From the Top – May 2026 | OEC News

Reliability is a word we use often, but for our members, it has a simple meaning. It means the lights and internet service work when you need them. It means your home stays comfortable during extreme weather. It means your connection to work, school and daily life stays steady. That expectation guides everything we do.

How ACES 2.0 is improving reliability

Over the past year, you may have heard more about ACES 2.0, our Adaptively Controlled Electrical System. At its core, this is about building a smarter grid that works for you. With advanced technology in place, parts of our system can now detect issues and reroute power automatically. In some cases, outages are shortened or avoided altogether without dispatching a crew.

For members, the difference is straightforward: fewer interruptions, faster restoration when outages do occur and a system that responds in real time, not just after the fact.

Expanding smarter service across our communities

We are already seeing those benefits in parts of our service area, now including Chickasha, Amber and Pocasset. As we continue expanding this technology, more members will experience that same improved reliability. Of course, technology is only part of the story.

Preparing for Oklahoma weather challenges

When I think about reliability, especially during peak weather season, I think about preparation and response working together. Oklahoma weather can be unpredictable and severe. Storms test our system every year. Our job is to be ready before they arrive and to respond quickly when they pass through.

That means ongoing maintenance, system upgrades and careful planning long before a storm is in the forecast. It also means having skilled crews ready to restore power safely and efficiently when outages happen.

Balancing fast restoration with long-term improvement

There is always a balance to strike. We move as quickly as possible to restore service, but we also have a responsibility to strengthen the system for the long term. Every repair is an opportunity to improve. Every upgrade is an investment in fewer outages down the road.

This long-term approach is not always visible in the moment, but it is what allows us to serve you better year after year.

Keeping members informed and connected

We are also focused on keeping you informed and connected. Tools like outage text alerts and the MyOEC app give you real-time updates and greater visibility into your service. If you have not already, I encourage you to make sure your contact information is up to date so you can take full advantage of those tools.

Reliability is built on trust

At the end of the day, reliability is not just about infrastructure or technology. It is about trust. It is about knowing your cooperative is working every day to serve you, improve and plan for what comes next.

That is our commitment to you.