island life

Join OPALCO

We are here to help you keep the lights on

Become a memberStop or move service

Start, Stop or Move Service

Everything you need to know to get started.

Benefits of Joining the Co-op

When you join the co-op, you aren’t just signing up for electric service, you’re part of a community of over 11,000 members in the San Juan Islands

Save Money class="wrapper">

YOU OWN IT!

All co-op members receive capital credits which represent your ownership in the co-op.

Go Electric class="wrapper">

Island-Wide Community

Serving over 20 islands throughout San Juan County – OPALCO keeps you up-to-date on the latest news regarding all things electric with our monthly newsletter.

Get Forms class="wrapper">

Have a Say

As a member-owner, you’ll get to vote in the annual Board of Directors election. The Board sets policy, rates and the direction of the co-op.

Renewable Energy class="wrapper">

We Care!

As a locally owned and operated cooperative, we are committed to safe, reliable, sustainable and cost-effective power for islanders just like you!

Our Impact

~11,000

members

20+

islands

~1259

miles of powerlines (87% underground)

50

island employees

~15,000

meters

7

board members from 4 districts

The Cooperative Difference

We are a member-owned, non-profit cooperative utility providing energy services to San Juan County since 1937. Our power is mostly carbon-free hydropower delivered to the islands by way of submarine cables.

Learn more about OPALCO
powerlines ferry

What we share is stronger than what we face.

Become a Member

Follow these steps:

Become a Member class="wrapper">

Become a Member

Get Forms class="wrapper">

Email Application

Email your complete application to memberservicesteam@opalco.com.

Pay Your Bill class="wrapper">

Pay Fees and Deposits

$5.00 membership fee
Non-refundable $25.00 service charge
Deposit may be required

Start a New Service

Step 1

Become a member. Fill out an application for membership.

Step 2

Review and submit theNew Construction Application and New Service GuidelinesThis information helps OPALCO determine the size, type, location and availability of equipment needed for your service.

Step 3

Locate and stake all property lines and corners prior to a site visit. This information is important in determining whether easements are necessary. Failure to identify property boundaries may result in an OPALCO charge for the site visit.

Step 4

Schedule a site visit with OPALCO Engineering and the responsible party or designated representative. Site visits by OPALCO engineers can be scheduled for Tuesday through Thursday only and should be scheduled two weeks in advance to make sure we have staff available. Replies to written correspondence may take four to six weeks.

Stop or Move Service

Member Services Representatives can help you stop service, arrange for billing changes, or assist you with moving a service. Call (360) 376-3500. 

happy helper

FAQs

Find our membership forms and info about how to become a co-op member on our Join OPALCO page. The membership fee to join the co-op is $5 – just like it was in 1937 when we got started. Call our member services office if you have more questions at 360.376.3500.

A member service representative can help you stop, move or change your electric service.

Eligibility for Energy Assist is not based on income, but simply participation in other programs that serve low-income households.  If you participate in a program that is not listed on the application, please contact us to see if you qualify.  If you do not participate in any other programs, we encourage you to contact your local family resource center to find out where you may qualify for help.

Check out the latest news from the co-op

Includes member stories, energy savings tricks and all things electric.

quinoa scaled

Providing a Different Perspective

Local author and co-op member uses art to explore agriculture and climate change in his latest book Robert Dash is an OPALCO member, educator, and self-taught photographer who lives in … Read more
earthbox cover

Island Efficiency

A Local Business makes the Switch to Ductless Heatpumps One of the many things that makes the San Juan Islands so special is the rich culture of small and family-owned … Read more
solar

OPALCO Explores Solar Expansion on Decatur Island

OPALCO is looking to build local renewable power generation to offset potential power shortfalls due to the lack of needed energy supply from the mainland. Blackouts or very expensive carbon-based … Read more
Become a Member
Join OPALCO
Contact us
Get in touch
Sign up for our Newsletter
Stay in the know