About Us

History

Distributing Power and Building Community

Lakeland Power Co-op provides safe, reliable power distribution to approximately 1,495 member-owners stretching over 900 miles within 7 Alberta Counties. Check out our service area map for all the areas we serve.

Becoming a self-operating REA through amalgamation of seven smaller REAs enabled Lakeland Power Co-op to provide members with more personalized service. The REA took control of all the operations and maintenance of the seven distribution systems allowing us to manage the system more efficiently and affordably as REAs operate under cooperative business principles.

Lakeland Power Co-op continues to be an integral part of the communities located in our operating area.  We support local businesses and sponsors community events. Our employees volunteer on various local community groups and help strengthen the community.



The first Rural Electrical Association was formed in 1947 as a result of increased demand for electricity from rural residents. By 1951, there were 356 REAs operating. Neighbors got together and built the power lines themselves when Investor-Owned Utilities refused to do so as they did not believe it was financially viable.

Many REAs have sold out or amalgamated over the years, but your REA remains an example of grass roots activism, cooperation, and determination. Own it and protect it!

YOU ARE AN OWNER

As a member of a cooperative REA, you are an owner. That is why you will see and hear the term member-owner. Your REA membership is not like a Costco membership. You do not just buy a membership and shop. When you become an REA member, you become an owner of the REA. Ownership comes with responsibilities and advantages.

MEMBER-OWNER CONTROL

Being a member-owner means you can exercise control through the process of democratic voting and election of a representative Board. Every owner has an equal voice, with one vote per member-owner.

MEMBER-OWNER BENEFIT

Member-owners share the benefit of owning and operating an REA when they maintain cost-effective rates and reinvest profits back into their own distribution system.