When you’re a member of Great Lakes Energy (GLE), you’re more than just a customer — you’re part of something bigger.
As a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, we operate with a different purpose than investor-owned utilities. Our mission isn’t driven by profit — it’s driven by service. And everything we do is guided by seven cooperative principles that keep your needs at the center of every decision.
So, what does being a co-op member really mean?
You're an owner
Being a GLE member means you’re also an owner of the co-op. That ownership comes with the power to vote for the board of directors who guide GLE’s direction — ensuring decisions are made locally and with member needs in mind.
We’re not-for-profit
Delivering safe, reliable, and affordable electricity is what drives us — not profits. Any margins we earn after covering operating costs are allocated to our member-owners based on their electricity use. As a cooperative, that means we’re focused on financial responsibility and long-term value for our members — not shareholders.
We answer to you
For more than 80 years, our success has been built on the mutual trust we share with our members. Great Lakes Energy is led by the people we serve — and powered by teams who live here, work here, and care deeply about our communities. With a heart for service and a commitment to doing what’s right, we’re here to support our members through every season.
The 7 cooperative principles: Why they matter to you
All electric cooperatives are guided by seven principles. Here’s what they look like in action at GLE.
1. Voluntary and open membership
We’re open to everyone in our service territory willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, regardless of race, religion, gender, or economic circumstances.
2. Democratic member control
You elect the board of directors, who make decisions on your behalf. One member, one vote.
3. Member economic participation
You invest in your co-op through your monthly bill and contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of your cooperative.
4. Autonomy and independence
We’re governed locally by members, not outside shareholders. This keeps decisions rooted in the needs of our communities.
5. Education, training, and information
We empower our members with knowledge — from understanding energy use and safety to learning how their co-op works. We also invest in continuous education and training for our board, CEO, and employees so they can lead with confidence, serve our members well, and help drive GLE’s continued growth.
6. Cooperation among cooperatives
We support and collaborate with other co-ops, especially during emergencies, such as bringing in mutual aid crews during storms.
7. Concern for community
Our commitment goes beyond power lines. From community grants to educational programs and fiber broadband expansion through Truestream, we invest in making the communities we serve stronger.
We’re stronger together
As we continue to recover from the most destructive storm in our history, these principles remind us of who we are, and who we serve. You.
We’ll continue sharing updates on the storm’s impacts, how we’re moving forward, and what it means to be part of a member-owned electric cooperative. Because being part of a cooperative isn’t just different — it’s better.
