Recently, one of our newer employees asked me what makes electric co-ops different than other types of utilities. This month, I want to share some things I told her.
Because we’re a co-op, we operate a little differently than other utilities. Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative’s decisions are made locally by directors who live right here in our community.
We’re a co-op, and we exist to provide a service to you, our local members. Everyone who pays to receive electricity from the co-op is a member. When you pay your electric bill each month, your money stays here—to pay for the electricity used or improve our local system to strengthen service reliability. The money you pay the co-op doesn’t line the pockets of shareholders five states away.
You may notice that we hold an annual meeting so we can hear from you. We conduct surveys to gather your feedback on co-op programs and services so we can plan and adjust for the future.
Our success lies in your satisfaction, which is why we offer these opportunities to engage and listen to what you have to say.
Because you’re part of an electric cooperative, you can count on our team to maintain local jobs, at-cost electricity, and first-class service, no matter what the economy—and supply chain issues—throw at us.
Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative strives to keep our costs as low as possible to keep more money in your pocket. We want to help you maximize the value you can get from our services and offerings. For example, we can help you save on energy bills through our free energy audit program and efficiency rebates.
To receive important information from Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative, such as power restoration updates and tree trimming crew alerts, follow our Facebook page. You can also stay in the know with Florida Currents magazine.
Please know that you—the members of Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative—are at the heart of everything we do. Co-ops adhere to seven guiding principles reflecting core values of honesty, transparency, equity, inclusiveness, and service.
We exist to serve you and provide the quality, reliable, friendly service you expect and deserve. While we’ve grown throughout the years, we’re still driven by the same guiding principles to serve our community. We hope to see or hear from you soon. This co-op was created for you, the members. The power is in your hands.