The Cooperative Difference

Members of electric cooperatives express higher than average levels of customer satisfaction. It’s no wonder. Electric cooperatives are different than other forms of business, and member-owners of cooperatives notice this difference. For one thing, co-ops put consumers first because the consumers are the owners. In addition, co-ops are locally owned and operated. When members call the co-op, they are talking with their neighbors. And both of these aspects combine to make co-ops more responsive since members are the owners and they are accountable to their own neighbors and communities.

Cooperative Principles:

Voluntary and Open Membership
Cooperatives are voluntary organizations, open to all persons able to use their
services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership.

Democratic Member Control
Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who
actively participate in setting policies and making decisions.

Members’ Economic Participation
Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control,
the capital of their cooperative.

Autonomy and Independence
Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations
controlled by their members.

Education, Training, and Information
Cooperatives provide education and training for their members,
elected representatives, managers, and employees so they can contribute
effectively to the development of their cooperatives.

Cooperation Among Cooperatives
Cooperatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen
the cooperative movement by working together.

Concern for Community
While focusing on member needs, cooperatives work for the sustainable
development of their communities.

To learn more about cooperatives, check out The Cooperative Difference.