What is a Cooperative?

An electric cooperative is an organization that is owned by the members it serves. Its purpose is to provide low-cost, reliable energy to its members. South Central Arkansas Electric Cooperative, Inc., was established in 1940 to meet this need. The cooperative is governed by the bylaws in its Articles of Incorporation.

In order to receive electric service, a new customer must first pay a fee to become a member/owner of the cooperative. When a customer disconnects service with the cooperative, his or her membership fee is either applied to the outstanding balance or refunded.

Cooperative members elect representatives each year to the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors is responsible for governing the organization's operations and setting policies.

South Central Arkansas Electric Cooperative is a nonprofit organization. As such, it is operated efficiently to provide low rates to its members, while maintaining adequate plant facilities to distribute electricity to members’ homes and businesses. When possible, South Central Arkansas Electric Cooperative will return margins, or profits, back to the members in the form of capital credits.