Vermont Electric Co-Operative: Reliable Power for Johnson VT and Beyond

Vermont Electric Co-Operative provides electricity to thousands of homes and businesses across Northern Vermont. Located in Johnson VT, this member-owned utility has been a trusted part of the community for generations.

Business Overview

Vermont Electric Co-Operative in Johnson VT is a not-for-profit electric distribution utility. It serves over 33,000 member-owners across 75 communities. The co-op focuses on providing reliable power to both residential and commercial customers. While not a traditional electrical contractor for wiring jobs, they are the primary electricity provider for their service area. They manage the entire distribution system, from substations to the lines that connect to homes.

Key Services

The co-op delivers essential electricity services. Their work ensures lights stay on and appliances run in local homes, farms, and businesses.

• Electric Service & Reliability: They deliver power and maintain the infrastructure that brings electricity to members' meters.
• Energy Efficiency Programs: They offer advice and programs to help members use less power and save money, which is helpful during cold Vermont winters.
• Payment Assistance & Community Support: Programs are available to help members manage their bills.
• Community Solar Initiatives: Members can participate in local solar projects to support renewable energy.

Areas Served

Vermont Electric Co-Operative proudly serves a wide region of Northern Vermont. Their detailed knowledge of the local terrain, from the hills around Johnson to the more remote areas, helps them maintain service. They provide electricity in: Morristown VT, Underhill VT, Sheldon VT, Fairfield VT, Wolcott VT, Johnson VT, Barton VT, Fletcher VT, Craftsbury VT, Bolton VT, Eden VT, Irasburg VT, and Coventry VT.

Company History

Founded in 1938, Vermont Electric Co-Operative was created to bring electricity to rural parts of Vermont that larger companies wouldn't serve. It started as a small group of neighbors working together and grew into the robust utility it is today. This member-owned model means the people who get the electricity are also the owners. All decisions are made with the community's best interests in mind.

Leadership & Community Role

As a cooperative, it is governed by a board of directors elected from the membership. This ensures local voices guide the company. The leadership and employees live and work in the communities they serve. They are actively involved in local projects and planning for the region's future energy needs.

Specialties & Highlights

Several features make Vermont Electric Co-Operative stand out.

• Member-Owned: Profits are returned to the members or reinvested in the system, not sent to distant shareholders.
• Vegetation Management: They proactively trim trees near power lines to prevent outages, especially during Vermont's heavy snowstorms and high winds.
• Climate Adaptation: They actively work to strengthen the grid against severe weather, a growing concern in the region.
• Local Focus: Their operations and decision-making are deeply rooted in the Northern Vermont communities they serve.

Why Locals Choose Vermont Electric Co-Operative

Residents and businesses in Johnson VT and across the service area rely on Vermont Electric Co-Operative because of its long-standing local presence. The model of community ownership builds inherent trust. Their focus on maintaining reliability through Vermont's challenging seasons and their commitment to local programs for efficiency and support make them more than just a utility. They are a neighbor providing an essential service.