All incumbents re-elected

(FARMINGTON, MN) April 24, 2026 – Dakota Electric Association® members gathered on April 23 at the cooperative’s headquarters in Farmington for the annual meeting, receiving updates on the cooperative’s financial health, system planning, future growth and other key topics.

During the meeting, members and guests heard reports from the Board of Directors and senior leadership on key issues facing the cooperative, including electric rates, long-term facility needs, projected load growth, and power supply planning.

Board Chair Paul Bakken, Board Treasurer Cyndee Fields, and CEO Ryan Hentges each provided updates on the state of the cooperative and outlined how Dakota Electric is positioning itself to reliably and affordably meet member needs in the years ahead.

“As we navigate a changing energy landscape, Dakota Electric is not only adapting to change, we are helping lead it,” said Bakken. “By focusing on member satisfaction, operational resilience, cost efficiency and innovation, we are building a strong foundation for the future.”

In addition to business updates, the cooperative highlighted upcoming opportunities for member engagement. Dakota Electric’s annual Member Appreciation Event will take place Tuesday, July 21 at the Minnesota Zoo and is free for members and their immediate families.

The meeting concluded with the announcement of the Board of Directors election results. The following candidates were elected to serve on the Board, with newly elected and re‑elected directors noted in bold:

District 1 (three-year term)
John (Jack) DeYoe (incumbent) (3,058 votes of total votes for 48.5%)
Laurie (Rieb) Bolin (1,566 votes of total votes for 24.8%)
Jeff Nelson (1,681 votes of total votes for 26.7%)

District 2 (three-year term)
Bill Middlecamp (incumbent) (3,624 votes of total votes for 57.3%)
Roberta Oveson (2,705 votes of total votes for 42.7%)

District 3 (three-year term)
Margaret D. Schreiner (incumbent) (5,596 votes of total votes for 100%)

District 4 (three-year term)
Paul Bakken (incumbent) (5,626 votes of total votes for 100%)

There were 107,974 eligible voters. The ballots received totaled 5,036 paper ballots, 1,393 electronic ballots, and three onsite ballots, with a total ballot return of 6,432, or 5.96% of eligible voters. Survey & Ballot Systems, an independent third party, distributed and certified the ballots.

Annual Meeting reports are available online for members who were unable to attend. They can be found at https://www.dakotaelectric.com/about-us/annual-meeting-election.

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 118,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to its members while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Threads, Bluesky, Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn.

Dakota Electric invites members to attend the 88^th Annual Meeting on April 23

(FARMINGTON, MN) April 3, 2026 – Dakota Electric Association® will hold its 88th Annual Meeting on Thursday, April 23, at the Dakota Electric headquarters at 4300 220th St. W, Farmington. The meeting will start at 7 p.m., with doors opening at 6 p.m. Light refreshments will be provided.

Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and share their thoughts with Dakota Electric staff and Board Members. The purpose of the meeting is to conduct the Board of Director elections and hear reports from the CEO and Board Members on the state of the cooperative.

“Our Annual Meeting is an exciting day for everyone in the Dakota Electric network,” said Ryan Hentges, CEO of Dakota Electric. “I know all the staff and Board Members in attendance look forward to talking with and meeting our members.”

Members of Dakota Electric can participate in the annual election by voting for Directors who serve on the Board and govern the cooperative. Dakota Electric 2026 annual election ballots were mailed to members on March 30 from Survey & Ballot Systems, an independent election service. Each ballot includes instructions for voting by mail or online, as well as all Director candidate biographies. Candidate biographies and additional election information are also available at www.dakotaelectric.com/about-us/annual-meeting-election.

Voting instructions are listed below. Members may vote by mail, online, or in person, and may only vote once. If both an online vote and a paper ballot are received for the same account number, the online vote will be voided and only the paper ballot will be counted.

