A Game Changer: The Team Sport of Infrastructure Planning

In the second half of this two-part episode, we speak with Wright-Hennepin Cooperative Electric Association Director of Operations Lee Nordby and Director of Engineering Curt Cordt to discuss the dynamic field of electric utility infrastructure planning and the transformative changes happening in the industry. The Wright-Hennepin team has a unique approach to infrastructure planning—considering it a team sport. This non-traditional approach recognizes the importance of infrastructure investments beyond conventional elements, encompassing technology, marketing, beneficial electrification and more. Nordby and Cordt discuss developing and shifting work plans and technology plans to meet the changing needs of their cooperative membership. 

Wright-Hennepin serves approximately 59,000 members in western Hennepin County, Minnesota. The cooperative is a mix of suburban and traditional cooperative areas that are experiencing high growth demands and increased electrification of the transportation sector.  

Learn how Wright-Hennepin are bringing their A-game on investments to meet a growing territory population and an increase in energy demand.

Outline:
00:56 Operations and Technology in the Strategic Vision
01:55 What Does Long-Term Planning Mean for Operations and Technology?
06:43 How Does Changing Technology Affect Planning?
10:51 Choosing the Right Technology to Go With the Strategic Vision
13:12 Building a Robust Generation Program
14:24 Training, Talent and Relationship Building
20:06 Hiring Third Parties
21:13 Keeping the Board Informed
22:06 Handling the Unexpected
25:05 Working the Plan
26:22 How to Handle an Outdated Plan
28:54 Top Three Tips