Rural Electric Nebraskan by Nebraska Rural Electric Association

March 2012

A camp for high school students that like to learn and have a week of fun

Volume 66, Number 3, March 2012

“The Rural Voice of Nebraska”

Staff Editor Wayne Price Editorial Assistant Kathy Barkmeier

Contents Features

Higher Power Costs on the Horizon

Published by the

Visit us at www.nrea.org General Manager Jay Holmquist President Gary Dill, Roosevelt Public Power District Vice President/Secretary Randy Papenhausen, Cedar-Knox Public Power District

America’s power plants may be forced to make expensive changes to meet increasing environmental regulations — and as electric demand climbs, new generation will be needed to keep the lights on. Public power districts and electric cooperatives are leading the way to find affordable solutions to America’s electricity demand.

A Balanced Diet Pat Pope, President and CEO of Nebraska Public Power District, explains how Nebraska uses a variety of fuel sources to produce electricity. This diverse mix provides flexibility to operate power plants when it is most economical.

Treasurer Ron Jensen Loup Valleys Rural Public Power District Published monthly by the Nebraska Rural Electric Association, 1244 K Street, Box 82048, Lincoln, Nebraska 68501, (402) 475-4988.

Advertising in the Rural Electric Nebraskan does not imply endorsement for products by the Nebraska Rural Electric Association. Correspondence should be sent to Wayne Price, Editor, Rural Electric Nebraskan, Box 82048, Lincoln, NE 68501. The Rural Electric Nebraskan is printed by Jacob North Companies, Box 82046, Lincoln, NE 68501. Form 3579 should be sent to the Rural Electric Nebraskan, Box 82048, Lincoln, NE 68501. Periodicals postage paid at Lincoln, Neb. POSTMASTER: send address changes to the Rural Electric Nebraskan, 1244 K Street, Box 82048, Lincoln, NE 68501. Publication numbers are USPS 071-630 and ISSN 0193-4937. Rates: $10 for one year; $15 for two years; $20 for three years, plus local and state tax.

March 2012

Departments EDITOR’S PAGE

SAFETY BRIEFS — Murphy

CUT YOUR UTILITY BILLS by James Dulley

RECIPES

ADULT PEN PALS

MARKETPLACE/CLASSIFIEDS

On the cover Bob Cooper, NREA Job Training and Safety Coordinator, instructs a camper on pole climbing during Youth Energy Camp. See related story on page 14. Photograph by Wayne Price.

EDITOR’S PAGE

The rising cost of electricity in America new car arrives with fresh paint, a great smell, and a hefty price tag. After a few years of regular payments the scent changes, but there’s value in owning an older car that’s still running well. Most of America’s public power districts and electric cooperatives bought a fleet of new “cars” — power plants — in the 1970s and 1980s. This ample stock of generation allowed rural electric utilities to maintain a safe, reliable, and affordable supply of power. Current conditions may place affordability and reliability at risk. Half of the nation’s total generating capacity — 530,000 megawatts — passed the 30-year mark by the end of 2010, according to the U.S. Energy Information Association (EIA). As with an older vehicle, there are costs associated with maintaining a power plant expenses compounded by a slew of environmental regulations. In fact, these rules could result in a chunk of America’s coal-fired power plant fleet shutting down by 2018. In addition, some electric utilities need to head back to the dealership to add new generation plants to meet growing demand. However, with required environmental controls coupled with rising prices for construction materials, new power plants — as well as older ones “in for maintenance” — are going to be much, much more expensive. All of these factors will impact our electric bills for many years to come. Our collective wallets are under pressure. More folks around the world are using power; China has surpassed the United States as the top global energy user, and in just over two decades it’s predicted to consume 68 percent more power than we do. Americans are using more energy too, despite efficiency measures. It’s easy to see why. Everything is plugged in these days. Or they’re connected to a charger half of the time. Things like TVs, laptops, “iGadgets,” and other electronics crowd power outlets. A Nebraska home uses 1,051 kWh every month — a 48 kWh increase in just one year. Generally, when there’s increased demand — say, for the latest model car — manufac-

by Wayne Price

Check us out online

turers open a new assembly plant to roll more models into showrooms. But at a time when electricity needs are rising, our affordable power supply is beginning to dwindle. Today, nearly 80 percent of the power provided by rural electric utilities nationwide comes from coal, compared to about half for the rest of the electric utility industry. Why the difference? The majority of public power coal power plants were built between 1975 and 1986, when building natural gas facilities was restricted by the federal Powerplant and Industrial Fuel Use Act due to concerns that natural gas reserves were running low. Of course, those worries proved to be unfounded, and the law was repealed in 1987. But by then rural electric utilities had already built a generation of coal-fired power plants — the same plants that are now being saddled with heavy regulatory costs. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not against clean and green energy. In fact, generation and transmission companies like Nebraska Public Power District and Tri State G&T have invested in a variety of renewable energy projects, including wind, solar, and hydro. But I want to make sure lawmakers in Washington, D.C., keep balance, common sense, and affordability in mind when adding layer upon layer of requirements to the way we generate power. Having a diverse source of electric generation is what NPPD and Tri State G&T are working on. The answer to our problems do not rest on any one generation source. The idea of replacing all the electricity produced in Nebraska with wind just isn’t feasible. Working with the folks at our national service arm, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), we’re urging the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to consider a more balanced and common-sense approach to rules, and how increased electric power costs affect consumers like you and me. Stay informed on these issues and find out how you can help us keep the price of power affordable at www.ourenergy.coop and www.nepower.org. I would also encourage you to visit www.nrea.org to find additional information on public power in Nebraska.

