Lake Region Electric Cooperative
Improved reliability for members has been a major focus for Lake Region Electric Cooperative (LREC) over the past few years. The cooperative utilizes data analytics to guide our decisions and help pinpoint weak spots in the system that may be at greater risk for service interruption. This information is used to make specific changes to enhance reliability.
One area brought to our attention by the analytics is transmission line issues at the Lake Eunice Substation. In response, LREC is building a new substation with steel structures to house a new station transformer, protection equipment, and voltage regulation equipment. The new substation will replace the existing one, and will allow LREC to connect to a 115kv transmission line less than one mile from the new substation. It also allows for the discontinuation of 10 miles of transmission line subject to multiple outages caused by storms, wind, vehicle accidents, and other issues over the years.
“The biggest improvement will be a reduction of transmission line,” explains Paul Bergren, superintendent of operations. “This will result in much less exposure to potential outage causes.” The project is currently under construction, with a plan to bring it online in July of 2021.
Continual improvement in service reliability, safety, and member satisfaction are always top priorities for the board of directors and employees of Lake Region Electric Cooperative.