May. 1, 2025
Turning Energy Challenges into Opportunities for Cooperatives
At TechAdvantage 2025, PowerSecure and NRTC joined forces to explore how electric cooperatives can meet today’s energy challenges head-on with innovative solutions like distributed energy resources (DERs) and microgrids.
As utility constraints become more frequent—and member expectations for resiliency and sustainability rise—DERs present a powerful opportunity for co-ops to lead the way. Below are the six biggest insights from our joint TechTalk session that can help cooperatives unlock new value for their members and communities.
1. EPC+ Is the New Standard
PowerSecure isn’t just an EPC—we’re EPC+. That means we deliver engineering, procurement, and construction services plus a suite of integrated capabilities designed specifically for co-ops:
- Energy Market Analysis: Quantify the revenue potential of behind-the-meter assets by participating in energy markets.
- Ownership & Service Model: We can own, operate, and maintain DERs to deliver performance without burdening your balance sheet.
- Predictive Maintenance: Our tools help co-ops anticipate peak events and keep assets optimized and mission-ready.
Together, these elements create a more complete, strategic DER offering that aligns with co-op business models and member expectations.
2. Key Accounts Are a Gateway to Microgrid Growth
Large commercial and industrial members—your key accounts—are often the first to demand more resilient, cost-effective, and sustainable energy solutions. They’re also your biggest opportunity.
Integrating microgrids as DERs with these members can:
- Defer expensive distribution system upgrades
- Provide critical backup power to support local business continuity
- Strengthen cooperative engagement and loyalty
By focusing on these accounts, co-ops can drive DER adoption in ways that benefit the entire system.
3. The Microgrid Value Stack Is Real—and Growing
Microgrids are more than just backup power. When designed for dispatchability, these resources can unlock multiple layers of value:
- Energy Arbitrage: Shift usage to lower-cost periods
- Coincident Peak Charge Reduction: Cut peak-related costs
- Distribution Deferral: Delay or avoid capital investments
- Resiliency & Continuity: Keep critical infrastructure online during outages
- Market Participation: Monetize assets through grid services
Microgrids can all be optimized to deliver this value stack—and the financial case for them is only getting stronger.
4. Bridge Power Solves for Utility Constraints
One of the most pressing issues co-ops face today? Utility capacity limitations, especially for high-growth loads like data centers, EV charging hubs, and industrial development.
Bridge power solutions give co-ops a way to say “yes” when the grid says “not yet”:
- Temporary & Mobile Microgrids keep development timelines on track
- Permanent On-Site Generation offers long-term resiliency and flexibility
- Energy-as-a-Service (EaaS) financing removes the capital burden
These tools not only meet urgent needs but open the door to permanent energy infrastructure with lasting benefits.
5. Resiliency, Cost, Sustainability: Match the Solution to the Objective
Through Voice of Customer research, we’ve identified three primary energy goals for commercial and industrial members:
- Resiliency: Minimize downtime and safeguard operations
- Cost Reduction: Avoid peak charges and optimize usage
- Sustainability: Lower emissions and meet ESG targets
With the right mix of generation, storage, and intelligent controls, co-ops can tailor solutions that deliver on each of these goals—and increase member satisfaction.
6. Turn Data Into Strategy
Thanks to NRTC’s Distributed Energy Resource Evaluation and Planning Service, co-ops can turn load data into clear, actionable road maps for DER deployment. The process includes:
- Assessing power purchase agreements and load profiles
- Identifying DER opportunities across key accounts and system-wide
- Quantifying financial, operational, and resiliency impacts
- Communicating clearly with boards, staff, and members
This service ensures that DER strategies are grounded in real-world data and cooperative values.
Final Thoughts: The Cooperative Advantage
PowerSecure and NRTC believe the future of cooperative energy is resilient, reliable, and member-focused. By embracing DERs, co-ops can:
- Strengthen grid resiliency
- Expand service to new and existing members
- Reduce costs and unlock new revenue streams
- Enable smarter, more sustainable communities
We’re proud to partner with co-ops across the country to turn today’s energy challenges into tomorrow’s opportunities.
Ready to explore what’s possible for your co-op?
Get in touch with the PowerSecure team today.