DID YOU KNOW?
When you’re a member of Community Electric Cooperative (CEC), you’re more than just a customer — you’re an owner! And being an owner comes with benefits that go beyond reliable electric service. One of those benefits is Capital Credits, and we’re excited to share how this program gives back to our members.
What Are Capital Credits?
As a cooperative, CEC operates on a not-for-profit basis. This means any revenue we collect above our operating costs isn’t pocketed by shareholders — because we don’t have any! Instead, we allocate these surpluses back to you, our members, based on how much electricity you use. This practice is rooted in one of the 7 Cooperative Principles: Members’ Economic Participation.
This principle ensures that the members who contribute to the cooperative’s success also share in its financial benefits. It's our way of saying, “Thank you for being part of our cooperative family!”
Our History of Giving Back
Since 1959, we’ve been returning a portion of our margins to our members through Capital Credits. Over the years, these refunds have made a real difference, helping members with everything from bills to unexpected expenses.
Here’s a snapshot of our recent and historic returns:
- 2023 Return: $283,863.21
- 2024 Return: $264,505.93
- Total Return to Members Since 1959: Over $20,250,000!
That’s over $20 million put back into the pockets of our members — and it’s all thanks to the cooperative model that puts people before profit.
CLICK HERE TO SEARCH IF YOUR NAME IS ON THE LIST TO RECEIVE A CAPITAL CREDIT
How Do Capital Credits Work?
- Allocation: At the end of each year, any surplus revenue is allocated to members based on their energy usage during that year.
- Return: Once the cooperative’s financial position is secure, we return a portion of these allocated credits to members.
- It’s All Yours: The more electricity you use, the larger your share of the surplus — because it’s your cooperative, and you help make it successful!
Why Is This Important?
Capital Credits reflect the value of being part of a cooperative. Unlike investor-owned utilities, we exist solely to serve our members and improve the communities we share. Returning Capital Credits ensures that the benefits of CEC’s success stay local, helping our members and their families.
Looking to the Future
As we continue to serve you, we’ll remain committed to the cooperative principles that guide us. Capital Credits are just one way we uphold our commitment to Members’ Economic Participation.
So, the next time you turn on a light or power up your favorite gadget, remember — you’re not just using electricity. You’re participating in a cooperative that works for you and gives back to you.
Have questions about your Capital Credits? We’d love to hear from you! Stay tuned for more DID YOU KNOW? highlights, and discover all the ways CEC is here to serve you and our community.
