MRES Today May-June 2026

CONNECTED BY PURPOSE: MRES 2026 ANNUAL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

Missouri River Energy Services (MRES) welcomed members, community leaders and industry partners to its 2026 Annual Meeting May 6-7 at the Sioux Falls Convention Center. The meeting centered on the theme Connected by Purpose; a reflection of the shared mission that continues to guide public power.

President and CEO Matt Schull opened the meeting by recognizing the people behind that mission. “Public power only works because of the people in this room,” he said. His remarks set the tone for a meeting focused on navigating change — balancing reliability, affordability and growth while adapting to evolving industry demands. Board Chair Vernell Roberts later reinforced that message while highlighting the incredible accomplishments of MRES staff and the membership.

“The strength of MRES is in us — the membership,” Roberts said. “And in our ability to work together.”

“The strength of MRES is in us — the membership. And in our ability to work together.”

- Vernell Roberts, MRES board chair

Throughout the meeting, sessions explored the challenges and opportunities ahead for public power. A panel on the power of joint action and shared purpose, moderated by Roberts, featured Chris Lawrence, executive director of MidWest Electric Consumers Association, and Gayle Nansel, senior leader with Western Area Power Administration, who emphasized the importance of collaboration in an increasingly complex energy environment.

“A unified voice matters. ... When we’re talking and collaborating it helps us understand why we’re doing what we’re doing,” Nansel said.

Additional sessions addressed key topics such as securing power supply for the next generation, turning purpose into policy and understanding the public power customer of the future.

Across discussions, a consistent message emerged: while the industry is evolving, the core values of public power remain strong.

A key topic of the meeting focused on the future of MRES’ long-term member power sale agreements, known as the S-1 Agreements. Schull and MRES General Counsel

Dan Harmelink outlined the importance of these agreements, which support long-term planning, financing and system reliability. The proposed extension would maintain a rolling 40-year term, helping ensure continued stability and competitive wholesale rates.

Members also heard insights from GreatBlue Research CEO Michael Vigeant, who shared about recent residential customer satisfaction studies MRES conducted with participating utilities. The study provided a clearer understanding of customer priorities for those members, including reliability and interest in energy programs.

Vigeant emphasized the value of combining broad trends with community-specific insights, helping utilities better understand and respond to changing expectations.

“Having data for your organization is not a nice-to-have, it’s a must-have,” Vigeant said.

Department tables gave members direct access to MRES staff across key service areas, including energy services, cybersecurity, rate studies, communications, large load planning and more. This allowed members to ask questions, explore programs and connect directly with the teams supporting their communities. At the same time, staff gained valuable feedback, reinforcing the connection between services and member needs.

The event reflected the strong sense of community that defines MRES and its membership.

For the second year, the meeting included a preconference session, MRES Essentials 101, designed for new community

“Public power has always been about connection. Connection to our communities. Connection to each other. And connection to something bigger than ourselves. That hasn’t changed.”

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members, elected officials and staff. The session provided an overview of MRES operations and services, helping attendees build a strong foundation for understanding MRES and its member structure.

From strategic discussions to personal connections, the 2026 Annual Meeting highlighted both the complexity of the energy landscape and the strength of the public power model.

Wrapped in all of it, a clear message emerged: the path forward will require continued collaboration and adaptability. With that foundation in place, MRES and its members remain wellpositioned, and truly connected by purpose.

“Public power has always been about connection. Connection to our communities. Connection to each other. And connection to something bigger than ourselves. That hasn’t changed,” Schull said.

HARVEY RECEIVES COMMUNITY LEADER AWARD

Each year, MRES recognizes individuals whose dedication strengthens both their local utility and the broader public power community. The Community Leader Award honors those who go beyond their role — advocating for municipal utilities, supporting sound energy policy and serving their communities with consistency and purpose.

This year’s Community Leader Award honoree is Tim Harvey from Brookings, South Dakota.

