October is a special month for cooperatives nationwide, and we’re glad to join them in celebrating National Cooperative Month. What makes a cooperative, like GVEC, so unique? It’s you, our members! This time of year serves as a good reminder that in a cooperative, our members are the “why” in everything we do. At GVEC, we’re not just in the business of delivering products and services; we’re in the business of empowering the people and long-term interests of the communities we serve.
I often mention that GVEC stands apart from other electric cooperatives. I say this not to boast about GVEC, but to explain how the expectations and support from the membership directly affect the direction, efforts and successes of the Cooperative. Since 1938, GVEC has been built by the community, for the community.
One of the ways this is evident is through our commitment to innovation. For example, earlier this year, GVEC became one of the first cooperatives in the nation to introduce a robust demand response program incorporating Enphase® batteries. Through our Peak-Time Payback program, members can now get thousands in exclusive GVEC rebates and On-Bill financing options to implement battery technology into their home. This not only provides the benefits of backup power for emergencies, but also supports the resiliency of the Texas grid during peak usage times. Programs like this are testament to the trusted relationship between GVEC and our members. By working together, we are able to manage energy use more efficiently and responsibly while contributing year-round to the stability of the electric grid for all.
Like electricity, GVEC was also the first to bring internet access to many rural residents in South Central Texas starting in 1998. Since then, we’ve expanded our offerings to include high speed wireless and fiber internet, Wi-Fi 6-enabled Calix routers for rental and GVEC’s very own WiFi app rich with parental controls and other unique features. We’ve built a variety of plans to fit our customers’ needs and budgets, incorporated 24/7 support and—best of all—done it all with no data limits. We have a passion for connecting the people and businesses in our region with affordable and reliable internet that gives them options to live and work how they choose. If we haven’t made it to your area yet, your patience is appreciated as we continuously work toward expansion. We’re servicing nearly 26,000 internet customers today and adding more every day.
From our board of directors to our employees, we live and work here too; so, our commitment to improving the lives of our members doesn’t stop with new technology. You’ve likely seen GVEC in your community giving back through sponsorships, donations, volunteerism and the Power Up™ grant program. This, in addition to cultivating strong growth in our service area through proactively planning, meeting infrastructure needs, and providing affordable power that will spur economic development and job growth across the region.
Whether we’re delivering excellent service, embracing new technologies, or supporting community events, GVEC is, above all, a cooperative powered by its loyal members and customers. Celebrate National Cooperative Month with pride, knowing you are part of one of the best! Feel free to contact me any time at 830.857.1152, dschauer@gvec.org, or P.O. Box 118, Gonzales, Texas 78629.
