Ray Wahle, senior vice president of power supply and operations at Missouri River Energy Services (MRES), has announced his retirement effective May 28, 2021. He joined the organization in 1979 after earning his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering.

Since 1986, Wahle has managed the power supply and operations department under various titles and increasing areas of responsibility, which include generation, transmission, power purchases and sales, engineering, forecasting, distribution maintenance, and information technology.

Wahle was instrumental in the construction and acquisition of all power supply resources that serve MRES members, including Laramie River Station, Exira Station, Watertown Power Plant, and Missouri River’s newest resource, Red Rock Hydroelectric Project. During his tenure he oversaw Missouri River’s interests in major transmission projects, such as the CapX2020 project and Alexandria, Minnesota, substation. He has been involved in representing member interests in the Midwest Independent System Operator (MISO) and Southwest Power Pool (SPP) regional energy markets. And, he led MRES efforts on cybersecurity and members’ electric distribution system operation and maintenance.

“It has been an honor and privilege to serve such a great organization and work with so many talented and wonderful people,” Wahle said. “While it is with mixed emotions that I made the decision to retire, I am very much looking forward to passing the torch and watching MRES and its members continue to flourish.”

“Ray’s leadership and dedication to MRES is unsurpassed,” said Tom Heller, MRES president and CEO. “His understanding of technical issues and the electric industry, and his vision for the future have helped guide the direction of MRES for these many years. It is with tremendous appreciation that we wish Ray a happy and rewarding retirement.”

For more information, contact MRES Vice President of Member Services and Communications Joni Livingston, phone: 605-261-3637; e-mail: joni.livingston@mrenergy.com.