This New Year is likely a welcome and refreshing start after a highly challenging year for all of us. Certainly, 2020 evolved with continual change through the pandemic, yet Cloverland Electric remained steadfast in our mission to keep members powered with safe and reliable service. Most of us spent more time at home last year, and as a result, likely consumed more energy. Our cooperative is fortunate to maintain low rates that have held steady since 2017.
Take a look at how Cloverland’s rates compare to other utilities in the Upper Peninsula.
In society today, many people don’t think much about the electricity they use. They expect lights to turn on when they flip the switch and all their electronics to function daily. Since electricity is so abundant, it’s common not to think much about it. The only time we really think about electricity is when the power goes out or perhaps when the monthly bill arrives.
Given how electricity powers our modern lifestyle every day, it’s a great value, especially when compared to other common services and expenses. For example, think back to the cost of a gallon of gasoline 20 years ago. Consider the cost of groceries or a cup of your favorite specialty coffee from a few years back. In comparison, the cost of electricity has remained largely flat, unlike most other consumer goods.
Like many of you, I have a cell phone to stay connected, and I subscribe to cable channels so I can enjoy more viewing options. Many of us consider these necessities for modern day life. We can see what we’re getting for our money and we pay the price for those services. In contrast, when we use electricity, we don’t necessarily “see” all that we’re getting for our money.
Considering what electricity does for us, it’s a tremendous value for our quality of life as well as our budgets. For comparison, consider that the average rent increase was nearly 4 percent (from 2014-2019) according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index (CPI). The cost of medical care was increased 3 percent during this time and education was not too far behind at 2.6 percent. So, where did electricity rank? According to the CPI, electricity increased by less than half a percentage point, 0.4 percent.
Considering electricity is something that we all use around the clock, I’m very proud of our team of 115 employees who work hard daily to maintain a strong track record to assure that our members have access to the electricity they need, while maintaining the lowest cost possible. At the same time, we are striving to increase our service reliability by reducing outages to the best of our ability. Since trees are the primary cause of outages in our service territory, we are stepping up our vegetation management program by increasing our tree trimming schedule to better manage key problem areas. We are continually working to improve our operations to ensure a smarter grid, adding generation where possible, all while maintaining some of the lowest rates in the state.
Cloverland provides the reliable service you expect and deserve as valued members of the co-op. As your trusted energy provider, we want to help you save energy and money. We recognize the past year was challenging for many of our business, farm and residential members and we’re here to help. If you have questions about your account or are looking for ways to save energy, please contact our Energy Optimization team at 877-296-4319. Cloverland Electric is your electric co-op and our sole purpose is to serve you and the needs of our community. That’s everyday value.