There are several components that play a role in the success and operation of the rural electrification program. The essential parts of this program in Illinois are the 180,000 local citizens who own and contol their local distribution cooperatives.

AIEC - Through the Association of Illinois Electric Cooperatives , these cooperatives provide a system by which they can increase their effectiveness and efficiency in providing essential services common to all.

NRECA - Another important segment in the rural electrification program is the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national service organization for electric cooperatives.

RUS - The Rural Utilities Service historically has played an important role in the rural electrification program. An agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and formerly known as the REA, the RUS makes loans to the cooperatives and has a banker's interest in the operations of its borrowers.

CFC - The National Rural Cooperative Finance Corporation was established by electric cooperatives in 1969 to provide supplemental financing for rural electric systems throughout the United States. CFC is now the principal lender for a number of electric cooperatives.

Touchstone EnergySM is a nationwide alliance of locally owned and operated electric cooperatives, which can collectively provide enhanced services and resources to their residential and business customers.

Organizations of Interest to Cooperatives