PAOLI — Each October, electric cooperatives across the country mark National Co-op Month, recognizing the unique advantages of the cooperative model and the members who make it possible. For Orange County REMC and Orange County Fiber, this month serves as both a celebration and a reaffirmation of their mission to deliver reliable, affordable service to local homes and businesses.
Orange County REMC General Manager and CEO Matthew Deaton said that being part of a cooperative means more than providing electricity — it means serving neighbors and strengthening the community. The co-op operates under a locally controlled, member-owned model, where board members live in the service area and understand the challenges and opportunities residents face.
“This local accountability allows us to stay focused on what matters most — delivering reliable, affordable electricity and providing a real value to the people we serve,” Deaton said in a recent statement.
The cooperative invests in infrastructure upgrades and technologies designed to improve electric service and strengthen the local grid while keeping rates as low as possible. When storms or outages occur, Orange County REMC crews respond quickly because they live and work in the same communities they serve.
In addition to maintaining power lines, the organization’s purpose extends to community involvement, including partnerships with local schools, youth programs, and volunteer organizations. Orange County REMC also continues to expand broadband access through Orange County Fiber, helping connect rural areas to modern resources.
As the demand for electricity grows and technology advances, the cooperative is focused on maintaining a balanced, reliable energy mix. Deaton emphasized that Orange County REMC members care about both affordability and dependability — and the co-op is committed to delivering both.
Article credit to Orange County’s REMC’s Indiana Connection (October 2025).
