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Electricity is essential for nearly every aspect of daily life - so essential that we rarely think about how it's produced and delivered to our homes. You might be surprised to learn that behind the scenes, a network of experts is working daily (and even by the minute) to anticipate how much electricity you need before you even use it.

We're all connected to the electric grid, so ensuring the right amount of electricity for all involves a complex process of forecasting energy demand, planning for capacity and securing enough supply to meet our needs. First, electricity must be generated at a power plant using either traditional sources, such as coal, natural gas or nuclear energy, or from renewable sources, such as solar, wind or hydropower. At West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC), we work closely with PowerSouth Energy Cooperative, our local wholesale power provider, to secure enough electricity for our communities, using a diverse mix of energy sources to generate the power we deliver. By maintaining a diverse energy mix - natural gas, hydropower, and some solar, WFEC has options to ensure reliable power at a competitive cost.

On a larger scale, across the country, electricity supply and demand are managed through a market that includes long-term planning agreements, where electricity is bought and sold just like other common goods and services.
Because WFEC works with our wholesale power supplier, which is also a cooperative, we are able to pool resources and expertise to deliver affordable power to local communities.

Electricity supply changes throughout the day because demand fluctuates based on our members' needs. For example, WFEC knows that we need to ensure there is more electricity available in the mornings when you're starting your day, and in the evenings when you're cooking dinner, using appliances, and watching TV. Demand also increases when weather patterns change like when it's extremely cold or warm.

Other utilities across the country are managing the same task of balancing supply and demand - that's why we have a larger network of key players to make sure enough power is delivered across the grid.

As the energy sector undergoes rapid change, it's important for you to understand the basics of electricity supply and demand. Electricity use in the U.S. is expected to at least double by 2050. At the same time, energy policies are pushing the early retirement of always-available generation which could compromise reliability. That's why we're preparing now for future challenges.