You’re more than a customer

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Posted on Mar 26 2019 in Orange County REMC
MATTHEW DEATON
Orange County REMC
General Manager/CEO

Author Anthony J. D’Angelo observed that, “Without a sense of caring, there can be no sense of community.”

To a large degree, this reflects Orange County REMC’s philosophy toward our consumer-members and the broader service territory that we serve. As a cooperative, we have a different “bottom line.” While our priority is always to provide reliable and safe energy, there is another equally important part of this equation. Your well-being and that of the larger community that we serve are of paramount concern. 

To us, you are not just a customer; you are a member of our co-op and without you, we would not exist. 

In 1937, Orange County REMC was founded to fulfill a vital need in our community that would not have otherwise been met. Concerned local leaders came together to build this co-op and bring electricity where there was none. 

At that time, members of the community understood we were different because they likely knew someone who helped to create Orange County REMC. For most people, our founding and its circumstances have been long forgotten. Over time, folks in the community may have come to think of us as simply another energy provider. But we are not. We are a co-op that is constantly evolving to meet the needs of the communities we serve, and we are able to do this because of members like you. 

Since our inception, we have sought feedback and engagement from you and that of the larger community to guide our long-term decisions. This is why we hold annual meetings, member appreciation days and other events throughout the year. We host events like this to engage with you and obtain your feedback. 

We strive to find new ways to help you use energy more efficiently. We’re always looking to explore more options that will help you manage your energy use such as our energy management and budget billing programs. In short, we are always seeking to keep pace with the changing energy environment, evolving technology and shifting consumer expectations.

Orange County REMC members help guide important co-op decisions that improve and enrich the community. We value the perspective of our board members, who are members of the co-op and community — just like you.

As a local business, we have a stake in the community. That’s why we support local charitable organizations, volunteer fire departments, community and school groups through our Operation Round Up program. When you support these efforts, you are supporting the community and making it a better place for everyone.

While the times may have changed, our mission and outlook have not. We view our role as a catalyst for good. Working together, we can accomplish great things for our community now and in the future.