MVEC honored with Economic Development award

     Iowa’s rural electric cooperatives actively foster and utilize strategic partnerships to make significant contributions to economic sustainability and community vitality statewide. Iowa Area Development Group (IADG) annually recognizes their electric utility members for outstanding commitment, support, and participation in business development projects and local community initiatives.

     Maquoketa Valley Electric Cooperative (MVEC) was recognized for economic development accomplishments and commitment to their local communities at their annual meeting in Farley. MVEC has been instrumental in numerous development projects and initiatives in Eastern Iowa for many years. In recognition of their leadership and support, MVEC was presented with an IADG Impact Award for community development.

     An excellent example of MVEC’s commitment to community development is their investment in technology by adding high-speed Internet service to the cooperative’s offerings through MVlink, their high-speed fiber Internet service. MVEC is expanding their Smart Grid technology by building a fiber network throughout their service area to connect every substation with fiber and ultimately every meter with a fiber connection. With a fiber connection to each home, members will have access to an affordable and reliable high-speed fiber Internet connection. MVEC will also have a stronger two-way communication with their meters, allowing them to better track energy usage. Access to both electric power and high-speed Internet are key factors in both community and business development. MVEC is an important economic development partner and provides a full array of additional services and assistance to create jobs and bolster the vitality of the communities and members they serve.

     “We would like to commend the directors and staff of Maquoketa Valley Electric Cooperative for their ongoing commitment to business and community development,” stated Rand Fisher, IADG president. “Their investment in Smart Grid technology, extending access to high-speed fiber Internet service to members in their territory is just another example of their leadership and direct involvement in supporting both business growth and community vitality in their region and Iowa.”