Rural Missouri - August 2020 - 29

"We know they want reliable, affordable power
generated in a responsible
way. That's how we view
the power we generate -
it must meet that reliable,
affordable and responsible
test."

Buster Geisendorfer
is both a member of
his local co-op and
president of Associated Electric.

- Emery "Buster" Geisendorfer

Natural gas and coal are the most reliable forms of
generation because they operate around the clock. They
can be controlled unlike power sources that use available
wind, sunshine or water to operate. There also are adequate supplies of natural gas and coal, including a 45- to
60-day coal stockpile onsite that keeps each of the plants
running when needed.

Power at a fair price

Electricity is provided to members 24 hours a day, 7 days
a week, 365 days a year. As members ramp up their use,
Associated's goal is to ensure reliability, then match members' needs to the most affordable generation resource.
Coal generation supplied about half of members' electricity in 2019. Low prices for natural gas have increased the
use of this fuel source in Associated's energy mix, which
benefits members. Coal and natural gas are typically less
expensive for generation than wind or other renewables.
Hydropower, the lowest-cost source, is used as much as
possible, but is limited in supply by rainfall and is controlled by the U.S Army Corps of Engineers.

Power generated the right way

A focus on members drives Associated to be responsible

caretakers of the natural environment. To balance reliable
and affordable electricity with environmental responsibility
is not easy or inexpensive, but Associated is committed to
generating power the right way.
Associated and its members have spent more than $1.1
billion to reduce air emissions since 1994, resulting in
more than 70% improvement in air quality. By adding
significant amounts of wind power to diversify generating
sources, investing in environmental controls and staying
up-to-date with regulations and technologies, Associated
complies with environmental regulations at the lowest cost
possible for members.
"Having actual end users of its electricity sit on its board
of directors makes Associated unique among other generators," says Buster. "Balancing reliable and affordable electricity with environmental responsibility takes a steadfast
commitment and an allocation of resources. It's a priority
Associated takes seriously. Their experience assures Associated meets the needs of its member-owners. I can't imagine a better way to run a business that puts service first."
Next month: Reliability means having electricity available
when you flip the switch. We'll dive deeper into Associated's
ongoing efforts to maintain excellent reliability for members.

The Thomas Hill Energy Center is one source for the
affordable, reliable electricity generated by Associated
Electric Cooperative.

AUGUST 2020 | RURALMISSOURI.COOP

http://www.RURALMISSOURI.COOP

Rural Missouri - August 2020

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