When you flip on the lights or connect to the internet, you probably don’t think about maps. But at Roanoke Cooperative and Fybe, we think about them every day — because accurate, detailed maps of our infrastructure are essential to keeping your power reliable and your broadband connection strong.
That’s why, back in 2023, we partnered with Davey Resource Group to launch a full-scale update of our Geographic Information System (GIS). Over the past two years, they’ve been in the field — pole by pole, meter by meter — using GPS technology to capture the exact location and condition of our assets across the entire system.
We’re now approaching the finish line, with full completion expected by this summer. And while the project might be mostly invisible to the average member-owner, the benefits are very real — especially when it comes to our core mission: delivering safe, reliable, and affordable electric service.
What This Means for the Electric System
This mapping effort has given us a real-time, highly accurate view of our electric grid — a major upgrade from the static maps and partial data of years past. Here’s why that matters:
- Faster Power Restoration – When an outage occurs, our teams can now pinpoint the issue more quickly and safely.
- Smarter System Planning – With accurate equipment and location data, we can better forecast load needs and plan upgrades where they’re needed most.
- Improved Grid Reliability – Mapping is helping us identify and address recurring trouble spots before they affect you.
- Greater Crew Efficiency – Field teams now have the information they need at their fingertips — no guesswork, no wasted trips.
- Enhanced Safety – Crews are better prepared for what they’ll encounter in the field, improving safety and response.
This is infrastructure modernization at its best — the kind of foundational work that positions us to serve you better for decades to come.
And It’s Powering Broadband Too
This same mapping data is also helping Fybe, our wholly owned broadband subsidiary, accelerate its fiber deployment. Since launching in 2022, Fybe has been working to bring high-speed internet to homes and businesses throughout our service area. We're on track to complete this buildout by the first quarter of 2026.
The GIS upgrade helps Fybe:
- Design fiber routes more efficiently
- Complete make-ready work faster
- Coordinate with electric teams for seamless installs
- Avoid costly delays in broadband turnups
By investing once in high-quality mapping, we’re creating value across both electric and broadband services.
One Map. Two Missions. Endless Member-Owner Benefits.
This mapping initiative is a great example of how we’re thinking differently — building smarter systems that serve you better, across all the services we provide.
Because when we invest in the backbone of our operations, you feel the difference at the front line — through better service, stronger connections, and a cooperative that’s ready for whatever comes next.
In service,
Marshall Cherry
President & CEO