Did you ever wonder what the difference is between electric utility companies?  Jemez Mountains Electric Cooperative is a not-for-profit electric cooperative and other than electrons is not like a public utility company. While they both supply electricity to the property owners they serve, the business model and missions of these two types of providers are quite different. The guide below explains what distinguishes each in more detail.

Public Utility Companies

Commercial utility companies operate at a profit. Their business is a moneymaking one, focused on the needs of the market, not the property owners utilizing their services. A governing board of shareholders makes all their decisions.

Electric Cooperatives

By contrast, electric cooperatives are nonprofit organizations that are entirely independent of commercial utility operations. They are owned by the customers they serve, making them a jointly-held venture in which all customers, employees, and management staff-members are active shareholders in the business. Everyone has a vote and a voice in the company decision-making, which ensures the organization’s accountability and encourages excellent customer service. The cooperative's aim is to provide at-cost electric services, and while they do generate income in that process, they put portions of the money earned back into their infrastructure and service options.

Research shows that over 900 cooperatives in 47 states provide electric service to 56% of the country. The prevalence of electric cooperatives demonstrates that they are viable alternatives to commercial utility companies. Since 1947, Jemez Mountains Electric Cooperative, Inc., has been serving property owners throughout Rio Arriba, Santa Fe, San Juan, McKinley, and Sandoval Counties in New Mexico. They offer reduced rates, dependable service, and a community of customer-owners who take pride in their electric cooperative. To learn more or to sign up for service, call (505) 753-2105 or visit them online. View updates and read helpful electric safety tips on their Twitter.