Wake Electric leadership and members of the board of directors joined representatives from electric cooperatives across North Carolina in Raleigh for the annual Rally in Raleigh event, an opportunity to meet with state lawmakers and discuss issues affecting cooperative members and rural communities.

As North Carolina experiences rapid growth and rising electricity demand, Wake Electric has advocated for policies that support reliable service, affordable rates, and continued investment in the infrastructure needed to serve growing communities. The event allows legislators to hear firsthand how decisions made in Raleigh affect the people and businesses in our seven-county service territory.

“Advocating for our members at the state level is just as important as when we go to Washington,” said Kirk Metcalf, vice-president of human resources and member services.  “When we meet with state representatives and state senators that serve our territory, we’re able to communicate the needs of our members and even invite them to come to the co-op and see the great work we do on behalf of the membership.”

Unlike investor-owned utilities, electric cooperatives are locally governed by the members they serve. That connection gives co-op leaders a unique understanding of the needs of their communities and helps guide discussions on energy policy, economic development and long-term planning. By participating in events like Rally in Raleigh, Wake Electric helps ensure the voices of its members are represented as North Carolina works to meet the energy needs of the future.