Over the years, you’ve heard me explain how Southern Indiana Power is different — because we’re a cooperative. Our business model sets us apart from other utilities because we adhere to seven guiding cooperative principles that reflect core values of honesty, transparency and service to the greater good of the community.

Electric cooperatives have a unique and storied place in our country’s history. We democratized the American dream by bringing electricity to rural areas when for-profit electric companies determined the effort too costly. Back then, cities were electrified, and rural areas were not, creating the original rural-urban divide. Newly established electric lines helped power economic opportunity in rural areas. Today, that spirit of equity and inclusion is a vital part of our DNA. 

Equal access for all

When our electric co-op was founded, each member contributed an equal share in order to gain access to electricity that benefited individual families as well as the larger local community. Each member had an equal vote in co-op matters. That sense of equity and inclusion is still how we operate today. Southern Indiana Power was built by and belongs to the diverse communities and members we serve. 

By virtue of paying your electric bill each month, you’re a member of the co-op, and every member has an equal voice and vote when it comes to co-op governance. This ties back to our guiding principles of equitable economic participation and democratic control of the co-op.

We encourage all members to vote in Southern Indiana Power’s director elections every April, and we invite all members to let us know your thoughts on co-op policies and priorities such as high-speed internet, community solar and electric vehicle programs. 

We know members of our community have different needs and perspectives, and we welcome diverse views on all issues under consideration by the co-op. 

Inclusion

While our top priority is providing safe, reliable and affordable energy, we also want to be a catalyst for good in our community. Because we are your local electric cooperative, co-op revenues stay right here in our community. In turn, we invest in our diverse community base through charitable giving, educational programs and more. 

While today’s world is different than it was when Southern Indiana Power was founded, our values have stood the test of time and remain just as relevant today. We recognize that today’s co-op members expect more and we will continue to proudly serve you.