About TEC
Powering Our Communities. Connecting Our Future.
Thumb Electric Cooperative (TEC) is more than an electric utility — we are a member-owned, mission-driven cooperative rooted in the heart of Michigan’s Thumb region. Since our founding in 1938, TEC has been dedicated to delivering safe, reliable, and affordable electric power to homes, farms, and businesses across Huron, Sanilac, and Tuscola counties.
What began as a cooperative effort to bring electricity to rural communities has grown into a modern utility serving approximately 12,500 electric members — and counting. We’re proud of our heritage and the values that shaped us: community, reliability, and service.
OUR HISTORY
A Cooperative Born from Community
TEC was founded in 1937 as part of the national rural electrification movement — an initiative that empowered everyday people to form cooperatives and bring power to rural areas underserved by traditional utilities. Our members built this organization, and today, they continue to guide it. Every decision we make is for their benefit.
Over the decades, we've evolved with the needs of our region. What hasn't changed is our commitment to putting people first.
EXPANDING OUR MISSION
High-Speed Fiber Internet
In 2021, recognizing a growing digital divide in our rural communities, TEC began offering high-speed fiber internet to bring the same standard of reliability and service to broadband as we do with electric power. This expansion came in response to member demand and our mission to improve quality of life in the Thumb region.
Today, an increasing number of our members are connected to TEC Fiber — a fast, dependable internet service designed to support everything from remote work and learning to smart home technology and streaming.
Whether we’re powering your home or connecting your devices, TEC is committed to building a future where rural communities aren’t left behind.
Who We Serve
Electric Services: Serving approximately 12,500 member accounts across three counties, TEC maintains a robust infrastructure of lines, substations, and crews who work year-round to ensure reliable power delivery.
Fiber Internet Services: A growing number of members are enjoying lightning-fast connectivity through TEC Fiber, with service areas expanding as infrastructure is developed. To learn more about our fiber internet services and availability, click here.
What We Stand For
Community First: We live and work here too — we're invested in the prosperity and well-being of our neighbors.
Innovation with Purpose: From advanced metering to renewable energy planning, we look ahead with smart, practical solutions.
Transparency and Trust: Clear communication and accountability guide how we operate.
Looking Ahead
We are proud of where we’ve been — and excited for where we’re going. With electric and fiber internet services working side by side, TEC continues to evolve, delivering the essential services our members need to thrive in today’s world.
Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected Thumb region.