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Higher Power Costs on Horizon Growing demand and environmental regulations stress electric rates By Megan McKoy-Noe

Rural Electric Nebraskan

hirty-five years ago disco was king, personal computers were born, and Americans needed more electricity. To meet this demand, not-for-profit, consumerowned public power districts and electric cooperatives — in partnership with their wholesale power suppliers — built or invested in power plants, mostly coal or nuclear. Unfortunately, many of these plants may be forced to make expensive changes to meet increasing environmental regulations — and as electric demand climbs again, new generation will be needed to keep the lights on. Some coal-fired power plants may require modifications so severe that it will be more cost effective to simply shut them down.

Accelerating Factors Consumers, adding more plugged-in devices daily, already pay more for electricity. The average annual residential electric bill has risen $263.40 since 2005, with electricity use outpacing efficiency efforts. Despite the recession, U.S. homes on average used an additional 50 kilowatt-hours (kWh) every month between 2009 and 2010; retail electricity sales rose 4.4 percent. Americans aren’t the only people using more power; as worldwide energy use grows, resource competition (and prices) shoot up. By 2035, global energy consumption, primarily in China and India, will jump 53 percent from 2008 levels. In spite of increasing energy needs, 37,600 megawatts (MW) of older coalfired power plants are slated for retirement by 2018. The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), the Atlanta, Ga.-based organization charged with overseeing reliability of the electric grid covering the United States, most of Canada, and the Mexican state of Baja California Norte, predicts a worst case scenario of environmental regulations may force coal plants generating up to 54,000 MW of additional power to shut their doors by 2018. New power plants could offset this loss, with natural gas taking center stage. The National Energy

March 2012

Baseload generators are the largest and least expensive power plants in a utility’s portfolio. They are designed to operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Typical baseload generators include nuclear and coal-fired power plants, including Gerald Gentleman Station, above, and Sheldon Station, below.

Technology Laboratory (NETL), a branch of the U.S. Department of Energy focused on advancing national, economic, and energy security, predicts 20,000 MW of natural gas facilities will start operating this year, with another 28,000 MW proposed for 2013. A strong breeze from wind project proposals may add 42,000 MW this year and 28,000 MW in 2013 — but only if federal production tax credits continue.

Shifting Fuel Focus While about half of the nation’s electricity comes from burning coal, coops rely more heavily on the fossil fuel — approximately 80 percent. Why the difference? The majority of co-op coal power plants were built between 1975 and 1986, when using natural gas was prohibited by the federal Powerplant and Industrial Fuel Use Act. Now, a series of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations impacting cooling water intake structures, coal ash disposal, interstate transport of air pollutants, and hazardous air pollutants like mercury are affecting all electric utilities. In most cases, utilities will need to retrofit coal-fired plants with costly pollution control equipment; in others, they could opt for early plant retirements. “Time is tight — improvements take time and new technologies have to be tested before going mainstream,” says Kirk Johnson, senior Please turn to page 8

Higher power costs From page 7 vice president of government relations for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), the Arlington, Va.-based service organization for nation’s 900-plus public power districts and electric cooperatives. “We’re deeply concerned that EPA’s strategy to require significant change within very compressed timelines may be unachievable and could damage the economy of rural America and affect service reliability.” Seeing the handwriting on the wall, rural electric utilities have taken action. Over the last decade, power supply utilities have invested $3.4 billion to boost plant performance and limit emissions. In fact, since 1990, power plant emissions of nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxides — compounds formed by burning fossil fuels — dropped at least 67 percent nationally even as electricity use climbed 38 percent. And the

large-scale expenditure isn’t over. Another $4 billion has been slated for upgrades through 2021, with the bulk of the money — $2.18 billion — marked for work this year and next.

enough time to comply. “Regulation on top of regulation, and court decision on top of court decision, have compounded the situation to the point that we now have

Over the last decade, rural electric utilities have invested $3.4 billion to boost power plant performance and limit emissions. Another $4 billion has been slated for upgrades through 2021. Regulation Risks “Environmental regulations are shown to be the number one risk to [maintaining electric] reliability over the next one to five years,” reports NERC’s 2011 Long-Term Reliability Assessment. Why the concern? Because steps required by EPA rules have the potential to cost the industry billions of dollars and don’t provide

contradictory regulations and court decisions that don’t make any sense,” explains NRECA CEO Glenn English. “Our nation needs to adopt a balanced, common-sense approach to environmental protection that factors in electric reliability and affordability.” NRECA has been actively urging EPA through comments, testimony, and litigation to consider the nega-

Nebraska also has a diverse mix of carbon-neutral electric generation. Two nuclear power facilities, one of which is Cooper Nuclear Station (above) supply more than 25 percent of the state’s electricity without emitting any carbon dioxide.

Rural Electric Nebraskan

tive impacts of increased electric power costs on consumers as it continues to move forward with its rulemakings. Public power districts and electric cooperatives are leading the way to find affordable solutions to America’s electricity demand. Find out how you can help at www.ourenergy.coop. Sources: U.S. Energy Information Administration 2011 International Energy Outlook Table 5A; NERC 2011 Long-Tern Reliability Assessment; NETL Tracking New Power Plants, July 2011 Megan McKoy-Noe writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the Arlington, Va.based service arm of the nation’s 900-plus consumerowned, not-for-profit public power districts and electric cooperatives. Steve Johnson and Jennifer Taylor contributed to this article.

