Co-op leaders champion reliable power for Missouri
STORY by Sara Schafer | PHOTOS by Sara Schafer and Paul Newton
When it comes to Missouri’s energy future, electric cooperative leaders don’t leave the conversation to chance — they brought it directly to the state Capitol on Feb. 2-3. More than 225 co-op leaders gathered for the annual Missouri Electric Cooperatives State Legislative Conference. Their goal was to advocate for the energy needs of rural communities.
Armed with firsthand experiences and a steadfast commitment to keeping the lights for their members, the co-op leaders found a receptive audience among state officials.
Gov. Mike Kehoe joined the crowd, thanking electric cooperatives for their advocacy. “Your membership is responsible for delivering reliable power to Missourians in every corner of our state, often under some of the most challenging conditions,” he said. “I look forward to continuing to work together to ensure Missouri has access to reliable, affordable electricity.”
The group heard an overview of key issues from the Missouri Electric Cooperatives legislative team. They also learned how to make the most of their visits to legislators through a mock briefing session between Rep. Del Taylor and Callaway Electric Cooperative’s Clay Carroll.
Sen. Cindy O’Laughlin addressed the crowd, applauding the group for serving their communities. “With electric cooperatives, decisions are made close to home,” she said. “You all prioritize people over profits.”
The issues the co-op leaders shared with legislators included strengthening grid reliability and removing obstacles in the way of high-speed rural broadband deployment. They also shared how electric cooperatives are governed and how the cooperative business model is uniquely designed to meet the needs of co-op members — and should be protected.
“Events like this remind lawmakers that electric cooperatives are rooted in the communities we serve,” said Caleb Jones, CEO of Missouri Electric Cooperatives. “Our leaders bring real-world experience to the Capitol, sharing how policy decisions impact rural Missourians every day. By showing up and engaging, we help protect reliable, affordable electricity and the cooperative model that delivers it.”
Email Sara Schafer at sschafer@ruralmissouri.coop.