What are Capital Credits?

Capital credits represent each member’s ownership in the Co-op. OPALCO does not earn profits. Instead, revenues over and above the cost of doing business are called “margins.” Margins represent an interest-free loan for operating capital made to the cooperative by the membership. Capital credits are returned to members on a 25-year cycle. For example, in 2008, OPALCO retired the capital credits allocated in 1983. The decision to issue capital credits is made by our Board of Directors after a thorough examination of the financial position of the Co-op at year’s end. Your capital credit amount is allocated each summer (see it on your bill) and checks are mailed at year-end.