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Power outages and cold weather

old temperatures can cause safety concerns during a power outage. The Safe Electricity program provides the following tips to help you and your family know what to do when it is cold outside and the power goes out: • Dress warmly. Layers of clothing provide better insulation than a single layer of heavier clothing. • Move to a single room, preferably one with few windows. Ideally, this room should be on the south side of the home for maximum heat gain in the daytime. The room should be shut off from the rest of the house and could be one with a fireplace, wood stove, or other alternate heat source. • If you use an alternate heat source, be sure and follow operating instructions. For example if you use a kerosene heater, adequate ventilation is a must. All fuels should be stored outside of the home for safety reasons. Wood stoves and fireplaces

should be maintained properly throughout the year to prevent problems when they are needed in an emergency. • A primary concern in winter is keeping water pipes from freezing. A small stream of water can be left on to prevent this. This is not a practical solution when water is supplied from a well. Insulating the water pipes is a more permanent method. • In some rural areas electricity is required to pump water into the home. Since water cannot be pumped during a power outage, keep an adequate supply of drinking water on hand at all times. • Consolidate your resources with neighbors. They might have heat and electricity in their homes. People with health problems should be taken to a church, community agency, or other location where their needs can be met. Source: SafeElectricity.org.

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A Balanced Diet: One Way to Look at Your Electricity By Pat Pope, President & CEO of Nebraska Public Power District

f you are like me, when you open the refrigerator, you look for options. Orange juice or milk? Meat or cheese? Leftovers or salad? We don’t eat a constant diet of one thing. We want variety and balance. And so it goes with energy. The Nebraska Public Power District is one of the state’s largest electric generating utilities. We serve more than 89,000, end-use customers directly and sell our electricity to 77 utilities at wholesale: 52 municipalities and 25 public power districts or cooperatives. In turn, these utilities serve an additional 600,000 Nebraskans throughout the state. You are a customer of one of these public power districts or cooperatives. NPPD and your utility understand how critical electricity is to your daily lives, as well as to the state’s businesses, industries, and economy. NPPD takes its responsibility in meeting these energy needs seriously, and one way we do that is by generating power with different fuel sources in a variety of locations. Our “baseload” energy is power produced using nuclear fuel. It is constant and reliable energy, generating electricity for hundreds of days at a time before being taken off-line for maintenance. Cooper Nuclear Station, in the southeast corner of the state, is NPPD’s largest, single generating unit. This nuclear facility is performing well and recently received a renewed license from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to operate until 2034. NPPD also generates electricity for customers using two, coal-fired facilities near Sutherland and Hallam. (See map) Collectively, NPPD’s nuclear and fossil-fueled units generate nearly 85 percent of the electricity used by NPPD’s retail and wholesale customers. Our coal-fired facilities use low-sulfur coal from nearby Wyoming, which helps keep our costs low, and we remain compliant with federal environmental regulations. Meanwhile, NPPD owns and oper-

March 2012

Pat Pope President & CEO of Nebraska Public Power District ates the Ainsworth Wind Energy Facility in north central Nebraska, and has facilitated the development of several other private wind farms and purchases power from them as part of its energy mix. In fact, additional power purchase agreements are in the works in order to meet NPPD ‘s voluntary goal of generating at least 10 percent of its power with renewable resources by 2020. Yet, as much as it seems the wind blows in Nebraska, it cannot be counted on to produce energy whenever needed - hospitals, industries, and other customers require electricity 24x7. Baseload resources will

still be necessary to backup intermittent renewable resources such as wind and solar. Hydropower and natural gas are also part of NPPD’s generation portfolio. This diverse mix gives us the flexibility to operate our plants when it is most economical. For instance, we can reduce the amount of power generated at our coal-fired facilities and replace the energy with wind when it is available. Likewise, in the summer or winter, when the wind doesn’t blow as much, or when a drought affects our hydropower plants, we rely upon our other resources. The end-result is a balanced approach to generating electricity with a healthy diet of fuel resources. In the near future, you may hear about an analysis NPPD is conducting to determine what percentage of our future generation mix should come from natural gas, coal, nuclear, wind, energy efficiency efforts, etc. We will be holding public sessions to explain our process and collect the thoughts of those who attend. Our goal is to determine the right and reliable resource mix that will help us remain true to our motto and our responsibility to be “Always There When You Need Us.” To learn more about the public power structure of electric utilities in Nebraska, visit www.nppd.com and watch the video “Public Power 101,” under the About Us and Public Power tabs.

