Category: MRES Today Stories
Back to school in a brighter, more efficient space
| Posted in: Bright Energy Solutions Rebates, Member News, MRES Today Stories
Harris-Lake Park Community School District began the 2026–27 school year with preschool through fourth-grade students learning in a new 36,000-square-foot elementary addition. Bright Energy Solutions, through Lake Park Municipal Utilities, provided more than $18,000 in rebates for efficient HVAC and lighting systems, producing nearly 49 kilowatts in energy savings. The improvements support comfort, indoor air quality and long-term operating savings while helping the district stretch community dollars. Additional rebates also supported efficiency upgrades at the district’s bus barn.
MRES leaders advocate for public power in Washington, D.C.
| Posted in: MRES Today Stories
MRES representatives and leaders from member communities in Iowa, Minnesota and South Dakota traveled to Washington, D.C., for the American Public Power Association’s Policy Makers Council Fly-In. The delegation met with members of Congress and their staffs to discuss federal issues affecting municipal utilities. Priorities included energy permitting, hydropower, FEMA disaster assistance and local authority over pole attachments. The meetings gave Upper Midwest public power leaders an opportunity to share member needs and advocate for reliable, affordable and locally controlled electric service.
MRES continues progress on strategic priorities
| Posted in: MRES Today Stories
The MRES board of directors and executive team reviewed progress on the organization’s strategic plan during July planning sessions. Discussion focused on workforce development, financial stability, a reliable and clean energy future, new technology, and engagement with members and policy makers. Some initiatives have become part of ongoing operations, while others were refined to reflect changing conditions and member needs. Periodic reviews help MRES adjust its actions and remain focused on priorities that create long-term value for member utilities and their communities.
From the executive team: planning for tomorrow's power needs
| Posted in: MRES Today Stories
MRES uses its Integrated Resource Plan to prepare member communities for changing power needs well into the future. The plan evaluates generation resources, market purchases, transmission access and other options under multiple scenarios. That process helps MRES balance reliability, affordability and sustainability while responding to changes in demand, technology, regulations, fuel prices and weather. By planning years in advance and maintaining a diverse resource portfolio, MRES can manage risk, control costs and continue providing dependable electricity to its members.
MRES expands access to EV charger at headquarters
| Posted in: MRES Today Stories
MRES has opened its headquarters EV charger to members, employees and the public through the ChargePoint network, adding another convenient charging option in southwest Sioux Falls. The charger was installed with future EV growth in mind and is now available for $0.35 per kilowatt-hour to employees and public users. MRES members may charge at no cost after joining the MRES Member group. Drivers can locate the station, begin charging, pay and receive completion notifications through the ChargePoint app.