Grid modernization
Building a stronger, more connected electric system
Electricity powers nearly everything you do at home and at work. Grid modernization is our long-term work to improve how the electric system communicates, responds, and operates. By connecting electrical equipment with communications technology, parts of the system can share information and respond more quickly when conditions change. That work helps us improve reliability, power quality, and outage response today while preparing for changing energy needs — from smart home technology and business energy planning to large-scale renewable energy and member-owned solar PV systems. This is not a single project with a finish line. It is ongoing work that grows with the communities we serve.
How grid modernization works
Grid modernization uses advanced electrical distribution technology to improve reliability, power quality, and outage response. A modern grid is electrical distribution equipment connected to communications technology, enabling parts of the system to share information and respond more quickly when conditions change. Our broadband network connection supports this long-term work.
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A more connected system can help us identify problems faster and reroute power when possible. Advanced meters help us pinpoint and respond to outages more effectively and provide a technological foundation for future tools and services. Upgrades like these support better service every day, not only during storms.
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Some members ask whether burying power lines would solve reliability problems. Both overhead and underground systems have strengths. Overhead damage is generally easier to find and repair. Underground interruptions happen less often, but they can take longer to fix because the work is more complex. Even in a neighborhood served by underground cable, service eventually connects back to above-ground equipment, so exposure to weather, animals, and trees is never fully eliminated. As a not-for-profit electric cooperative aiming to keep electricity as affordable as possible for our members, MTE builds to an overhead standard because it is the most cost-effective construction. Underground service may be available upon request, provided the requesting party covers the additional cost.
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Energy needs are changing. Members are adding smart home technology, businesses are planning around energy use, and more renewable energy is coming onto the system, including member-owned solar PV systems. Grid modernization helps prepare the electric system to support those needs as they grow.
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Technology behind the work
Advanced meters are part of the technology foundation that supports improved outage awareness and future system capabilities. They help us pinpoint and respond to outages more effectively.
A battery energy storage system, or BESS, stores electricity for later use. We charge our system when demand and costs are lower, then use that stored energy during peak demand. We deployed our first utility-scale battery system in 2019 and use it regularly to reduce stress on the grid and energy costs to our members.
A microgrid is a local energy system that can work with the main grid or operate on its own when needed. It can be powered by generators, batteries, or renewable sources. We are researching this technology to learn how it can support reliability and members’ changing energy needs.
Connecting equipment across the distribution system takes a reliable communications network. Our broadband network connection supports this long-term work.
Contact MTE's Member Support Team
We understand our members expect more than just affordable, reliable, and safe electricity. You also expect outstanding member service, which includes helping you find answers and solutions to your concerns.
From myMTE app issues to billing questions and everything in between, our member support team is always here to provide you with the help you need. We've put together some useful information for you, but feel free to contact us directly to discuss any additional concerns you have.
Email: info@mte.com
Phone: 877-777-9020
Online: mte.com/Contact
