Natural Gas Pipeline: Complete!

Posted on: March 5, 2026 By: hcarter@consolidated.coop

In 2024, we partnered with Morrow County to expand our natural gas service supporting the I71/SR61 interchange. We finished construction and testing at the end of 2025, and the pipeline is now complete. 

Consolidated brought natural gas to the I71/SR61 interchange decades ago, but demand from recent growth in the area pushed our existing pipeline to the limits of what it could deliver. This location needed significant additional capacity to continue supporting projects that will enhance quality of life and bring jobs to the area.  

“As we continue to keep our targeted areas of growth in mind, I am encouraged to work with companies, like Consolidated Cooperative and to be able to think outside the box on how we can meet the current and future needs of our community,” said Jamie Brucker, Morrow County Director of Operations. 

As a not-for-profit cooperative, we had not expanded because we did not want our current members to bear the risk of the investment. Morrow County stepped up as a partner because the anticipated business growth stands to create numerous economic benefits for the entire county and surrounding areas.  

Expanding our natural gas service in this area will allow new businesses and organizations to build in our communities, bringing in jobs and enhancing the local economy. Through our partnership, we will be able to pay back the cost of the pipeline as funds come in from the members the pipeline will serve. In addition, these new members will also increase the amount of natural gas we purchase, helping us get better bulk rates over time.  

“As Morrow County’s local, not-for-profit cooperative, we are proud of our nearly 90-year commitment to working alongside so many others who continue to strive to make our communities places where we can all prosper.” Shared Consolidated President and CEO, Phil Caskey. “This project is yet another shining example of the great work we all can do when we work together.” 

We are confident that Consolidated members and Morrow County will see a significant return on this investment over time – both through financial income and through community and economic enrichment. We have already had multiple businesses express interest in building in the area, and we are excited to have the capacity to meet the needs of new projects.  

Consolidated and Morrow County Representatives in front of a portion of Consolidated's natural gas pipeline
Pictured, left to right:

Brad Ebersole, Consolidated Community and Government Relations Director; Phil Caskey, Consolidated President/CEO; Morrow County Commissioners: Tim Abraham, Tim Siegfried, and Jon Mason; Jamie L. Brucker, Morrow County Director of Operations; Jack Cramer, Consolidated Gas Operations Manager (former); Chance Stepp, Consolidated Gas Operations Manager (current).

System Downtime – February 7

Posted on: February 3, 2026 By: hcarter@consolidated.coop

On February 7, we are conducting the system upgrade that will make our website, SmartHub, and payment systems temporarily unavailable.

We plan to start the upgrade at 8 a.m., and we anticipate that testing will be complete by 2 p.m. Our outage hotline will be available throughout the downtime, but our map and some other methods of reporting will not.

We have planned this upgrade in the past, but we had to postpone due to weather conditions that elevated the risk for outages. We are keeping our eye on the weather, and we will postpone again if conditions are unfavorable.

The upgrade is just one of the many proactive steps that we take to maintain excellent security and efficiency throughout all our systems.

Thank you!

Energy Policy Resources

Posted on: February 1, 2026 By: hcarter@consolidated.coop

Reliability and Affordability Concerns

For 90 years, our mission has been to deliver safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible electricity to our members at stable and affordable rates. Our members count on us to deliver their power 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year – our communities and livelihoods depend on it. But, for the first time in our history, that reliability is in jeopardy.

Buckeye Power, our generation and transmission provider, generates enough power for all 400,000 cooperative members in Ohio. However, we depend on the larger grid to get that power to our members, and the grid’s ability to balance supply and demand in our region and across the nation is increasingly at risk. Shortages in one area can cause shortages and blackouts at other places on the grid.

January, 2026 Reliability Assessment

The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) released a concerning Long-Term Reliability Assessment in January, 2026. Based on their research, many regions across the U.S. are at an elevated risk for energy shortfalls over the next five years.

For PJM, the grid operator for Ohio and 12 surrounding states, NERC reports that current projections for energy resource additions do not keep the pace with the forecasts for increasing demand and retired generation. Basically, they anticipate that unless things change, demand will begin to exceed supply across the grid – during extreme or even normal weather conditions.

Please read this article from America’s Electric Cooperatives to learn more about the causes behind these issues, and the steps that policymakers need to take to put our nation on a more stable path.

Here are a few of the reasons why the risks to reliable, affordable energy are growing:

  • Demand for electricity is higher than it has ever been, and it continues to rise, especially as more data centers are popping up.
  • The overall supply of reliable electricity is down because of the rapid retirement of coal and nuclear plants.
  • Intermittent sources of energy like wind and solar power have come online, but they have not filled the gap and they are not always available.
  • Unreasonable regulations are creating unnecessarily high costs while providing minimal environmental benefits, leading generation sources to shut down and preventing investment in new sources.

