Monte Cooper is no stranger to technological advancements in our industry. Serving Jackson Energy Authority (JEA) as President and CEO has given him an opportunity to ensure that innovation remains at the forefront of his LPC and community.

“Innovation at Jackson Energy Authority is such a high priority that it’s been one of our 4 major strategies concentrated on over the past 2 years. Leveraging consultants and partners, such as Seven States, has been a great way for us to pursue innovative projects in an efficient manner. In addition to implementing an updated SCADA system in the future, battery storage is a technology that we look most forward to bringing to our distribution system. We anticipate being the owner and operator of the battery storage projects that we will use to store solar energy and/or TVA energy for discharge during times of on-peak energy usage.”

Monte credits Seven States as being a valuable partner for JEA as the needs of its customers continue to evolve.

“Seven States assisted with the first ever JEA level 2 EV charger, which was installed at our Training Center. Our first EV project went very smoothly, and we will be using Seven States on the second EV charger, which will be located in downtown Jackson.”

With the rapid advancement of innovation in our industry, Monte’s advice to future leaders who want to lead well is to lean into their network and partners for advice and collaboration.

“I would advise any new GMs to attend our organizational meetings held by TVPPA, TMEPA, and Seven States in order to network with other utilities and learn from them. Using consultants and trusted partners like Seven States is a better way of getting projects designed, managed, and in service in a timely manner.”