I’m a sucker for New Year’s Resolutions. Every year, I make grand declarations of various ambitions with varying feasibility. Then comes my favorite part: The Planning. Spreadsheets are beautified into habit trackers then formulated to automatically chart my progress with vivid color displays, and carefully notated color-coordinated calendars are printed. Usually, I lose steam around March.

I think I get caught up by the excitement of a new year—the endless potential of 365 days. Then, I daydream of more than a year’s worth of achievements and activities, and try to cram it all in.

I’m striving to be more realistic for 2026. If you’re like me and are in need of resolutions that you’ll actually achieve, here are two:

Update your information

Go into 2026 with correct account information! It’s easy to forget all the places you need to update when you change your phone number or email address. In addition, make sure that the correct names are attached to your account. If you had a roommate or family member on your account and they no longer live with you, it’s important to let us know.

A piece of information that is often overlooked is your birthday! Your birthday is required to determine eligibility for senior capital credit retirements.  

You can update your account by calling 605-225-0310 or by emailing info@northernelectric.coop.

If you use the SmartHub app, you can submit a request to update your information in the app.

Attend NEC Events

Northern Electric is active in your community. From educational outreach to member appreciation, we host and co-host a variety of events throughout the year.

Northern Electric Annual Meeting – June 10, 2026: The 79th annual meeting will be held at the Brown County Fairgrounds Expo building again. In addition to safety demonstrations, members will have the chance to talk with their directors and stay up to date on your cooperative’s business.

Youth Excursion – TBD: High school sophomores and juniors from across the state take a tour of Basin Electric Power Cooperative in Bismarck, ND. This trip is paid for by the cooperatives and gives students an in-depth look at how the electricity they use every day is produced and distributed.

Pancake Breakfast – TBD: Our annual member appreciation breakfast is held during the Spink County Achievement Days in Redfield. From the coffee to the sausages, breakfast is prepared and served by Northern Electric employees and board members.

Farm Safety Party – Aug 13, 2026: Local cooperatives team up during the Brown County Fair to give farm safety demonstrations to families. From how to use a fire extinguisher to electric safety, kids will have fun while learning how to stay safe.