Rural Electricity Resource Council

Electric power suppliers from across the country gathered in Louisville, Kentucky for a sharing of useful ideas and customer education strategies. This Conference marked the 60th consecutive meeting for our organization, which is something that all members can celebrate. For those who missed the March 19th & 20th event, below is a quick review.

Pre-Conference Training:

Prior to the main Conference, a Training Course for power suppliers was presented on the morning of March 19th. "Skills & Solutions for Your Low Income Customers" delivered practical knowledge on low-cost energy efficiency measures, and energy coaching ideas for customers with limited resources. Instructor Craig Frank, from Engystics, shared his recommendations, ideas and experience in working with low income customers. For those wishing to schedule this training course at their location, click on the course information sheet to view the agenda and other details.

Main Conference:

At the main event, electric power suppliers and industry allies shared practical and "application-oriented" tips on electricity topics.

To learn more:

Click on Conference Agenda for a description of each presentation.

At the Awards & Recognition Luncheon, honors were presented to two individuals and one program. The photos shown here help tell the story. We congratulate our two Distinguished Service Award winners, Dr. Doug Overhults from the University of Kentucky, and Mr. Joe Jackson from the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association (retired).

Dr. Doug Overhults (left) and Mr. Joe Jackson display their Distinguished Service Awards.

Andrea Christoffer representing Federal Rural Electric Association receives the Silver Switch Award from RERC Chairman Mike Fuller.

A second award is used to honor outstanding programs. Only one Silver Switch Award is presented each year from nominations submitted for the competition. This year's Silver Switch Award went to those at Federated Rural Electric Association in Minnesota for their success in rural economic development. On-hand to accept the award for their team was Andrea Christoffer, Marketing and Communications Manager.

Post-Conference Workshop:

Immediately after the main Conference, an optional workshop was presented on "Tools & Tips to Cause Energy-Use Changes Among Your Customers". Instructor Patrick Hunt from the Shelton Group explained how to incorporate the six most important factors for behavior change into your energy efficiency marketing programs. For those interested in scheduling similar training, please contact RERC office for the course information sheet.

We add our congratulations to the award winners, and our thanks to everyone involved in the success of the 2013 Conference. For those of you who were unable to attend, you missed a great opportunity to learn strategies used by other power suppliers. We hope you will make a mental note right now to participate in the 2014 event. Watch this web site later in the year for details on dates and location!