Electric Cooperatives Bring Unique Value to Their Communities

Electric cooperatives stand out from other types of businesses because we are built and led by the communities we serve. As independent, not-for-profit electric utilities, we are owned and governed by our local members — not by outside shareholders or investors. That is a powerful differentiator.

Here are a few ways electric co-ops like Lane-Scott Electric bring unique value to the local communities they serve:

• We put people before profits. Co-ops are not-for-profit and provide at-cost electric service. Any excess revenue is returned to our consumer-members in the form of capital credits, typically as a bill credit or check.
• Community comes first. We live and work here too, and we care deeply about our local communities. That’s why we engage in development and revitalization projects through our Sharing Success Grant Program, sponsor local students with Continuing Education Scholarships and experiences such as the Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp and Electric Cooperative Youth Tour, and sponsor many local organizations to help with their causes and needs of our communities.
• Affordable, reliable power is our priority. Lane-Scott Electric purchases electricity from Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, our wholesale energy partner. Sunflower Electric is a generation and transmission cooperative formed by a group of electric co-ops in the central and western part of Kansas. This cooperative business structure allows us to pool local resources and provide electricity at a lower cost than if we purchased it from outside sources.

As a new year begins, we’re focused on our members’ energy needs — not only for today but for the long haul. We’re advocating for smarter energy policies that prioritize reliability and affordability for all. We recognize we must be inclusive of all energy sources, which is why we work closely with Sunflower Electric to ensure use of a diverse mix of sources, including natural gas, coal, wind, and solar, to generate the electricity we provide to our members.

Reliable, affordable electricity is more important than ever before, and our focus will continue to be the best interest of the local communities we serve. To learn more about your electric cooperative, visit www.lanescott.coop.