It’s Almost Capital Credits Season at the Co-op!

At DEC, we’re not ones to rush the year away, but we are — as always — excited for November to arrive. That’s because it’s the month that the Co-op expects to announce the return of capital credits to our members! 

What are capital credits? If you’re new on our lines, you may not be familiar with this unique cooperative benefit. Those we serve actually own a piece of the Co-op. As member-owners, you are entitled to the Co-op’s margins, better known as capital credits. When you pay your electric bill each month, you’re making an investment in DEC. That investment enables us to continue to maintain and innovate our system to provide you with the most reliable, affordable power possible. 

Capital credits represent a return on your investment, and members receive this return as a billing credit on their November bill. New members should be aware — if you have only recently joined the Co-op, you won’t receive capital credits next month. In fact, you won’t receive them for 10 to 20 years. This ensures fairness to members who have paid for the current system. As you pay your bill each month, establishing equity in DEC, you will eventually receive a return on your investment, too. For those who used to be Co-op members, but have since moved out of our service territory, you can still receive the capital credits you’re due. Instead of a billing credit, you will receive a check in the mail. 

The return of capital credits is just one of the many reasons being a Co-op member is so special. Make sure to read our November newsletter for more information on this year’s returns.