Southwest Rural Electric Association Inc – Powering Homes and Communities in Vernon, Texas

Southwest Rural Electric Association Inc in Vernon, TX, is the trusted electricity provider for thousands of homes and businesses across the rural landscapes of southwest Oklahoma and north central Texas. As a member-owned electric cooperative headquartered in Tipton, Oklahoma, they manage over 3,100 miles of power lines, delivering reliable energy to more than 7,600 active meters. Their commitment goes beyond the meter, focusing on community support and helping members use power wisely and affordably.

Business Overview

The cooperative is a cornerstone for rural electricity. While they focus on electricity delivery rather than emergency wiring repairs, they are a constant resource for power reliability and energy information. Their team understands the specific needs of the region—from the expansive farmsteads near Childress to the family homes in Vernon. They serve both residential members and commercial accounts, providing the essential service that keeps daily life and local economies running smoothly.

Key Services

Southwest Rural Electric Association Inc provides core electrical services tailored to their members' needs.

• Electricity Delivery: Reliable power distribution to homes, farms, and businesses.
• Renewable Energy Information: Guidance on options like rooftop solar for members interested in generating their own power.
• Energy Efficiency Support: Information on rebates and financial incentives for home upgrades that can lower bills, such as improved insulation or efficient appliances—a smart move given the area's hot summers and occasional cold snaps.
• Member Programs: Managing the Operation Round Up foundation, where voluntary member contributions fund local charitable causes.

Areas Served

Their extensive service area reflects a deep local knowledge. They power communities across two states, including Vernon TX, Childress TX, Haskell TX, Seymour TX, Quanah TX, Wellington TX, Memphis TX, Munday TX, Knox City TX, and Frederick OK, Mangum OK, Granite OK, Hollis OK, Carnegie OK, Snyder OK. Their crews are familiar with the older wiring in historic town centers and the power demands of modern agricultural operations.

Company History

Founded to bring electricity to rural areas that investor-owned utilities often overlooked, the cooperative's growth to over 3,100 miles of line is a story of community partnership. From its roots, the focus has always been on local members, not distant shareholders. A unique feature of their operation is the member-elected board of directors, which ensures the co-op’s decisions directly reflect what the community needs.

Leadership

Governed by a board of directors elected from the membership, leadership is inherently local. These are neighbors who live and work in the served counties, understanding the challenges of rural life and the importance of affordable, dependable electricity. Their industry involvement through statewide and national co-op associations keeps the organization at the forefront of reliable and responsible energy delivery.

Specialties & Highlights

• Member-Owned Model: Profits are returned to members, reinvesting in the local system and community.
• Operation Round Up: A simple, powerful charitable program that pools small donations to make a big local impact.
• Renewable Energy Guidance: Proactively providing information on solar and other options as member interest grows.
• Local Storm Response: A dedicated line crew focused on restoring power quickly after the severe weather common to the Southern Plains.

Why Locals Choose Southwest Rural Electric Association Inc

People in Vernon, TX, and across the region choose Southwest Rural Electric Association Inc because it's their cooperative. Reliability is a given—the lights need to stay on during a Haskell summer or a Hollis winter. The quality of service is measured by a direct connection to the community and a long-standing presence that proves they are here for the long haul. They provide more than electricity; they help power community well-being through local programs and a genuine commitment to the area's future.