| Resource Type | Webinar |
| Author / Source | Co-op Innovation Network |
| Publication Date | June 2026 |
| Location | Multi-state (MN, WI, CO); framework applicable nationally |
| Initiative Type | Program, Partnership, Technology |
| Project Complexity | Advanced |
| Recommended For | Board, Staff |
Estimated viewing time: 60 minutes
Why This Matters for Rural Electric Co-ops
Bringing reliable broadband to rural communities remains a challenge, and electric co-ops can play a part. Good internet helps in concrete ways. It supports local jobs and businesses, lets members reach doctors and schools from home, and helps people stay connected.
This webinar lays out how co-ops of different sizes approach the decision to enter broadband, including a partnership-only path that brings service without raising electric rates or borrowing against co-op property. Building a network carries real risk, including high upfront costs and uncertain sign-up rates, so co-op leaders can use this to weigh ownership models against their own finances, risk tolerance, and community needs.
Key Takeaways
| › | Ownership models range from full fiber-to-the-home subsidiaries to a partnership-only approach that does not raise electric rates or borrow against co-op property. |
| › | Broadband requires capabilities electric co-ops have not generally needed, including marketing, sales, and dedicated grant-application and compliance staff. |
| › | Fiber enables grid modernization, from substation connectivity and real-time visibility to a transactional grid supporting load control and DER aggregation. |
| › | Take rates cluster around 50 to 60 percent, and federal or state grant funding is often essential given frequent cost overruns. |
Implementation Considerations
- Cost or Funding Requirements: Networks described ran from roughly $60 million to $300 million and frequently cost more than the co-ops originally budgeted. Federal and state grants were often essential to make the projects work.
- Staffing or Technology Requirements: Co-ops must add new marketing, sales, and grant-compliance roles they have not needed before. Smaller co-ops may prefer a partnership model to avoid the large upfront cost and borrowing against co-op property.
- Time-Sensitive Information: BEAD and other federal broadband funding referenced here have undergone significant program changes. Co-ops should verify current availability before relying on these pathways.
Notable Examples
- East Central Energy (MN): Building a $250 to $300 million fiber network serving roughly 7,500 members across Minnesota and Wisconsin.
- Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services (WI): Runs Swift Current Connect at about 60 percent take rate, expanding beyond its electric territory.
- La Plata Electric Association (CO): Pursues broadband through partnerships and grants only, selling FastTrack to Clearnetworx instead of investing electric assets.
- DMEA (CO): Runs Elevate Internet, grown from a middle-mile substation network, with a net promoter score of 72.
Estimated viewing time: 60 minutes
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