Celebrating our economy

Kentucky’s affordable electric helps state’s industry

This first Kentucky Living of 2018 certainly lives up to the magazine’s promise to “celebrate the energy of your community.”

Like the many auto suppliers it takes to create the various parts that go into a Kentucky-made vehicle, the automotive industry’s success in Kentucky is attributed to many factors. As not-for-profit and member-owned electric cooperatives, we are proud that Kentucky’s competitive utility rates are a key component to attracting and supporting manufacturing jobs.

While those rates are a major draw, a ready workforce, our quality of life and ideal location also make Kentucky a natural fit for the auto industry.

But the people supported by auto jobs aren’t the only Kentuckians whose success we are celebrating in Kentucky Living this month. I am so impressed by the young agricultural entrepreneurs who are sharing their stories with us. Their success is a source of energy for me as I contemplate the future of our rural communities.

Which brings me to the legislative guide in this issue. As Kentucky’s elected leaders begin a new session of the General Assembly, they are grappling with some of the most daunting challenges ever faced by the part-time legislature. These are very real challenges that affect our families and communities.

Rest assured, KAEC is advocating in Frankfort and Washington, D.C., for your interests as members of Kentucky’s electric cooperatives. But, this is also a team effort. I hope you will take the opportunity to identify your elected representatives and let them know that you are a proud co-op member. Encourage them to recognize the important role co-ops play in the commonwealth’s economy and within our communities.

From our mountains to our river valleys, from our hollers to our culs-de-sac, Kentucky has much energy to celebrate. Here’s to a healthy, happy and cooperative 2018.