Electric Cooperatives Bring Everyday Value
When it comes to electricity, we rarely think twice when we flip on a light switch, brew coffee in the morning, charge our phones or adjust the thermostat. We simply expect the power to be there. That’s how it should be because you are a member of Harrison County Rural Electric Cooperative (REC), and reliably powering your life is our mission. Unlike many businesses that answer to outside investors or shareholders, cooperatives are built for their members. Our goal isn’t simply to earn a profit. It is to provide value, meet unique local needs and strengthen the communities we call home.
We know that many families across our local communities are feeling the impact of rising costs for everyday expenses. Groceries, gasoline, insurance and other necessities cost more than they did just a few years ago. And because of that, we understand that every household is carefully considering where each dollar goes. That’s why I think it’s important to occasionally step back and consider the value electricity provides.
The average U.S. residential electric bill is about $150 a month or roughly $5 a day. I often think about what that $5 provides. It's about the cost of a gallon of milk, yet electricity powers nearly every moment of our daily lives, often without us giving it a second thought. In fact, many typical purchases cost more than a day's worth of electricity. A fast-food combo meal averages about $9, and a single movie ticket can cost around $13.
For about $5 a day, your refrigerator keeps food fresh around the clock. Your heating and cooling system helps keep your family comfortable through the seasons. Lights brighten your home after sunset. Appliances make cooking and cleaning easier. Devices stay charged so you can work, learn, communicate and stay connected with loved ones. When you think about everything that makes electricity possible, it’s one of the greatest values in the average household budget.
Even with electricity’s exceptional value, we know every dollar matters. If you’re looking for ways to lower your energy use, Harrison County REC is here to help. Whether you need efficiency advice from our energy advisors, information about co-op rebates and efficiency programs or answers to questions about your monthly bill, our team is always available. HCREC also offers budget billing to members who have been with the cooperative for a year or more to help regulate monthly payments.
Our story began in 1936 when neighbors came together to bring electricity to an area when other utilities wouldn’t. While a lot has changed since then, our purpose has remained steady. We’re still here to provide power and make decisions with our community’s best interests in mind. We are proud to be more than your electric provider. Because we’re a cooperative, we’re locally owned by you, the members we serve. That means every decision we make is guided by what’s best for our community, not by outside shareholders.
This October during National Co-op Month, we invite you to join us in celebrating the cooperative difference, because this co-op belongs to you. Thank you for trusting us to power your home and your life. We’re committed to providing everyday value for you and your family, with reliable, affordable power so you can make the most of every energy dollar. Your membership is what makes our mission possible, and it’s what keeps us focused on serving the people and communities that matter most.
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