As a cooperative group of people -- over 12,900 accounts -- we work and act together toward a common goal and unite as one. As that large group, we also have a tremendous voice and buying power, and that's a huge benefit of membership. As a result, we can enjoy many advantages simply because we are members of a cooperative.  Here's some of the perks!

• A vote - Cooperative members are owners and may participate in the direction of the company. That's what we mean by democratic member control.
• Competitive rates - Decades of careful growth and planning have made HWE a remarkably stable electric provider whose members enjoy quality electric service at affordable prices.  Contributing to this stability is our alliance with OREC, Inc. and electric cooperatives throughout our state.  Because we're part of a statewide system, we're able to keep the wholesale rates we pay low and assure our members an abundance of reasonably priced power.  Another factor is the very nature of the cooperative itself.  As a nonprofit, we operate solely to provide electricity, not to increase profit for shareholders.  This is why we return excess funds in the form of patronage capital to our members.  These stable, affordable rates catalyze business growth which, in turn, has far-reaching effects on the quality of life enjoyed by all our members.
• Money back - All members are entitled to patronage capital.
• Annual Meeting - We hope you will join us each year at the HWE Annual Meeting, a free event featuring delicious food, entertainment, prizes, exhibits and a business meeting. It is important for you to learn how your company is responding to today's business challenges. Announcements concerning the Annual Meeting appear in our magazine and newsletter in the summer.
• Rebates - Our programs provide rebates to members who install high-efficiency heating/cooling options, use resource-saving building features and participate in demand-reduction programs.
• Publications - You'll receive Co-op Power News and Country Living mailed to your home every month. They're filled with cooperative news, information, stories, tips and ideas. You can also request many excellent safety and energy efficiency brochures through our Web site or by visiting our lobby.
• Payment plans - We offer several convenient methods for making bill paying easier.
• Seasonal trips with Hancock-Wood - Hancock-Wood usually offers fun one-day trips every season (spring, summer, fall, winter). The benefit of joining us is the camaraderie and friendship with fellow members, as well as taking advantage of the great group discount packages we can assemble by traveling in large numbers.
• Cedar Point tickets - We've arranged a special rate for members only, and you may purchase them in our lobby during normal business hours when the park is open for the season (usually May-October).
• Sporting event tickets - Occasionally we are able to obtain tickets to area sporting events, and we pass on the group discount to you! We have attended games to watch these teams in the past: Toledo Storm, Toledo Mud Hens, Detroit Tigers, Cleveland Indians, Cleveland Browns and Cleveland Cavaliers.
• Scholarships - Open only to those on our lines, we extend thousands of dollars each year through scholarships to area youth.
• Website - This very website -- www.hwelectric.com -- offers you a huge resource for all of our services in a fast, convenient, round-the-clock format.
• Other - In the past we have sold limited edition toy trucks, given tours of the building, offered satellite TV discounts, special credit cards and other deals.  So, keep checking our website and reading our publications for more great deals to come!