Power You Can Count On

 In 2024, Delaware Electric Cooperative (DEC) continued to raise the bar among electric utilities across the state by achieving record-setting reliability and maintaining the lowest electric rates in Delaware. For DEC’s 120,000 member-owners, that means more than just dependable service — it means peace of mind and money saved.

“Reliability and affordability go hand in hand at DEC,” says Rob Book, President and CEO of Delaware Electric Cooperative. “We know our members depend on us to keep their lights on and their bills low, and 2024 proved that we’re doing just that.”

DEC members experienced 17% fewer outages last year and, when outages did occur, power was restored 10% faster than in 2023. Much of this success is due to the Co-op’s continued investment in innovative technologies, like its Distribution Automation (DA) system. This system enables engineers to quickly locate and isolate outages, minimizing the number of impacted homes and businesses.

The Co-op’s proactive vegetation management program also plays a major role in keeping the lights on. By trimming trees and clearing brush near power lines, DEC reduces the risk of outages and ensures quicker access to equipment when repairs are needed.

While reliability is a hallmark of DEC’s service, affordability is just as important. As a not-for-profit, member-owned utility, DEC exists to serve its members — not shareholders. That business model allows DEC to offer rates consistently lower than those of neighboring for-profit utilities.

“Unlike other utilities, our focus is not on maximizing profits,” Book says. “Instead, we invest in long-term solutions that keep rates stable and service reliable for our members.”

Those solutions include partial ownership of power generation facilities through partnerships with other cooperatives, reducing the need to purchase expensive market power. DEC also generates power locally through solar and landfill gas facilities, cutting transmission costs and enhancing energy independence.

System upgrades made over the last decade have improved the efficiency of energy delivery and reduced the amount of electricity lost between the power plant and members’ homes. Programs like Beat the Peak help members lower their energy use during high-demand periods, collectively saving tens of millions of dollars since 2008.

While rising energy costs remain a concern nationwide, DEC’s commitment to transparency, smart investments and community-first decision-making helps shield members from the brunt of those increases.

Although the future of energy pricing is uncertain, DEC members can count on their Co-op to continue doing what it does best: delivering affordable, reliable electricity with a personal touch.