Who We Are
The Mission of the AFREA is to create the conditions for Power Distribution Co-ops to be successful and sustainable, and to support Power Distribution Co-ops in becoming best practice cooperative organizations.
About Our Association
The Alberta Federation of REAs (AFREA) is a not-for-profit cooperative association registered in the Province of Alberta and recognized under the Rural Utilities Act. The AFREA is governed by an elected Board of Directors, managed by a Chief Executive Officer, and funded by its member associations.
In June 1987, the AFREA took on its current name, but was first known as the Alberta Union of REAs, which was formed in 1950. The AFREA was originally incorporated under the “Co-operative Associations Act” in June of 1970 as the Alberta Union of Rural Electrification Associations Co-operative Limited.
Rural Electrification Associations (REAs) are an important part of Alberta’s history and future, providing rural communities with power distribution services. REAs operate under the cooperative business model and are mainly legislated by the Rural Utilities Act and its Regulations. In the fall of 2022, government responsibility for REAs was moved from the Department of Agriculture and Forestry to the newly created Ministry of Affordability & Utilities.
The AFREA represents member associations that provide power distribution services throughout rural Alberta. The AFREA is committed to supporting the economic welfare and value of its cooperative member associations by providing professional leadership with representation to government and industry stakeholders by promoting REAs and rural strength. As the umbrella organization, the AFREA represents, engages, and advocates for opportunities that are economically beneficial for its member associations. Under the cooperative business model, each REA is autonomous and self-sufficient; their elected board provides regulatory oversight in setting their own rates and managing their own business of providing safe, reliable, and affordable essential power distribution services to their members.
The AFREA works with its member associations to identify their needs, seeks their participation and input, and provides the tools necessary for becoming a best practice cooperative business. The AFREA recognizes and appreciates the diversity within our member associations. The overarching principle of cooperatives is “working together,” which benefits the whole REA family. Our big picture sees a vibrant and rewarding future for REAs in a strong rural Alberta economy.
Why Choose the AFREA
Our Member Associations are part of a dynamic cooperative community that empowers them with representation, engagement, and advocacy, fueling their success in a rapidly evolving industry.
Representation
We stand as your voice, providing effective representation to ensure your cooperative's interests are heard and protected at all levels of the industry and government.
Engagement
We actively partcipate in a vibrant cooperative network, where you can collaborate, learn, and shape the future of the industry alongside like-minded professionals.
Advocacy
We tirelessly champion policies and initiatives that advance the cooperative movement and power industry, fostering a favourable environment for cooperative businesses to thrive.
DID YOU KNOW
Alberta is the only province in Canada with REAs!
2024 AFREA Board of Directors
Charles Newell
Bob Bryant
Ed Pimm
Dino Wylie
Dannie Fischer
Wayne Meyers
Dan Bunbury
Marcel Berard
2025 AFREA CEO and Staff
Steven Young
Todd Grayson
Linda Pedley
