Clarke-Washington Electric: Powering Homes and Businesses in Chatom, AL

For nearly 90 years, Clarke-Washington Electric has been the trusted source of electricity for rural residents in Clarke and Washington counties. Based in Chatom, AL, this member-owned cooperative brings reliable power and a deep commitment to the community it serves.

Business Overview

Clarke-Washington Electric provides essential electrical service to homes, farms, and businesses across its service area. While primarily focused on delivering electricity, the cooperative's network and expertise form the backbone for local electrical needs. They maintain a system ready to respond to outages and emergencies, ensuring members have the power they count on.

Key Services

The cooperative's core mission is providing safe, affordable, and reliable electricity. Key services include:

• Electric Service & Reliability: Operating and maintaining over 4,152 miles of power lines to deliver electricity to approximately 20,007 meters.
• Electric Inspection & Safety: Promoting electrical safety through educational resources and support for member-owned systems.
• Member Support & Billing: Offering account management and resources to help members use electricity wisely and affordably.

Areas Served

Clarke-Washington Electric serves a wide region of Southwest Alabama. You'll find their trucks and crews in Chatom, Monroeville, Thomasville, Evergreen, Marion, Uniontown, Linden, Camden, Butler, Grove Hill, and Frisco City. They understand the unique needs of rural and small-town Alabama, from older homes to agricultural operations.

Company History

The story of Clarke-Washington Electric is a cornerstone of Alabama's rural development. Founded in 1936, it was the very first electric cooperative established in the state. Its creation brought the modern convenience of electricity to farms and homes that investor-owned utilities had overlooked. From those early lines, it has grown into a robust network serving thousands of members, always guided by the cooperative principle of people helping people.

Leadership & Community Involvement

Governed by a board of directors elected from the membership, Clarke-Washington Electric is led by local people for local people. The cooperative's leadership and employees live in the communities they serve. This local presence fuels a strong tradition of community involvement, including sponsoring students on the Youth Tour to Washington, D.C., and supporting local events and initiatives that strengthen the region.

Specialties & Highlights

What makes Clarke-Washington Electric stand out?

• Pioneering Legacy: As Alabama's first electric co-op, they have a deep, unrivaled history of serving rural Alabama.
• Member-Focused Model: Being member-owned means profits are reinvested to improve service and keep rates affordable, not sent to distant shareholders.
• Commitment to Safety: They actively educate members on electrical safety, protecting both people and property.
• Extensive Infrastructure: Maintaining thousands of miles of line requires skilled, local crews dedicated to reliability.

Why Locals Choose Clarke-Washington Electric

Residents and business owners in Chatom, AL, and the surrounding counties choose Clarke-Washington Electric for a simple reason: proven, local reliability. They aren't a faraway utility; they are neighbors who have powered the community for generations. Their long-standing presence means they understand the local climate, from summer heat waves to storm seasons, and they plan for it. The combination of historical trust, a direct stake in the community's well-being, and a constant focus on safe, affordable service makes Clarke-Washington Electric a fundamental part of life in Southwest Alabama.