South Dakota Rural Electric Association

07/07/2026

SDREA General Manager Steve Barnett had the opportunity to visit with Sioux Valley Energy members today in Pierre as they travel to North Dakota to learn more about their electric system. These tours are a golden opportunity to connect, listen, share ideas, and strengthen the cooperative relationships that power our communities.

Thank you, Sioux Valley Energy, for stopping and allowing us the opportunity to spend time with your members!

07/06/2026

07/04/2026

Happy Fourth of July and from South Dakota's Electric Cooperatives!

Here's a throwback to America's 200th birthday, celebrated by co-ops very own mascot, Willie Wiredhand!

Although South Dakota’s electric co-ops have been part of this nation’s story for about 90 years, our cooperative principles — neighbors helping neighbors, serving their communities and getting things done — go back to our country’s founding ideals.

Have a safe and happy Independence Day!

07/01/2026

🎉 July 1 is officially Ken Schlimgen Day in South Dakota!

In honor of Ken’s retirement after 41 years and 5 months of dedicated service to Central Electric and its members, Governor Larry Rhoden has officially proclaimed July 1, 2026, as Ken Schlimgen Day in South Dakota.

👏 Throughout his career, Ken has led with integrity, a commitment to safety and a steadfast dedication to serving our members and communities. His leadership has left a lasting impact.

07/01/2026

A cooperative ambassador, a committed leader, and a friend to many. Mike McQuistion's decades of service and steady leadership made a lasting impact.

Read more about his legacy.

07/01/2026

07/01/2026

Thank you for your hard work, Oahe Electric Cooperative

06/26/2026

At today’s SDREA board meeting, National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation (CFC) District 6 Representative Gary Fish presented grant funding to SDREA President Don Heeren. The funds will support SDREA’s member services events and training programs. Fish, a director for Sioux Valley Energy and East River Electric Power Cooperative, was elected to represent District 6 on the CFC Board of Directors and began his three-year term this month. Thank you to Gary Fish and CFC for supporting electric cooperatives and the communities they serve!

06/25/2026

The SDREA Board of Directors welcomed managers Jeff Birkeland of West Central Electric Cooperative, Inc., and Chad Felderman of Dakota Energy Cooperative, who provided organizational updates to the board today in Pierre.

06/22/2026

SDREA assisted in awarding the coveted Touchstone Energy Short Go shirts to the top competing cowboys and cowgirls at the South Dakota High School Rodeo in Fort Pierre on June 20. We're honored to help support these hardworking young athletes as they showcase their dedication, sportsmanship, and western heritage.