In the early 1960s, the rural landscapes of the Midwest and Great Plains were growing, but many communities were struggling to have energy access. Large investor-owned utilities often overlooked these sparsely populated areas, leaving rural families and businesses without reliable, affordable electricity. In response to this challenge, a group of visionary local electric cooperatives banded together, driven by a shared mission: to bring power to the people who needed it most. This collective determination gave birth to Basin Electric Power Cooperative in 1961.
Since the beginning, Basin Electric has been focused on innovation and genuine concern for the member at the end of the power line. The cooperative began by harnessing the region's abundant natural resources, such as coal and natural gas. Over time, Basin Electric embraced new technologies and renewable energy sources like wind and solar to meet the evolving needs of its members.
Together with its members, Basin Electric is proud to play a role in providing light, heat, and opportunity to communities that were once left in the dark. Basin Electric’s story continues to be rooted in its founding values of service, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to powering the dreams of the people it serves.
Learn more about Basin Electric in our 50th anniversary history book called Generation for Generations and about Dakota Gas in The New Synfuels Energy Pioneers.
Hall of Fame
To honor those who have made significant contributions to rural electrics and communities, Basin Electric periodically bestows its Cornerstone Award and Cooperative Spirit Award on individuals who have made outstanding contributions to rural electric cooperatives.
On May 5, 1961, 69 people from several states gathered to sign Articles of Incorporation for Basin Electric Power Cooperative. Learn more about the original incorporators of Basin Electric and the impact they made on the cooperative:
