Deadwood, SD, 605-342-3402 Archeology Awareness Days, Mitchell, SD, 605-996-5473
June 30-July 1
The Great Outdoor Festival, Pierre, SD, 605-224-7361
June 30-July 4
99th Annual Black Hills Roundup, Belle Fourche, SD, 605-723-2010
July 1
Naja Shrine Circus, Lemmon, SD, 605-342-3402
July 2-4
Sitting Bull Stampede Rodeo, Mobridge, SD, 605-845-2387
July 3-5
Frontier Days Rodeo, Interior, SD, 605-455-1000
Lawn Mower Races, Pukwana, SD, 605-680-1718 or 605-682-9781
July 10-15
4th Annual 3 Wheeler Rally, Deadwood, SD, 605-717-7174, www.d3wr.com
July 12-15
Hot Harley Nights, Sioux Falls, SD, 605-334-2721
July 13-14
Senior Games, Aberdeen, SD, Contact Gene Morsching at 605-216-2822
July 14
Cruiser Car Show and Street Fair, Rapid City, SD, 605-716-7979
July 14-15
July 21
July 18-21
August 17-19
Summer Arts Festival, Brookings, SD, 605-692-2787 Black Hills Corvette Classic, Spearfish, SD, 605-759-4530
July 18-21
Senior Games, Rapid City, SD, Contact Kristi Lintz at 605-394-4168
July 20-21
Senior Games, Brookings, SD, Contact Traci Saugstad at 605-692-4492
July 20-21
Gumbo Ridge Bronc Ride and Ranch Rodeo, Murdo, SD, 605-669-3031
July 20-21
JazzFest, Sioux Falls, SD, 605-335-6101
July 20-21
Storybook Land Festival, Aberdeen, SD, 605-626-7015
July 20-22
Annual Gem & Mineral Show, Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, Rapid City, SD, 605-269-2015
Annual Heritage Music Fest, Elk Point, SD, 605-366-9466 Yankton Riverboat Days and Summer Arts Festival, Yankton, SD, 605-665-1657
August 18
Riverboat Days Bull Riding Tour, 7:30 p.m., New Location: 404 Paddle Wheel Drive, Yankton, SD, 605-760-2153
To have your event listed on this page, send complete information, including date, event, place and contact to your local electric cooperative. Include your name, address and daytime telephone number. Information must be submitted at least eight weeks prior to your event. Please call ahead to confirm date, time and location of event.
Photo courtesy: Langford SD Facebook Page
June 22-23