East Central Energy (ECE) members donated $22,365 to the Capital Credit Choice program. The program enabled ECE members to direct their refunds to one of four charities including the American Red Cross, East Central Minnesota (ECM) Habitat for Humanity, East Central Energy At-large scholarships or ECE's Operation Round Up.

Amounts distributed to the four charities were: American Red Cross -- $4,486, ECM Habitat for Humanity -- $8,232, ECE Operation Round Up -- $4,389 and ECE At-large Scholarships -- $5,257.

These donations often bring multiple benefits to local communities. For example, ECM Habitat for Humanity will use the funds for additional energy conservation measures in the construction of new homes, points out Greg Kvasnicka, energy services manager at ECE.

"It is gratifying that ECE members are generous and these very worthy charities receive additional resources to help our neighbors in need," says Garry Bye, ECE's president and CEO. "We are also proud that we have carefully managed our operating expenses, keeping in mind that our goal is to keep electric rates as low as possible and return any surplus to members."

Capital credits are income that remains after ECE deducts operating expenses from revenue billed. Annually funds are allocated to members according to the amount of electricity purchased. The more electricity purchased from ECE, the larger the share of margins allocated. The co-op uses these funds to cover operating expenses. Then, when the co-op's board of directors declares a retirement, it refunds a portion to members. Given the choice to donate their refund, many members showed their generosity.

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