Charles Mix Electric Association Inc.

Overview

Charles Mix Electric Association Inc. is a member-owned nonprofit electric cooperative located in Charles Mix County, South Dakota. Established in 1945, the organization was created to provide affordable electrical services to rural areas, where private utilities had previously shown little interest due to the perceived lack of profitability. The cooperative serves approximately 2,750 members and is part of the Touchstone Energy Cooperative network.

History

The genesis of Charles Mix Electric can be traced back to the mid-20th century when the Rural Electrification Administration (REA) was formed in 1935. This initiative aimed to extend electricity to rural America, where the majority of residents had no access to electrical services. In response to the deficiencies of private utility companies, local farmers organized to establish a cooperative.

On September 6, 1945, Charles Mix Electric filed its Articles of Incorporation in South Dakota. This marked the formal establishment of the cooperative, which aimed to provide electrical services to its members. The initial loan for the cooperative was applied for in 1946, leading to the first service connection in 1949.

Over the years, Charles Mix Electric has expanded its facilities and services, adapting to the needs of its members. Significant developments included new office constructions in the 1950s and ongoing upgrades to the distribution system to enhance service reliability.

Services

Charles Mix Electric Association primarily focuses on the following services:

• Electricity Distribution: The cooperative is responsible for the distribution of electrical energy across its service area, which includes over 931 miles of overhead lines and 380 miles of underground lines.

• Internet Services: In addition to electricity, Charles Mix Electric offers internet services to its members, catering to the growing demand for digital connectivity in rural areas.

• Security Services: The organization also provides personal and environmental security services, further enhancing community safety and well-being.

Membership and Operations

The cooperative is governed by a board of directors elected by its members, ensuring that the interests of the community are prioritized in decision-making. As of the latest reports, the organization employs approximately 13 full-time staff and maintains an extensive fleet to support operational activities.

Key statistics about Charles Mix Electric include:

• Members: 2,750+
• Total Miles of Line: 1,311 miles
• Substations: 6
• Annual Energy Sales: Over 66 million kilowatt-hours
• Assets: Approximately $19.8 million

Community Commitment

Charles Mix Electric is dedicated to community engagement and economic development. The cooperative emphasizes core values such as integrity, innovation, accountability, and commitment to community, reflecting its mission to improve the quality of life for residents in rural South Dakota.

Through various initiatives and service enhancements, Charles Mix Electric continues to adapt and grow, addressing the evolving needs of its members while promoting sustainable practices and community development.

[1] https://www.cme.coop/about-us [2] https://www.cme.coop/history [3] https://www.reedfund.coop/about/partners/p/item/10618/charles-mix-electric-association [4] https://www.causeiq.com/organizations/charles-mix-electric-association,460212103/ [5] https://cme.coop