Affordability and The Drivers Behind Energy Costs

Affordability and The Drivers Behind Energy Costs

In this episode of United’s PowerTalk, CEO Cameron Smallwood breaks down what’s really driving electricity costs and how United works to keep rates as stable and affordable as possible for its members. Cameron explains the factors shaping today’s energy landscape, including: * Power supply and transmission expenses. * Winter Storm Uri recovery costs. * The growing impact of data centers in Texas. He also shares how the cooperative is planning for future growth while working to ensure members aren’t burdened with costs they shouldn’t have to bear.

United’s Energy & Internet Outlook in 2026

On this inaugural episode of United’s PowerTalk, John Davis is joined by CEO Cameron Smallwood to discuss the energy and internet opportunities at United Cooperative Services (USC) during 2026. They discuss the energy outlook at the cooperative, especially under the new procurement contracts, which will likely reduce electric bills for members. Free energy audits through the cooperative are also available for those looking to drive energy bills down further.  Smallwood also provides an update on United’s internet project. Over the past few years, United has been able to connect 87 percent of their customers to high-speed internet. Unfortunately, United did not receive BEAD funding to be able to connect the last 13 percent of customers. This doesn’t mean those members won’t be connected to high-speed internet; rather, lower cost providers did win the grant funding to serve those customers, which now they are obligated to do.