5th Coop Principle: Education, Training and Information

Cooperative principles are the guiding values and beliefs that drive the operations of cooperatives worldwide. These principles define what cooperatives stand for and provide a framework for how they conduct their business. The fifth cooperative principle is Education, Training, and Information.

Education, training, and information are critical components to being our members’ Trusted Energy Advisors. Just like our CEO, Dick Johnson, mentioned in his article we want our members to have all the facts to make informed decisions. These decisions can be who they elect as a board member to how they operate their everyday life to help save money on their electric bills. This principle stresses the need for the cooperative to provide relevant information to its members, ensuring they can make informed decisions and manage the cooperative’s affairs effectively.

The education and training provided by cooperatives can range from basic literacy and numeracy to specific technical skills related to the cooperative’s operations. These training programs can be designed for members, employees, and the wider community, providing an opportunity for continuous learning and skill development. One way West River Electric provides training is through our annual Coop Code Day that is held for electricians seeking to stay up to date on their training and looking to continuing their education in the field.

Cooperatives must also provide relevant information to their members to enable them to make informed decisions about their electrical usage. West River Electric offers two different Energy Audits to see how energy efficient your home really is. The first audit is a simple walk-through of the home pointing out anything visible that needs to be fixed. The second audit is the same as the first but it includes a Blower door test. To schedule your energy audit please call our office.

Education, training, and information also play a crucial role in ensuring the sustainability and growth of cooperatives. Through education and training, members can develop new skills and knowledge that can help the cooperative grow and thrive. West River Electric will be installing a battery storage unit to test new technologies and offer information to our members. Information about new technologies, best practices, and industry trends can help cooperatives stay ahead of the curve and make strategic decisions.

Additionally, education, training, and information can help cooperatives to address challenges and opportunities in their operating environment. For example, relaying to our members the importance of an all of the above energy portfolio to make sure we are being good stewards of the environment while maintaining cost-effective electricity that is reliable is important. In addition, market disruptions and changes in consumer preferences can all impact the operations of a cooperative. By providing relevant education, training, and information, cooperatives can respond proactively to these challenges and opportunities, ensuring they remain competitive and relevant. 2341801

In conclusion, the fifth cooperative principle emphasizes the importance of education, training, and information in the success of cooperatives. These components are critical for member participation, informed decision-making, and continuous learning and skill development. Cooperatives that prioritize education, training, and information will become the members’ Trusted Energy Advisors which helps enhance their members’ knowledge and skills, respond proactively to challenges and opportunities, and ensure sustainability and growth.