In the spring of 1998, electric cooperatives around the United States launched Touchstone Energy®, a brand alliance initiative conceived to strengthen co-ops during a period of unprecedented industry change. Electric cooperatives are celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Touchstone Energy brand during 2008.

Touchstone Energy is a national alliance made up of more than 660 local, consumer-owned electric cooperatives in 46 states. Touchstone Energy co-ops collectively deliver power and energy solutions to more than 30 million members every day. Electric cooperatives distribute power for 75 percent of the U.S. land mass over 2.4 million miles of power lines.

Electric cooperatives were established to provide electricity to rural America, and now make up the largest electric utility network in the nation. Touchstone Energy is the national brand identity for that network.

Touchstone Energy cooperatives serve their customers with four core values:

• Integrity
• Accountability
• Innovation, and
• Commitment to community.

Hoosier Energy is proud to serve as a regional partner for 16 member systems who are local Touchstone Energy affiliates.

The nationwide network provides added value and benefits for all electric cooperative consumers. At the same time, Touchstone Energy cooperatives retain a strong local presence and ties to community that have been lost by most investor-owned utilities.

For more information about Touchstone Energy and the unique role of electric cooperatives, visit the national Touchstone Energy Website.