Under sunny skies at the Ahoskie Amphitheater, Roanoke Cooperative welcomed students, families, and community members to the 6th Annual Clean Energy Expo on Friday, October 3rd. The event brought together more than 30 vendors, including food trucks, safety demonstrations, and local organizations highlighting innovations in clean energy and broadband connectivity.
From hands-on activity tables and face painting to an impaired driving simulation, the day was filled with opportunities for learning and engagement. A popular attraction was the electrical hazard demonstration, where attendees witnessed firsthand how to stay safe around electricity—a powerful reminder of the cooperative’s ongoing commitment to safety and education.
Approximately 300 students joined in throughout the day, exploring interactive exhibits that showcased energy efficiency, broadband expansion, and renewable technologies shaping the future of our region.
A Vision for a Connected Future
During opening remarks, President and CEO Marshall Cherry reflected on the cooperative’s progress and the bright future ahead.
“Each year, this event gives us a chance to share the progress we’ve made together and the future we’re building—one that is more connected, more sustainable, and more resilient,” Cherry said.
He shared updates on Roanoke Cooperative’s transformation into a Multi-Gig Connected Cooperative, made possible through Fybe and eNCore. By the end of next year, broadband access will reach every member-owner—a milestone that goes beyond faster internet.
“This isn’t just about connectivity,” Cherry noted. “It’s about savings, opportunity, and growth for local families and businesses.”
Clean Energy in Action
Cherry highlighted several clean energy milestones on the horizon, including Roanoke’s participation in NCEMC’s Battery Energy Storage System, and the upcoming ribbon-cutting on October 23rd for two new solar-plus-battery storage sites within the cooperative’s service territory.
Other advancements include electric school buses now operating in local districts and EV chargers in Roanoke Rapids serving travelers and residents alike. Programs such as Upgrade 2 $ave—which has completed nearly 700 energy efficiency projects—and Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) continue to help members manage their energy use, lower costs, and strengthen system reliability.
Investing in Growth and Affordability
Cherry emphasized that Roanoke’s clean energy journey is about more than technology—it’s about keeping electricity affordable while fostering economic growth across northeastern North Carolina.
“Our investments in fiber and clean energy make our region more attractive for new businesses and industries,” he said. “Growth helps us spread costs more efficiently, benefitting every member-owner.”
Connect 2030: A Roadmap for Tomorrow
Looking ahead, Roanoke Cooperative’s Connect 2030 strategy will guide future efforts through three core themes:
- Digital Empowerment for All – ensuring every home has access to reliable broadband.
- Evolving Our Energy Network – creating a smarter, more resilient grid.
- Rural Economic Transformation – combining electric and broadband infrastructure to attract jobs and opportunity.
Cherry closed his remarks by reaffirming Roanoke’s mission and promise:
“Our mission is powering our communities through reliable electricity and next-generation broadband.
Our vision is to lead the transformation of rural communities into thriving hubs of reliable energy, digital opportunity, and lasting cooperative trust.
And our tagline—Connecting People, Places, and Possibilities: Today, Tomorrow, Together—is more than a slogan. It’s a promise.”
As another successful Expo came to a close, one message was clear: the cooperative’s future is bright, sustainable, and connected. Through innovation, community partnerships, and a shared commitment to progress, Roanoke Cooperative continues to power possibilities across the region.
Roanoke Cooperative extends a heartfelt thank-you to all our vendors, partners, and volunteers for helping make this year’s Clean Energy Expo a success—and to the students and community members who joined us for a day of learning, fun, and connection.