The award reflects the spirit of public power: local leadership, long-term commitment and a focus on community benefit. Recipients are often deeply involved in utility governance, civic organizations and regional initiatives, bringing valuable insight and steady leadership to the decisions that shape their hometowns. Harvey exemplifies those qualities. With nearly two decades of service on the Brookings Municipal Utilities Board, including time as board president, Harvey has been a strong advocate for reliable, community-owned power. His leadership and involvement at both the local and national levels highlight the lasting impact one committed individual can have.

MRES Ambassadors gathered for a productive working lunch prior to the start of the annual meeting. Attending (from left) were Deb Weg, Worthington, Minnesota; Madalyn Sukke, Detroit Lakes, Minnesota; Stephen Condon, Lakefield, Minnesota; Rob Wolfington, Benson, Minnesota; Carol Laumer, Willmar, Minnesota; Rich Holland, Vermillion, South Dakota; Bobbie Osterberg, Alexandria, Minnesota; Steve Harding, Pierre, South Dakota; Gloria Hanson, Fort Pierre, South Dakota; Patrick Baustian, Luverne, Minnesota; and Dave Carlsrud, Valley City, North Dakota.

MRES members were recognized for their support of the Light Up Navajo project, a two-year, member-driven effort bringing electricity to homes across the Navajo Nation. Volunteer lineworkers from member utilities and MRES crews helped connect homes and build miles of line, often completing projects ahead of schedule. The Navajo Tribal Utility Authority provided appreciation plaques featuring cultural symbolism, including white and yellow corn representing renewal and generational change. During the annual meeting, participating utilities were recognized, highlighting the collective impact of public power.

BOARD APPOINTMENTS AND RETIREMENTS

GWEN CRAWFORD JOINS THE MRES BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Gwen Crawford has joined the MRES board of directors bringing a practical, community-focused perspective rooted in her experience in local government. Crawford serves as city administrator and public information officer for Valley City, North Dakota, where she oversees municipal operations, supports long-term planning and ensures clear communication with residents. Her work sits at the intersection of leadership and problem-solving.

“Local government allows me to work directly with communities, address real challenges and help guide decisions that shape the future,” Crawford said.

Raised on a farm in Roca, Nebraska, Crawford developed a strong work ethic and commitment to stewardship early in life. She later earned a Bachelor of Science in agribusiness from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and found her path in work that creates meaningful impact.

In Valley City, Crawford works with elected officials and residents to move key initiatives forward. Whether addressing infrastructure needs, managing budgets or planning for growth, she values the teamwork and variety her role brings. Her leadership has been recognized with the North Dakota League of Cities Leadership Excellence Award for an Appointed Official.

As she begins her role with MRES, Crawford is focused on learning from fellow board members and sees the position as an opportunity to represent Valley City and support regional efforts to support public power.

“I value the ability to collaborate with other member communities and be part of long-term energy planning,” she said. Crawford acknowledges the challenges ahead, including aging infrastructure, workforce shortages and increasing service expectations. Through her leadership and collaborative approach, Crawford brings a grounded voice to MRES and the communities it serves.

DAVE CARLSRUD RETIRES FROM MRES BOARD

After years of dedicated service, Valley City, North Dakota, Mayor Dave Carlsrud retired in March from the MRES board of directors with a legacy of steady leadership and focus.

Carlsrud served six years on the MRES board, including as fourth vice chair. He was drawn to MRES by its strong municipal power mission and culture, often emphasizing that “our employees are our most valuable assets.” He took pride in the organization’s teamwork and the quality of service provided to member communities.

As mayor since 2016, Carlsrud brought a thoughtful, service-first approach to decision-making, focused on being informed and doing “the next right thing.” His leadership helped guide important decisions and maintain stability through challenges.

He also valued MRES’ role in supporting members through expertise, training and reliable energy services.

In retirement, Carlsrud looks forward to slowing down, golfing and spending time with family, while encouraging future leaders to stay informed and treat people right.

