Co-op Energy Talk

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the July 28th Board of Directors meeting.

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, host Courtney Doyle welcomes Cherryland CEO Rachel Johnson and Michigan Electric Cooperative Association (MECA) President and CEO John Kran to discuss the critical role rural electric cooperatives play in energy policy and advocacy. They dive into how Cherryland ensures members have a seat at the table—from local community efforts to statewide and federal advocacy—and explain key issues like FEMA funding after recent storms, the importance of permitting reform, and the impact of federal legislation on rural co-ops. Tune in to learn why advocacy matters, how Cherryland and MECA work together to p...

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the June 24th Board of Directors meeting.

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Communications and Member Relations Manager Courtney Doyle sits down with Chris Mohrhardt, owner of Incredible Mo’s, to discuss their 10-year partnership hosting Cherryland’s annual meeting and their inspiring community work. Learn how rural economic development loans helped shape Incredible Mo’s growth and how their unique birthday party project is giving back to local kids who might otherwise go without celebrations. Tune in to hear about the deep ties between local business, community support, and the cooperative spirit that powers it all.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the May 19th Board of Directors meeting.

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Cherryland’s Courtney Doyle is joined by Matt Fiala from Survey & Ballot Systems (SBS) to take members behind the scenes of Cherryland’s annual board elections. They discuss how partnering with a third-party ensures a secure, unbiased election—from online voting integration through SmartHub to the hands-off paper ballot process. Learn how your votes are counted, protected, and validated, and why democratic member control remains a core cooperative principle. Whether you're a first-time voter or a seasoned participant, this episode sheds light on the care and integrity behind every Cherryland election.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the April 21st Board of Directors meeting.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the March 31st Board of Directors meeting.

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Cherryland CEO Rachel Johnson and Wolverine Power Cooperative CEO Eric Baker join host Courtney Doyle to explore the essential role natural gas plays in keeping the lights on. From Michigan’s unique natural gas storage capabilities to the behind-the-scenes benefits of Alpine—Cherryland’s local peaking plant—this conversation highlights how thoughtful investments in natural gas support grid reliability and cost savings. Tune in to learn how these plants provide flexibility, balance renewable energy, and ensure reliability during extreme weather. Want to understand what powers your power? Don’t miss this one!

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Cherryland CEO Rachel Johnson and Board President Gabe Schneider join Courtney Doyle to break down how Cherryland tracks reliability, financial health, and member value. From smart investments in grid technology to strategic financial planning, they discuss the co-op’s approach to balancing affordability and long-term stability. Tune in to learn how Cherryland compares to other utilities, why proactive rate adjustments matter, and how forward-thinking decisions are shaping the future of your co-op. Want to have a say in the co-op’s direction? Don’t miss this insightful conversation!

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the February 23rd Board of Directors meeting.

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Cherryland’s Courtney Doyle chats with CoBank Knowledge Exchange economists Teri Viswanath and Jeff Johnston about the surging demand for electricity driven by data center development and AI. From the role of data centers in our digital economy to the challenges of expanding infrastructure to meet this demand, they explore what this growth means for utilities like Cherryland. Tune in to learn how innovations in efficiency, creative grid solutions, and strategic investments can help co-ops navigate this transformative era.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the January 21st Board of Directors meeting.

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, CEO Rachel Johnson and COO Frank Siepker discuss Cherryland Electric Cooperative's ambitious plans for 2025. From transitioning to a new SCADA system to expanding underground infrastructure, these investments promise greater reliability and faster outage restorations. Tune in to learn how predictive analytics, cutting-edge technologies, and a focus on data-driven decisions are shaping the future of your co-op. Curious about what these changes mean for you? Don’t miss this insightful conversation!

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the December 16th Board of Directors meeting.

This year, Cherryland Electric Cooperative is retiring $570,000 in capital credits back to its members—a clear benefit of co-op membership. Join CEO Rachel Johnson on this episode of Co-op Energy Talk as she breaks down how capital credits work, why they matter, and how they’re helping Cherryland maintain its industry-leading reliability while keeping rates affordable. Curious about the impact of these retirements on your December bill? Tune in for all the details!

