Lower Valley Energy Issues $6.3 Million In Certificates to Members Through Patronage Capital Program

Posted: January 3, 2025

AFTON, WY (October 25, 2024) – Lower Valley Energy announced today the distribution of more than $6.3 million in patronage capital returns to its member-owners, demonstrating the unique financial benefits of cooperative membership.

“This significant return of patronage capital directly strengthens our local economies and exemplifies the cooperative difference,” said Jim Webb, President/CEO of Lower Valley Energy. “While investor-owned utilities focus on shareholder profits, we prioritize giving back to our member-owners.”

How Patronage Capital Works

Unlike traditional utilities, Lower Valley Energy operates on a not-for-profit basis. When members pay their monthly energy bills, they build equity in the cooperative. This equity represents their share of the organization’s margins – revenue collected beyond operating expenses. When the cooperative’s financial position allows, these margins are returned to members as patronage capital.

Community Impact

This year’s $6.3 million distribution represents one of the largest patronage capital returns in Lower Valley Energy’s history. The funds will:

– Directly benefit local households and businesses

– Strengthen the regional economy

– Demonstrate the cooperative’s strong financial position

– Fulfill Lower Valley Energy’s commitment to cooperative principles

Value of Cooperative Membership

Lower Valley Energy continues to deliver exceptional value to its members through:

– Some of the lowest utility rates nationwide

– Reliable, high-quality service

– Local control and decision-making

– Regular patronage capital returns

“As a member-owned cooperative, our success is our community’s success,” added Webb. “This patronage capital return, combined with our consistently low rates, showcases how the cooperative model benefits everyone we serve.”

Members should have received their patronage capital returns this month in the mail.