A camp for kids who like to think ach year member systems of the Nebraska Rural Electric Association accept applications from area high school students to attend the NREA Youth Energy Camp at the State 4-H Camp in the Halsey National Forest. The 2012 Youth Energy Camp will be held July 9 - 13. The popular week-long camp is set up to give young people a better understanding of electricity, power generation and the rural electric program. Our goal is to offer a program that challenges participants educationally, recreationally and socially. The Youth Energy Camp is established as an operating power district and provides a “hands-on” approach to member-owned businesses. The students will join other high school students from Nebraska and

Wyoming, along with adult counselors and junior counselors. The adult counselors are employees of rural electric systems who donate their time and talents to the camp. The junior counselors are selected by their peers to return to next year’s camp.

and have a week of fun! On the first day of camp, a board of directors is elected to oversee the operation of the newly formed electric power district. The board then chooses a general manager to oversee the committee activities and act as a liai-

son between the counselors and campers. Every participant has a role in the workings of the camp. Students can participate in the Ambassador competition or actively seek a position on the Board of Directors. Each student must also volunteer to serve on at least one of the committees responsible for various aspects of the camp activities. There is even a talent show where the campers can show off their various talents. A highlight of the camp involves a tour of the Kingsley Hydro Station at Lake McConaughy and Gerald Gentleman Station, a coal-fired power plant at Sutherland, Neb. High school students who attend the energy camp may compete for a chance to participate in the National Rural Electric Cooperative

2012 Youth Energy Camp RSVP Form Name _________________________________________________ Age _______ Current Grade _______________________________ Address _______________________________________________ City __________________________ State _____ ZIP __________ Phone number (____)______________________________________ Name of parents or guardian ________________________________ Sponsoring rural electric system __________________________________________

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The Youth Energy Camp program consists of interesting workshops, fascinating demonstrations and presentations by regional experts addressing the many issues affecting the rural electric program. Association’s Youth Tour in Washington D.C. with expenses paid by the Nebraska Rural Electric Association. Three students are chosen as part of the Ambassador competition held during camp. The competition involves submitting an application at camp, presenting a self-introduction speech and delivering a five-minute speech on an assigned topic. Each camper votes for three candidates following the speech with the top male, top female and person with the next highest vote total becoming next year’s ambassadors. The top six finalists and ties are invited to return to next year’s Youth Energy Camp as junior counselors. Recreational activities include basketball, volleyball and canoeing. Camp expenses and transportation are provided by each sponsoring rural electric system. Current High School freshmen, sophomores and juniors whose families are customers of NREA member systems may apply. For more information about attending Youth Energy Camp, send the form to your rural electric provider.

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SAFETY BRIEFS

Prevent fires in the home with proper safety measures ires are among the leading causes of accidental death in the United States today. According to the National Safety Council, 3,300 people died in fires in 1990. During that year, 513,000 residential fires resulted in $3.9 billion property damage. The toll continues to grow every year, even with increased use of 911 emergency response systems. More than three out of four reported fires occur in the home. Fires are likely to be more severe in rural areas because of the response time and limited equipment available to outlying fire departments.

People Cause Fires The tragic aspect of home fires is that many could have been prevented -- if someone had taken the proper safety measures ahead of time. People's actions -- and how they fail to consider fire safety -- are common to all major causes of household fires. Major causes include improper use and maintenance of heating appliances; improper use and care of electrical appliances; lack of functioning smoke detectors; and careless use of smoking materials.

Check Electrical Cords Two-thirds of all electrical fires begin in plugs or cords on fixed appliances such as refrigerators, air conditioners or lamps. Frayed cords expose electrical wires that spark on contact with each other or anything that can ground the electrical current. Electrical plugs and cords usually deteriorate gradually, making damage difficult to detect. Inspect all appliance cords and plugs for wear at least once a year. If you discover a frayed cord or loose prongs on a plug, discontinue use until repairs can be made. Check Electrical Outlets Never overload electrical outlets and circuits. Overloaded electrical outlets, or circuits that supply power to several outlets, is a major cause of residential fires. Overloaded outlets and circuits carry too much electricity, which generates heat in undetectable amounts. The heat causes wear on the internal wiring system and can ignite a fire. All wiring systems have circuit breakers or fuses that disconnect power when circuits become overloaded. However, an improperly sized

fuse or breaker can cancel this builtin safety feature. To prevent overloading, never plug more than two appliances into an outlet at once or "piggyback" extra appliances on extension cords or wall outlets. Use only outlets designed to handle multiple plugs. Give special consideration to appliances that use 1,000 or more watts, such as air conditioners, refrigerators, hot plates, irons, microwave ovens, dishwashers, heaters, and deep fryers. Avoid plugging them into the same outlet or circuit. To use these appliances safely, know which outlets are connected to the same electrical circuit in your home. Do not exceed 1,500 watts for each outlet or circuit. Wattage requirements are listed in appliance manufacturer's instructions. Check Smoke Alarms Researchers estimate that smoke alarms could have prevented almost half of the annual fire fatalities. Smoke alarms alert you to potential dangers that your senses cannot detect, such as a slow, smoldering fire in an overloaded electrical outlet. Source: National Ag Safety Database

Rural Electric Nebraskan

Switching to ENERGY ST STAR TAR AR® aappliances ppliances makes good sense – and will sa save ve you dollars. Keeping old ones plugged in drains electricity and your wallet. FFor save or example, you can sa ve some serious money just by pulling the plug on tha thatt old fridge in the gara garage. ge. FFind ind out wha whatt else you can do and ho how w little changes add up aatt TTogetherWeSave.com. ogetherWeSave.com.

