Missouri River Energy Services (MRES) celebrated 60 years of unwavering commitment to public power during its Annual Meeting on May 7 – 8 in Sioux Falls. Under the theme, “Together, Empowering Possibilities,” the event brought together utility professionals, community representatives and industry leaders to reflect on the past, engage with the present and plan for the future.
“This year’s Annual Meeting carries special meaning as we mark a milestone – 60 years of empowering possibilities, together. Sixty years isn’t just a number; it’s a legacy of joint action that has weathered change, challenges and an evolving energy landscape,” said Vernell Roberts, MRES Board Chair.
That legacy is built on collaboration, transparency and local leadership – a foundation that continues to thrive. MRES had a strong year financially, finishing 2024 with a better than budgeted net surplus. This financial strength enables MRES to continue to invest in infrastructure, technology and the communities it serves, Roberts said. He also updated attendees on the organization’s progress with critical grid infrastructure projects, including the Big Stone South to Alexandria and Alexandria to Big Oaks 345-kilovolt transmission lines, as well as the expansion of the Alexandria Substation. These upgrades are vital for delivering more electricity to communities, enhancing reliability and improving overall grid preparedness.
“When critical infrastructure fails, you don’t get a second chance to be ready,” Roberts said.
New initiatives and increased investments include a potential natural gas peaking plant near Toronto, South Dakota, and upgrades to the Watertown, South Dakota, power plant. Roberts touted the successful launch of Marshall Solar Plus in December 2024 and the upcoming Brookings Solar Project, which is expected to be online in early 2026. Battery storage and opportunistic wind energy are also part of the long-term resource plan, he said.
Matt Schull, MRES president and CEO, addressed the challenge of making long-term decisions in a fast-changing regulatory and political environment. “We’re all in this together,” he said. “We make decisions now based on current rollbacks, but if the next administration reinstates regulations, our decisions could look very different,” he said.
Schull also addressed generation requirements. More generation is needed to meet higher demand and what used to take three years to build now takes six, he said.
“We get a lot of credit for working ahead,” Schull said.
Despite this complexity, MRES remains committed to financial stability and environmental responsibility. “Together we don’t just adapt. We lead,” Schull said.
Throughout the Annual Meeting, connecting with members and their customers was also an important highlight. MRES moderated a Customer Connections panel with Janell Johnson of Willmar Municipal Utilities, Brooke Bohnenkamp from the City of Pierre and Amie Vasichek from the City of Lakota. Each shared how their communities are connecting with key accounts and promoting the benefits of locally owned public power through the Bright Energy Solutions and Value of Public Power programs.
“Know your customers. Know what they’re using and their habits,” Johnson said. She described how cold calling and consistent follow-up have led to stronger relationships and meaningful energy savings.
The panelists shared how they’re splitting out key accounts by sector, improving engagement and using tools like community screens and media to promote energy programs.
Vasichek highlighted how rebate forms are even included with building permits to ensure residents are aware of available programs from the start.
All three panelists emphasized the value of local control and community reinvestment. “The money stays here,” Vasichek said, referring to her community of Lakota. “We’ve been able to fund local projects like pools and golf courses, which is not something a private company would do.”
Panelists also promoted education through initiatives like the Smart Energy Squad, a cost-shared fifth-grade curriculum focused on energy conservation and careers.
“These kids carry messages home to their parents and parents are listening,” Johnson said.