FROM THE EXECUTIVE TEAM: SUPPORTING MEMBERS BEYOND POWER SUPPLY

2026 MEMBER SURVEY & MEETINGS

In even-numbered years, MRES conducts its Member Survey along with in-person visits with each member community. During May and June, executive staff are meeting with member utility leaders to review the survey and discuss priorities, challenges and opportunities. These visits provide a valuable touchpoint to stay connected, gather feedback and ensure MRES services continue to evolve with member needs.

While providing reliable, affordable power remains foundational, the value MRES delivers for members extends beyond energy supply. Our focus is also on equipping members with the tools, expertise, programs and support needed to operate efficiently and serve your communities as if every resource is at your fingertips.

The services MRES offers are broad. From engineering and technical services to strategic planning and communications support, our teams work alongside members to address both day-to-day needs and long-term priorities. System planning, infrastructure insights, navigating regulatory requirements — these areas of expertise are just some examples of the additional experienced professionals available for members who understand the unique challenges of public power.

A key area of focus continues to be operational efficiency. Programs such as load control and AMI support help members better manage demand and enhance customer service. Energy efficiency initiatives through Bright Energy Solutions® provide tools to reduce costs for businesses and residents and engage customers in meaningful ways. These services are designed to help grow energy efficiency and to create measurable value for each and every community we serve.

Alex Abplanalp, vice president & chief strategy officer

“As the energy landscape continues to evolve, MRES remains focused on delivering services that are relevant, practical and aligned with member needs, big or small.”

We are also committed to strengthening connections across our membership. This year, we are introducing “Coffee Connections,” a monthly training series that offers brief, focused sessions on key programs and services. Be on the lookout for the invitations. These interactive meetings are designed to provide insights while creating opportunities for dialogue, questions and shared learning.

2025-2026

SMART ENERGY SQUAD STATS

Additionally, providing communications support, through Value of Public Power marketing materials and resources, helps engage members of every community and create ambassadors of public power.

Supporting members also means investing in relationships and community impact. From engagement strategies to co-sponsorship opportunities for local events, MRES provides resources that help members build stronger connections to the people you serve. Education is a key component. With programs like the Smart Energy Squad educational program and scholarships (read about this year’s recipients on page 10), we’re creating full-circle opportunities for the next generation. These efforts reflect the broader role public power plays — not just as an energy service provider, but as a community partner.

As the energy landscape continues to evolve, MRES remains focused on delivering services that are relevant, practical and aligned with member needs, big or small. We’re combining technical expertise, innovative programs and ongoing support, and we’re committed to helping members succeed in a changing environment.

Find information about all these services and more on the mrenergy.com Members Only site. If you don’t currently have access, please reach out to us at info@mrenergy.com.

MRES AND MEMBER AWARDS REFLECT PUBLIC POWER EXCELLENCE

Every time the lights turn on, a business opens its doors or a family gathers at home, there are people and resources working behind the scenes to make it possible.

Across the MRES membership, that work is constant. It’s built on preparation and a shared commitment to serving every community with safe, reliable power — day in and day out. That commitment was recognized in late March at the national level in the areas of electric reliability, operational excellence and safety through the American Public Power Association (APPA). For MRES and its member utilities, the recognition reflects something deeper than awards, it reflects the work done every day for every customer.

“Everything we do comes back to the people we serve,” said Matt Schull, MRES president and CEO. “Our members are serving neighbors, businesses and entire communities that depend on reliable power every day.”

EXCELLENCE IN RELIABILITY

That focus is reflected in national recognition for electric reliability. For 2025, 21 MRES member utilities and one associate ranked in the top 25% of public power utilities for reliability nationwide based on APPA benchmarking data.

