Co-op Energy Talk

S6E3 - Planning For A Pandemic

Needless to say, there is a lot of talk surrounding the coronavirus (COVID-19) these days. How do those providing critical services like Cherryland prepare for such a pandemic? Listen in as we discuss the measures we've taken to safeguard co-op employees and to continue to provide reliable service to our members.

S6E2 - Go Electric And Everybody Wins

Looking into the future, there's one trend that stands out in our industry: beneficial electrification. Simply put, this is the idea that using smarter electric appliances, heating sources, and transportation instead of their fossil fuel-powered counterparts can make us more energy efficient and allow more energy to come from cleaner sources. Listen in as we sit down with Sam Hogg, Director of Business Origination at Wolverine Power Cooperative, to discuss this trend and what an electric future might look like.

S6E1 - Gemini Solar Project

They say, "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas." Well, it would be hard to hide the Gemini Solar Project, a 690 MW solar array (with 380 MW of lithium-ion storage) soon to be built just outside of the famous Nevada city. Listen in as we discuss the details of this historic project and its impact.

Do you have feedback? Email us at pr@cherrylandelectric.coop.

S5E11 - A Gubernatorial-Sized Ask For Rural Michigan

Of Michigan's 83 counties, 59 are classified as rural, all playing important roles in the state's economy. As these rural communities face their unique challenges of the future, state level support and representation is becoming ever more vital.

Spearheaded by the Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance, one initiative calls on Governor Whitmer to create a cabinet-level position devoted to rural economic development. Listen in as we sit down with Kent Wood, owner of government relations consulting firm, Borealis Strategic, to discuss this rural economic development initiative and its importance to northern Michigan.

If you wish to offer your support for this initiative, go to the following: http://chng.it/Lg6G8vrR.

 

S5E10 - Sky's The Limit for Cherry Capital Airport

Cherry Capital Airport is the fourth largest commercial airport in Michigan... and it's not stopping there. They recently added two new carriers and several new nonstop flights, bringing their non-stop service up to 15 cities. Listen in as we sit down with Airport Director Kevin Klein to discuss both the opportunities and the challenges this time of growth and change will offer.

S5E9 - Co-ops Climb Capitol Hill

When problems arise, co-ops have a hard time sitting idly by. So, when the co-ops' tax exempt status is threatened, we head straight for the Capitol. Listen in as we reflect on Cherryland's recent trip to Washington, D.C. and discuss the top issues facing co-ops today with board members Dave Schweitzer and Gabe Schneider. 

S5E8 - On Air With Rep. Jack O'Malley

After 34 years of hosting WTCM's morning show, Representative Jack O'Malley returns to the microphone to reflect on his first year representing Michigan's 101st District (Leelanau, Benzie, Manistee counties) in Lansing. Listen in as we chat with him about energy policy and a variety other topics coming out of the Capitol.

S5E7 - You, Me, And The MPSC

Come on, we've all done it: sat on a beach, sipping a cool beverage, and wondered what was going on with the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) that day. The MPSC regulates utilities in order to ensure safe, reliable, and accessible energy at reasonable rates for Michigan residents. Listen in as we discuss the MPSC and Michigan's energy future with the newest MPSC commissioner, Dan Scripps.

S5E6 - Habitat Partnership Brings Home Repair Program To Life

In June, Cherryland announced that it is making a three-year commitment of $100,000 annually to Habitat for Humanity–Grand Traverse Region to fund a program aimed at repairing low-income homes in need of weatherization improvements in the Grand Traverse region. Listen in as we discuss this partnership with Habitat for Humanity's executive director, Wendy Irvin, and project manager, Nathan Kalchik.

Cherryland members that are interested in participating in the Priority Home Repair program can learn more on Habitat for Humanity – Grand Traverse Region’s website.

S5E5 - The Carbon Game Plan

With climate change as a priority for candidates in upcoming elections, a whole slew of carbon proposals are being thrown out there, including the Green New Deal, Evergreen Economy Plan, a carbon tax, etc. Do one of these game plans offer a realistic way to cross the goal line? Listen in as we discuss the challenges facing decarbonization and how these proposals hope to bring solutions.