Lon Rake has been involved in the utility industry for 34 years and currently serves as the board chair for Copper Valley Electric Association in Valdez, Alaska. For more than 30 years, his career has been in the telecommunications field. Rake joined the NWPPA Board last May. He holds a bachelor’s degree, two associate degrees, and a National Rural Electric Cooperative Association board leadership certificate.
What are the current challenges at your utility?
The high cost of regulation and high fuel costs, which lead to high rates and aging infrastructure.
What do you see as the current challenges in the industry?
The ongoing cost of implementing regulations and incorporating renewables into existing portfolios to meet state and federal requirements. Retaining and recruiting personnel is also pressing—although not an immediate challenge for CVEA, there is a very high percentage of retirements coming in our industry. On the Railbelt side of the state, they are facing a shortage of liquefied natural gas in the near future. It will be interesting to see how that develops.
How does NWPPA help your utility and the industry with these challenges?
By providing training for new and existing employees, giving opportunities to learn from others at annual events, and distributing newsletters with current information.
Any hobbies outside of the public power world?
Hunting, fishing, and barbecues. I’m also a member of the Pioneers of Alaska and the Valdez Fly-In boards. I stay active in community events and help out when and where I can. It’s nice to live in a smaller town and truly get to know the people.