Vote by mail: Ballots must be received at Survey & Ballot Systems’ office by 12 p.m. on April 23. Please do NOT drop off ballots at Dakota Electric’s office. Members may instead bring their original paper ballot to Dakota Electric’s Annual Meeting on April 23 for in-person submission.

Vote online: Go to www.dakotaelectric.com; members will need their account number and election passcode, both of which will be included with the ballot mailed on March 30. The link to vote online will become available on March 30 at 12 p.m.

The following candidates are running for seats on the Board of Directors:

District 1 (three-year term):
John (Jack) DeYoe (incumbent), Laurie (Rieb) Bolin and Jeff Nelson

District 2 (three-year term):
Bill Middlecamp (incumbent) and Roberta Oveson

District 3 (three-year term):
Margaret D. Schreiner (incumbent)

District 4 (three-year term):
Paul Bakken (incumbent)

The annual meeting report will be available on Dakota Electric’s website after the meeting for members who cannot attend.

This meeting will take place in the cooperative’s warehouse, which is an active work area with uneven work surfaces. If you have mobility concerns or require accommodations, please contact Dakota Electric at 651-463-6212.

Members with election-related questions should email boardelection@dakotaelectric.com.

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 117,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to its members while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Threads, Bluesky, Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn.

Experts from the University of Minnesota and the Dakota County Soil & Water Conservation District share research

(FARMINGTON, MN) March 24, 2026 – Agricultural producers and professionals gathered on Wednesday, March 18, for the 18th annual Crops Day, a morning event focused on sharing University of Minnesota research and local crop management strategies.

Crops Day was held from 9 a.m. to noon at the Dakota Electric Association office and was free and open to the public. The annual event is hosted by Dakota Electric Association, Dakota County Soil & Water Conservation District, and University of Minnesota Extension.

The program featured presentations on weed management, irrigation, soil health, nutrient recommendations and energy conservation. University of Minnesota Extension Educator Eric Yu opened the event with a discussion on waterhemp management challenges and considerations facing growers. Vasudha Sharma, an irrigation specialist with the University of Minnesota Extension, followed with a presentation on using research data to inform precision irrigation decisions.

Water quality and safety were also highlighted. Matt Belanger of the Dakota County Environmental Resources Department discussed private well testing and the importance of measuring nitrate, arsenic, manganese, lead and coliform bacteria. Dru Larson of the Dakota County Soil & Water Conservation District shared strategies for stacking conservation practices to improve soil health.

Nutrient management updates were provided by Dan Kaiser, University of Minnesota soil extension specialist, who reviewed phosphorus and potassium recommendations during economically challenging times. Travis Hirman, a soil scientist with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, presented on nitrogen best management practices.

Mike Plutowski of Dakota Electric Association concluded the program with an overview of energy conservation programs available to agricultural members.

The event also included a lunch conversation with presenters and a trade show featuring agricultural resources and partners.

Crops Day has been held annually for 18 years and continues to serve as a forum for delivering research‑based information and practical tools to support local agriculture.

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 117,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to its members while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Threads, Bluesky, Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn.

Local students to embark on educational trip to D.C.

(FARMINGTON, MN) March 20, 2026 – Dakota Electric Association is proud to announce the five local high school students selected to participate in the 2026 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour, an all expense paid leadership trip to Washington, D.C., taking place June 14–21. The Electric Cooperative Youth Tour is coordinated by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

Since 1967, Dakota Electric has sent nearly 170 students to participate in Youth Tour, demonstrating our commitment to the community.

The students selected this year are:

A panel of judges selected the students after reviewing their applications and conducting a round of interviews. “Every year, I am amazed by not only the number but also the quality of candidates who apply,” said Peggy Johnson, community relations director at Dakota Electric. “It’s inspiring to meet students who care deeply about their communities and want to learn how they can make an impact.”

