What distinguishes electric co-ops from other types of utilities is that the co-op business model keeps the focus on the member-owner and the local community.

Electric co-ops are involved in community development and revitalization projects, such as small business development and job creation, improvement of water and sewer systems, and assistance in health care and education services.

Local ownership and the accountability it demands is one reason electric co-ops enjoy the highest average customer satisfaction rating in the industry, according to the University of Michigan’s American Customer Satisfaction index.