Grayson Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation

Grayson Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation is a nonprofit rural electric cooperative based in Kentucky, United States. It was organized in 1951 as a retail supplier of electric energy and is regulated by the Kentucky Public Service Commission (KPSC).

History

The cooperative was established during a period when rural electrification efforts were gaining momentum nationwide. The creation of non-profit, consumer-owned cooperatives like Grayson Rural Electric was supported by federal initiatives, such as the Rural Electrification Administration (REA), which provided loans to build electric infrastructure in rural areas.

Operations

Grayson Rural Electric Cooperative provides electric service to its members, adhering to principles of not-for-profit, consumer-owned cooperatives. It operates under the jurisdiction of the Kentucky Public Service Commission (KPSC), which ensures that all electric suppliers, including cooperatives like Grayson, comply with state regulations regarding service areas and consumer rights.

Service Territory

Grayson Rural Electric Cooperative has a defined service territory, which includes certain areas certified by the KPSC. It is responsible for providing electric service as the exclusive supplier within these boundaries. However, disputes over service territories have been documented, particularly with municipal utilities, due to overlapping interests and historical agreements.

Regulatory Environment

The cooperative's operations are governed by Kentucky state laws, including those that define its service territory and responsibilities as a retail electric supplier. Disputes involving service areas and customer rights are often adjudicated through the KPSC or the courts, reflecting the complex regulatory landscape for rural electric cooperatives in Kentucky.

Significance

As a member-owned cooperative, Grayson Rural Electric plays a critical role in providing essential electric services to rural communities. It contributes to the economic and social development of its service area by ensuring reliable and affordable energy access, consistent with the broader mission of rural electric cooperatives in the United States.