If you’ve driven through the Clarion Industrial Park lately, you’ve likely noticed something exciting taking shape—Prairie Energy Cooperative’s new headquarters at 1511 Industrial Park Drive in Clarion is nearing completion.

While a new building is certainly something to celebrate, the bigger story is why this investment is so important for our cooperative and the members we serve.

For decades, our existing Clarion facilities have supported our operations well. Originally occupied in 1986 by Wright County REC and later expanded through the 2001 merger with Hancock County REC that formed Prairie Energy Cooperative, these buildings have been part of our foundation. But as our cooperative has grown, so have the demands on our space, our systems, and our people. Simply put—we’ve outgrown what we have.

Over the years, rising energy demands and evolving technology have changed the way we operate. Our current facilities no longer provide the space, layout, or infrastructure needed to support today’s workforce or tomorrow’s challenges. Employees are working in tight quarters, departments are spread out, and operational efficiency is limited by buildings that were never designed for modern utility needs.

That’s where the new headquarters comes in. Construction, led by Sande Construction beginning in April 2025, is bringing to life a facility designed specifically for how Prairie Energy operates today—and how we’ll serve you in the future. By relocating all Clarion personnel into one centralized location, we’re creating a more connected, efficient, and responsive work environment.

But this project is about more than space—it’s about people. A modern facility allows us to prioritize the health, safety, and well-being of our employees. Updated workspaces, improved layouts, and enhanced safety features help ensure our team can perform their jobs effectively and return home safely each day. When our employees have the tools and environment they need to succeed, it directly benefits the reliability and quality of service you receive.

The new headquarters also strengthens our ability to operate efficiently. Consolidating multiple functions under one roof reduces duplication, streamlines communication, and lowers long-term operational costs. It also allows us to better integrate advancing technology, improving how we monitor, maintain, and deliver power across our system. And importantly, this investment reflects our long-term commitment to the communities we serve. Remaining in Clarion while upgrading our facilities ensures we continue to support local economic development while positioning Prairie Energy for decades of reliable service.

As the project nears completion, we’re excited not just about a new building—but about what it represents: a smarter, safer, and stronger cooperative built to meet the evolving needs of our members.

Stay tuned for more updates—and we look forward to welcoming you to our new home soon.