Since 1958, Youth Tour has brought together over 1,500 students annually from electric cooperatives across the country for a hands‑on learning experience in our nation’s capital. During the week, students learn about government, electric cooperatives, and how they work together. They also have the chance to visit several monuments, memorials, and museums in Washington, D.C., while meeting members of Congress.

Johnson added, “Youth Tour has a long legacy of shaping future leaders. We’re honored to support students from our service area as they explore government, cooperatives, and the power of civic engagement.”

Applications for the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour are available on Dakota Electric’s website each January. Eligible applicants must be sophomores, juniors, or seniors currently enrolled in high school and residing within Dakota Electric’s service area. Students wanting more information can visit https://www.dakotaelectric.com/youthtour/.

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 117,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to its members while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Threads, Bluesky, Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn.

Member-owners to receive checks

(FARMINGTON, MN) January 27, 2026 – The Dakota Electric board of directors approved the retirement of $4.2 million in capital credits to be paid back to members. Member-owners who lived on Dakota Electric’s lines from 2003 to 2010 were mailed a check in mid-December reflecting their share of ownership in the cooperative.

When members receive electricity from Dakota Electric Association®, they become member-owners of the cooperative. As part of that ownership, members earn capital credits, which represent their share of the cooperative’s margins. These margins are allocated annually based on each member’s electricity usage and are reinvested to reduce borrowing and support system reliability, helping keep electric rates affordable. Over time, those margins are returned to members as capital credits.

This year, a check will be mailed to members reflecting their ownership in Dakota Electric for the remaining 2007 allocation, 75% of the 2010 allocation, and the remaining 54% of the 2003 allocation from our power provider, Great River Energy.

“Dakota Electric is proud to return these capital credits to our valued member-owners,” said Ryan Hentges, President and CEO of Dakota Electric. “As a member-owned, not-for-profit electric distribution cooperative, we prioritize the financial well-being of our members and strive to provide safe, reliable and affordable electricity. Returning capital credits is one way we fulfill our commitment to our members.”

If you were a former member and did not receive a capital credits check, review the unclaimed capital credits list and submit an unclaimed capital credits payment request. We request that former members keep us up to date with their current address. If we attempt to send you a capital credit check and the post office returns it due to an outdated address, we must comply with state unclaimed property laws. We continue to carry unclaimed capital credit amounts on our books for up to seven years. If, after the required time, we still have not located you, the law requires us to either remit the funds to the state or donate them to a charitable organization. Our current policy, as set by the board of directors, is to donate all unclaimed capital credits money to local community colleges and schools for student scholarships and educational purposes.

The cooperative has set a goal to retire these credits on a 15-year rotation by 2025, as approved by the board of directors. Please keep us informed of your current address by calling 651-463-6212 or emailing capitalcredits@dakotaelectric.com.

Questions? Email capitalcredits@dakotaelectric.com and include your check number. To learn more about capital credits, visit www.dakotaelectric.com/aboutus/capital-credits.

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 117,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing its members with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.

High-school students can win an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C.

(FARMINGTON, MN) January 6, 2026 – Dakota Electric Association is calling on the next generation of leaders to apply for a once-in-a-lifetime experience: the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour. The Youth Tour was established to inspire our next generation of leaders by allowing them to explore monuments and museums, meet with members of Congress, develop leadership skills and learn about the cooperative business model. Since 1964, more than 50,000 young people have taken advantage of the unique opportunity their local electric cooperative offers.

“We encourage any student who is interested to apply,” said Peggy Johnson, Community Relations Director at Dakota Electric. “We look forward to reviewing all the applications that come in. Year after year, the applications get more and more impressive.”

This opportunity is open to students currently enrolled as sophomores, juniors, or seniors who reside within Dakota Electric’s service territory.

Students can complete the application for this extraordinary trip on Dakota Electric’s website. The submission deadline is February 20, 2026.

To complete the application, students must include a letter of recommendation from a teacher, coach, or youth organization leader. This requirement ensures that applicants are recognized for their dedication, leadership, and potential to make a positive impact. Additionally, applicants must be available for in-person interviews on March 13 or 18.

