Pioneer Rural Electric Cooperative Inc.

Pioneer Rural Electric Cooperative Inc. is a not-for-profit, consumer-owned electric distribution utility based in Ohio. Founded in response to the rural electrification initiatives of the 1930s, the cooperative has evolved to serve numerous communities across rural areas of Miami, Champaign, and Shelby counties, as well as parts of Mercer, Auglaize, Logan, Union, Madison, Clark, Montgomery, and Darke counties.

History

The establishment of Pioneer Rural Electric Cooperative is closely tied to the New Deal policies of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, particularly the creation of the Rural Electrification Administration (REA) in May 1935. This initiative aimed to provide electric service to rural areas, where investor-owned utilities had previously deemed it unprofitable to operate. Following the REA's inception, the first pole was set in Piqua, Ohio, on November 14, 1935, marking a significant step towards rural electrification[3][4].

Pioneer Electric Cooperative was formally organized from the merger of three county cooperatives and has since grown to serve over 14,400 member-consumers. Initially, in 1937, the cooperative had nearly 3,000 members using an average of 38 kWh of electricity per month[3][4].

Operations

The cooperative operates under a model where all members have an equal voice in its governance, regardless of the size of their operations. Members vote for their board of trustees, ensuring democratic management of the utility[1]. Pioneer's power supply is primarily sourced from coal, with natural gas used for peak generation and a smaller portion coming from renewable sources[1].

Pioneer Rural Electric Cooperative benefits from its association with Buckeye Power, Inc., which supplies power to and is owned by the cooperative and other Ohio electric distribution cooperatives. This partnership enables Pioneer to invest in infrastructure improvements and maintain reliable service to its members[1][4].

Community Involvement and Innovations

In addition to providing electric services, Pioneer engages in community development initiatives. The cooperative supports local businesses and participates in economic development projects within the regions it serves[3]. Pioneer has also implemented technological advancements, such as automated meter reading systems and the SmartHub app, to enhance service delivery and member interaction[4].

Financial and Environmental Initiatives

Pioneer offers capital credit refunds to its members, reflecting the members' patronage and ownership of the cooperative. The company has also been involved in environmental efforts, including participation in a community solar program through Buckeye Power[4].