Greetings!
Although by the time you read this it will be a bit late, I want to make sure to wish all of our member-consumers and their families a happy New Year, and convey on behalf of all of us at Midland Power Cooperative that we hope it is a great one.
Because we’re a cooperative, we at Midland Power know we have to do our part to make 2010 as bright as possible for those we serve. With that in mind, I’m writing to share with you some of our New Year’s Resolutions!
WE RESOLVE in 2010 to continue to provide our member-consumers with reliable energy transmission, and to that end we will be reconstructing thirty-two miles of lines, rebuilding substations, and investing $3.75 million into our overall infrastructure to maintain the crucial reliability and strength of our system.
WE RESOLVE to take our energy-saving measures to the next level, beginning with the implementation of our new Together We Save initiative. More than forty programs will be available to help you use energy more effectively in your home, business and life. Energy efficient lighting, heating and cooling, water heating and appliance incentives are just part of Midland’s commitment to a greener, brighter tomorrow.
WE RESOLVE to upgrade our Computer Information System (CIS) and Accounting and Business System (ABS), moving from our current, outdated system to a state-of-the-art system that will streamline projects and improve efficiency at the Midland office, a benefit that will be passed on to our members.
WE RESOLVE to keep on the lookout for new ideas and better strategies. The Midland Power Board of Directors has selected C.H. Guernsey to conduct a Cost of Service and Rate Design study for Midland Power to take a closer look at the connection between the equity management objectives of the Cooperative, the plant additions and replacements defined in the work plan, and the required level of margins to make sure we’ve struck the healthiest possible balance for the financial health of the cooperative.
WE RESOLVE to continue providing our employees with the safest possible working environment. In 2009 Midland Power reached two incredible milestones in terms of safety; in December, we received our Rural Electric Safety Accreditation, which includes establishing a culture of safety, peer review by regional safety professionals with scoring based upon national standards, documentation audit and internal reassessment based upon feedback from the accreditation process. And also in December, we recorded our 1,000th consecutive day without a lost-time work accident! Although utility workers face potential dangers every day, the vigilance and care of our employees is something we should all be proud of.
WE RESOLVE to continue keeping you informed about what’s going on in your cooperative with the creation of The Energy Insider, the publication you’re currently holding in your hands. This publication will provide us with a cost-effective way to keep you current on the activities and services we provide.
And perhaps most importantly, we firmly resolve to help keep energy affordable for you and your family. Midland Power is committed to seeking environmental solutions that are balanced, that will protect our environment for future generations while keeping electric services affordable and reliable. A number of developments were seen in 2009 surrounding governmental regulation of carbon dioxide and other gasses associated with global warming, and the discussion on how best to balance the planet’s needs with our own will continue in 2010. Midland is proud to be the voice of our member-consumers in a debate that will ultimately determine the shape of our future.
Already, the New Year is looking bright with the promise of new ideas and better services. From everyone here at Midland Power, we hope 2010 will be a great year for you and yours. Together, we will meet this New Year with optimism and hope.