UCEMC is honored to be a member-owned electric service provider. Our mission is to deliver safe and reliable power at the best value to enhance life in our community.

The Seven Cooperative Principles

Cooperatives around the world operate according to a core set of principles that, along with the co-op purpose of improving quality of life for their members, make electric co-ops different from other electric utilities.

1. Open and Voluntary Membership
   Membership in a cooperative is open to all persons who can reasonably use its services and stand willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, regardless of race, religion, gender, or economic circumstances.
    
2. Democratic Member Control
   Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting policies and making decisions. Elected representatives (directors/trustees) are elected from among the membership and are accountable to the membership. In primary cooperatives, members have equal voting rights (one member, one vote); cooperatives at other levels are organized in a democratic manner.
    
3. Members’ Economic Participation
   Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their cooperative. At least part of that capital remains the common property of the cooperative. Members allocate surpluses for any or all of the following purposes: developing the cooperative; setting up reserves; benefiting members in proportion to their transactions with the cooperative; and supporting other activities approved by the membership.
    
4. Autonomy and Independence
   Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members. If they enter into agreements with other organizations, including governments, or raise capital from external sources, they do so on terms that ensure democratic control as well as their unique identity.
    
5. Education, Training, and Information
   Education and training for members, elected representatives (directors/trustees), CEOs, and employees help them effectively contribute to the development of their cooperatives. Communications about the nature and benefits of cooperatives, particularly with the general public and opinion leaders, helps boost cooperative understanding.
    
6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives
   By working together through local, national, regional, and international structures, cooperatives improve services, bolster local economies, and deal more effectively with social and community needs.
    
7. Concern for Community
   Cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies supported by the membership.