The Christmas season is one of my favorite times of year. It reminds me of the importance of family, of giving selflessly, and of slowing down to savor what matters most.
I’m sure many of you feel the same way. When December rolls around, we look forward to twinkling lights, family gatherings, and maybe a few too many cookies. At Cherryland, we also look forward to something uniquely cooperative—returning capital credits to you, our members.
This year, I’m proud to share that Cherryland will retire $500,000 in capital credits. That’s not just a number; it’s a reflection of the financial strength of your cooperative and the value of being a member-owner.
In the co-op world, we don’t chase profits—we create value. After covering the cost of powering your homes and businesses, any money left over doesn’t go to outside investors. It comes back to you, the people who use and own this cooperative. Each December, we do our best to return that money to our members.
We talk a lot about how we are leading the industry in keeping the lights on and keeping our rates competitive. We’re also leading the way in our commitment to returning capital credits to you. Over the last 20 years, we’ve returned more than $35 million to our members. That’s money that has gone back into households, small businesses, and our local economy. I hope you’re as proud of that as I am.
You’ll see your portion of this year’s $500,000 retirement as a credit on your December bill. It may not buy all the presents under your tree, but it’s a reminder that being part of a cooperative is different. Your dollars don’t just keep the lights on today; they come back to you tomorrow.
Capital credits are one of the clearest examples of the cooperative difference. We’re not just an electric utility; we’re a community of members who share in both the responsibilities and the rewards of powering northern Michigan.
My husband and I will spend our holidays in Arizona with his family this year. I’m so grateful we get to take time to celebrate with those we love. From my family to yours, I wish you a joyful season. May this year’s capital credit retirement be one more reason to celebrate. Your cooperative is strong, your ownership matters, and together we’ve built something that gives back, year after year.
I hope my name is on the list… I moved into my new small house in April… I was told by the builder sine my house was all electric and energy efficient my electric bill would be low… wow was I shocked… I wasn’t living there until April because my appliances weren’t delivered yet…and kept it between 55-64…..my bills were between 200-305…. Why so high… with living there this winter I’m terrified of what the bills will be… what can I do to keep the cost down… I’m a senior citizen and need some advice …what I can do to cut costs… thank you
I struggle to pay my high electricity bills constantly worrying about having it being disconnected. Was a relief when they were flexible. Now with there new plan disconnect when ever your behind no help or flexibility really scares me again.
Hi Jeri – Have you called our member services department? We are always happy to work with members to make payment arrangements. We also have different types of budget payment plans that we can work with you on. And, if things are just too tight for you, we can also help you connect with agencies to get assistance to pay your bills. There is help and flexibility available, just give us a call.