Cumberland Electric Membership Cooperative (CEMC) has recertified at the Silver Level through the Clarksville-Montgomery County Green Certification Program. The designation recognizes CEMC’s continued efforts to improve operational efficiency, reduce waste and make responsible use of resources.
Montgomery County Mayor Wes Golden and CMC Green Certification Program Manager Michelle Newell formally recognized CEMC’s achievement on October 26.
Located at 1940 Madison Street in Clarksville, CEMC’s headquarters complex houses the electric cooperative’s primary operations and Cumberland Connect Broadband. Across its operations, CEMC has implemented practical measures that support both resource conservation and day-to-day efficiency.
Improving energy efficiency was a particular strength in CEMC’s recertification. Updated lighting, temperature controls, and the removal of personal space heaters and other equipment that interfere with efficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) operations demonstrate strong resource management.
CEMC also continues to reduce waste beyond traditional recycling. In addition to recycling cardboard and aluminum, it also sells retired wiring for reuse and has taken steps to significantly reduce plastic and paper waste.
Extending the useful life of materials is another part of CEMC’s approach. Retired telephone poles are offered to residents for reuse in landscaping, fencing and other projects on private property.
“One of the unusual things we do is offer our retired telephone poles to the public for reuse. They are used for landscaping, fencing, and other purposes,” said CEMC Supervisor of Purchasing & Warehousing Scott Bagwell, who led the recertification effort.
CEMC has also incorporated alternative-use vehicles into its fleet, helping reduce fuel and maintenance costs. Preventive maintenance is also a major priority, supporting the reliable operation of equipment and vehicles while helping extend their useful life.
“We take pride in our strong preventative maintenance program we have with our equipment, including our fleet. We are grateful to continue with this program, and we know it’s not possible to do anything without the support of the more than 300 outstanding employees who work with us,” said CEMC Chief Executive Officer Chris Davis.
“CEMC demonstrates how practical steps—whether improving energy efficiency, reducing waste or finding new uses for materials—can support responsible resource management while benefiting daily operations,” Newell said.
CEMC works to deliver safe, affordable and reliable electric power and high-speed broadband services to residents in Cheatham, Montgomery, Robertson, Stewart and Sumner counties. For more information on their services, see cemc.org/about-us/
The CMC Green Certification Program, supported by Bi-County Solid Waste Management and Montgomery County Government, recognizes local organizations that demonstrate a commitment to practical resource management, operational efficiency and environmental stewardship. Participating organizations identify opportunities for improvement and develop practical ways to put those opportunities into action.
For more information about the CMC Green Certification Program, visit montgomerytn.gov/green.