Under normal summer conditions, Farmers Electric members can anticipate the strong reliability they have come to expect from their cooperative. However, in certain extreme conditions, the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), may be forced to initiate temporary controlled load curtailments. 

MISO faces a potential generation shortfall this summer, resulting in a higher risk of energy emergencies during peak summer conditions. This shortfall is due to several factors including a significant increase in electric usage and power plants that are closing faster than new, dispatchable sources of generation can replace them. The growing number of wind and solar resources in Iowa greatly assist in overall energy production, but they only provide intermittent power. 

MISO acts like an air traffic controller of the electric grid to manage real-time generation within its footprint across the middle U.S. and parts of Canada, including about 90% of Iowa, and ensures electric supply and demand are balanced. Farmers Electric’s power supplier, Central Iowa Power Cooperative (CIPCO), participates in MISO to buy and sell generation as needed. 

“CIPCO has a diverse 24/7 generation portfolio and has met all capacity requirements for member-owners like Farmers Electric,” said CIPCO CEO Bill Cherrier. “While CIPCO has done its part, we are part of a larger regional grid that could be impacted by activities outside of Iowa. We are prepared to implement energy conservation methods and follow steps that align with MISO criteria to strategically, temporarily reduce load, and follow all protocols to ensure the grid stays balanced and stable through the summer months.” 

You Can Help Beat the Peak!

“The more members we have conserving energy, the better for our cooperative,” said Charlie Dunn, CEO. “Energy prices are high during peak periods and that impacts the power supply cost to everyone. If we all become more energy aware and make a few modifications in when we use energy, we can make a difference together.” 

We will notify our members of peak alerts and provide tips on conserving energy on our Web site, www.farmersrec.com, and Facebook page, @FarmersElectricGreenfield.