Co-op Energy Talk

You might remember – about a year ago northern Michigan was hit with a devastating ice storm. Trees were coated in ice like glass, power poles and trees were snapping like twigs, and entire communities were without power for extended periods of time. While Cherryland wasn't directly impacted, other Michigan co-ops were. Now they're working through the process of applying for FEMA assistance. In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Cherryland CEO Rachel Johnson and Michigan Electric Cooperative Association President and CEO John Kran dive into why FEMA matters before, during, and after a storm. To let your local legislators know you support legislation aimed at improving FEMA's current processes click here: https://voicesforcooperativepower.com/femareform/

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the February 23rd Board of Directors meeting.

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, host Courtney Doyle is joined by Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson and Communication & Controls Field Engineer Zach Endres to talk about how Cherryland is using drone technology to better serve its members. Together, they explore how drones help crews inspect power lines more safely and efficiently, improve reliability, and respond more quickly after storms. Rachel and Zach also discuss how new tools like this fit into Cherryland’s long-term commitment to safety, innovation, and keeping costs in check. Tune in to learn how a bird’s-eye view is helping keep the lights on across northern Michigan.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the January 19th Board of Directors meeting.

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, host Courtney Doyle sits down with Cherryland Electric Cooperative’s Energy Use Advisor, Tammy Haworth, to break down Energy Waste Reduction (EWR) and what it means for members in 2026. They walk through the new state mandate, explain how savings are measured, and highlight the programs Cherryland designed to turn compliance into real member value. From expanded rebates and a new online storefront to DIY home energy assessments and added support for income-qualified members, this conversation covers the tools available to help members save energy and money. Tune in to learn how Cherryland is making energy efficiency more accessible than ever.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the December 15th Board of Directors meeting.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the November 17th Board of Directors meeting.

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Cherryland CEO Rachel Johnson sits down with Board Chair Gabe Schneider to unpack one of the most unique benefits of co-op membership, Capital Credits. Together, they explain what Capital Credits are, how Cherryland decides when and how much to return, and why this year’s $500,000 retirement reflects both strong financial stewardship and the cooperative spirit. Tune in to learn how Cherryland balances investing in reliability and facilities with returning value directly to members, proving once again that being part of a co-op truly pays off.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the October 27th Board of Directors meeting.

In this special Co-op Month episode of Co-op Energy Talk, host Courtney Doyle highlights the people who make Cherryland Electric Cooperative unique. Hear from some of Cherryland’s newest team members, including Adam, Brandi, Blake, Jeff, and Michelle as they share what drives their work and why being part of a member-owned cooperative matters. From keeping the lights on during storms to ensuring efficiency, safety, and strong collaboration across departments, this conversation shines a light on the dedicated employees who power our communities every day.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the September 22nd Board of Directors meeting.

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, host Courtney Doyle sits down with Cherryland CEO Rachel Johnson and CFO Brad Pavwoski to break down the co-op's Key Ratio Trend Analysis (KRTA) and why it matters to members. From financial health and operational efficiency to system reliability, KRTA metrics give Cherryland a clear picture of how the co-op stacks up nationally and locally—and how decisions made today impact the future. Learn how Cherryland keeps costs lean, manages growth, and delivers some of the most reliable power in the country, all while preparing for the challenges ahead.

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, host Courtney Doyle talks with Cherryland’s Sonya Sias and the Salvation Army’s Patty Steele about changes to the Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP). Starting in September, members will see a new $1.25 monthly charge on their bills. Learn what this means for Cherryland members, how to apply for assistance, and why it’s important to reach out early if you need help.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the July 28th Board of Directors meeting.

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, host Courtney Doyle welcomes Cherryland CEO Rachel Johnson and Michigan Electric Cooperative Association (MECA) President and CEO John Kran to discuss the critical role rural electric cooperatives play in energy policy and advocacy. They dive into how Cherryland ensures members have a seat at the table—from local community efforts to statewide and federal advocacy—and explain key issues like FEMA funding after recent storms, the importance of permitting reform, and the impact of federal legislation on rural co-ops. Tune in to learn why advocacy matters, how Cherryland and MECA work together to protect rural energy interests, and how members can get involved to make their voices heard.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the June 24th Board of Directors meeting.

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Communications and Member Relations Manager Courtney Doyle sits down with Chris Mohrhardt, owner of Incredible Mo’s, to discuss their 10-year partnership hosting Cherryland’s annual meeting and their inspiring community work. Learn how rural economic development loans helped shape Incredible Mo’s growth and how their unique birthday party project is giving back to local kids who might otherwise go without celebrations. Tune in to hear about the deep ties between local business, community support, and the cooperative spirit that powers it all.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the May 19th Board of Directors meeting.

In this episode of Co-op Energy Talk, Cherryland’s Courtney Doyle is joined by Matt Fiala from Survey & Ballot Systems (SBS) to take members behind the scenes of Cherryland’s annual board elections. They discuss how partnering with a third-party ensures a secure, unbiased election—from online voting integration through SmartHub to the hands-off paper ballot process. Learn how your votes are counted, protected, and validated, and why democratic member control remains a core cooperative principle. Whether you're a first-time voter or a seasoned participant, this episode sheds light on the care and integrity behind every Cherryland election.

Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson discusses the highlights of the April 21st Board of Directors meeting.