Begin conversations with community members to understand who they are, their energy needs, their interest in creating an electric co-op. Convene a general meeting to teach them about the electric co-op model and member benefits. Then, everyone votes on whether to proceed with starting an electric co-op.
Form a steering committee to oversee co-op development activities and contact relevant government and regulatory agencies. Conduct a feasibility study to evaluate the long-term technical and financial viability of the co-op. This will be the foundation for a business plan that will map the path to sustained success.
Launch a member awareness and registration campaign, encourage community members to run for elections to serve on the board of directors, and cultivate a culture of ownership, democratic member control. Convene the inaugural general assembly to approve the articles of incorporation and elect the co-op’s board of directors.
Apply for a license and permit to construct and operate a power utility, and create a capitalization plan to secure sufficient funds to operate and construct this new electric co-op. The board of directors will hire a general manager who will hire a core team to manage the construction and initiate commercial operations. Training for co-op governance, operations, and customer service will proceed. Once construction is complete, the lights will be turned on.
History has shown that electric co-ops can become engines of community economic development. Keeping the lights on will require ongoing financial support and long-term commitment from the government, those involved in national electrification programs and the international development community community.