MESSAGE FROM OPERATIONS: A LOOK INTO COOPERATIVE PROJECTS PLANNED FOR 2026

As we look ahead into 2026, KEM Electric Cooperative is committed to bringing additional reliability and safety to our system. A team of engineers and operation employees from KEM Electric have thoughtfully planned to ensure seamless execution of the upcoming projects. A few of these projects include cooperative infrastructure upgrades, technology installation and service upgrades. 

Pole testing

In late 2025, pole testing contractors wrapped up testing 7,500 utility poles in KEM Electric’s territory. Of the utility poles that were tested, around 150 are being replaced. Crews will be working on replacing these utility poles throughout the coming months as weather allows. 

Technology installation

We continue to upgrade technology across our service area. Sectionalizing technology is being updated from aged oil circuit recloses (OCRs) to TripSavers. TripSavers, help improve reliability by preventing outages from temporary faults caused by various factors from animals, trees or lightning. Additionally, supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) compatible technology will continue to be installed within substations. This technology allows us to have real-time data and control at our fingertips.

New services and upgrades

Throughout the year, our crews will continue to plan for and install new services as well as service upgrades to meet members' needs. Whether you plan to build a new house, install a grain bin or have other plans that need electric services, be sure to call our office. By contacting us in the early stages of the planning process we can help provide guidance and analyze what your projected electric service requirements may be as well as service availability and potential costs.

New underground installation

Installation of six miles of new three-phase underground cable from our Midway Substation will begin once the ground thaws. The new cable will run west and allow the cooperative to replace one mile of small, aged cable as well as five miles of three-phase overhead power line. Installing underground cable from substations helps enhance reliability to the system and members.

We would like to remind members to report outages by calling 800-472-2673 or through SmartHub. Additionally, if you have one service with us, you can now report outages by texting OUT to 844-955-2714. This information helps us assess where the cause of the outage may have originated from. KEM Electric continues to focus on the goal of providing safe, efficient, reliable service to our members and look forward to serving you in 2026.