Congratulations to the following members:

ALP UTILITIES

ATLANTIC MUNICIPAL UTILITIES

BROOKINGS MUNICIPAL UTILITIES

CITY OF BARNESVILLE

CITY OF BENSON LIGHT & WATER DEPARTMENT

CITY OF LUVERNE

CITY OF ORTONVILLE

CITY OF PELLA

CITY OF STAPLES

DETROIT LAKES PUBLIC UTILITIES

HUTCHINSON UTILITIES COMMISSION

JACKSON MUNICIPAL UTILITIES

LAKOTA MUNICIPAL UTILITIES

MARSHALL MUNICIPAL UTILITIES

MOORHEAD PUBLIC SERVICE

OLIVIA MUNICIPAL UTILITIES

PIERRE MUNICIPAL UTILITIES

SAUK CENTRE PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION

VALLEY CITY PUBLIC WORKS

WADENA LIGHT & WATER DEPARTMENT

WATERTOWN MUNICIPAL UTILITIES

WILLMAR MUNICIPAL UTILITIES

RP3 RECOGNITION

Several member utilities also earned recognition through APPA’s Reliable Public Power Provider (RP3) program, which highlights excellence in reliability, safety, workforce development and system improvement. It requires detailed documentation and follows industry best practices. Reliability focuses on data analysis, emergency planning and security. Safety emphasizes a strong culture, training and consistent protocols. Workforce development highlights ongoing employee training and professional engagement. System improvement centers on asset management, long-term planning and maintaining system integrity through research and development efforts. This is a three-year recognition.

Congratulations to the following members:

DIAMOND

BROOKINGS MUNICIPAL UTILITIES — 2025

DETROIT LAKES PUBLIC UTILITIES — 2026

MARSHALL MUNICIPAL UTILITIES — 2026

WILLMAR MUNICIPAL UTILITIES — 2026

PLATINUM

ALP UTILITIES —2026

MOORHEAD PUBLIC SERVICE — 2025

“Everything we do comes back to the people we serve. Our members are serving neighbors, businesses and entire communities that depend on reliable power every day.”

- Matt Schull, MRES president and CEO EXCELLENCE IN SAFETY

That commitment extends to safety, which remains foundational within MRES and across the membership. For 2025, MRES earned a platinum-level APPA Safety Award of Excellence in Group D for utilities with 60,000 to 109,999 worker-hours of annual exposure. More than 240 utilities entered, with rankings based on incident rates and overall safety performance, as defined by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration). This recognition continues MRES’ strong record of safety achievement, reflecting its commitment to maintaining safe operations.

Several member utilities were also recognized for their strong safety performance. Congratulations to the following members: DIAMOND

ALP UTILITIES

DETROIT LAKES PUBLIC UTILITIES

HUTCHINSON UTILITIES COMMISSION

PLATINUM

DENISON MUNICIPAL UTILITIES

MARSHALL MUNICIPAL UTILITIES

MOORHEAD PUBLIC SERVICE

WILLMAR MUNICIPAL UTILITIES

These honors reflect a culture where safety is not treated as a checklist, but as a shared responsibility that protects employees on the job and carries into their lives at home.

Together, these three distinct recognitions of reliability, RP3 and safety tell a broader story about public power. They reflect the strength of local utilities that are deeply connected to their communities and committed to delivering dependable service in every situation.

STRENGTHENING THE TRANSMISSION SYSTEM: MISSOURI RIVER ENERGY SERVICES’ ROLE

As energy demand grows and the generation landscape continues to evolve, MRES is working to help advance major transmission investments designed to strengthen reliability and support long-term regional and member needs.

According to MRES Director of Transmission Richard Dahl, these efforts represent a coordinated approach to reinforcing regional 345-kilovolt (kV) transmission while also improving reliability closer to the communities it serves.

While transmission lines may appear as simple structures from the road, developing them requires long-term planning and complex engineering and routing. Many of the large projects now underway were identified through the Midcontinent Independent System Operator’s (MISO) Long Range Transmission Planning (LRTP) process. This regional effort evaluates future grid needs across the MISO footprint, helping identify upgrades that maintain reliability, improve resilience during extreme weather, reduce congestion and increase access to lower-cost energy.

The 345-kV projects involving MRES are a key part of that broader regional strategy.

One significant project is the Big Stone South to Alexandria (BSSA) 345-kV project, co-owned with Otter Tail Power Company. Currently advancing through development, including Minnesota’s route permitting process, the line will create a new high-voltage connection between the Alexandria, Minnesota, area and Big Stone City, South Dakota area. This transmission line will increase transfer capability and strengthen reliability across western Minnesota and eastern South Dakota, while also helping relieve congestion on the regional grid.

