I plug the charger into my smartphone and swipe my phone to take a quick glance at tomorrow’s weather forecast. Technology and electricity make retrieving information so easy and convenient that I don’t think twice about its instant access.

Then I remember it’s just been a matter of decades since the people who first worked for our co-op were stringing up lines across our area and introducing their neighbors to the miracle of electric light.

It’s astounding when you stop and think of just how much our relationship with electricity has changed. That change is accelerating at an ever-faster rate. I don’t know what we’ll see 10 or 20 years from now, but I know it’s going to be exciting and transformative.

As your world evolves, we at Kankakee Valley REMC want to help you navigate those changes. That’s why we’ve been realigning our rate structure. The realignment is less about how you use electricity today than how you’ll use it in the coming years.

You may have heard about something called “beneficial electrification.” In simple terms, that refers to replacing technologies and practices that can be harmful to the environment with newer ones using electricity — especially electricity from renewable sources. 

 A great example is your lawnmower. Most homeowners don’t realize just how much gas-powered lawnmowers pollute. Experts say the average lawnmower creates 11 times as much pollution as the average new car. By switching to an electric lawnmower, you can keep your lawn looking good while also protecting the atmosphere.

We see more opportunities for beneficial electrification every year, and we’re impressed with the innovators who are finding ways to transform our lives. While we can’t guess exactly what the future opportunities might be, we can ensure that electricity will be as affordable and Earth-friendly as possible. The new rate structure doesn’t penalize members for using more electricity, unlike the one it replaced. In fact, it makes the switch to electric devices even more affordable.

Kankakee Valley REMC is a member-owned organization, and we’re legally and ethically required to serve your needs as affordably as possible. We know it may take a little time for you to feel comfortable with the new rate structure. But as time goes on, we’re confident you’ll come to appreciate it.