Roanoke Cooperative's first Today, Tomorrow, Together Forum kicked off in Gates County on June 4, bringing member-owners together for an evening of open discussion, education, and engagement. The forum provided an opportunity for cooperative leaders and member-owners to explore the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of our cooperative while reinforcing our commitment to transparency and member involvement.
The State of Your Cooperative
The evening began with an update on the current state of the cooperative and the strategic initiatives that will guide our future. Cooperative leaders discussed the importance of managing costs responsibly while continuing to invest in the infrastructure and services that member-owners depend on every day.
Attendees also received updates on broadband expansion efforts, the growth of fiber services, and the cooperative's long-term vision through Connect 2030. These initiatives reflect Roanoke Cooperative's ongoing commitment to connecting people, places, and possibilities across the communities we serve.
Understanding the Average Electric Bill
One of the most anticipated discussions centered on understanding the average residential electric bill. Using an example of a $210 monthly bill, cooperative staff explained the major drivers of residential energy consumption and how seasonal weather patterns can significantly impact energy usage.
Member-owners learned how heating and cooling systems, water heaters, appliances, and changing temperatures contribute to monthly energy costs. The discussion helped provide context for why electric bills often increase during periods of extreme heat or cold, even when energy habits remain unchanged.
Understanding Your Cooperative Investment
As member-owners, every bill paid represents more than just the purchase of electricity—it is an investment in the cooperative itself.
During the forum, attendees learned how wholesale power costs, operating expenses, and system maintenance contribute to the delivery of reliable electric service. The presentation also highlighted the value of capital credits and the positive impact cooperative investments have on local communities.
Discussions focused on how member-owned utilities differ from investor-owned companies and how Roanoke Cooperative continues to reinvest in the people and communities it serves.
Powering Reliability and Response
Reliability remains one of the cooperative's highest priorities. Forum participants received an update on system performance during Winter Storm Fern and learned about ongoing efforts to strengthen the electric grid.
Staff reviewed construction work plans, system improvement projects, and strategies designed to enhance reliability and reduce outage durations. The presentation also emphasized the importance of storm preparedness and the role member-owners can play in preparing for severe weather events.
Programs Designed to Help Lower Costs
The forum concluded with a review of the many programs and tools available to help member-owners manage energy use and reduce costs.
Attendees learned about programs including Upgrade to $ave, Smart Grid devices, Time of Day rates, levelized billing, Energy Savers NC, and the EV Telematics Program. Staff also highlighted the benefits of the GO RC mobile app, which allows member-owners to conveniently access account information, monitor usage, make payments, and receive important updates.
These programs are designed to provide member-owners with practical options for managing energy consumption while maintaining comfort and convenience.
Looking Ahead
The Today, Tomorrow, Together Forums are designed to foster meaningful conversations between the cooperative and its member-owners. By sharing information, answering questions, and listening to feedback, Roanoke Cooperative continues to strengthen the partnership that makes the cooperative model unique.
We appreciate everyone who attended our first forum in Gates County and look forward to continuing these conversations across our service territory as we work together to build a stronger future for the communities we serve.