Closely tied to BSSA is the Alexandria to Big Oaks (ABO) 345-kV project, developed in partnership with the CapX Fargo owners that also includes MRES/Western Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (WMMPA). This line will connect Alexandria to an area near Becker, Minnesota, further enhancing the regional transmission network. Planning and coordination efforts continue as the project moves through development milestones. “The ABO project complements BSSA,” Dahl said. “Together, they strengthen the regional transmission system and improve reliability.” The BSSA and ABO projects, which come with substantial expansion of the MRES Alexandria Substation, are part of MISO’s Tranche 1 LRTP projects.

In addition, early development is underway for a second 345-kV circuit between the Bison Substation near Fargo, North Dakota, and the Alexandria Substation. Like the other major projects, this line was identified through MISO LRTP process but is part of the Tranche 2.1 portfolio of board-approved projects.

Along with these large-scale investments, MRES is also addressing more localized transmission needs in collaboration with utility partners.

In western Minnesota, progress continues on the Appleton to Benson 115-kV project. Plans include construction of a new Appleton Substation to replace the existing facility, along with upgrades to the high side of the Benson Municipal Utilities Substation. Engineering and design work are underway, with the project aimed at enhancing reliability for the local area. The project has received a Certificate of Need and Route Permit from the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission. MRES/WMMPA will own the 115-kV side of the Benson Municipal Substation and the new Appleton Substation. A detailed schedule is presently being developed for the project expected to be completed in a few years.

“While it’s a lower voltage than the 345-kV projects, this investment is just as important locally,” Dahl said. “It provides additional support and operational flexibility for communities like Benson, Minnesota.”

All transmission projects must also move through a rigorous permitting and regulatory process before construction begins, including certificates of need, route permits, or alike and other approvals from state and federal agencies. Projects such as BSSA and the Bison–Alexandria second circuit are currently progressing through these steps.

Collectively, these transmission investments position MRES to meet future demand and support reliability for members for decades to come.

“Transmission is what connects generation to the communities that need power,” Dahl said. “These projects help ensure that as the electric grid evolves, our members will continue to have reliable service.”

That evolution is already underway. Across the Upper Midwest, the energy system is changing as new renewable generation comes online and older plants retire. At the same time, demand for electricity continues to grow. These shifts are placing increasing pressure on the existing transmission system.

Projects like BSSA directly address these challenges. As one of 18 major transmission projects identified in MISO’s Tranche 1 portfolio, BSSA and the other projects are designed to enhance reliability, improve resilience to extreme weather, reduce congestion and expand access to lower-cost energy across the region.

“Transmission is what connects generation to the communities that need power. These projects help ensure that as the electric grid evolves, our members will continue to have reliable service.”

- Richard Dahl, MRES director of transmission

LEARN MORE ABOUT EACH OF THESE PROJECTS

Big Stone South – Alexandria (BSSA) 345 kV

https://www.bigstonesouthtoalexandria.com/

Alexandria – Big Oaks (ABO) 345 kV

https://www.alexandriatobigoaks.com/

Appleton – Benson 115 kV

https://greatriverenergy.com/transmission_project/ appleton-to-benson-115-kv-transmission-line/

Bison – Alexandria 2nd 345 kV circuit

https://fargotoalexandria.com/

MRES INVESTS IN THE NEXT GENERATION OF ENERGY LEADERS

MRES continues its commitment to strengthening communities by investing in the next generation. This year, MRES awarded 12 scholarships to high school graduates across its member communities, supporting both academic pathways and careers in the energy industry.

“At MRES, we’re proud to support students as they take the next step after high school,” said President and CEO Matt Schull. “These scholarships reflect our commitment to building a strong future workforce.”

Five students received $1,000 renewable general scholarships, which may be renewed for up to three additional years.

