The Outlet is published to highlight Great River Energy's economic development activities.
Rural fire assistance a priority for cooperatives
Firefighting is a human endeavor, with selfless individuals working to protect others and their property. But it is also an equipment-intensive operation, with critical vehicles and gear requiring consistent and routine maintenance. Rural communities across Minnesota often face difficulties procuring the funding necessary to maintain or replace that equipment, resulting in communities at risk. With an eye on commitment to the communities they serve, Great River Energy and its member-owner cooperatives work diligently to educate and assist with the available financial resources necessary to complete projects as they have done in the Minnesota towns of McGregor, St. Augusta and Rush City.
Charging forward with electric vehicles in Minnesota
The production of electric vehicles (EVs) was supercharged in 2021. They comprised 7.8% of U.S. light-vehicle sales in April 2021, up from a record 5.2% share in 2020. Naturally, the need for more and better support for the EV industry, like charging infrastructure and battery development, will be necessary. Minnesota’s historical advantages make it attractive for businesses seeking to be a part of this growth opportunity. 
Economic development services team launches redesigned website to serve as a welcoming front door for visitors
Great River Energy recently launched a redesigned website to further strengthen its online presence and economic growth for the region. The website offers a fresh presentation and more fluid connection to resources for new and expanding businesses ready to grow in Great River Energy’s 28 member-owner cooperative service areas. It hosts a variety of information, tools, and resources for several audiences with an emphasis on site selection and business attraction, but also business retention and expansion, shovel-ready real estate inventory, business financing incentives, and more.
Meet your economic development services team
Tom Lambrecht
Tom administers and implements economic development strategies.
You can reach him at
763-445-6105 and tlambrecht@grenergy.com 
Erin Sparks
Erin, based in Maple Grove, focuses on economic development in central and southern Minnesota. You can reach her at 763-445-6113 and esparks@grenergy.com 
Jeff Borling
Jeff, based in Duluth, focuses on economic development in northern Minnesota. You can reach him at 218-355-8088 and jborling@grenergy.com 
Our member-owner cooperatives
Great River Energy and our 28 member-owner cooperatives take pride in providing our service territory across Minnesota with competitively priced, reliable energy. We are also committed to helping customers start and grow their businesses by helping them plan and manage their energy needs.