Indiana Electric Cooperatives CEO John Cassady represented the state’s electric cooperatives at a recent meeting of Indiana Gov. Mike Braun’s Strategic Energy Growth Task Force.

Braun established the task force to develop a comprehensive plan to meet Indiana’s growing demand for reliable, affordable energy. The group will craft both a five-year strategy and a 20-year outlook to ensure the state’s energy infrastructure supports continued economic development.

“I’m honored to represent Indiana’s electric cooperative in this important discussion,” said John Cassady, CEO of Indiana Electric Cooperatives. “It is important the cooperatives have an opportunity to present the perspective of the industry and the communities we serve. This is a chance to ensure that our state’s growing demand for reliable, affordable energy is met in a way that strengthens our communities and supports economic development for decades to come.”

The meeting featured presentations from state and national energy leaders, including representatives from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC), the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), and the PJM Interconnection. Discussion topics included Indiana’s current energy landscape, national and state energy forecasts, long-term reliability assessments, and the growing role of advanced energy technologies.

The task force is guided by four key objectives:

• Development – Expanding Indiana’s energy sector to meet increasing demand.
• Affordability – Ensuring energy remains cost-effective for Hoosiers.
• Diversification – Advancing an all-of-the-above approach to energy policy.
• Collaboration – Encouraging coordination between government, utilities, and private industry.

Cassady’s participation ensures electric cooperatives — which power 89 of Indiana’s 92 counties and serve more than 1.3 million Hoosiers — are represented in key policy discussions shaping the state’s energy future.