Cooperatives worldwide operate according to the same core principles and values adopted by the International Cooperative Alliance. These principles are rooted in the first modern cooperative, founded in Rochdale, England. These principles are a key reason that Americas electric cooperatives operate differently from other electric utilities, putting the needs of their members first. Over the years, the original guiding principles have been altered and added to, but the seven cooperative principles are:

1 | Voluntary and Open Membership

2 | Democratic Member Control

3 | Members Economic Participation

4 | Autonomy and Independence

5 | Education, Training, and Information

6 | Cooperation Among Cooperatives

7 | Concern for Community