Youth Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity for students to broaden their horizons, gain valuable insights, and forge lifelong friendships and memories. This immersive experience allows students to explore iconic landmarks, engage in interactive educational activities, and connect with peers nationwide.

Ankit Mukhopadhyay, who attended Youth Tour in 2025, commented on his experience, “I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to go on this truly amazing trip and would do it all over again if I could.”

Dakota Electric Association is committed to empowering the community’s youth and providing them with unique opportunities for growth and development. By offering this all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., Dakota Electric aims to inspire and motivate students to become active participants in shaping the future.

“This is an unbelievable experience—once in a lifetime,” continued Johnson. “With Youth Tour being an annual occurrence, we can invest in our future leaders on a regular basis. That investment in our community and the next generation of leaders is something Dakota Electric is very passionate about.”

Don’t miss out on this incredible chance to win a trip to Washington, D.C.! Apply now and embark on an unforgettable adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

Please direct questions to Peggy Johnson, Community Relations Director, at (651) 463-6110 or (612) 978-4612 or email pjohnson@dakotaelectric.com.

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 117,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing its members with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.

Donations benefit Creating Healthier Communities, 360 Communities and Kaitlyn’s Closet

(FARMINGTON, MN) January 6, 2026 – Dakota Electric Association is delighted to share that its employees raised more than $21,500 for local non-profits and community organizations in 2025 through the employee-led and funded Dakota Cares program. Our generous employees give back to the community every year by donating to Dakota Cares. Donations come from employees participating in silent auctions, pork chop feeds, sporting clay fun shoots, payroll deductions, and more.

“As a member-owned, not-for-profit, electric cooperative, Dakota Electric is guided by the Seven Cooperative Principles. One of the seven principles is Concern for Community, and I believe these donations demonstrate that principle,” said Corey Willert, Project Manager at Dakota Electric and member of the Dakota Cares team. “We aim to do more than just deliver safe, reliable, and affordable electricity; we care about the communities we serve. Whether through financial support or volunteering, we are passionate about helping our communities thrive.”

Since 2001, Dakota Cares has raised more than $629,000 for local nonprofits and organizations that impact the community. This year, funds will be given to:

• CHC: Creating Healthier Communities;
• 360 Communities;
• Kaitlyn’s Kloset.

“It’s exciting to be able to give to these very deserving and impactful organizations,” said Willert. “I hope we have an even larger donation amount to distribute next year.”

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 117,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing its members with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.

Educational grants funded by unclaimed capital credits

(FARMINGTON, MN) November 15, 2025 – Dakota Electric Association® awarded $50,000 in educational grants to support local students and schools through its four-year rotating school grant program. The funding—made possible through unclaimed capital credits—was distributed among Independent School Districts 199 (Inver Grove Heights), 197 (West St. Paul–Mendota Heights–Eagan), 196 (Rosemount–Eagan–Apple Valley), and Inver Hills Community College.

Each year, Dakota Electric reinvests unclaimed capital credits into local education, helping to strengthen communities and empower the next generation of leaders. This year’s grants will enhance student learning, advance district goals, and support innovative programming across the service area.

Districts 199 and 197 will use their grants to bolster Career and College Readiness programming through the TriDistrict Centers for Advanced Professional Studies (TriDistrict CAPS). The funds will help cover transportation for students without reliable transit and support start-up costs for a new CAPS center, giving students increased access to real-world career exploration and internship opportunities.

District 196 will use its grant to expand waste reduction efforts across its high schools by adding compost bins, educational signage, and waste audits—efforts that empower students to take the lead in sustainability initiatives and reduce the district’s environmental footprint.

