What is a Cooperative?

A cooperative is an organization that is owned by the people who join it. In the case of an electric cooperative, the members contribute to the running, maintenance, and operation of the systems, in order to provide electric utilities to the region. With a cooperative, any revenue generated by the organization is invested back into the community or given to its members. This is different from a private corporation that tries to maximize profits, and collect as much money as possible from customers. Cooperatives, by nature, strive to keep their costs low because they can pass on greater savings to members.

The Osage Valley Electric Cooperative has been member-run since its inception. It was started by a group of farmers who wanted to bring electricity to the rural areas of West Central Missouri. The core values of member participation, financial responsibility, and efficient organization drive OVEC today.

When you become a member of OVEC, you get more than electricity to your home. You get a say in how your electricity is provided and the services this organization provides. You will always have a voice in this co-op.