What can we do about it? 

Energy Conservation

During times of extreme demand (like during a cold snap), you may hear about “peak alerts” or “peak demand.” A “peak alert” occurs when a utility provider is close to demanding more electric power than they have ever used before. When demand reaches a new peak, it also sets a new, higher price that we have to pay for electricity.

Now more than ever, it is important for us all to try and safely conserve power during times when demand is high – not just to avoid rising costs, but also to help avoid the need for rolling blackouts. Conservation during peak times can be as simple as lowering your thermostat by a few degrees, or turning off unused appliances and electronics. Learn more about peak alerts here.

Political Action

Consolidated leaders attend events in Washington, D.C. and at our Ohio statehouse to meet with policy makers and speak up for the good of our members. You can join us in advocating for common-sense energy policy. Check out America’s Electric Cooperatives PAC and Voices for Cooperative Power to learn more about how you can get involved and speak up for cooperative members!

America’s Electric Cooperatives PAC

The National Rural Electric Cooperatives Association (NRECA) has renamed its political action committee: The program once known as “ACRE” is now America’s Electric Cooperatives PAC.  

This political action committee (PAC) was founded in 1966 to support political candidates who speak up for and protect the interests of electric co-ops and their member-owners. Thousands of co-op members, employees, and directors from across our nation contribute to the PAC.   

PAC accepts contributions on a monthly basis, and the average contributor gives about $65 per year. When everyone’s individual PAC contribution comes together, it builds our collective strength as cooperatives across the nation. This strength and recognition on the national level is key as decarbonization and electrification policies have threatened cooperatives’ ability to deliver power to their members.   

If you would like to be a part of this national movement, click here to make a donation, or give us a call at 800-421-5863 for help.   

Voices for Cooperative Power

Join us in speaking up for reliable, affordable electricity! Voices for Cooperative Power (VCP) is a network of rural electric cooperative members who work together to promote policies that help cooperatives thrive. VCP makes it easy to be an advocate by empowering you to share your story, connecting you with opportunities to use your voice, and keeping you informed about important issues and policies.   

You can choose your level of involvement – whether you use the information they provide to be an informed voter, or you take advantage of opportunities to contact legislators and speak up for cooperatives. Learn more about VCP at voicesforcooperativepower.com or get in touch with us at Consolidated for help.   

Resources

  • “Reliability and Affordability” – This webpage from America’s Electric Cooperatives (NRECA) will give you a background of the current energy landscape, the cooperative stance, and a timeline of the events that led up to this point.
  • “EPA Power Sector Rules” – This article from America’s Electric Cooperatives gives an overview of key regulations that threaten reliable, affordable power, and it provides updates as decisions progress.
  • “PJM Warns of Risks Expected Resource Retirements Pose to Grid Reliability” – This article from OEC discusses recent reports of increased reliability risks, and warnings about retiring reliable resources while demand for electricity is growing.

Key Terms and Organizations

Here is a short list of some of the key terms and organizations that you will read about while researching this topic. Click or tap the link in each point to learn more or visit the organization’s website.

The Electric Grid: The complex, interconnected system that transports electricity from power plants through substations, transformers, transmission lines, and the distribution lines that deliver energy to consumers. Learn more about the electric grid.

PJM: PJM Interconnection – a regional transmission organization that ensures reliability and coordinates the movement of electricity in Ohio and 12 surrounding states.

NERC: The North American Electric Reliability Corporation – a not-for-profit, international authority designed to protect the reliability and security of the electric grid.   

NRECA: America’s Electric Cooperatives – the national organization designed to promote, support, and protect the best interests of electric cooperatives and their members.   

OEC: Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives – the statewide organization designed to promote, support, and protect the best interests of electric cooperatives and their members in Ohio.

EPA: The United States Environmental Protection Agency – The EPA was founded to study environmental issues, provide information, and develop and enforce environmental standards and regulations in America.   

Natural Gas: Transport Critical Days

Posted on: January 26, 2026 By: hcarter@consolidated.coop

Due to cold weather and high demand, our natural gas supplier has issued “Transport Critical Days,” which will likely continue through the end of January. This means that all natural gas purchased during this time will cost significantly more than usual.

While Transport Critical Days are widespread and we cannot change them, we can help mitigate their impact by conserving gas while costs are high. If you are able, please join us in reducing natural gas use until Transport Critical Days are over.

Read through the FAQ below to learn more about Transport Critical Days and their impact.

What are “Transport Critical Days”?

