
CEO Corner
Some Things are Worth Repeating
There are some things in life that are worth repeating. Last year’s Chiefs Super Bowl win was a repeat the entire state celebrated. And many have spent this past season rooting for it again in 2025. In January’s newsletter, I discussed the importance of energy conservation and its impact on the electric system – especially during extremely hot or cold months. This topic is so important for the overall strength of our electric system that I am using my message to you this month to once again to provide tips on how we can work together to avoid widespread blackouts should extreme Ozarks weather impact electric production.
As member owners of your local cooperative, your voice and the things you do have an impact on how we at White River Valley Electric Cooperative are able to serve you. From electing board members every summer to working together cooperatively, like we did during last January’s cold spell, to avoid a peak alert—you can make a difference. Here are a few tips to help you get through the winter grind and help minimize the impact on the electric grid:
- Adjust your thermostat. While everyone’s comfort level is different, experts recommend setting your thermostat at 68 degrees in the winter to reduce your energy consumption.
- Maximize natural light. Opening your curtains during the day allows sunshine to heat your home and by closing them at night, you can help keep that heat.
- Use ceiling fans strategically. In the winter, set your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise on low speed to move warm air downwards.
- Insulate properly. Ensure your attic and walls are adequately insulated. In Missouri, the recommended R-value for attics and ceilings is 49. Because warm air rises, attics are a good place to start when insulating your home.
WRVEC offers tools to help you keep track of your usage and rebates to help lessen the impact to your pocketbook. If it gets cold enough this winter for us to have to issue a peak alert, be on the lookout for messages in your email, SmartHub portal, and our social media channels. While peak alerts are something we don’t wish to repeat, we are thankful we serve neighbors who work beside us to help us weather any storm.