Freeborn-Mower Cooperative Services and MiEnergy Cooperative, with 10 other electric distribution cooperatives, were awarded the Cooperative Purpose Award by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

The award is given for outstanding contributions to improving the quality of life and purpose of the cooperatives in their communities.

In 2013, Southern Minnesota Energy Cooperative was formed by 12 electric distribution cooperatives to be the single point of contact for the purchase of Alliant Energy’s Minnesota electric service territory. SMEC engaged their local communities and business leaders through a grassroots campaign to educate them on the cooperative advantage.

In 2015, the acquisition was finalized and SMEC welcomed more than 43,000 new members in the cooperative community.

“The 12 cooperatives of SMEC perfectly exemplify the sixth cooperative principle, cooperation among cooperatives,” said Mel Coleman, NRECA president. “I applaud SMEC for their perseverance, leadership and concern for community.”