Natural gas suppliers issue Transport Critical Days when demand is at extreme highs, typically in January or February. This happens when end-users are consuming natural gas at a rate that is not sustainable for the pipelines and/or stores that supply the fuel throughout a region. Natural gas becomes significantly more expensive during these times, because it may come from other sources or dip into reserves.

How will this impact me?   

As a not-for-profit cooperative, our rates reflect the costs we pay for the services we provide you. This means that we never charge extra to make more profit, but it also means that when our costs increase, our members’ costs increase too.  

Due to our supplier’s timing, these increased Transport Critical Day costs will likely be reflected on the bill you receive in March. The line item will be titled: “Critical Peak Charge.” We will not know the financial impact on our members until we receive our bill from our supplier, which will be after our February billing cycles have already begun.

We will divide the additional charges based on use, so that no members pay more than their fair share. We will publish more information and billing date confirmation after we receive our bill.

Why do members have to pay these added costs? 

As a not-for-profit cooperative, our rates reflect the costs we pay for the services we provide. This means that we never charge extra to make profits, but it also means that when our costs increase it increases our members’ costs too. We call these “pass-through” costs, because they do not originate with Consolidated and we do not add onto them; we pass them through from suppliers. 

Is this normal?

Transport Critical Days occur almost every year with varied impact. The extended cold and extreme weather will likely lead them to have a more noticeable impact this year.

What can Consolidated and its members do about this?

The best way to mitigate their impact is to use less natural gas while they are in effect, so we purchase less gas at the elevated rates.

There are two options that can help some natural gas providers lower the risk of supply challenges and Transport Critical Days; we have explored both thoroughly throughout the years of our natural gas service, but unfortunately, neither is possible for us.

  • The first option is to purchase additional storage, but there are no viable storage options available to us at this time.
  • The second is to buy “firm capacity,” which gives certain providers the first right to gas. There is no “firm capacity” available for our supply, and even if there were, it would cost us about $100,000 per year to maintain that status. This charge would have to be passed through to our members, and the reduction in price would not be enough to offset the cost.

We understand that this is challenging, and we know that providing a warning ahead of time does not make the challenge go away. We will continue watching for opportunities to reduce the risk of Transport Critical Days, but for now, our best option is to work together and reduce their impact through conservation.

Natural Gas Pipeline Testing

Posted on: November 24, 2025 By: hcarter@consolidated.coop

In December 2024, we partnered with Morrow County to construct a new natural gas pipeline that expands service supporting the Interstate 71/State Route 61 interchange. Construction is coming to an end, and we are moving into the next stage: testing. 

What’s that sound? 

The testing process involves pressurizing the pipeline with air to confirm its safety and integrity before it is used for natural gas. As the air is released, it creates a sustained rushing or roaring sound. The pipeline runs from Sparta to the 61/71 interchange, and we will test consecutively at eight sites along its path.  

Testing begins November 24. Most of our test sites are in remote areas, but a few are closer to homes or businesses. We have been in contact with county officials and emergency personnel to confirm our testing plans. We will do our best to keep disturbances to a minimum; however, the noise will likely be hard to miss if you are nearby. 

How long will this take? 

Testing generally takes between 2-6 hours at each location, but there are many factors that could extend our timeline. Safety is always our top priority, and we will not move on until we have ensured the safety of each section of the pipeline. The entire process will likely take about two weeks. 

To prevent hazards, we cannot allow anyone to approach the testing sites unless they are properly trained and authorized. We will have traffic control and safety personnel out with our crews, and we ask that you steer clear and keep moving if you pass a testing site while you’re on the road. 

What happens after testing? 

Once testing is successfully complete, we will be able to begin running natural gas through the pipeline. We plan to begin connecting our first business members in spring of 2026.  

We hope to offer natural gas service to residential members along the pipeline’s path in the future. We will make an announcement and reach out to impacted members when we have a timeline and pricing information ready to share. 

Key Account Spotlight: Lilly Industries

Posted on: October 16, 2025 By: hcarter@consolidated.coop

Lilly Industries is a family-owned metal fabrication company located in Mount Gilead. They share that as a community-focused company, they are dedicated to supporting their customers’ success while investing in the people and future of Morrow County. 

Lilly Industries was established in 1971. Their mission is to deliver quality metal fabrication based on the specific needs of their customers. They provide fabricated products to a wide range of industries throughout Ohio and the United States.  

Their facilities include a 20,000+ square foot fabrication shop and a 3,000 square foot assembly building. They offer AWS certified welders, laser cutting, plasma cutting, state-of-the-art brake presses, beam drilling, and more. In addition, they also house their own fasteners and industrial supplies company: Lightning Bolt Fasteners.  

