OTEC's Frequently Asked Questions

Our mission is to provide safe, reliable electricity and services that support the economy and the quality of life of OTEC member-owners. We provide affordable electricity to nearly 60,000 people, making it easier for families to live here and businesses to operate in eastern Oregon.

We understand how vital electricity is to modern life and take our role as the area’s provider very seriously, with a system that represents an investment of over $196 million in a network of overhead and underground lines.

Still, our investment doesn’t stop at our network. We’ve also made Economic Development and community support a priority.

We recognize our cooperative is only as strong as the communities it serves, and that is why we believe in strengthening our communities through partnerships and economic development

Along with reliability, we invest in programs designed to make homes and commercial buildings more energy efficient, provide energy assistance, and give back to the community through programs such as:

• Charitable contributions
• Work in kind
• Scholarships

Our economic development team works closely with community and business leaders to strengthen the communities we serve.

Cooperatives, like OTEC, operate with a goal of offering cost-effective and reliable service, which is crucial in rural areas like ours.

Members experience the benefits of a member-owned cooperative, which include:

• Local governance and ownership
• Participation in board elections and policy making
• Community programs such as scholarships and charitable contributions
• Exceptional and responsive service
• Capital credits – co-op profit paid back to our member-owners

Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative works with our business community, economic development agencies, chambers of commerce, state, and community partners to grow the economy and strengthen the quality of life for those living in eastern Oregon.

Learn more about our partner organizations by clicking here. 

The Power eastern Oregon Podcast explores topics that affect rural communities in eastern Oregon and beyond.

With the help of business and community partners, we discuss topics such as:

• The foundations of healthy communities
• New and innovative technologies
• Unique opportunities and challenges impacting our region

We also explore the value of cooperatives and member-owned utilities and how Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative contributes to the health and vitality of communities within our service territory.

There are many advantages for businesses looking to locate in eastern Oregon.
Those interested in locating in the Pacific Northwest will find that sites in eastern Oregon’s Baker, Grant, Harney & Union Counties are ideally situated and competitively priced. Commercial and residential real estate costs are less than the national average.
In addition, Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative offers some of the lowest-priced energy in the nation

Yes. Several industrial parks in eastern Oregon are ready for you to view, including:

• Elkhorn View Industrial Park - Baker City
• La Grande Business & Technology Park - La Grande
• Baum Industrial Park - La Grande
• Grant County Industrial Park - City of John Day

Eastern Oregon is accessible by road, rail, and air.

I-84 runs through eastern Oregon, connecting our region to Boise, Portland, and Salt Lake. Additionally, regional and scenic Highways 30, 26, and 86 provide access throughout eastern Oregon.

Eastern Oregon is a great location for businesses in all industries. Historically, our region has been defined by mining, timber, manufacturing, and tourism.

The small business ecosystem in eastern Oregon is a supportive and collaborative place to start or expand a business.

A major incentive for small business owners is the low cost of living and low cost of doing business, when compared to Portland and other major cities. With housing and overhead costs being lower, it takes less capital to start or operate a growing business, leaving more money to fund operations.

Yes. OTEC’s revolving loan fund proceeds may be used for:

• Land
• Buildings
• Manufacturing machinery and equipment
• Office and work equipment
• Infrastructure improvements

If you enjoy stunning views, a slower-paced lifestyle, and a supportive community, eastern Oregon is the place for you. From a mild climate and four seasons of outdoor recreation to rich cultural history to opportunities to participate in the arts, our communities have something for all ages to enjoy. 

Eastern Oregon has a cost of living that is significantly lower than that of nearby Boise, Bend, and Portland.

Housing costs are lower than the national average, which can represent a significant savings. This lower housing cost is one of the many reasons that people of all walks of life are choosing to make their home in eastern Oregon.

According to Zillow, the average home price in Boise is $485,000 where the average price in La Grande is only $287,000.

With the widespread availability of broadband, our communities offer a great location for professionals working from home..

Our communities offer ample opportunity for year-round recreation, with stunning natural landscapes, agricultural and ranching heritage, and a strong sense of community.

From drinking a pint at the local microbrewery, to listening to live bands perform on the weekend, to unique experiences at farm-to-table restaurants, eastern Oregon presents numerous entertainment options that appeal to all ages and interests.

This vibrant culture combined with natural beauty, friendly neighbors, and a strong community, makes our region an incredible place to live!

Baker, Grant, Harney, and Union Counties are surrounded by natural beauty that will take your breath away.

The region is defined by beautiful mountains, serene lakes and rivers, hiking and biking trails, and four seasons of outdoor activities. Thousands of acres of public land offer opportunities for backpacking, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, biking, horseback riding, and much more.

With nature all around us, eastern Oregon is home to outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy the ability to go for a hike on their lunch break, bike to work, spend the weekend on the lake, or skiing in the mountains.

Baker, Grant, Harney, and Union Counties are served by passionate and highly skilled community healthcare providers who serve as pillars of a healthy community.