May 14, 2025
Raleigh, N.C. — Four County Electric Membership Corporation (Four County EMC) was proud to represent the voice of rural North Carolina at the 2025 State Energy Conference, held Tuesday, April 29 in Raleigh. The conference, which brought together energy professionals, industry leaders, and policymakers from across the state and nation, provided a platform for showcasing innovative energy solutions and forward-thinking strategies.
Kristen Hole, Four County’s Innovative Electrification Specialist, participated in the panel Powering the Change: Real-World Applications of Beneficial Electrification. The session explored how technology, data, and partnerships are driving smarter energy use across sectors—from industrial energy management to building energy platforms.
Hole highlighted Four County’s collaborative project with James Sprunt Community College: the Box to Bowl hydroponic smart farm pilot. The initiative, housed in a self-contained unit, serves as a case study in agricultural resilience, energy awareness, and hands-on workforce development.
“The hydroponic smart farm may be housed in a container, but it’s transforming how students learn, how food is grown, and how we think about energy use in agriculture,” said Hole. “Co-ops and the communities we serve can play a leading role in connecting larger community needs with creative, scalable solutions—especially when we partner across education, health, and energy sectors.”
The panel emphasized how beneficial electrification and smart energy technologies are creating new opportunities for rural communities and utility partners alike. Discussions also focused on bridging the gap between consumers, prosumers, and utilities to enhance grid stability and reliability.
“Being surrounded by people who speak the same language—people who are passionate about electrification, member service, and pushing boundaries—is incredibly energizing,” Hole added. “These conversations often lead to new ideas, collaborations, and lifelong professional relationships.”
As one of many representatives from North Carolina’s electric cooperatives at the event, Four County EMC continues to amplify the voice of rural members and demonstrate how cooperatives are leading the way in innovation, reliability, and community-centered solutions.