Guthrie County Rural Electric Cooperative Association

The Guthrie County Rural Electric Cooperative Association is a nonprofit organization classified as a 501(c)(12) entity, serving as an electric cooperative in Iowa, USA.

History

Formed in 1937, the cooperative began operations in 1938, providing essential electric services to rural areas. This establishment coincided with a broader initiative across the United States aimed at electrifying rural regions through the formation of local cooperatives. The Rural Electrification Administration (REA), created in 1935, played a crucial role in facilitating the growth of such cooperatives by offering low-interest loans for infrastructure development.

Operations and Impact

The cooperative serves over 4,600 members across Adair, Audubon, Cass, Dallas, Greene, and Guthrie counties. As a consumer-owned cooperative, it is governed by a board of directors elected by its member-consumers. This governance structure aligns with the principles of democratic member control and economic participation, which are core to the operation of electric cooperatives in the United States.

Services and Community Involvement

Electric cooperatives like Guthrie County REC are committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable electricity while supporting local economic development. They often invest in community projects and educational initiatives to promote energy efficiency and sustainable practices. Additionally, they engage in programs aimed at enhancing safety standards within their operations.

Role in Rural Electrification

The formation and operation of Guthrie County Rural Electric Cooperative Association reflect the broader effort to bridge the electric divide in rural America during the mid-20th century. By leveraging federal support and community involvement, cooperatives like Guthrie County REC have significantly contributed to achieving near-universal electricity access for rural households in the United States today.