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Wholesale power supplier to 44 electric cooperatives in Colorado, Nebraska, ebraska, New Mexico and Wyoming. Wyoming. y TOGETHERWESAVE.COM TOGETHER WE SAVE.COM

CUT YOUR UTILITY BILLS

Create mini-sunroom with a bay window by James Dulley

I have an old picture window I Q :want to replace with a bay or bow window. My budget is tight. Which type is best and most efficient? Should I buy an entire unit or assemble one from individual windows? Those old, large single-pane picA :ture windows, which were common in houses built many years ago, are extremely inefficient. Not only is there a huge heat loss (and gain, in summer) through the glass itself, but there likely is no insulation around it inside the walls. If one faces south or west, you can count on the drapes, furniture, and carpeting near it to be badly faded. A bow or bay window is sometimes called the “poor man’s sunroom.” A bow or bay window can actually provide some of the benefits of a sunroom at a lower cost. These include making your room appear larger, providing a seat under glass at the window, and creating an ideal location for plants. Even though it costs considerably less than adding a small sunroom, installing an efficient bow or bay window is still not an inexpensive homeimprovement project. No matter what type of new window design you install in place of the old picture window, it will be more efficient and reduce your utility bills. This savings can help to pay back its initial cost, but it will take many years to pay back the entire cost. By including the utility bills savings with the increase in your home’s resale value, you should be able to recover most of the cost over a reasonable time period. The basic difference between a bow and a bay window is a bow window is made of four or more narrow window panels, often of the same width. Five windows is the most common configu-

ration. Using more window panels creates a more circular appearance, which many people find attractive. Often, only the two end windows can be opened, but you can order them so they all open. There should be adequate natural ventilation from having only the end panels operable.

This five-section bow window with a vinyl frame has casement windows on either end for maximum natural ventilation. Photograph provided by Champion Window Bay windows are made from just three window panels. The two angled side panels usually can be opened and are angled at either 30 or 45 degrees. The fixed center window is similar to a smaller picture window with an unobstructed view of the outdoors. A 45-degree bay window extends further than a 30-degree window from the house wall and provides more space for plants or a bench seat. It creates more of a mini-sunroom feel. There is not a significant difference in the energy efficiency or durability of a bow or bay window. A bay window may be slightly more efficient because there are fewer joints and seams to be sealed between the window panels. Also, wherever there is

framing material and supporting lumber in the wall, there is less room for insulation. Some of the new designs of insulated window glass are more efficient than the existing older house walls. As with any replacement window style, the glass is the heart of the window. Select the most energy-efficient glass your budget will allow, even if it forces you to cut back on the styling or trim options. At the very minimum, select double-pane glass with a low-emissivity coating and inert gas in the gap between the panes. Make sure to select the proper glass for your area because the location of the low-emissivity coating can vary depending upon your climate. All the new glass types will reduce fading. Because a bow or bay window protrudes from the wall, it is ideal for natural ventilation during summer to reduce your air-conditioning costs. Casement windows are typically best for standard flat windows because they catch breezes and direct them indoors. With the protrusion of a bow or bay window, double-hung end windows can also be effective for good ventilation. In addition to high-quality glass, look for a bow or bay window that has insulation, often foam, in the seatboard and the top. This saves energy and improves your comfort near the window. Your plants will also appreciate it during winter. Unless you are very handy with tools, it is generally better to purchase an entire unit designed as a bow or bay window. This will cost a little more than assembling one from individual windows, but it will likely be stronger and more airtight. Some models use quite sophisticated designs to support the bow or bay window because it is cantilevered out from the wall.

Send inquiries to James Dulley, Rural Electric Nebraskan, 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45244 or visit www.dulley.com.

Rural Electric Nebraskan

Knowledge is Power (Savings) You can save energy through online programs or in-home devices by using the data wisely by Brian Sloboda

echnological innovations are creating new energy-saving opportunities for some public power district and electric cooperative members. The same equipment and software that utilities use to monitor their electrical system can also generate detailed energy-use reports that homeowners can monitor to trim electric consumption. But does it really work? It all depends on how folks use the information. In 2009, both Google and Microsoft announced apps and websites that let you view detailed electric-use information. Instead of seeing just your bill with the prior month’s consumption, the two software giants rolled out programs that allowed users to see energy consumption on an hourly or sometimes a minute-byminute basis. The offerings used data from participating utilities or from devices that homeowners could buy and install. But Google and Microsoft failed to find a market. Google PowerMeter ended operation in September 2011, and Microsoft Hohm will be shuttered by May 2012. But other websites and physical products that give you detailed energy consumption information are still out there. The four main areas of personal energy management are in-home displays, free online web portals, smartphone applications, and smart thermostats. A word of warning, though — you must pay careful attention to how these websites mine your personal information. Some ask for the username and password you use at your local utility’s website. You should never give out that information. Some sites even ask for scanned copies of bills — copies contain per-

March 2012

sonal information like your address and account numbers. Be extremely cautious when sharing any information specific to your identity. In 2011, the Cooperative Research Network, the independent research and development arm of public power districts and electric cooperatives, issued a study on the effectiveness of online energy use portals. The study found that any website or in-home display should have as many of these features as possible to increase usefulness: • Information provided frequently, as soon after consumption as possible. Ideally, users should be able to turn on or off an appliance and, within seconds or minutes, see the resulting change in their electricity use. • Details are presented clearly and simply. • It is customized to the household’s specific circumstances. • The device should provide some

kind of meaningful comparison — showing one home’s use to another of similar size and occupancy. • Information is provided over an extended period of time. • It includes appliance-specific consumption breakdowns. • It is interactive. A display or website that just says how much electricity your entire home requires at any given time doesn’t tell you much. But if the data lets you compare your home to one of similar size or inform you how much your air conditioner draws, you can glean meaningful information that can lead to specific actions to help save energy and money. Saving energy is not always easy. But the right mix of tools to show how you use energy can go a long way toward helping you make educated decisions. Just be sure to read the fine print.