This year, Cherryland Electric Cooperative is retiring $570,000 in capital credits back to its members—a clear benefit of co-op membership. Join CEO Rachel Johnson on this episode of Co-op Energy Talk as she breaks down how capital credits work, why they matter, and how they’re helping Cherryland maintain its industry-leading reliability while keeping rates affordable. Curious about the impact of these retirements on your December bill? Tune in for all the details!

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the November 25th Board of Directors meeting.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative has had a big year, from enhancing grid reliability to advancing sustainability efforts, and we’re here to share the story. In this episode, join CEO Rachel Johnson as she sits down with Cherryland's Board President Gabe Schneider for a conversation about the co-op’s recent milestones and what they mean for you, our members. From faster outage response times to our path toward a carbon-free future, get a firsthand look at how Cherryland is working to keep our community strong, sustainable, and connected.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the October 28th Board of Directors meeting.

Join Cherryland's Communications and Member Relations Manager Courtney Doyle as she sits down with CEO Rachel Johnson to discuss her personal journey through breast cancer. In this heartfelt episode, Rachel shares her experience from diagnosis to recovery, how she balanced being a leader and a patient, and the lessons she's carrying forward. Tune in for a candid conversation on resilience, leadership, and the importance of supporting those facing cancer. You'll also hear about valuable local resources available for individuals and families navigating cancer treatment.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the September 23rd Board of Directors meeting.

Join Communication & Member Relations Manager Courtney Doyle as she sits down with Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson and Wolverine Power Cooperative CEO Eric Baker to discuss the exciting journey towards providing 100% carbon-free energy by 2030. Learn about the strategic decisions, innovative projects like the Palisades nuclear plant, and the importance of reliability and affordability as they lead the charge in Michigan’s energy future.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the August 19th Board of Directors meeting.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the July 22nd Board of Directors meeting.

Join Communication & Member Relations Manager Courtney Doyle as she sits down with Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson and Wolverine Power Cooperative CEO Eric Baker to dive into the unique partnership between the two cooperatives. They discuss how their collaboration enhances service reliability and innovation. Discover the history, challenges, and future prospects, and learn how it continues to serve you, the member.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the June 24th Board of Directors meeting.

Join Communication & Member Relations Manager Courtney Doyle in this episode of the 'Co-op Energy Talk Podcast' as she sits down with CEO Rachel Johnson to reflect on the highlights from the past year at Cherryland Electric Cooperative.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the May 20 Board of Directors meeting.

Join Communication & Member Relations Manager Courtney Doyle in this episode of the "Co-op Energy Talk Podcast" as we dive into Cherryland Electric Cooperative's switch to an upgraded metering system. Courtney chats with Jason Rice, metering supervisor, and Chris Vermeulen, Engineering and IT Manager, about the shift from the TWACS system to newer, more efficient technology. They'll discuss the significant improvements in outage reporting, system management, and data accuracy that this upgrade brings. Listen in to learn how these changes will boost reliability and service quality for all Cherryland members.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the April 22 Board of Directors meeting.

In this episode, Communication & Member Relations Manager Courtney Doyle sits down with Patrick Kelley, the founder of Léargas Security and Critical Path Security, to explore the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and practical strategies for safeguarding your digital footprint.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the March 18 Board of Directors meeting.

In this episode, Communication & Member Relations Manager Courtney Doyle sits down with Cherryland's CEO, Rachel Johnson, and Controller Brad Pavwaski to delve into the cooperative's recently proposed rate change. 

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the February 19 Board of Directors meeting.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses with Cherryland's COO Frank Siepker about the monumental achievement of reaching 99.99% electric reliability. 

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Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the January 29 Board of Directors meeting.

In this engaging episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Cherryland Electric Cooperative's CEO Rachel Johnson delves into the dynamic world of energy with Michigan's 93rd House District Representative Graham Filler. They explore the complexities of nuclear power, local impacts, and energy policies shaping Michigan's future, offering listeners an opportunity to understand and contribute to the evolving energy dialogue.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson talks through highlights from the December 18th Board of Directors meeting.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson talks through highlights from the November 27th Board of Directors meeting.