National momentum to bring broadband internet service to our nation’s rural areas continues to grow. An increasing number of electric cooperatives have entered the retail broadband business, or are considering a broadband strategy. Major technology upgrades such as an expansion of broadband coverage come with significant, and sometimes unprecedented, challenges and costs. This course walks participants through key parts of the due diligence process to better prepare boards to make a “go” or “no go” decision on a broadband strategy.
Key Topics
- Recognize the key elements of the broadband landscape.
- Explain the link between broadband and the smart grid.
- Recognize the importance of long-term planning when considering a broadband strategy.
- Discuss key elements of the due-diligence process when considering a broadband strategy.
- Given a case study, distinguish between the board’s oversight responsibilities and management’s operational responsibilities.
Certificate Program
Credits
NRECA – 1 BLC credit
CEU – 0.6 credits
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Attention NRECA Broadband Members: This course (BLC 985.1) is available to all electric cooperative directors, but will be offered
free-of-charge to those that meet
each of the following two criteria:
1. The directors’ co-op is a paid participant in the NRECA Broadband program (either as Operational, or Non-Operational w/Cons) at the time of registration for the course.
and
2. The director is attending an
NRECA-sponsored online or in-person course which includes Pre-PowerXchange Education, Pre-Regional Meeting Education, Pre-Directors Conference Education, Summer School for Directors, and Winter School for Directors.[/well]
