The standards by which we put our values into practice:

1st Principle : VOLUNTARY AND OPEN MEMBERSHIP

Countryside Energy Co-operative Inc is a voluntary organization, open to all persons able to use the services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, without gender, social, racial political or religious discrimination.

2nd Principle : DEMOCRATIC MEMBER CONTROL

Countryside Energy Co-operative Inc is a democratic organization controlled by its members who actively participate in setting policy and making decisions. Men and women serving as elected representatives are accountable to the membership. Members have equal voting rights (one member one vote).

3rd Principle : MEMBER ECONOMIC PARTICIPATION

Members contribute to and democratically control the capital of their co-operative. The membership fee will be considered common equity of the co-operative. The member will receive no compensation on capital required as a condition of membership. Any financial surplus after developing the co-operative and setting up reserves will be distributed back to the members in proportion to their transactions with the co-operative in a defined timeframe.

4th Principle : AUTONOMY AND INDEPENDENCE

Countryside Energy Co-operative will be operated as an autonomous, self-help organization controlled by its members. Any agreements entered into with other organizations, including governments or raising capital from external sources will be done on terms and conditions that ensure democratic control by the members and maintain the co-operative control and autonomy.

5th Principle : EDUCATION, TRAINING AND INFORMATION

Countryside Energy Co-operative will provide education and training to members, elected representatives, managers, and employees so they can contribute effectively to the development and success of the co-operative. Countryside Energy Co-operative Inc will inform the general public, particularly young people and opinion leaders, about the vision and benefits of the co-operative.

6th Principle : CO-OPERATION AMOUND CO-OPERATIVES

Countryside Energy Co-operative Inc will serve its members effectively and strengthen the co-operative movement by working together with other co-operatives through local, regional, and international structures where possible.

7th Principle : CONCERN FOR COMMUNITY

Countryside Energy Co-operative will work for the sustainable and environmental development of the community through policies approved by members.

Countryside Energy Co-operative’s Bylaws

The Co-op’s By-laws are available for download in PDF file format. download By-Laws