Black River Electric Cooperative was formed February 25, 1938, to provide electricity to a service area that encompasses the southeast Missouri counties of Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Dent, Iron, Madison, Perry, Reynolds, Shannon, St. Francois and Wayne.

BREC is owned by the members it serves.  In a true democratic process, the nine-member Board of Directors is chosen by a vote of the Cooperative's membership.  In addition, any changes to the Cooperative's bylaws must be approved by a general vote of the membership.  Voting takes place at the BREC annual meeting.

There are many benefits of being a cooperative member in addition to the voting process.  Financial benefits include the return of margins, or excess revenues, in the form of capital credits to members.  Due to the lack of a profit motive, BREC members enjoy quality electric service at a very competitive rate.

Since its inception in 1938, the Cooperative has grown and currently provides electricity to over 4,160 miles of energized line in a 3,000 square mile region.  BREC employees are on call seven days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to ensure reliable service to members.