English (United States)
October is Public Power Month in Nebraska, and it arrives during a moment when another state powerhouse is capturing attention. The Nebraska women’s volleyball team is off to a remarkable start with a 19–0 record and a strong position in Big Ten play. Their consistency and confidence reflect the same qualities that make Nebraska’s public power system one of the most reliable and community‑focused in the nation.
The pride fans feel with each Huskers win is the same kind of confidence public power brings to our communities. Both provide a sense of certainty that comes from steady performance. Nebraska has even more to celebrate this year, earning third place for energy and infrastructure in the latest U.S. News & World Report "Best States" national rankings. The state also places fourth for low electricity prices, tenth for power grid reliability, and seventh for renewable energy usage.
These recognitions highlight strengths that echo the volleyball program’s approach. Strong fundamentals, thoughtful preparation and community support create success that lasts.
Public power carries that same dependable energy through every Nebraska community. It exists to serve people, not shareholders, which keeps decision making local and strongly connected to customer needs. Because Nebraska is the only state fully powered by public power utilities, every dollar stays here and goes directly back into maintaining and improving the system. This long-standing commitment is a major reason Nebraska continues to earn national recognition for its reliability and affordability.
The comparison to volleyball becomes even clearer when you think about how both the program and public power prepare for challenges. A great team builds depth, invests in training and communicates constantly. Nebraska’s utilities take a similar approach by maintaining infrastructure, planning far into the future and investing in technology that strengthens the grid. This includes upgrades across generating facilities, substations and transmission lines, along with tools like smart grid automation and advanced metering. These improvements help crews respond quickly and safely and give customers better insight into their energy use.
People play a central role in both stories. The Huskers rely on athletes and coaches who care about their mission. Nebraska’s public power utilities rely on professionals who care just as deeply about the communities they serve. Many grew up in the towns where they now work. They know the people behind every meter and take pride in delivering a service that supports daily life and economic growth. Their dedication helps Nebraska remain a leader in affordability, reliability and innovation.
Public power also positions Nebraska well for the future. (Visit nppd.com to learn more about how our emPOWERING Nebraska’s Tomorrow program is doing just that.) As new industries develop and more families make Nebraska their home, our energy system is ready to grow alongside them. The flexibility that comes with public ownership allows utilities to invest responsibly and keep energy costs stable while exploring new technologies that make the grid more efficient. These efforts mirror the way the volleyball program prepares for the next big match. Both aim to stay strong not just today, but for seasons and decades to come.
As the Huskers continue their incredible season, their focus and teamwork offer a fitting reflection of the values that shape Nebraska’s energy system. Both remind us what is possible when people work together with purpose. This Public Power Month is a celebration not only of the electricity that keeps our state running, but also of the spirit of community that powers everything we do.
To learn more about how Nebraska ranks among the top states for energy affordability and reliability, give this podcast a listen. I was honored to be a part of the discussion alongside CEOs from two of the state’s largest public power utilities: Javier Fernandez from Omaha Public Power District and Emeka Anyanwu from Lincoln Electric Service.
I truly believe public power is Nebraska’s home court advantage. It keeps the lights on, supports growth and reflects the commitment and pride that define our state.
References: U.S. News and World Report "Best States" Rankings - Nebraska
