This summer gave us a real reminder of how much we depend on the electric grid and how quickly conditions can change when temperatures climb and demand follows.
July was exceptionally warm across Minnesota, with state climatologists reporting temperatures roughly 4 to 6 degrees above normal in many areas. The prolonged heat increased air conditioning, agricultural ventilation, irrigation and commercial cooling loads.
Here at Meeker Energy, we saw the impact firsthand.
Our system reached a July peak demand of 44,251 kilowatts (kW) on July 17, the highest July peak in the 10-year history we reviewed. That was nearly 13% higher than July 2025 and 11% higher than the previous July record set in 2022. Total energy use also reached a new July high at 20.74 million kilowatt-hours (kWh), up more than 9% from July 2025.
Kilowatt-hours tell us how much electricity was used throughout the month, while kilowatts tell us how much our system needed at one time. When many homes, farms and businesses use large amounts of electricity simultaneously, pressure on the system increases.
That pressure was felt well beyond Meeker Energy’s service territory.
On July 15, the Midcontinent Independent System Operator, or MISO, issued escalating emergency notifications, including an Energy Emergency Alert Level 2, or EEA2. MISO coordinates electricity across a 15-state region, and the alert came as above-normal temperatures, higher-than-expected demand and unavailable generation tightened power supplies. Reliability depends on keeping electricity supply and demand in balance. When demand climbs quickly, grid operators and utilities use several tools, including load management.
During periods of high demand, qualifying equipment can be temporarily cycled or interrupted to reduce electricity use. Dispatchable generation, storage and reserves can also support the system.
This summer showed why a variety of resources matters. Always-available generation, peaking resources, renewable energy, energy storage and load management each play a role in maintaining reliability.
That same principle is at the heart of Meeker Energy’s energy-management programs. By shifting or reducing use during peak periods, we can help lower demand when wholesale electricity is often most expensive and the grid is under the greatest pressure. Thousands of small reductions at the right time can make a significant difference.
Members can help, too, by delaying laundry or dishwashing, safely adjusting thermostats and turning off unnecessary lights and electronics.
That is why we often talk about not only how much electricity we use, but when we use it.
July also reminded us that reliability does not happen by accident. It requires planning, investment and cooperation across a much larger electric system.
The energy industry is changing. Electricity demand is growing, large new electric loads are coming onto the system, the generation mix is evolving, and new generation and transmission investments are needed.
Those changes raise questions about affordability, reliability and who pays for the infrastructure needed to meet future demand, and public policy helps shape the answers.
As we head toward the November election, I encourage our members to learn more about the energy issues facing Minnesota and our nation and make their voices heard at the ballot box. Decisions made by elected officials can influence how electricity is generated, what infrastructure is built and what those choices mean for the people paying the bill.
Meeker Energy will never tell you who to vote for. That decision belongs to you. Our responsibility is to advocate for policies that allow us to provide safe, reliable and affordable electricity to the members we serve.
This summer was a reminder that periods of high demand can challenge the electric system, making thoughtful planning, responsible energy use and member participation increasingly important as we look ahead.