One of the great things about working for an electric cooperative is the network of helpful people across the U.S. who do the same work I do. If I run into a problem, I can pick up the phone and call the co-op down the road or a co-op in another part of the country that will be eager to help.
That’s the power of cooperation. But more powerful than the network of more than 900 cooperatives in the U.S. are the tens of millions of co-op members like you. And with America’s energy system going through a transformation, we need a network of engaged co-op members that ensures co-ops like ours aren’t left behind. Much of the focus in Washington, D.C., is on large utilities in big cities, and as you know, co- ops like Magic Valley Electric Cooperative are fundamentally different. Your co-op is a local business that employs local people to power our community. We’re not motivated by profits but by people—our friends and neighbors—which is why energy affordability and reliability mean so much to us.
Co-ops need your help putting a human face on the opportunities and hurdles facing America’s electric cooperatives. That’s why Voices for Cooperative Power (VCP) was created. This grassroots network of co-op members can help our elected officials better understand the many ways your electric co-op supports you and your community. We all know that one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to energy policies. Challenges like affordability require flexible solutions that empower local utilities like ours to serve their people best. The same is true for energy security and dependability. Diversifying energy sources, collaborating on technologies, and balancing progress with reliability are priorities that VCP advocates for in Austin and Washington.
By joining the VCP movement, you can receive updates on the issues that matter most to you and, when needed, information on how to contact your elected officials and government agencies on proposed legislation or regulations that impact your co-op. The most important voices to elected officials are their constituents, and we want to make sure that the co-op members who care most about their communities are carrying their message to the Texas Legislature and U.S. Congress.
To lend your voice to the chorus of America’s co-op members and to stay abreast of the challenges ahead, visit voicesforcooperativepower.com to get involved.
