When cooperatives began to electrify the rural areas of Kentucky in the 1930s and 40s, making electricity was a fairly simple process. Coal mined here in Kentucky was burned at power plants, making seam to turn turbines. The turbines created electricity that was sent over lines that stretched all over the rural parts of the state. It was efficient and inexpensive, provided jobs and opportunities and changed the living standard for rural Kentuckians. 

Everyone from the eastern Kentucky mountains to the rolling hills of the bluegrass to the plains of the central and western areas of the state could have an electrified home if they wanted it. Life-changing power was no longer a luxury reserved for town and city dwellers. 

Like everything else, some 80 years later, making electricity is far more complex. Government regulations have pushed energy production costs exponentially higher. The latest round of federal regulations of coal plants was finalized last year. If they proceed, the U.S. could see coal phased out over the next two decades, likely replaced by natural gas and renewable energy sources like hydro and solar. Years from now, Kentucky might even see nuclear power for the first time. 

What hasn't changed in the past 80 years is that cooperatives are here to serve our members, we are committed to the communities we serve and we're here to bring economic opportunities to everyone. 

Because we're committed to you and to providing opportunities, we also must provide enough electricity to meet the growing demand for electricity. Kentucky is growing, especially in rural areas. We're high on the list of states where companies are looking to build new production facilities. We must also be ready for that new power demand. 

Because of these factors our power provider, East Kentucky Power Cooperative, has announced two new electric generating facilities that will make power using natural gas. Five coal-burning units will be re-configured to enable them to burn both coal and natural gas. Plus, a number of new solar projects - built with support of significant federal incentives and tax breaks - will be added in the coming years. It's an exciting time to live and raise a family in rural Kentucky. 

These facilities are vital and significant investments in the future for you and your children. They will power homes and businesses for generations to come. While the construction represents a significant up-front cost, they are a crucial investment for our members. 

Investments like these have been powering the lives of rural Kentuckians for the past 80 years, and we'll continue to do so for the next 80 and beyond. 

Toby Moss 

President and CEO