For a FREE color brochure send the ad coupon or call toll free 800-658-7076 or fax 507-462-3211. www.nordaashomes.com P.O. Box 116, Minnesota Lake, MN 56068-0116

REC

DOWNâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;HOME

RECIPES

Cheeseburger Casserole with Tater Tots 1 pkg. tater tots 1 lb. hamburger 1 onion, chopped 3/4 lb. Colby cheese, grated

Salt and pepper 1 can tomato soup 1 can milk

Brown hamburger and onion. Place 1/2 tater tots in a greased casserole dish, cover with browned meat & onion. Top with grated cheese. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Combine soup and milk. Pour over ingredients in casserole dish and cover with remaining tater tots. Bake 350 degree oven for 1 hour or until casserole is heated through.

Eileen Burgett, Amelia, Nebraska

Oatmeal & Raisin Cookies

BLTâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;Wrap 4 8-inch flour tortillas 4 ounces cream cheese spread 1/2 cup chunky salsa 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce 12 slices crisply cooked bacon 1/2 cup guacamole Spread each tortilla on one side with some cream cheese; top with some salsa and shredded lettuce and spread evenly. Place three slices bacon on each tortilla; top with some guacamole and roll up to serve immediately.

Recipe provided by the National Pork Board

1 1/4 cups unsifted all purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 cup margarine, softened 1/4 cup granulated sugar 3/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar

1 pkg. (4 oz. serving size) vanilla flavor instant pudding mix 2 eggs 3 1/2 cups quick cooking rolled oats 1 cup raisins

Mix flour with baking soda. Combine butter, the sugars and pudding mix in large mixer bowl. Beat until smooth and creamy. Beat in eggs. Gradually add flour mixture, then stir in oats and raisins. Drop by rounded measuring teaspoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375 degrees for 10-12 minutes. Makes about 5 dozen.

Jaclyn Peterson, Kearney, Nebraska

Marbled Chocolate Bars 1 pkg. (18 oz) German Chocolate cake mix 1 pkg. (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup sugar 3/4 cup milk or semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided Prepare cake according to pkg directions. Pour into greased 15 x 10 x 1 inch pan. In small bowl: Beat cream cheese and sugar. Stir in 1/4 cup chocolate chips. To swirl cheese mixture cut through batter with a knife. Sprinkle with remaining chips. Bake 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until toothpick near center comes out clean. Cool on wire rack. May frost with chocolate frosting or serve with ice cream and a little chocolate syrup over top. Makes 3 dozen.

Joyce Uehling, Fremont, Nebraska

Rural Electric Nebraskan

MAR-1: If you are a kind, honest gentleman, ready to move on with life, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m the lady. WCF, 68, NS, occasional drink. Enjoy laughter, fun, variety of activities and someone to share life with. Family is important. Start as friends. No games, please. MAR-2: SWCM, 35, 6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;1â&#x20AC;?, 220 lbs., social drinker, strong built, raised with good work ethics, enjoys camping, Nebraska football, motorcycles, movies, the country life and spending time with family & friends. Looking for a nice gal 26 to 38 with the same interest. Please send photo & phone number.

movies, music, raising flowers, cooking, sports events, writing letters & short trips. MAR-6: DWF, 40, smoker, from south central Nebraska, new to area. Enjoy dancing and pool. Seeks romantic gentleman 32-49. Please send photo. MAR-7: SWM. NS, 36, 6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;1â&#x20AC;?, from north central Nebraska. Enjoy country life, hunting, fishing, family and friends. Looking for a goodhearted girl 26-40, to get to know and start possible relationship. Photo and phone number appreciated.

To appear in print The Rural Electric Nebraskan Adult Pen Pal Service is exclusively for member-readers ages 18 and over. To be considered for use, submissions must: (1) Identify rural electric system providing magazine; (2) Include $6 to cover mail forwarding costs; (3) Be 25 words or fewer; (4) Include full name and mailing address (will not be used in magazine); and (5) Be first person, submitted directly by person to receive responses. Acceptance, editing and issue scheduling is at editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s discretion. Address all submissions to Rural Electric Nebraskan Adult Pen Pal Service, P.O. Box 82048, Lincoln, NE 68501. All responses received by the Adult Pen Pal Service are routed directly, postage paid, to the response number assigned to each submission. To write To respond to one of the adult pen pal requests, write letter, place in envelope, seal and affix first class postage. Address to full, correct response #, c/o Rural Electric Nebraskan Adult Pen Pal Service, P.O. Box 82048, Lincoln, NE 68501. Your letter will be forwarded unopened. Do not send money or additional postage; forwarding is prepaid. Enclose your full mailing address for return correspondence. Once again . . . it is very important that all responses carry the full response numberâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;both month and numberâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;to be properly forwarded.

