For 90 years, Meeker Cooperative has been more than just an energy provider—it has been a lifeline for rural communities, a driver of innovation, and a steadfast advocate for its members. From the first power lines in the 1930s to today’s cutting-edge broadband services, Meeker Cooperative has continuously evolved to meet the needs of those it serves.
This milestone anniversary is not just about looking back—it’s about recognizing the Cooperative’s enduring role in powering homes, businesses, and opportunities for generations.
Lighting the Way: The Early Years
In the 1930s, rural Meeker County, like much of rural America, was left behind in the electrification movement. While cities enjoyed the benefits of electric power, farms and small towns relied on kerosene lamps and manual labor for even the most basic tasks. That changed in 1935 when local farmers and business leaders came together to form Meeker Cooperative Light & Power Association. With the help of the Rural Electrification Act, a construction loan was approved, and soon, the first poles were set. By the end of 1936, electricity was flowing to 300 farms over 175 miles of line.
This moment was transformative. Electricity meant farmers could use milking machines instead of hand-milking cows, homes could be heated and lit with ease, and businesses could operate more efficiently. It marked the beginning of a new era, where rural communities had the same opportunities as their urban counterparts.
Adapting to Change: Growth and Innovation
The Cooperative continued to grow through the 1940s and 1950s, overcoming wartime resource shortages and expanding services. By the 1960s, Meeker Cooperative introduced underground power lines and security lighting, improving both safety and reliability for members. As the need for electricity increased, the Cooperative kept pace by adopting new technology, such as two-way radio communication for lineworkers, and expanding substation capacity to meet growing demand.
One of the Cooperative’s biggest contributions has been its commitment to energy efficiency. In the 1980s, Meeker Cooperative launched its load management program to help members save on energy costs by reducing demand during peak times. This member-first approach extended beyond power, as seen in the launch of Operation Round Up® in the 1990s, which has since contributed over $1 million back to local organizations, worthy causes, and educational scholarships.
Expanding Services Beyond Electricity
By the 2000s, Meeker Cooperative was providing more than just electricity—it was offering solutions for the modern world. From broadband internet to long-distance phone services, the Cooperative recognized that reliable connectivity was just as essential as power. In 2018, the launch of Vibrant Broadband brought high-speed fiber internet to rural members, helping bridge the digital divide and ensuring businesses, students, and families had access to the online world.
A Future Rooted in Service
Today, Meeker Cooperative serves over 8,000 members, providing electricity, fiber-optic internet, and innovative energy solutions. With more than $32 million in state and federal grants secured for broadband expansion, the Cooperative continues to lead the way in connecting rural communities to modern technology.
As Meeker Cooperative celebrates 90 years, it remains committed to the principles it was founded on—member ownership, community investment, and forward-thinking solutions. 30-13-440 What started as a small group of farmers determined to bring power to their homes has grown into a trusted institution that continues to energize lives in new and meaningful ways. Ninety years ago, Meeker Cooperative brought light to the darkness. Today, it brings power, connectivity, and opportunity—ensuring that rural communities continue to thrive for generations to come.