Editorial: Paul Matthys

As the conversation around decarbonizing our nation’s electric grid gains momentum, I’ve been reflecting on a piece of wisdom borrowed from an unlikely source: the U.S. Navy SEALs. Their mantra, “Slow is smooth, smooth is fast,” has stuck with me—and I believe it offers an important lens through which to view the energy transition.

At first glance, the phrase may seem counterintuitive. But its meaning is clear: When the stakes are high, rushing leads to mistakes—and mistakes slow us down. When it comes to transforming the systems that power our homes, businesses, and economy, this principle should be front and center.

The electric grid is the backbone of modern life. Every time we flip a switch, charge a device, or power up a farm, we rely on a system that must work without fail. As newer technologies—like wind, solar, and battery storage—play a growing role in the mix, we must also be honest about what keeps the lights on around the clock: our nation's baseload power plants. These include coal, natural gas, and nuclear resources that provide dependable, around-the-clock electricity, regardless of the weather or time of day.

Transitioning too quickly away from these proven resources, without first ensuring that newer technologies and grid infrastructure are fully ready to take the load, risks more than just inconvenience. It could result in price spikes, reliability concerns, or even blackouts. That’s not a future any of us want.

We also must recognize that the demand for electricity is growing—and growing fast. New energy-hungry industries like data centers, artificial intelligence, and electrified transportation are expanding rapidly. Meeting that demand with resilience will require thoughtful planning, diversified energy resources, and time to let innovation catch up.

At Cass County Electric Cooperative, we believe in being proactive—but also pragmatic. We support progress toward a cleaner energy future, but not at the expense of reliability and affordability. Our members depend on us for both.

The path forward will require balance, vision, and a steady hand. It’s not a sprint—it’s a marathon. And if we keep the SEALs’ mantra in mind—slow is smooth, smooth is fast—we can move forward with purpose, avoid costly missteps, and build an energy future that’s not just sustainable, but also dependable.

As always, we remain committed to serving you with integrity and keeping your power safe, reliable, and affordable—no matter what the future holds.