At Todd-Wadena Electric Cooperative, our members are at the center of every decision we make. That is why your participation in our recent Member Survey is so important. I want to thank everyone who took the time to share feedback—it provides valuable insight that helps guide the work of our employees and Board of Directors.
What the Survey Tells Us
The results of the 2025 Member Survey show strong overall satisfaction with Todd-Wadena Electric Cooperative. Members rated their overall satisfaction at 4.59 out of 5, and nearly three-quarters reported being “Very Satisfied.” Additionally, members rated how well the cooperative meets expectations at 4.41 out of 5. These results confirm that we are delivering reliable service while maintaining the cooperative values our members expect.
Reliability continues to be one of our greatest strengths. Members consistently rated us highly for keeping outages to a minimum, restoring power quickly when outages occur, and being easy to reach when assistance is needed. Many comments specifically recognized the dedication of our lineworkers and employees who respond day and night to keep power flowing safely and reliably.
Our Employees Make the Difference
One of the most encouraging takeaways from the survey was the strong recognition of our employees. Members rated Todd-Wadena highly for professionalism, friendliness, problem resolution, and for having members’ best interests at heart. Comments such as “great people,” “always helpful,” and “quick to respond” were common throughout the survey. These results reflect the dedication of our employees and their commitment to serving members every day.
Affordability Matters
While overall satisfaction remains high, the survey clearly reinforced that affordable rates are the top priority for our members. When asked to choose what is most important to them, affordable rates ranked first, ahead of reliability, capital credits, equity, renewable energy, and community involvement.
Rising costs were the most frequently mentioned concern throughout the survey, along with questions about the service availability fee (formerly called the basic charge fee), rate comparisons, and capital credits. These concerns are understood and taken seriously. The Board of Directors and leadership team continuously evaluate costs, power supply options, and long-term financial planning to balance reliability with affordability. Member feedback plays a critical role in those discussions.
Communication and Education
Members also shared what they value in communication. The Pine to Prairie newsletter and bill inserts remain the primary ways members stay informed. Survey responses showed strong interest in continued education on legislative issues, load management programs, and electrical safety.
We also heard a desire for clearer explanations around rates, power supply, and capital credits. Improving transparency and understanding will remain a key focus of our communications moving forward. Members also wanted to see more updates on power outages. We utilize Todd-Wadena Electric Cooperative’s Facebook page to alert our members of large-scale power outages (outages affecting 100 people or more).
Using Your Feedback to Guide the Future
Survey results are reviewed by staff and shared directly with the Board of Directors. They help shape the future, guide policy discussions, and inform decisions that impact both current operations and long-term planning.
Your feedback confirms that Todd-Wadena Electric Cooperative is providing reliable service with a strong commitment to our members, but it also reminds us to stay focused on affordability, transparency, and continued engagement.
On behalf of the Board, employees, and leadership team, thank you for sharing your thoughts and helping shape the future of Todd-Wadena Electric Cooperative. We are proud to serve you, and committed to listening.
Allison Frederickson
Member & Energy Services Manager
