Community center earns nearly $10,000 rebate for energy-efficient upgrades
The Prime West Health Runestone Community Center in Alexandria, Minnesota, received a $9,682.50 rebate from ALP Utilities for energy-efficient upgrades during its expansion. New LED lighting and HVAC improvements are creating brighter, more comfortable spaces while lowering energy use and long-term costs. The project is also expected to reduce demand by over 27 kilowatts and save more than 30,000 kilowatt-hours each year.
From the executive team: supporting members beyond power supply
MRES emphasizes that its value extends beyond providing reliable, affordable electricity. Through engineering, technical assistance, strategic planning, communications support and energy-efficiency programs, MRES helps member utilities operate more effectively and serve their communities. Services such as load control, AMI support and Bright Energy Solutions improve efficiency, reduce costs and enhance customer engagement. MRES is also expanding member education through its new Coffee Connections training series and supports public power advocacy through communications resources. By investing in relationships, community programs and workforce development, MRES strengthens its membership while adapting to changing energy needs.
How MRES delivers value through tailored support
MRES members using Tyler Technologies software receive more than technical support — they gain a trusted partner. MRES utility billing and software support specialist helps 27 member utilities maximize their CIS and billing software through personalized training, responsive troubleshooting and workflow guidance. With hundreds of support cases resolved each year and a deep understanding of utility operations, MRES empowers members with the knowledge and confidence to work more efficiently and effectively.
Strengthening the transmission system: Missouri River Energy Services' role
MRES is advancing major transmission projects to strengthen grid reliability, support growing energy demand and prepare for the evolving energy landscape. Working through regional planning efforts led by MISO, MRES is helping develop several high-voltage transmission lines, including the Big Stone South–Alexandria and Alexandria–Big Oaks 345-kV projects, which will improve power transfer capability, reduce congestion and enhance reliability across Minnesota, South Dakota and North Dakota. MRES is also investing in local projects such as the Appleton–Benson 115-kV line. Together, these projects will improve resilience, support renewable energy integration, expand access to lower-cost electricity and ensure reliable service for member communities for decades to come.
MRES, partners help turn energy planning into savings
A recent project in Lac qui Parle County shows how the right partnerships can turn energy planning into real, measurable savings. Through the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program, energy audits helped identify simple, high-impact upgrades that brought better lighting, lower energy use and $1,019.20 in rebates for the Public Health Building and University of Minnesota Extension offices.