Benefits of Membership
AFREA membership opens the door to a world of cooperative advantages, providing you with exclusive resources.
Value of AFREA Membership
The value of being a member in a representative organization is in the access to services that are provided at a high level in a cost-effective manner and information that is not readily available to others, whether they are businesses or individuals. The benefit of economies of scale[1] is one of the most important aspects of membership-based organizations when it pertains to providing services at the best price point.
The Alberta Federation of REAs (AFREA) Ltd. mandate encompasses representation, engagement, and advocacy for our members and the REA community, in general. Membership fees form the basis of our annual income and are allocated toward annual programs that support REAs through leadership, creating awareness and education, and advocating for the rights of our members to government and stakeholders. We operate under the cooperative principles and share our members’ vision of viable and sustainable REA power distribution co-ops as part of a larger rural Alberta community.
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.
Engagment
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, fostering a favorable environment for cooperative businesses to thrive.
The AFREA represents and advocates for REAs by:
- Reviewing and preparing revisions to the Rural Utilities Regulations to be ready when/if the regulations are opened for revision.
- Participating as requested or as necessary on proceedings filed before the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) by providing the unique REA perspective.
- Providing negotiation support on the Wire Owners Agreement and Electric Distribution System Operator Contract for REAs in the Fortis Alberta service area.
- Working with pertinent government departments to provide input as necessary for ongoing projects and initiatives that impact REAs.
- Providing information and updates to programs, services, and industry matters with our Summer Technical Session, Fall District Meetings, and our Annual General Meeting.
- Offering business and governance support with the Business Management System and its components for best practices and safety.
REAs
in Alberta
Largest REA
In Alberta
Year
Officially Incorporated
Years
Incorporated
Protecting What's Valuable
Rural Electrification Associations (REAs) are unique in Canada to Alberta, providing electricity to farms and rural residential member-owners. In the late 1940s, early 1950s, farmers organized REA cooperatives to bring electricity to the rural areas when Investor Owned Utilities (IOUs) refused because it was too costly. Today, REA assets have gained value, REAs are viable competitors, and now IOUs see the value of an REA. Let’s consider that value and its importance to the rural economy of Alberta
What makes your REA valuable?
- You own the assets of a multi-million dollar cooperative.
- You have democratic member control of your REA.
- You benefit from economic participation.
- REAs are a benchmark for electricity costs for all Albertans.
- You contribute to rural economic sustainability.
How can I get involved with my REA?
- Call your REA—the number will be on your monthly bill
- Find the contact information for the Director who represents you
- Talk to your Director about why the REA is a viable and valuable cooperative
- Attend your REA meetings and take time to learn more about the organization
- Volunteer your expertise and skills to support your REA
- Tell your friends, family, and neighbours why you think the REA is valuable and worth protecting
- Call your MLA and tell them why the REA is valuable to Alberta
Cooperative sustainability depends on continued support by passionate members who recognize the value of the REA and see the continued contribution the REA makes to the rural community where they live. Your support helps perpetuate the REA’s growth and value.
Questions?
If you have a passion for your community and are interested in finding out more, talk to your REA. Have you got time to spare? Ask your Board of Directors how you can be part of the REA future.
