The Future is Cooperative: Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative Leading the Way

October was National Cooperative Month and the Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative (OTEC) believes this is a perfect time to spotlight the unique benefits of electricity cooperatives and how they shape a more resilient and sustainable future. This year’s theme, “The Future is Cooperative,” resonates deeply with OTEC’s mission, demonstrating the power of collaboration and community-driven initiatives.

Founded on the principles of cooperation, OTEC provides safe, reliable, affordable electricity to over 30,000 members in rural Oregon. But, unlike investor-owned utilities, OTEC operates with a purpose that transcends profits—it's owned by the people it serves, not outside investors. This difference ensures that decisions are made considering the community’s long-term interests.

What Sets OTEC Apart from Private Utilities?

One of the most significant advantages of OTEC is its member-owned model. Being part of a cooperative means OTEC’s members are its owners, translating to a stronger focus on service quality and local needs rather than maximizing shareholder profits.

Cooperatives operate under seven guiding principles, and for OTEC, these principles are at the core of their mission. While each is vital to their efforts, the seventh principle, “Concern for Community,” is particularly relevant as OTEC expands its role as a driver of economic development and sustainability in rural Oregon.

“OTEC was created to provide service where no one else could or would,” said OTEC CEO Les Penning in a recent Ruralite article. “That spirit of cooperation is in our DNA, and it’s what drives us to continually find ways to improve the lives of our members.”

Cooperatives: A National Movement

Across the U.S., cooperatives are growing in influence. Since the inception of National Cooperative Month in 1964, millions of Americans have come to rely on cooperative services, ranging from electricity and agriculture to housing and credit unions. The future of cooperative development is full of potential, with more people recognizing the inherent value of member-owned organizations. This year’s theme emphasizes the role of cooperatives in building stronger communities through local decision-making, democratic governance, and a shared commitment to sustainability.

Unlike private companies, electricity cooperatives like OTEC aren’t pressured by investors to achieve short-term financial gains. Instead, their goal is to offer cost-effective, reliable service, which is crucial in rural areas, where infrastructure costs of providing electricity can be higher, but the commitment to serve the community outweighs any desire for profit.

Why the Coop Model Matters for Rural Oregon

As OTEC grows, its cooperative principles—especially “Concern for Community”—remain foundational. OTEC not only supplies electricity but also contributes to the economic growth of Eastern Oregon by investing in local programs, supporting educational initiatives, and promoting sustainability.

Additionally, OTEC follows the principle of “Democratic Member Control.” Every member has a say in how the cooperative is run, giving them a voice in decisions that affect the future of their energy services. This creates a deep sense of ownership and accountability, which strengthens the bond between OTEC and the communities it serves.

“Education, Training, and Information” is another principle that OTEC embodies, offering valuable energy efficiency programs and initiatives to help members save on their utility bills. These efforts ensure that OTEC’s services remain affordable and sustainable, even as the energy landscape evolves.

The Future is Cooperative—And It's Bright

The cooperative model offers a path toward a more equitable and community-focused future. OTEC exemplifies this by balancing its core mission of delivering safe, reliable electricity with its commitment to the community’s broader needs. OTEC remains dedicated to being a leader in the coop movement in Oregon.

With OTEC at the forefront, members can rest assured that their energy needs will be met by a team that values people over profit and puts the community first. Learn more about OTEC’s commitment to cooperative principles and how they’re building a more sustainable future for rural Oregon by visiting OTEC’s Economic Development department site.