Lilly Industries shares that a metal fabricator is only as good as the equipment they use, so they invest their resources to ensure they have up-to-date technology and equipment to compete in today’s industry.  

As a longstanding part of the Mount Gilead community, Lilly Industries has created jobs and provided long-term careers for over 50 years. They place a high value on helping their community thrive and helping strengthen the local economy through partnerships with other local businesses. 
 
“We take pride in sourcing within our region whenever possible,” shared Niki Lilly, Office Manager at Lilly Industries. “We actively support our schools, youth programs and community events. We are dedicated to helping our community grow and thrive, and we are proud to call Morrow County home.” 

To learn more about Lilly Industries, check out their website and Facebook page below: 

Website:  www.lillyind.com  

Facebook:  Lilly Industries 

Key Account Spotlight Lilly Industries Sign
Key Account Spotlight Lilly Industries Equipment
Key Account Spotlight Lilly Industries Facility
Key Account Spotlight Lilly Industries Equipment

Feeding Our Communities

Posted on: October 15, 2025 By: hcarter@consolidated.coop

Consolidated match grant provides $20,000 to local organizations working to combat food insecurity. 

As a local, not-for-profit cooperative, we are dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of our communities. We execute this mission in part by providing safe, reliable essential services that help people and businesses thrive, and also by supporting other organizations that meet needs and enrich lives here.  

This fall, we had the opportunity to donate $10,000 plus a $10,000 match to organizations that provide food to local individuals and families who need assistance. The match funds came from the CoBank Sharing Success Program. This program is designed to help rural cooperatives like us support initiatives and organizations that make our communities increasingly great places to live.  

According to Feeding America, in Ohio, one in seven people (one in five children) face hunger.  

“Food insecurity is a hidden issue in many of our communities, even those that seem to be doing well,” shared Dan Boysel, Consolidated Vice President of Community & Government Relations. “The cooperative purpose is to help meet the needs of our neighbors and communities.” 

Each of the four organizations received $5,000 – $2,500 each from Consolidated and CoBank. Check out the information below to see which organizations received donations, and learn more about the ways they positively impact our communities.

Recipients

People in Need of Delaware County: People in Need is on track to provide 1,000,000 meals to our communities in 2025, and they have served more than 12,000 families facing food insecurity so far this year. They deliver nutritious food packages to local households up to once a week, and they provide fresh food through produce markets and mobile markets. 

SourcePoint Meals on Wheels Program (Delaware): SourcePoint’s Meals on Wheels program serves over 1,200 meals a day to over 600 older adults in Delaware County, and the program continues to grow. They prepare fresh meals in their on-site kitchen each day, which are then delivered Monday-Friday by trained volunteers. 

Morrow County Services for Older Citizens Inc. Meals on Wheels Program: Better known as “Seniors on Center,” the Morrow County Services for Older Citizens Inc. Meals on Wheels program offers hot, well-balanced lunches to people in Morrow County who are unable to leave their homes. They deliver each weekday, and they also provide weekend and holiday meals by request. 

Morrow County Food Pantry: The Morrow County Food Pantry provides items to Morrow County residents who qualify for assistance based on The Emergency Food Assistance Program eligibility guidelines.  They are open from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Monday-Thursday in the Community Services Building in Mount Gilead. 

Consolidated employees with the SourcePoint team holding a check for $2,500
Consolidated Employees with the Morrow County Food Pantry team, holding a donation check for $2,500
Consolidated Employees with the Seniors on Center Team holding a check for $2,500
Consolidated Employees with the People In Need team holding a check for $2,500

Propane Pre-Buy – Now Closed

Posted on: August 23, 2025 By: hcarter@consolidated.coop

Propane Pre-Buy is now closed for the 2025-2026 season. Thank you to everyone who participated this year!

If you have any questions about pre-buy or your order, please contact our office – we are happy to help!

Important Reminders:

  • Pre-buy gallon deliveries will begin in October. If your tank is low or you need propane before deliveries begin, you must place a separate order at market rate. Deliveries for fewer than our minimum of 200 gallons will incur a fee.
  • Your delivery method will remain the same on pre-buy unless you contact us to request a change. Will-Call members, please keep an eye on your tank and call us when it reaches 30% capacity to schedule a refill.
  • We recommend keeping track of your pre-buy gallons. If you have non-metered service, our crews will leave a fill slip at your door after each delivery that states the number of gallons that you received. If you have metered service, you can see the number of gallons you have used on your monthly bill.
  • If you do not use all of the propane that you pre-ordered this year, the leftover funds will remain on your account as a credit after the season ends.
  • If you use up your pre-buy gallons, any extra gallons that you use (metered accounts) or have delivered (non-metered accounts) will be billed at market rate.

Light up your life.