Our History

Electric cooperatives were born because investor owned utilities did not think it profitable to run many miles of power lines for few customers in the rural areas. Local farmers realized electricity was needed to provide for their families and bring industry to the area. This lead to the inception of MidSouth Electric Cooperative in 1940.

The outbreak of World War II delayed the actual delivery of electricity until 1942 when the total membership was 94 people who paid $224.31 for their first month of service. As years passed by, Mid-South Electric Cooperative dedicated its efforts to rapid expansion of its products and services to serve its fast growing membership. Today MidSouth provides more than just electricity, it has expanded to include MidSouth Water, MidSouth Solar and MidSouth Fiber.

COOPERATIVE – A FARM, BUSINESS, OR OTHER ORGANIZATION THAT IS OWNED AND RUN JOINTLY BY ITS MEMBERS WHO SHARE THE PROFITS OR BENEFITS

Every cooperative is guided by a set of seven principles that reinforces its commitment to serve its members

Cooperative Principles

Voluntary & Open Membership

Cooperatives are voluntary organizations open to all persons able to use their services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, without gender, social, racial, political, or religious discrimination.

Democratic Member Control

Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting policies and making decisions. The elected representatives are accountable to the membership.

Member’s Economic Participation

Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control the capital of their cooperative. At least part of that capital is the common property of the co-op.

Autonomy & Independence

Co-ops are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members. If they enter into agreements with other organizations, including governments, they do so on terms that ensure democratic control by their members.

Education, Training, & Information

Co-ops provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, managers, and employees so they can contribute effectively to the development of their co-ops.

Cooperation Among Co-Ops

Cooperatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the cooperative movement by working together through local, regional, national, and international structures.

Concern For Community

While focusing on member needs, cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies accepted by their members.

The Cooperative Difference

To provide quality services (electricity, solar, water, wastewater, internet) at a reasonable price, bringing vital services to improve quality of life and economic health in the MidSouth Electric Co-op service area.

Member Benefits

Service Territory

District Map

Tariffs and Notifications