Fourteen of

Georgia's EMCs, including Coweta-Fayette EMC, joined 150 electric co-ops

from across the nation to attend energy conferences with Wal-Mart representatives

in Arkansas.

The conference

provided an opportunity for EMCs to learn about the expectations of the

wal-Mart energy group and ways to work together in the future. Since energy

consumption accounts for one of Wal-Mart's largest expenditures, the company

is interested in reducing energy consumption in stores and distribution

centers.

"Georgia

co-ops always come to mind when we talk about the best electric suppliers

from around the country," said Stan Green, director of energy for

Wal-Mart. "We hope to build these same relationships with other co-ops

as we continue to expand into new markets."

"This

meeting gave me the opportunity to meet people from Wal-Mart's energy

man agement division and interact with them on a one-on-one basis,"

said Jimmy Adams, major accounts coordinator with Coweta-Fayette EMC.

"Having a face with a name always helps to build relationships down

the road. Wal-Mart makes a huge economic impact in the communities they

serve, and it is important for Coweta-Fayette EMC to know their needs."

Currently,

17 Georgia EMCs serve electricity to 36 Wal-Mart retail and distribution

centers throughout Georgia.