What Makes Co-ops Different?

October is National Co-op Month, a time to celebrate the cooperative difference and the unique role cooperatives play in communities across the country.

Cooperatives exist in many industries, from credit unions and agricultural co-ops to retail businesses like ACE Hardware and REI. Electric cooperatives, including Central Electric, provide reliable power while operating under a different business model than most companies.

What makes a cooperative unique is ownership. Instead of being owned by outside investors or shareholders, Central Electric is owned by the members it serves. That means our focus is not on generating profits for others, but on providing safe, reliable and affordable electricity while serving the best interests of our members and communities.

Members elect a board of directors from within the communities we serve, ensuring decisions are made by people who understand local needs and priorities.

The cooperative difference extends beyond delivering electricity. At Central Electric, we support our communities through programs such as Bright Ideas education grants, Operation Round Up®, scholarships, Youth Tour, and partnerships with local schools and organizations. These investments help strengthen the communities we call home.

You’ll also see the cooperative difference in action every day through the employees who serve our members. From restoring power after storms to volunteering in the community, our team is committed to making a positive impact because we live and work here, too.

For more than 85 years, Central Electric has been built on the idea of neighbors working together. We encourage you to take pride in your membership and celebrate the cooperative difference. After all, this cooperative belongs to you.