The Cooperative Difference at Work
Democratic participation ensures a brighter future for electric co-ops and their members

North Carolina’s electric cooperatives are democratic organizations, controlled by members like you. This member participation helps co-ops better serve the communities they’re a part of.
Here's how the process works:
1 The election
Member-owners elect board directors.
2 Goal setting
The board defines expectations for your co-op's general manager (GM/CEO) and provides policies and strategic goals.
3 Planning
GM/CEO creates a business plan based on the board's expectations.
4 Appointing delegates
GM/CEO delegates responsibilities to staff who help carry out the plan.
5 Development
Staff develops programs to support the co-op's member-owner and their communities
6 Data collection
GM/CEO collects data from staff about their efforts and programs.
7 Reporting Findings
GM/CEO shares the results of co-op efforts with the board
8 Review
The board reflects on policies and updates them as needed/if needed.
-
Cooperatives making a difference
-
Share this story: