Bandera Electric Cooperative (BEC) was honored with the prestigious Outstanding Cooperative of the Year award at the 21st annual Texas Energy Summit, a key event aimed at advancing clean energy initiatives, energy efficiency, and public health improvements throughout Texas. The award recognizes BEC’s significant contributions to environmental sustainability, including efforts in clean air, renewable energy, and energy efficiency that directly benefit its members and the surrounding communities.
The Texas Energy Summit, organized by the Energy Systems Laboratory at Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station, serves as a critical gathering of industry experts, policymakers, business leaders, and researchers. It focuses on clean energy solutions such as electrification and renewable energy, with the goal of achieving cleaner air and fostering a stronger Texas economy. The Summit has a long history of recognizing organizations that lead the way in reducing environmental impact and enhancing energy efficiency.
BEC's recognition is a reflection of its innovative programs that promote sustainability and energy efficiency. Among these programs are solar power adoption, battery storage solutions, and energy management services, all aimed at improving environmental quality and delivering reliable, affordable energy to its members.
John Padalino, BEC’s Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel, expressed his pride in receiving the award: "I was honored to speak at this year’s Summit for the second time and was thrilled to accept this award on behalf of Bandera Electric Cooperative. This recognition is a testament to our members and their commitment to building a sustainable future. We thank the Texas Energy Summit for celebrating the hard work and vision of cooperatives like ours."
BEC’s commitment to sustainable energy extends beyond clean power generation. The cooperative also leads efforts in energy efficiency, helping members reduce costs through innovative programs and expanding renewable energy options.
The award underscores BEC’s ongoing dedication to offering affordable, reliable, sustainable energy solutions which supports the economic health of local communities and the environment. Through its work, BEC continues to set a high standard for cooperatives across the state.
About Bandera Electric
Established in 1938, Bandera Electric Cooperative (BEC) is a member-owned cooperative dedicated to providing exceptional service and innovative solutions to its members. Serving over 29,000 members and delivering electric service to 40,000 meters, BEC operates within a seven-county territory in the picturesque Texas Hill Country. With a steadfast commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its members, BEC has pioneered a range of advanced programs. Since 2017, BEC has expanded its services to include fiber-optic broadband internet, ensuring high-speed connectivity for its rural communities. Additionally, BEC offers comprehensive behind-the-meter energy solutions, including Apolloware, an advanced, real-time energy management platform, solar power installations, and energy storage systems. For more information, visit BanderaElectric.com or call 866.226.3372.