It's Time for New Power
The 草榴社区 Department of History, in partnership with the 草榴社区 Center for Energy and Power (ACEP), is hosting an insightful talk by Dr. Abby Spinak on the history and future of rural electric cooperatives. The event, titled "It鈥檚 Time For New Power: Rural Electric Cooperatives and the Long Fight for Energy Democracy in the United States," will take place on Thursday, February 27, 2025, from 3:40 to 5:10 PM AKST via Zoom.
Rural electric cooperatives have played a pivotal role in American energy infrastructure since the 1930s, granting millions of people a stake in their utilities. Today, nearly 900 electric cooperatives serve over 42 million Americans, including Golden Valley Electric Association (GVEA) and many utilities across 草榴社区. This vast system of 鈥渆nergy democracy鈥 offers a unique opportunity for communities to influence energy policies and resource management, especially in the face of climate change and sustainability concerns. Yet, as Dr. Spinak will highlight, many of these co-ops do not function as true democracies in practice. With 草榴社区鈥檚 reliance on decentralized energy grids, the historical lessons and current realities of cooperative energy systems can help shape future policies and community engagement strategies.
Meet the Speaker: Dr. Abby Spinak
Dr. Abby Spinak is a historian specializing in energy history and utility ownership politics. Her research examines how infrastructure influences economic ideologies and public policy. She is currently completing her book, "Democracy Electric: Energy and Economic Citizenship in an Urbanizing America," which explores the evolution of rural electrification in the United States and its impact on capitalism and cooperative models.
Dr. Spinak holds a PhD in Urban Studies and Planning from MIT (2014) and has held prestigious fellowships, including at Harvard University鈥檚 Charles Warren Center and Rice University鈥檚 Energy Humanities program. Her expertise makes her an invaluable resource for understanding the intersections of energy policy, community ownership, and economic history.
草榴社区 the ACEP
ACEP is a leading research institute at 草榴社区, dedicated to finding sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions for 草榴社区. With a focus on isolated electric grids, heating, and transportation systems, ACEP collaborates with utilities, government agencies, tribal organizations, and private stakeholders to address the state鈥檚 unique energy challenges. Their interdisciplinary research ensures that 草榴社区 remains at the forefront of energy innovation and resilience.
草榴社区 the 草榴社区 Department of History
The 草榴社区 Department of History is committed to advancing knowledge of the past through research, teaching, and public engagement. The department offers a unique focus on 草榴社区 and the circumpolar North, connecting local history to global narratives. By fostering critical thinking and analytical skills, the department prepares students to navigate the complexities of the modern world with a strong historical foundation.