MAR-3: Hardworking DWCM, NS 51, 6â&#x20AC;&#x2122;4â&#x20AC;?, 215 lbs, physically fit, social drink, enjoy family, the sun, water, camping, boating, running, college football, and farming/livestock. Looking for slender, fit, 40-55 Christian woman. Please send current contact info and photo. Will respond to all. MAR-4: WidWF, 68, from northeast Nebraska, enjoy farm life, animals, camping, dining out, movies, family & social drink. Looking for companionship. MAR-5: WidWF, NS, live in small community in south central Nebraska. Would enjoy companionship with a gentleman around 7577. Enjoy friends and family,

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MAR-8: CWM, ND, 5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;8â&#x20AC;?, 145 lbs, blue eyes, from small town close to Nebraska/Kansas line. Looking for a special person 62 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 70 for company, drink coffee, play card games, & watch movies. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have transportation, but could make arrangements. MAR-9: CDM, 43, N/S, occasional drinker, love country, fishing and hunting, like to BBQ, outdoors is my life, I love my two dogs. I need someone in my life. Please send photo and phone number. MAR-10: DWF, 53, NS, from central Nebraska. I am positive, fun loving, country girl, love being outdoors, live on a small acreage, raise a few critters, and a big garden. No children and am retired. Looking for someone to be friends with & see where it goes from there.

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Abbreviation Code C â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Christian; C/W â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Country-western; D â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Divorced; F â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Female; M â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Male; NS â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Non-Smoker; ND â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Non-Drinker; R&R â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Rock and roll; S â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Single; W â&#x20AC;&#x201D; White; Wid â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Widowed

March 2012

MARKETPLACE/CLASSIFIEDS ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER NEBRASKA ELECTRIC G&T COOPERATIVE, INC. COLUMBUS, NE

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Nebraska Electric G&T Cooperative, Inc. ("NEG&T") seeks an individual with outstanding people skills to replace its retiring Assistant General Manager. NEG&T's headquarters is located in Columbus, NE, with a population of approximately 23,000 people, 90 miles east of Omaha and 70 miles northwest of Lincoln. Columbus is a strong, thriving community with numerous parks, golf courses, outdoor activities, and an excellent community college. It is a wonderful place to raise a family with good schools and a strong community atmosphere. Nebraska Electric G&T Cooperative, Inc. is a member-owned, not-for-profit administrative G&T cooperative. Its core business is contracting for the wholesale power supply and delivery requirements of its 22 members located in the eastern two-thirds of Nebraska. NEG&T operates with a staff of 4-6, while engaging outside consultants on an as-needed basis. NEG&T is governed by a board of directors that are appointed by 21 public power districts and one electric membership cooperative. The member systems distribute electricity to about 150,000 consumers. At the present time, NEG&T's power supply consists of contractual arrangements directly with Nebraska Public Power District and indirectly with the Western Area Power Administration. A close working relationship exists with both of these entities for the strategic planning of future resources. While not subsidiaries, in addition to the power supply cooperative, NEG&T manages two other affiliated organizations: the MidPlains Electric Services Alliance and the Nebraska Power Authority. The incumbent reports directly to the General Manager, but has considerable latitude in working with the NEG&T members. Therefore, the candidate must have demonstrated self-motivation skills, and be able to understand the members' needs and learn their business to help address and support their needs, particularly as related to power supply. This position requires the interper-

sonal skills and leadership to represent the members at various activities and committees, as requested. Examples are Nebraska Power Association Joint Planning Subcommittee, MidPlains Energy Services Alliance, NPPD's Power Advisory Board and Rate Review Committee, Nebraska Water Resources Association, the Nebraska Rural Electric Association, and others. The candidate should generally understand various planning, construction, operation, maintenance, and cost components of the electric transmission and generation system in Nebraska and the Southwest Power Pool to help members with their power supply needs and costs, as well as have a general understanding of public power statutes including those related to the Nebraska Power Review Board. A plus for the candidate would be to have working knowledge of power supply contracts and rates between Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) and NEG&T and between NEG&T and the members. The desirable candidate will have a Bachelor's Degree in business, engineering, marketing, technical, or a related field and 2 years of experience as described. Experience would include electric rate development, electric utility operation, system planning, power plant operation, contract administration, or customer services. The candidate must embrace the culture, values, and mission of a cooperative. The cooperative offers an excellent NRECA benefits package and a competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. Please submit a complete package with a cover letter, resume, recent salary history, along with 6 business and 3 personal references, via email by March 31, 2012 to: LANGLEY & ASSOCIATES EXECUTIVE SEARCH, INC. Attn: Carol M. Langley, President (303) 694-2228 Office (303) 888-4012 Cell Email: cmlangley@earthlink.net All information kept strictly confidential An EOE

Rural Electric Nebraskan

E Every v er y d day, ay, every ever y hospital ho sp i t al a across cross the the We West st rrelies el ie s o on n tthe he life-sustaining life-sustaining power power of of electricity. elec tr icit y. In In many many cases, cases, people p e ople d depend ep end o on n e electricity lec tr icit y tto oe ensure nsure tthey hey receive receive the th e m medical edical care care they they needâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a needâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a vital vital reason reason to to k keep e ep e electricity l e c tr ic i t y a affordable. f fordable. At At T Tri-State, r i-State, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re w working o r k in g h hard ard to to address address tthe he challenges challenges that that tthreaten hreaten affordable af f o r d a b l e e electricity, lec tr icit y, including including unreasonable unreasonable regulations regul ations and policies. an d p o l icie s . A Ass a not-for-profit not-for-profit cco-op, o - o p, w weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re eâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ccommitted ommit ted to to p protecting rotec ting cconsumers onsumer s ttoday o day a and nd in in tthe he ffuture u tur e b byy p providing r o v i din g a affordable f fordable power p o w er w while hile iinvesting nvesting in in innovation. innov ation. In In keeping keeping e electricity l e c tr ic i t y a affordable, f fordable, we we believe b el ie v e o our ur lives lives ccan an b be e tthat h at m much uch healthier. healthier.

