On the Ohio River in southeast Ohio lies the Racine Hydro Plant,
manned and operated by members of UMWA Local Union 1886. The Racine
Hydro Plant is a 48-megawatt run-of-river hydroelectric facility that
was completed and opened in 1983. The plant has two hydroelectric
turbines that produce an average generation of 200,500 megawatts per
hour of clean electricity per year. That is enough energy to power
18,000 houses.
In
January 2022, the Racine Hydro Plant was sold from its previous owner,
American Electric Power, to Eagle Creek Renewable Energy. Along with the
sale and transfer came a new contract that was negotiated between the
UMWA, Local Union 1886 members, and Eagle Creek Renewable Energy
management on January 2, 2022.
During the years of the facility being represented by the UMWA, the
union aided workers in moving up their classifications from Hydro B to
Hydro A, which guaranteed them the correct pay scale for their skill
level.
Local Union 1886 member Adam Lee is an ICE Technician and handles the
majority of the electrical work at the plant. “It’s extremely important
to be a part of a union that represents its workers,” said Adam. “If
you don’t, you’re liable to be steamrolled by the company whenever they
see fit.”
Kevin Marcinko has been a member of Local Union 1886 for seven years
and has performed duties from mechanic to operations. “I’ve been here
long enough to see the transition between companies and how important it
is to be represented by your union.”
“Having a voice at your workplace is priceless,” said Local Union
1886 member and Utility Mechanic George Parker. “You never know what
kind of situation you may find yourself in when you do this kind of
work. Being heard means not only longevity but safety on the job.”
“In
a time when energy is the main topic of conversation, we are proud to
represent workers that have been able to transition into jobs where they
are able to continue earning a living and be represented by a union.
Hats off to these members for setting the example for a true
transition.” President Roberts
“We are very proud to represent these Local Union 1886 members during
negotiations for their new contract,” said International District 17
Vice President Brian Lacy. “Being a part of the UMWA has ensured them a
seat at the table to bargain for the wages and benefits they have
today.”
