The cooperative business model is special. This model is based on 7 Cooperative Principles that propel cooperatives to be member focused, locally controlled and democratically governed.
These seven principles provide guidance to all 30 electric cooperatives in Oklahoma:
- Voluntary and Open Membership
- Democratic Member Control
- Members’ Economic Participation
- Autonomy and Independence
- Education, Training and Information
- Cooperation Among Cooperatives
- Concern for Community
This model is important because it provides the foundation in which electric cooperatives operate. By nature, cooperatives exist to be difference makers and to invest in the communities they serve. They strive to enhance quality of life in every way they can.
Electric cooperatives are aware of the digital divide in Oklahoma and have taken meaningful steps to be a part of the solution.
Ten distribution electric cooperatives that are members of the Oklahoma Association of Electric Cooperatives (OAEC) have formed fiber subsidiaries to provide broadband access in their service areas. These cooperatives have banded together to form the Cooperative Broadband Coalition (CBC) to advance the mission of rural broadband and to collectively represent the interests of those they serve.
The CBC is an independent organization that is affiliated with the statewide association, OAEC, which is voluntarily supported by 30 member-systems: 27 distribution electric cooperatives and three generation and transmission electric cooperatives.
While conditions are unique for every electric cooperative, the co-ops that have been able to form a fiber subsidiary were able to do so based on accessibility of grants and other favorable economic conditions. A few other electric cooperatives are evaluating the possibility to form a fiber subsidiary while others partner with existing providers, when feasible, to extend service to their rural membership. This is the cooperative difference. We invite you to learn more at: cooperativebroadband.coop