What is required to set up a generator at my home?
The Co-op requires an Application for Operation of Customer-Owned Generation to be filled out and submitted. The information from the application will assist RGEC and the member with what equipment requirements are needed for the interconnection. We waive the application fees for back up generation application, so make sure you let us know the purpose for the generator being installed. We also have a manual titled “Consumer Requirements for Distributed Generation Installation and Interconnection”; both the application and the manual are available on our website at www.riogrande.coop on the Energy Services tab.
When are Rio Grande Electric Coop Grants available?
RGEC’s Sharing Success Grant applications are accepted annually March 1 – June 30. The Board of Directors made their selections at the July board meeting, and winners are announced at the annual meeting. Please watch for details next year in Texas Co-op Power Magazine, and on our social media pages. We always publicize well in advance.
Why do I need to sign an easement before RGEC can begin line construction on my property?
Signing an easement is a critical step before RGEC can begin constructing electric lines on your property. The easement grants RGEC the legal right to access a designated portion of your land to install, maintain, and operate electric distribution infrastructure—whether overhead or underground.
Without a signed easement, RGEC cannot proceed with construction, as it would lack the legal authority to place equipment on private property. This protects both the member and the Cooperative by clearly defining the scope of access, location, and responsibilities. Easements also ensure that service can be delivered reliably and safely, and they remain in effect even if the property changes ownership.
In short, the easement is not just a formality—it’s a foundational agreement that enables RGEC to serve your location while respecting property rights and ensuring long-term system integrity.
How are RGEC’s electric rates determined, and why do they sometimes change?
RGEC’s electric rates are designed to reflect the actual cost of providing reliable electric service to our members. These rates are approved by the Cooperative’s Board of Directors and follow guidelines established under Chapter 161 of the Texas Utilities Code.
Each rate classification is tailored to the type of service a member receives—whether residential, commercial, or other—and includes components such as:
- Availability Charge: A fixed monthly fee that helps cover the cost of maintaining infrastructure and ensuring service readiness.
- Energy Charge: A variable fee based on the kilowatt-hours (kWh) consumed.
Changes to rate classifications may occur when RGEC identifies that a member’s current classification no longer matches their actual usage pattern. In such cases, the classification is updated to ensure fairness and accuracy, and members are notified in advance.
Members have the right to request information about their rate classification and service rules at any RGEC office. Transparency is a core value of the Cooperative, and we encourage members to reach out with questions or concerns. RGEC also operates on a not-for-profit basis, meaning any excess revenue is returned to members through capital credits. These credits are retired periodically, depending on the Cooperative’s financial health and board approval.
The Email notification/ confirmation of ZOOM meeting had how to access from foreign countries. Does RGEC have foreign interests?
Thank you for your question. This is standard information provided for all Zoom meetings hosted on the Zoom platform.
What happened to the JOKE page in the monthly co-op monthly mag? You don't even have the tumble weed cartoon on the back page. I miss them.
Thank you for your questions Mr. LaFever. The joke page and Tumble Weed cartoon were features in Ranch and Rural Living Magazine. In 2024, the Co-op transitioned to using Texas Co-op Power Magazine which is why you no longer see these pages.