As we close out another year, I’m excited to share how Dakota Electric is serving our membership.
Safety
The safety of our team and our communities is our utmost priority. In 2024, we completed two major safety initiatives in which outside organizations assessed our safety culture and practices. The results showed a very healthy safety culture and provided constructive ways for us to continue setting the bar higher.
Resiliency
Dakota Electric remains committed to delivering the reliable service you expect. In 2024, we invested around $14 million in our distribution grid. This includes energizing the new Lakeville substation and advanced construction on the Eidswold substation. We also continued planned investments in vegetation management. These investments have a direct impact on our ability to provide safe, reliable and affordable service.
Member value
We seek to deliver value to you in several ways. In 2024, we bolstered cybersecurity, upgraded technology, and began implementing a new customer information system to give you greater insight into your energy usage. Additionally, we launched a virtual EV charging rate and a behind-the-meter storage option to enhance service for our members.
The average member’s bill decreased by $3.25 per month in 2024 compared to 2023, due to a decrease in the RTA rate. Although we’ve been able to maintain rate stability and have not changed our base rate since 2019, we will likely need to make a rate adjustment to offset the rising cost of supplies, materials, power cost and labor. We want all our members to understand why these changes are needed and how they contribute to our cooperative’s long-term health and service reliability. Look for more details in upcoming editions of Circuits as we discuss the co-op’s future rate adjustment.
As a not-for-profit member-owned cooperative, organizational profits are returned to you over time. Later this month, we will be returning approximately $5.5 million to you, our member-owners.
Dakota Electric’s mission reaches beyond safe, reliable, and affordable electricity. By supporting local charities, providing youth scholarships, and promoting educational outreach, we continue to invest in our community and champion initiatives that empower future generations.
Investing in the future
The Board of Directors recently approved a land purchase at 225th Street and Cedar Avenue to support Dakota Electric’s future facility needs, reinforcing our commitment to reliable service and long-term resilience. For more information, visit our Energy Center website.
Thank you
On behalf of the team at Dakota Electric, we are grateful for the opportunity to serve you. Thank you for your partnership and for being a valued Dakota Electric member-owner. I look forward to a bright and impactful 2025 together.
