Submitted by Orcas Power & Light Cooperative.

It’s that time of year when OPALCO members step up to run for the board of directors. Nominations are now open for the 2025 election. There are three positions open: one in District 1 (San Juan, et al.), one in District 3 (Lopez, et al.), and one in District 4 (Shaw, et al.).

Co-op directors are paid a stipend for their time, and OPALCO provides industry training. OPALCO has seven board positions in four districts who are elected for three-year terms, with elections staggered. As a nonprofit cooperative, having a democratically elected board is key to the structure of the organization. All members vote for all positions, regardless of their home district.

Members of the co-op from all backgrounds and representing all identities are encouraged to apply. The co-op values all kinds of experience and skill sets: you do not need to be an engineer or have previous experience with utilities. Our organization includes business management, finance and accounting, legal, insurance, benefits, education and training, marketing, technology, public policy, construction, procurement, engineering, design, project management, permitting and operations. If you have expertise in any of these areas or other pertinent experience, you may be a good fit!

There are two ways to be nominated to the OPALCO Board – by committee or by petition. Candidates must be a resident of the district in which they plan to apply, be a member in good standing, be over the age of 18 and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Applications by committee are due by Jan. 21 at noon; applications by petition are due Feb. 15 at noon. The full list of candidates will be posted on Feb. 28. Check out the timeline and eligibility criteria at www.opalco.com/why-run.

Being an OPALCO Board member is a powerful way you can make a difference in your community. You can help shape our energy future by weighing in on important decisions that affect the quality of life in San Juan County. OPALCO also has an Elections and Governance Committee that helps cultivate candidates for the OPALCO Board. There are open seats for the Elections and Governance Committee. Email communications@opalco.com if you are interested.