Key Considerations for Working with Data Centers

Join CFC industry leaders for a discussion about their experiences working with data centers, the fastest‑growing consumer segment today. This webinar will explore strategies to improve communication and transparency with both internal teams and members, define clear roles and responsibilities, and examine new policies and capital credit structures designed for large‑load members.

Presenter Bios

Presenter: Paul Matthys, President and CEO, Cass County Electric Cooperative

Paul Matthys is president and CEO of Cass County Electric Cooperative (CCEC). He began his career in the electric industry after earning a degree in electrical technology from the North Dakota State College of Science. Following several years working with electrical contractors and obtaining his journeyman electrician’s license, he joined CCEC as a journeyman electrician. Over the course of his tenure, he advanced through roles including energy management specialist, key account executive and vice president of member and energy services. In April 2024, he was selected to lead the cooperative as president and CEO. Matthys brings hands‑on technical expertise and extensive leadership experience to his role, guiding the cooperative’s strategic and operational priorities.

Presenter: Bill Miller, CPA, Utility Tax Partner, Bolinger, Segars, Gilbert & Moss, LLP

Bill Miller, CPA is a partner with the accounting firm of Bolinger, Segars, Gilbert & Moss in Lubbock, Texas. He began his career with the firm in 1992 and holds a degree in accounting from the University of Texas in Austin. Bill is in charge of the firm's utility and cooperative tax practice, providing tax and consulting services to exempt and non-exempt utility cooperatives, including related subsidiaries. Traditional responsibilities include tax research, tax planning, recommending entity types for new business ventures, and oversight of tax return preparation. Cooperative-specific responsibilities include compliance with co-op principles and plans to allocate and redeem patronage capital. In addition to working with the firm's audit clients, Bill has consulted with trade associations in providing guidance on tax and equity issues pertaining to the electric cooperative industry. Past guidance includes consulting with the Capital Credits Task Force and also providing technical assistance on a national level regarding the tax impact of proposed legislation onelectric cooperatives. Bill is active in the National Society of Accountants for Cooperatives. He has served as a past National President and a National Director representing the Electric Cooperative Chapter. Bill is a recipient of the Silver Bowl Award, NSAC's highest honor. Bill and his wife Kim, along with their two children, reside in Lubbock, Texas.

Presenter: Chris Whittle, Energy and Data Analyst, CFC

Chris Whittle joined CFC in November 2021 as an energy industry analyst. Whittle is focused on identifying emerging industry trends to assist cooperatives in maintaining their place as a trusted energy provider. Prior to CFC, Whittle worked as an analyst for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation. There, Whittle specialized in the study of international and domestic natural gas markets and assisted in the creation of several natural gas market assessment reports for internal and public use. Whittle has a Bachelor of Science in economics and a Master of Science in applied economics from the University of Maryland, College Park