RECIPIENTS OF $1,000 RENEWABLE GENERAL SCHOLARSHIPS

Ryken Orel of Winner, South Dakota, will attend Augustana University to study civil engineering.

Thea Jennewein of Vermillion, South Dakota, plans to study electrical engineering at Arizona State University.

Anna Banck of Luverne, Minnesota, will attend the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, majoring in mathematics.

Malory Kemp of Cavalier, North Dakota, will study civil engineering at South Dakota State University.

Kyra Van Berkum of Rock Rapids, Iowa, will attend Concordia University, majoring in mathematics.

MRES also awarded seven $2,000 one-time powerline scholarships to students pursuing technical training essential to maintaining reliable electric service.

RECIPIENTS OF $2,000 ONE-TIME POWERLINE SCHOLARSHIP

Cameron Markuson of Henning, Minnesota, will enroll in the Substation Electrician Program at Minnesota State Community and Technical College in Wadena.

Colten Preheim of Parker, South Dakota, will attend Mitchell Technical College. ⊳

Lucas Klepel of Odessa, Minnesota, will each attend Mitchell Technical College.

Kody Kneebone of Flandreau, South Dakota, will attend Mitchell Technical College. ⊳

Karter Weber of Plankinton, South Dakota, will attend Mitchell Technical College.

Tye McGraw of Raymond, South Dakota, will attend Mitchell Technical College. ⊳

Sutton Squires of Alexandria, South Dakota, will attend Mitchell Technical College.

These students are preparing for careers that are critical to keeping communities powered and connected. Whether pursuing engineering, mathematics or hands-on technical training, each recipient represents the future of public power. By supporting education across multiple pathways, MRES is helping ensure a skilled workforce ready to meet the evolving needs of its member communities for years to come.

HOW MRES DELIVERS VALUE THROUGH TAILORED SUPPORT

For MRES members using Tyler Technologies software across their operations, support doesn’t feel like a help desk, it feels like having a trusted partner on call. At the center of that experience is Karen Parkinson, MRES utility billing and software support specialist, whose approach is simple: teach, guide and empower. Parkinson currently supports 27 MRES member utilities, helping them get the most out of the CIS (customer information system) and utility billing software. Rather than just fixing issues, she focuses on helping staff understand the “why” behind the solution so they can move forward with confidence. That approach has made a measurable impact — hundreds of member issues and requests handled already so far this year with quick response and solution turnaround. Her work goes beyond troubleshooting. Karen provides handson training, monthly tips, workflow optimization and guidance on everything from billing cycles to reporting and system configuration. She also partners with members to understand their unique operations, ensuring the software truly supports their day-to-day needs.

In an environment where traditional software support can mean long wait times and repeated explanations, Parkinson provides responsiveness and real-world utility knowledge. Her background working directly with city utilities allows her to

MEMBERS CONSISTENTLY POINT TO THE DIFFERENCE THIS PERSONALIZED SUPPORT MAKES.

“Karen has helped us streamline processes and solve issues we didn’t even realize had better solutions. Her guidance has saved us time and reduced frustration across the board.”

“She knows us by first name, understands what we do and has taken the time to learn how our city operates. That alone reduces stress in the office when we need something resolved quickly.”

“Karen already knows our history and how we operate, which makes the process much more efficient and leads to quicker solutions.”

- Janet Brown, city clerk, Orange City Municipal Utilities, IA

“Karen is really good at explaining processes and creating instructions so our team stays consistent. That has been extremely helpful as things change in the software.”

- Joy Kiefert, lead accounting clerk, Valley City Public Works, ND

“With her insight into the software, she can quickly identify solutions and connect us with the right resources. As someone newer to the role, that support has been invaluable.”

- Jennifer South, public works finance specialist, Valley City Public Works, ND

“Karen has offered many valuable tips, tricks and solutions for WMU. … We take pride in having her on our team and know she is just a click or phone call away. Thank you MRES for offering this valuable service to our utility.”

- Janell Johnson, director of administration, Willmar Municipal Utilities, MN

Sioux Falls, SD 57109-8920