Patronage Dividends

As a member of Western Iowa Power Cooperative, you are not just a customer - you're also an owner! One of the key benefits of cooperative membership is the opportunity to receive patronage dividends (also called capital credits). These deividends represent your share of the cooperative's margins, or profits, which are distributed back to members based on the amount of electricity purchased throughout the year. 

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At the end of each year, after covereing operational costs and ensuring we meet financial goals, any remainng margins are allocated to our members as patronage capital. These funds are retained for a period of time to help maintain and improve our electric system, but as the cooperative's financial condition allows, they are returned to members in the form of cash payments. 

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Patronage dividends are just one way we demonstrate our commitment to serving our members and reinvesting in the community. It's one of the many things that make Western Iowa Power Cooperative different from investor-owned utilities. 

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How It Works:

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1. Earnings Allocation: At the end of each year, WIPCO calculates its margins and allocates a portion of those earning to our members based on their electricity usage. 

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2. Equity Retention: A portion of the allocated margins is retianed by the coopertive to support future growth, system improvements, and reliability. 

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3. Dividends Distribution: When the cooperative's financial position allows, part of the retained equity is returned to members as a cash payment or bill credit. 

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What to Expect

Each year, members receive a statement showing their allocated patronage capital. When dividends are distributes, you will receive either a check in the mail or a credit on your electric bill, depending on the amount.