Published 05/28/2009
Johnson, VT – Vermont Electric Cooperative will host a family energy fair in conjunction with the annual meeting of its membership on Saturday May 30^th at VEC headquarters in Johnson, Vermont. Featuring smart grid demonstrations, renewable energy information, interactive power demonstrations, kids’ activities, a barbeque, and more, the energy fair will take place between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and is open to the public. The membership meeting will take place at 11:30 a.m.

“VEC’s first ever energy fair will provide coop members and the general public with an opportunity to learn more about renewable energy and smart grid technologies,” said Dave Hallquist, CEO. “VEC has installed nearly 30,000 smart meters which use state of the art Advance Meter Infrastructure (AMI) technology. In 2005, VEC began the installation and use of the AMI system. Less than 1% of utilities nationwide have such an advanced system.  We look forward to demonstrating the advantages of this technology to our members at Saturday’s event,” added Hallquist. 

By utilizing smart meters, VEC is able to operate more efficiently. Meters are read electronically from the VEC office in Johnson, reducing labor costs by eliminating the need to send meter readers into the field. Member requests for readings can be handled quickly. It takes only a few seconds to complete an automatic reading. 

 “This is just the beginning. As VEC utilizes emerging smart grid technology platforms like AMI, our consumers will be able to access information about their accounts that will empower them to make smart energy choices,” added Hallquist. “In the future, consumers will be able to track their energy usage on an hourly and daily basis by accessing account details through the internet.  Eventually, appliances that are now outfitted with smart chips will be programmed to run when electric prices are low.” 

Visitors to the energy fair will experience live demonstrations as VEC line workers perform rescue exercises from the top of a utility pole and bucket truck demonstrations. ”This is a great opportunity for people to see just what types of specialized skills it takes for VEC employees to keep the lights on,” commented Hallquist. 

Other displays include an interactive power generation exhibit called Cycle the Tower of Power that will allow visitors to see if they can create enough power by peddling a stationery bike to illuminate a light display. Hazard Hamlet promotes electrical safety for children and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) will present a solar project recently completed through their apprentice training program. The IBEW solar trailer features an LCD TV, a Nintendo Wii, and a popcorn machine ready to run on the use of solar power. 

Refreshments will be available to all who attend. In addition, a barbeque luncheon will be available at no charge to VEC members and a nominal cost to others.

Founded in 1938 Vermont Electric Cooperative, Inc. is a not-for-profit electric Cooperative. While VEC operates under the rules of corporate law, it is the cooperative principles that make this type of organization unique. VEC is owned by its members who exercise democratic control through an elected board of directors. This year’s annual meeting will include elections for district directors, as well as, two additional ballot items.  Ballot item 6 (a) seeks approval from members to amend the Bylaws to change the composition of the Board of Directors and districts and ballot item 6 (b) seeks member approval on three proposed transmission projects that require a Certificate of Public Good (CPG) from the Public Service Board (PSB) under 30 V.S.A. §248. 

Concern for community is one of the cooperative principles.  Toward that end, Saturday’s event will include a dunk the CEO fundraiser with all proceeds going to the Lamoille County Firewood Project. A community based program supported by Lamoille County United Way, the Firewood Project is designed to assist individuals and families by providing eligible applicants with firewood.