Manager Articles

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

APRIL 2026

Powering everyday life — then and now

Electricity is something most of us rarely think about until the power goes out. It starts our mornings, runs our businesses, keeps our homes comfortable, and connects us to the world. It is simply part of daily life. 

When Darke Rural Electric Cooperative was founded in 1936, electric service was limited in rural areas. While some towns had electricity, many farms and rural homes throughout our service territory did not. Bringing reliable power to those areas changed everything. 

In the early days, electric use was simple. Homes primarily used electricity for lighting and a small number of appliances. Even so, the difference was remarkable. Electric lights replaced kerosene lamps. Refrigeration improved food storage. Equipment powered by electricity reduced physical labor on farms and in workshops. Access to power improved safety, productivity, and overall quality of life. 

In 1943, the average member consumed 81 kilowatt-hours per month, Today, the average residential member uses 1,135 kWh per month to run nearly all aspects of a household. Heating and cooling systems, multiple refrigerators and freezers, televisions, computers, smart devices, and farm technology are all part of modern life. While today’s appliances are much more energy-efficient than older models, the number of devices in use has steadily increased overall demand. 

That makes energy efficiency an important part of managing both household budgets and our electric system. 

Darke REC offers rebates to help members invest in energy-efficient equipment. These rebates are available for qualifying improvements such as geothermal installations and electric water heaters. Choosing efficient equipment not only reduces energy use but can also lower long-term operating costs and improve comfort. 

In addition to rebates, our team is available to help members better understand their energy use. Whether reviewing usage patterns, discussing heating and cooling options, or providing efficiency recommendations, we are here as a resource. 

Electricity has evolved dramatically over the past 90 years and so have the ways we use it. What has not changed is our commitment to providing safe, reliable, and affordable power to every member across our service territory. 

If you are considering an upgrade or would like more information about available rebates, visit our website or contact our office. We are proud to serve our members today just as we have for generations.