Cooperative Values:
As a Touchstone Energy Cooperative, North Plains Electric also subscribes to the four core values that are the foundation of every Touchstone Energy co-op’s service to its members. It’s how Touchstone Energy puts their slogan — “the power of human connections” — into action and earn the trust of millions of people, every day. The four values are:
Innovation
Touchstone Energy cooperatives offer new solutions and state-of-the-art technology to meet customers’ needs.
Accountability
Since consumers own co-ops, they have a say and help chart the course for the business. Every member has an equal voice in running the enterprise. Unlike an investor-owned utility, in which the investor with the most shares has the most clout, co-op business is conducted through a locally elected board of directors and an annual meeting where policy is proposed and voted on by members, each having one vote.
Integrity
The co-op business model always puts customers first. Not-for-profit electric cooperatives deliver energy to their members at the cost of service. In contrast, investor-owned utilities typically distribute their profits to investors across the nation or even the world — not necessarily to those they serve.
Commitment to Community
Electric cooperatives invest time, money and expertise to build the local economy and strengthen relationships with consumer-owners.