Learn more more about our ccommitment ommitment tto o aff affordability ordability at www www.TriState.coop. .TriState.coop.

THE POWER POWER BEHIND YOUR YOUR LOCAL ELECTRIC LO CAL ELE CTRIC CO-OP CO-OP

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Grower’s Special 3 more for

ONLY 1¢ Walk-on-me W alk-o alk-on-me (Thymus p. ‘Coccineus’) It’s sometimes called “Mother-of Thyme”. Has small evergreen leaaves and a lot of crimson flow wers in June and July. Plant 6-12″ apart around rocks and flagstones. Grows well in full to partial sun and hard-to-plant areas. Reaches only 3″ tall. We send field grown plants. Zones 4-9.

3 ffor or $2.99 + 3 ffor or 1¢ = 6 for $3.00

1¢ SALE! 5 more for

ONLY 1¢ Jersey Knight As Asparagus sparagus More productive — more delicious! Master gardeners haave been known to pull the female plants from their asparagus patch (those producing red berries). This left the bigger, more succulent male plants. Now plant hybridizers haave developed Jerse seey Knight Asparagus, a variety that grows only male plants. Stalks are much larger — up to 4″ around. Yield 3-4 times more top quality asparagus than older varieties. These hybrid perennial plants are vigorous growers and are highly disease-resistant. Grow in poor, salty or alkaline soil. Hardy even in sub-zero weather. Grow bigger, more flaavorful asparagus spears in 1/3-1/4 less space. 1 year old, first quality plants sent. Supply is limited — order today!

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Old F Fashioned ashion Lilac ashioned (Syringa vulgaris) Produce thousands of fragrant blooms around Memorial Day! It’s from this hardy species that the French Hybrid Lilacs were developed. Makes a beautiful 8-15′ hedge that gives blooms and fragrance every year. Zones 3-8.

1 ffor or $3.75 + 1 ffor or 1¢ = 2 for $3.76

5 for for $4.95 $4..95 + 5 ffor or 1¢ = 10 roots for $4.96

ONE YEAR GUARANTEE

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Hummingbird bird Vine Vine (Campsis radicans) Plant this improved variety of the old-ffashioned trumpet vine to attract hummingbirds. Shinny, dark green leaaves are smothered in large, showy, orange-scarlet trumpet-shaped flowers from July to November. Vigorous grower. Reaches 20 feet or more. Covers arbors, brick walls and fences. Hardy plants thrive in poor soil, full or partial sun.

2 ffor or $3.95 + 2 ffor or 1¢ = 4 for $3.96

Colorado Blue Spruce (Picea pungens glauca) A shining blue, northerngrown specimen which will add an interesting contrast to your landscape. These corner make excellent xce planting and windbreaks. Are often used as an individual specimen because of their beautiful coloring. You receive strong, nicelyrooted, nursery-grown, 3 year old, 10-18″ seedlings.

If any item you purchased from us does not live, for a one time FREE replacement just return the original shipping label along with your written request within 1 year of receipt. Replacement guarantee is VOID unless the original shipping label is returned. For a REFUND of the purchase price, return the item and the original shipping label with correct postage affixed, within 14 days of receipt.

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1 for for $$1.99 + 1 ffor or 1¢ = 2 for $2.00

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below: Please send the items indicated belo w: HOW MANY

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ONLY 1¢ Siberian Elm Elm

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(Ulmus pumila) Forms a tall screen first year planted! Not for small, confined areas, as it grows so fast and large. If left untrimmed will grow to tree height of 45′ or more. Can be trimmed to form a screen. Grows even in shade and drought conditions. Fall foliage turns red or purple in the North. Plant 3-6′ apart. Zones 4-9. We send 2-3′ plants. Sorryy, cannot be shipped to California.

Award winning! This handsome, upward facing Oriental lily is ideal for growing in gardens, patio pots, along foundations, walks or driveways. It has a pleasant fragrance and makes long-lasting cut flower bouquets. Plant in April or May for blooms in June and July. 10-12 cm. bulbs. Order today!

3 ffor or $3.98 + 3 ffor or 1¢ = 6 for $3.99

3 ffor or $5.98 $ + 3 ffor or 1¢ = 6 for $5.99

O Order r d e r on-line o n - l i n e at a t www.4SeasonsNurseries.com/quickorder.asp w w w. 4 S e a s o n s N u r s e r i e s . c o m / q u i c k o r d e r. a s p

Item #

DESCRIPTION

N5103 N7307 N6573 N7306 N6208 N6956 B6458

Walk-On-Me alk-On J. K. Asparagus Old Fashioned Lilac Hummingbird Vine Colorado Blue Spruce Siberian Elm Stargazer Lilies

COST

3_____ .95 95 Shipping & Processing $_______ SUBTOTAL $_______ IL Residents add 6.25% Sales Tax $_______ $ TOTAL ENCLOSED OR CHARGED C $_______ U Check or Money Order enclosed. U Mastercard U VISA U Discover Credit Card # ______________________________ Expiration Date ____________________________ Signature _________________________________