Storms Hit Utility's Pocketbook Hard MACOMB, IL (wium) - The storms of the past six months have been especially tough on the McDonough Power Cooperative.

First, there was the major ice storm in December. Steve Epperson, McDonough Power Cooperative President & CEO, says the storm was brutal to co-op equipment.

"It was, as best we can tell from those who've I've spoken with - retirees and long-standing members - the worst storm or disaster that we've ever had at McDonough Power," says Epperson.

He says it cost $300,000 to $350,000 for the co-op to recover from the ice storm.

On top of that, a number of severe thunderstorms have rumbled through the region this spring and summer. Some of those storms contained straight line winds. The repair bill from those storms could also reach six figures.

Epperson says the co-op has sustained more damage to equipment than usual for a six month period.

Epperson says budgeting for repairs can be a challenge because co-ops don't hold onto reserves. Surplus money is returned to members at the end of the year.

The McDonough Power Cooperative was founded in 1939. It serves 5,200 customers in seven counties. © Copyright 2009, wium