- The Cooperative Difference -
- What is an Electric Cooperative? -
An electric cooperative is a private, not-for-profit utility company owned by the members it serves. Unlike investor-owned utilities, electric cooperatives operate for the benefit of their members rather than shareholders. Any revenue remaining after expenses is either reinvested into the cooperative's electric system to maintain reliable service and infrastructure or returned to members as capital credits. Electric cooperatives are governed democratically and operate according to the Seven Cooperative Principles, which guide their commitment to members and the communities they serve.
- Member-Owned and Governed -
As a member of an electric cooperative, you are more than a customer—you are an owner. Members have the opportunity to participate in the cooperative's democratic process by voting in board elections and helping shape the future of their cooperative. Directors are nominated from and elected by the membership they represent. Cooperatives encourage member involvement and value the ideas, feedback, and participation of those they serve. Together, members and employees work toward the shared goal of improving the quality of life in their communities through the Seven Cooperative Principles:
- Voluntary and open membership
- Democratic member control
- Member economic participation
- Autonomy and independence
- Education, training, and information
- Cooperation among cooperatives
- Concern for community
- Why Cooperative Membership Matters -
Choosing an electric cooperative means becoming part of an organization focused on service, reliability, and community. Benefits of cooperative membership include:
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As a cooperative member, you are both a consumer and an owner of the organization. - Electric cooperatives were created to bring reliable electric service to rural areas and continue to serve communities that may otherwise be overlooked by for-profit utilities.
- Members have a voice in cooperative governance through voting and participation in the democratic process.
- Cooperatives invest in the communities they serve through local programs, educational opportunities, economic development efforts, and charitable initiatives.
- Any margins earned by the cooperative are either reinvested into the electric system or returned to members as capital credits.
- Rates, Programs, and Services -
Barry Electric Cooperative provides reliable electricity at competitive rates for homes, farms, and businesses throughout our service area. In addition to dependable electric service, Barry Electric offers programs and resources designed to meet the evolving needs of our members. We are also proud to offer renewable energy options through our Green Power Program. Contact us today to learn more about our rates, programs, and services, and discover the benefits of being a member of Barry Electric Cooperative.
