Several state legislators attended a noon luncheon at Central Electric Cooperative's headquarters in Mitchell on Monday, Dec. 18. Discussion centered around constraints in the supply chain and the consequences of implementing clean energy regulations on the state's energy grid. Attaining electrical-grade steel has become more problematic as supply is unable to keep up with demand. Moreover, there was discussion on reliability, the use of EV charging stations, net metering, carbon pipelines, and economic development.

The following day, Grand Electric and Moreau Grand Electric hosted a legislative banquet at the Two R Bar and Restaurant in Faith with legislators from Districts 28 and 29.

"We had a nice mix of directors, legislators, members, and cooperative staffers that attended the legislative banquet," said SDREA General Manager Steve Barnett. "It is encouraging to see our members engage in the reliability discussion prior to the legislative session.”

The main talking points dealt with eminent domain, reliability, landowners, cooperative transmission and generation updates, and other potential legislation.

"Our cooperative members, now more than ever, realize how important it is to have the conversations with our lawmakers about the importance of providing safe, affordable, and reliable electricity to our members," Barnett said.