“In recent years, our students have challenged the district administration to find ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across our district,” said Peter Olson-Skog, Ph.D., superintendent of School District 197. “By expanding recycling programs, starting composting in our cafeterias, and engaging students through education campaigns, we believe we can make a difference—both for the environment and our school communities. This project will reduce our landfill contributions and lower the energy footprint tied to school waste management. It’s through student advocacy that we continue to evolve how we manage learning environments while exploring additional ways to impact our overall emissions.”

Inver Hills Community College will use its portion of the grant to remove barriers to student success by addressing basic needs and providing financial assistance, helping students remain focused on their education.

“This money is being donated to help reduce barriers to student success, improve retention, and foster a more equitable learning environment,” said Peggy Johnson, community relations director at Dakota Electric. “By addressing basic needs and providing financial assistance, we know we are helping students focus on their education.”

Through this grant program, Dakota Electric continues its long-standing commitment to empowering local students, supporting education, and investing in the communities it serves. By transforming unclaimed capital credits into meaningful opportunities, the cooperative helps ensure that the benefits of member ownership extend beyond reliable electricity—creating lasting impact for future generations.

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 117,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing its members with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.

Eureka Township leader honored for more than 14 years of dedicated public service and community leadership

(FARMINGTON, MN) November 13, 2025 – Dakota Electric Association® is proud to announce that Mark Ceminsky of Eureka Township has been named the 2025 Township Outstanding Leader of the Year. This award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and service to their township and community.

Ceminsky has served Eureka Township for more than 14 years, contributing in numerous capacities that have strengthened local government and improved quality of life for residents. Throughout his tenure, he has consistently embodied the principles of integrity, collaboration, and community spirit.

Among his many accomplishments:

• Serving on the Township Board for over 14 years.
• Taking on the role of Road Supervisor during each of his terms.
• Leading efforts to find practical solutions for road and infrastructure challenges, as well as housing and commercial development.
• Promoting collaboration with neighboring communities to address shared priorities.
• Upholding township ordinances with fairness and consistency, while encouraging a positive and cooperative community spirit.

“Mark’s vision, energy, and commitment have made a lasting impact on Eureka Township and the surrounding communities,” said Peggy Johnson, community relations director at Dakota Electric. “His leadership has set a strong example for others in public service, and we are grateful for his many years of dedication.”

The Township Outstanding Leader of the Year Award honors individuals who exemplify the best of local leadership through innovation, service, and a deep commitment to their community.

Congratulations to Mark Ceminsky on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you for your outstanding service to Eureka Township.

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 117,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing its members with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.

Since 2013, $205,000 has been donated through the Sharing Success program

(FARMINGTON, MN) November 13, 2025 – Four community organizations received donations from Dakota Electric Association and one of its lenders, CoBank. CoBank matched Dakota Electric’s original donation through the Sharing Success grant program.

360 Communities and Veterans – Beyond the Yellow Ribbon received $10,000 each; CAP Agency – Meals on Wheels and Open Door Food Pantry received $5,000 each.

“Concern for Community is one of the Seven Cooperative Principles we try to live by daily. I think the donations to these fantastic organizations embody that principle,” said Peggy Johnson, community relations director at Dakota Electric. “All four recipients are change-makers in our community. I look forward to seeing how these funds will help them in their future endeavors.”

360 Communities offers effective and holistic programming. They leverage community partnerships, build trusting relationships, and break cycles of violence and poverty. They strengthen communities with measurable success.

Veterans – Beyond the Yellow Ribbon is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that provides support services for currently serving and veteran military service members in Rosemount and the surrounding community. Their mission is to serve those who have so honorably served us.

CAP Agency – Meals on Wheels provides nutritious, home-delivered meals to seniors and individuals with disabilities who have difficulty preparing their own meals.

Open Door Food Pantry provides food support for low-income individuals and families across Dakota County. This is done in four ways: a fixed-site pantry, a Mobile Pantry Program, the Mobile Lunchbox Program and the Garden to Table Program.

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 117,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing its members with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.