Energy, Affordability, and the Road Ahead: 2025 Recap | #40

What does it really take to keep the lights on as energy demand surges and costs rise? In this year-in-review episode of SMECO Connects, host Sonja Cox and co-host Tom Dennison reflect on the biggest challenges and wins of 2025—from resource adequacy and affordability pressures to data centers, infrastructure upgrades, and community impact. They pull back the curtain on how an electric cooperative navigates reliability, rising demand, and member-focused decision-making during a time of rapid change. In this episode, you'll hear about: The growing challenge of resource adequacy and why new generation matters How SMECO works to balance affordability, reliability, and long-term planning What data centers, infrastructure investments, and community partnerships mean for the future As SMECO looks ahead to 2026, this conversation offers clarity, transparency, and reassurance—reminding members that behind every power line is a team committed to serving its community. 🎧 Tune in to better understand the energy challenges ahead—and how SMECO is preparing for what's next.     Follow & Connect: Host: Sonja Cox Co-Host: Tom Dennison SMECO on Instagram: somdelectricSMECO on X: somdelectric