Episode 8 - Your Voice is Your Power

Hosted by Jim Anderson, President & CEO of Midstate Electric Cooperative

In this episode of Power Factor, Jim Anderson, Midstate’s President & CEO, sits down with Britni, Midstate’s HR & Communications Manager, to break down how Voices for Cooperative Power (VCP) helps co-op members speak up on energy policies that shape affordability, reliability, and future electric rates.

They discuss the importance of the Northwest’s hydropower and why issues like increased spill at the dams—sending more water past turbines—can reduce power generation and increase Oregon electricity rates. They also explain how a recent court decision, stemming from litigation supported by Governor Kotek, will change operations at Columbia and Snake River dams—leading to more spill, less generation, and added pressure on both rates and grid reliability across Oregon communities.

Jim and Britni emphasize that member voices matter: when large numbers of people speak up, decision-makers listen. You’ll learn how easy it is to take action through VCP, with pre-written messages you can send in seconds supporting hydropower—and why participation from rural Oregon can influence outcomes.

Take action now: https://voicesforcooperativepower.com/or-lsrd2026/ to sign up and send a letter to Governor Tina Kotek in under a minute.

Help ensure rural voices are heard on the future of energy in the Northwest.

Episode 7 - Annual Meeting Preview: Board Election, Ballots & More

Hosted by Jim Anderson, General Manager and CEO of Midstate Electric Cooperative

In this episode of Power Factor, Jim Anderson, Midstate’s CEO, sits down with Board President Ron Cass to preview Midstate’s May 16 Annual Meeting of the membership. Together, they walk through what members can expect—from meeting details and the return of the resource fair and barbecue to reminders about bringing your Quick Check postcard and watching for your board election ballot in the mail.

Jim and Ron also discuss proposed bylaw changes that would allow greater flexibility in future Annual Meeting dates and enable a shift to electronic voting. They break down what board service really requires, how growth and new electrical loads don’t necessarily mean higher rates, and what continued expansion means for Midstate’s service territory.

Members are encouraged to attend, bring their questions, and get direct answers—because the Annual Meeting is about participation, transparency, and staying connected to your cooperative.

Episode 6 - Protect Our Hydropower: Take Action with Voices for Cooperative Power

Hosted by Jim Anderson, General Manager and CEO of Midstate Electric Cooperative

In this episode of Power Factor, Jim Anderson talks about attending a Northwest Power and Conservation Council meeting where supporters of dam removal filled the room—and Jim was the only one speaking up for hydropower. He explains why that matters, because decisions made in meetings like these can affect what cooperative members see on their monthly bills. The key message is simple: when people don’t speak up, others make the decisions. Members are encouraged to get involved by joining Voices for Cooperative Power and helping ensure rural and cooperative perspectives are part of the conversation around keeping electricity reliable and affordable.