October 5, 2023 – October is a special month for cooperatives and their members because it is National Cooperative Month! During this month, cooperatives are recognized and celebrated for the qualities that make their business model unique, trusted and proven. Electric cooperatives share a common set of principles and values which benefit the cooperative and members alike. The Seven Cooperative Principles for electric cooperatives include: Voluntary and Open Membership, Democratic Member Control, Members’ Economic Participation, Autonomy and Independence, Education, Training, and Information, Cooperation among Cooperatives, and Concern for Community.
National Cooperative Month also celebrates the fact that electric cooperatives:
- Power 56 percent of the nation
- Serve 42 million people
- Energize 21.5 million businesses, homes, schools and farms in 48 states
Unlike investor-owned utilities, cooperatives are not-for-profit businesses which are owned by the members they serve. Members vote to elect the board of trustees that represent the communities where they live. Since forming in 1940 with just 15 miles of distribution line and 158 members, LCEC now serves nearly 243,000 members in six counties.
Please join LCEC in celebrating National Cooperative Month! To our incredible members, please know that we are extremely proud and grateful to be YOUR cooperative! Membership matters with LCEC!