The fourth annual Great River Energy Minnesota Paddling Opener, held June 13-15, was the event’s largest yet — marking the first year under its new name and drawing over 500 participants and spectators from across the United States and beyond. Paddlers selected from five courses ranging in distance from 145 miles to the 5-mile “Root […]
Paddling Opener draws crowds to the Mississippi River Read More »
Electric cooperatives support local tourism by powering many of Minnesota’s lake resorts Minnesota’s iconic lake resorts are the heartbeat of many rural communities. They generate economic activity, preserve traditions and offer visitors an unforgettable escape into nature. With 11,842 lakes and 755 resorts and lodges across the state, these businesses, which are often family owned,
Cabin country is co-op country Read More »
Electrical contact incident serves as reminder of importance of electrical safety, emergency preparedness Two electric cooperative crews traveling to a job site came upon an emergency situation and stopped to respond, utilizing safety protocols they’d been trained in to help the injured. Four Dakota Electric Association (DEA) employees came upon the aftermath of a semi-truck
Quick action saves a life Read More »
Great River Energy employees rolled up their sleeves to support the Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity organization by helping to build new homes in Prior Lake in May. This year, employees — primarily from the transmission division — worked on a set of four townhomes. Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity is committed to building the
Employees spend week working with Habitat for Humanity Read More »
Minnesota Paddling Opener brings people to the Mississippi River Great River Energy was recently named title sponsor of an event that ties together the great Minnesota outdoors, the Mississippi River and portions of its member-owner service territory. The Minnesota Paddling Opener is an annual celebration that attracts hundreds of paddlers — people who kayak, canoe
New title sponsorship connects co-ops with river communities Read More »
An annual program that brings a hands-on Minnesota Twins experience to youth in every corner of the state begins again this May through a partnership between Great River Energy and the Twins Community Fund. For more than 60 years, the Play Ball! Minnesota Youth Clinics have provided a free opportunity for participants from ages 6
Clinics bring a Twins experience to town Read More »
The board of directors for Great River Energy member-owner cooperative East Central Energy (ECE) approved four new Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) loans in 2024, providing $730,000 in financing to support a variety of economic development and business expansion projects in east central Minnesota. From food processing to fire trucks, this RLF — supported by the
East Central Energy’s financing program sees busy year Read More »
Each year, a statewide group of electric cooperatives conducts a program that recognizes local organizations — oftentimes nonprofits — that bring value to and make a positive impact on the communities they serve. Minnesota’s Touchstone Energy Cooperatives are part of a national network of electric cooperatives across 46 states dedicated to the values of integrity,
Co-ops recognize local groups for commitment to community Read More »
Five students each recently received a $500 scholarship in honor of one of Minnesota’s electric cooperative leaders. The Jay A. York Scholarship was established in 1994 in recognition of the first Minnesotan to head the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. York was a prominent figure in the rural electric cooperative industry for nearly 30 years.
Scholarships awarded in honor of co-op leader Read More »
Goodwill and giving often take center stage during the end-of-year holiday season as people come together to support those who are most in need. But for electric cooperatives, the spirit of giving is not limited to this time of year. Instead, community is a focus year-round because co-ops like Great River Energy are rooted in
Strengthening communities through year-round giving Read More »