The newsletter includes key updates, announcements, and highlights about CVEC projects, achievements, and upcoming events. We encourage members to take a moment to read through it once it lands in your mailbox. The web version is available on the Current Communicator Newsletter page.
Letter from the President (Excerpt from the January edition of CVEC’s Current Communicator)
Happy New Year! As we welcome 2026, we would like to extend our sincere appreciation for your continued trust and partnership. Being a member-owner of a not-for-profit electric cooperative means you are at the heart of every decision we make.
Last year brought many opportunities for member engagement. At our Annual Meeting, members gathered both in person and virtually to hear updates on cooperative operations and elect directors to serve three-year terms. CVEC also held Member Advisory Council Meetings in October to discuss bill components and power supply. Member engagement is essential to the cooperative model, and we are grateful to everyone who participated and shared their voices.
Like utilities across the region, CVEC continues to navigate rising transmission and capacity costs. The Power Cost Adjustment (PCA) was increased beginning January 1, 2026 because long-term power contracts are expiring and must be replaced with energy purchased at current market rates. Because we are not-for-profit, these costs are passed through to member-owners without markup. Despite these changes, our commitment to managing every dollar wisely remains unchanged.
CVEC is moving forward with new energy solutions that support cost control and long-term reliability. Construction is underway on an 8MW solar facility in Albemarle County that will bring our total solar capacity to 23MW when energized. In addition, three battery storage systems totaling 13MW are planned for completion in 2026, helping us store energy when it is more affordable and discharge it during peak times to reduce overall costs.
As temperatures drop, we encourage members to prepare for winter weather and potential outages. A stocked outage kit and smart energy habits can help keep you safe and winter bills manageable. Simple steps like sealing drafts, adjusting thermostats wisely during cold temperatures, and scheduling HVAC checkups can make a noticeable difference.
Safety and education will always be at the core of our culture. In October, employees participated in annual safety training because every team member deserves to go home safely at the end of each day. That same commitment was shared through a local, hands-on “Girl Power” camp for young women, introducing future leaders to line work, broadband technology, and the many opportunities within the industry.
Thank you for being part of our cooperative family. We look forward to another year of service, progress, and community strength, all powered by you!