Membership Matters
Most people don’t get to choose who provides their electricity. Even neighbors on the same road may receive power from different types of utilities—some from investor‑owned utilities, others from municipal electric systems. United Electric Co-op, Inc. (United Electric) is different. We are a not‑for‑profit electric cooperative, owned by the members we serve. That means every decision we make is centered on reliability, affordability, and strengthening our local communities—not generating profits for shareholders.
Across the country, electric cooperatives serve 22 million homes and businesses in 48 states, and every one of those consumers is also an owner. When you receive power from a cooperative, you’re not just a customer—you’re a member. Nationwide, co‑ops provide electricity to more than 42 million people, all connected by this member‑owned model.
Membership matters. United Electric doesn’t exist to enrich distant investors. We exist to provide safe, reliable, and affordable electricity while improving the quality of life in the communities we serve. Because co‑ops operate on a not‑for‑profit basis, we collect only what it takes to run the system responsibly. This structure helps keep your electric bill affordable.
Membership also matters because electric co-ops care about improving the quality of life in the areas they serve. From donating to local school districts and city parks to taking donations for the local food bank or providing coats mittens and stocking hats to children in need, United Electric invests in local communities where you live and work.
Membership matters because it entitles you to some of the most affordable electricity in the country. We offer college scholarships for your children along with United Electric sponsored youth leadership opportunities. You receive Ruralite magazine because we want you to stay informed about co‑op news, programs, and events.
Membership matters because you have a voice. Through democratic control, members elect the board of directors—local people like me and others who live and work right here in our communities. Your co‑op is guided by your friends and neighbors, not by outside interests.
And membership matters because you share in the co‑op’s financial success. When revenues exceed the cost of providing service, those margins are returned to members as capital credits, based on your electric use.
The bottom line: Membership matters because you matter to your electric cooperative.
