About Us

Vision & Goals

Vision

In a thriving integrated co-op economy, OREC is a significant leader in providing Eastern Ontario with clean, community financed energy that has transformed the region to 100 percent renewable energy.

Goals

The Co-op’s goals are:

• Generate decentralized renewable energy in Eastern Ontario. By 2020, own a full range of renewable energy generating sources across Eastern Ontario.
• Create a democratic, self-reliant, environmentally, socially and financially sustainable co-operative business model for community power in Eastern Ontario. By 2020, increase membership to 5,000 from all parts of Eastern Ontario.
• Provide a fair return to residents of Eastern Ontario who wish to invest in local renewable energy production and energy efficiency. Pay the best possible dividend yearly on co-operative member equity investments.
• Increase the accessibility of investments options and awareness of renewable energy production and energy efficiency. Be a strong voice in Eastern Ontario for renewable energy through education, workshops, social media, and advocacy.
• Advocate for hospitable policy climates that facilitate community owned and financed renewable energy and other forms of sustainable technology in Eastern Ontario.
• Partner with other organizations, companies, and government agencies to achieve our vision. Work with the City of Ottawa on a 100 percent renewable city strategy. As part of the Ottawa Co-op Network, help build and finance a thriving co-operative social economy in Eastern Ontario and a social finance support and finding portal.

Governance & Policies

Our Governance

• OREC’s projects are democratically governed through a co-operative model, which strengthens community engagement.
• Members of OREC are residents of Eastern Ontario older than 16 who have purchased a member share and whose membership has been approved by the board of directors. Every member has one vote and may run for a position on the board.
• The Board is made up of up to seventeen directors who are elected by the members at the annual general meeting. Directors serve for three-year terms and are not remunerated. The Co-op holds director and officer insurance for the activites of the board. The board is responsible for contracts, projects, reserve funds, dividends and surplus distribution, and borrowing.
• Advisory committees have been formed to advise the board on business, technical, and communication issues.
• OREC is incorporated as a Renewable Energy Co-operative with share capital under Ontario’s Co-operative Corporations Act and operates under Bylaws that are reviewed by the membership at each Annual General Meeting.