East Central Energy returns $1.6 million to members
Co-op owners receiving credits or checks during this holiday season

BRAHAM, Minn. - After reviewing East Central Energy finances and determining that the cooperative is in sound fiscal condition, the Board of Directors has approved a capital credit retirement for consumers who have been members of the cooperative for more than one year.

The board's action authorizes payment of 2.7 percent of the equity cooperative member-owners have invested through previously allocated margins.

"Capital credits are one of the special benefits of co-op membership," says Garry Bye, ECE president and CEO. "Over the years, East Central Energy has returned more than $45 million of owner equity through payments to past and present members—more than any other electric cooperative in Minnesota. Many of these dollars stay right here and turn over several times as they circulate in our regional economy."

Most members are receiving a capital credit payment in the form of a credit on this month's electric bill. Designated as a "capital credit retirement" line item, the amount of the credit will reduce or eliminate the amount due. Members receiving capital credit retirements greater than $250 receive a check in the mail.

ECE customers with questions about capital credits may call toll-free, 1-800-254-7944 or visit the ECE web site at www.eastcentralenergy.com.

East Central Energy is a member-owned electric cooperative that serves more than 54,000 homes, farms and businesses in east central Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin.