Understanding the Seven Principles that Guide United Power and Other Cooperatives

All cooperatives operate according to the same seven principles. These principles articulate the reasons cooperatives exist, which is for the good of their members, their communities, and one another.

1. Open & Voluntary Membership

Membership in a co-op is open to all people who can reasonably use its services and are willing to accept the responsibilities of membership.

United Power members include anyone who receives power on its lines within its defined service territory. 

2. Democratic Member Control

Co-ops are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting policies and making decisions.

United Power members elect the co-op’s 11-person Board of Directors. Directors serve four year terms and are elected at the Annual Meeting held in April. The Board is the policy making arm of the cooperative and acts on behalf of its members. 

3. Members’ Economic Participation

Members contribute equally to the capital of their co-op. At least part of that capital remains the common property of the co-op.

United Power members pay not just for the electricity they use, but also for the infrastructure required to distribute power and the resources necessary to maintain the system of poles, lines, and equipment. The cooperative’s rates are designed so that members share the burden relative to their demand on the system and so that no one pays for more than they use. 

4. Autonomy & Independence

Co-ops are autonomous organizations controlled by their members. If they enter into agreements, they do so on terms that ensure democratic control as well as their unique identity.

United Power operates as an independent electric utility, most evidently demonstrated by its recent power purchase agreements. 

5. Education, Training, & Information

Education and training for members, elected representatives, CEOs, and employees help them effectively contribute to the co-op’s development.

United Power’s Board members obtain and renew credentials that help them effectively govern the cooperative. Employees are also encouraged to attend continuing education and training conferences that better equip them to perform their jobs. 

6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives

Co-ops improve services, bolster local economies, and deal more effectively with social and community needs through cooperation in local, national, and regional structures.

United Power partners with other cooperatives and regional and national groups to advocate for policy that benefits electric cooperatives and their members. The co-op is a member of the Association of Large Distribution Cooperatives, where ideas and best practices are shared. 

7. Concern for Communities

Co-ops work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies supported by the membership.

United Power is an advocate for the communities it serves, both as an economic development partner and proud supporter of local events, fairs, festivals, and more. 

Four More Off-Peak Hours for Time of Use Rates

Members on a time of use rate will get the benefit of four more hours of off-peak power in 2026. Rate changes that went into effect on Jan. 1 shortened the on-peak energy window from 2-10 p.m. to 5-9 p.m., giving members more control over how their energy consumption impacts their billing statements. 

United Power’s voluntary time of use rates feature two energy usage periods — on-peak and off-peak — with two different energy charges depending on when power is used. Members on a time of use rate are rewarded with a lower energy charge for switching energy use to off-peak hours. 

Moving your energy usage away from peak hours may be easier than you think. You can use a smart thermostat to pre-cool your home in the summer or set timers on appliances to run overnight. If you do not have smart appliances, you could start them before you go to bed or first thing in the morning, depending on your schedule. You could also consider meal prepping on Sundays, which are considered off-peak. 

All United Power rates, including the time of use options, include a demand charge. If you can stagger the use of high-energy appliances, such as your washer/dryer, air conditioner, and electric oven, you can control one more component of your bill. 

Visit Residential Rates to review all the rate options and help decide if switching to a time of use rate is right for you.
 

Recipients Received $7,500 for Enrollment Costs at a Dedicated Power Line Program

Keeping the lights on is difficult and requires a detailed understanding of how electrical systems work. Without proper training and instruction, it can also be incredibly dangerous. Power line programs prepare individuals with the skills and safety awareness necessary for their future careers as lineworkers. United Power awarded two lineworker scholarships to Colorado residents pursuing a career in the profession.

Cameron Ewing, Loveland, Colorado
Colorado Mesa University Tech,  Electrical Lineworker Program

Ewing is pursuing a career as an electrical lineworker because he enjoys challenging, hands-on work that combines physical labor with problem solving. He is looking forward to a long-term career that allows him to contribute to his community.

Wyatt Rickman, Longmont, Colorado
Southeast Community College, Utility Lineworker Program

Rickman was drawn to the lineworker profession by the demanding physical aspects of the career and the ability to spend time outdoors working in a variety of conditions. He also admires the family-like environment of the lineworker community and looks forward to making a difference and helping others.