Power When You Need It
How NC electric co-ops are meeting the growing need for electricity.
A national power grid watchdog, NERC, predicts that 19 states are at risk of rolling blackouts in the next five years because demand for electricity is outpacing supply. North Carolina is not considered among those at risk, and we’re dedicated to making sure it stays that way.
To keep power on when you need it, we leverage a suite of varied and flexible power sources, ranging from large scale nuclear energy to locally installed battery storage. These resources are designed to complement each other, like ingredients in a recipe, so we can provide reliable electricity to you.
Beyond this careful planning, we are developing new programs and partnerships to manage grid resources more efficiently. This includes coordination across the electric cooperative network, as well as with other electric utilities and grid partners to ensure the demand for power is met in North Carolina. We also work directly with our members through a variety of programs to conserve energy at key moments.
See how it all works together See how it all works together
Tap an icon above to learn more about each part contributes to a reliable grid.
The Co-op Network
Your local electric cooperative is part of a network of 26 electric co-ops across the state. We leverage this powerful network to create efficiencies, forecast the need for power and coordinate resources to ensure power is available for everyone.
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Grid-wide Coordination
Co-ops work side-by-side with other utilities, including Duke Energy, to ensure demand is met across the entire power grid.
Improved Resiliency
Co-ops are incorporating smaller sources of power within local communities to serve local needs and limit the reach of large-scale disruptions. Electric co-ops also storm-harden their systems, ensuring grid components work as they should and power line rights-of-way are kept clear of potential falling trees.
Flexible Power Plants
For even greater benefit, our mix of power resources includes natural-gas peaking plants that can operate on back-up fuel if natural gas becomes constrained.
Distributed Generation
Other resources, like microgrids and solar + energy storage projects, are called upon to contribute to the main power grid if needed.
Demand Response Programs
These innovative programs enable co-ops to work directly with members to manage devices like water heaters and smart thermostats, reducing energy use when it’s most needed and empowering the community to contribute to positive change.
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Learn more about our modern grid
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A Brighter Future Through Grid Management
A new service helps manage a 500-MW resource distributed across the state
Your Friendly, Neighborhood Microgrid
Advanced grid tech is cropping up on co-op lines across the state -
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