A Co-operative society operates much like a traditional limited company except that the voting rights are distributed equally amongst the members, regardless of the number of shares held. Four Winds Energy Co-op is a registered Society under the Co-operative & Community Benefits Society Act 2014 with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Its registered number is
As such it is a Co-operative owned by and managed for the benefit of its Members, who are protected by limited liability status. Its constitution is in the form of Rules registered with the FCA.
Co-operative Values & Principles:
Self help and Self-responsibility
Democracy and equality
Honesty and Openness
Social responsibility
Autonomy and Independence
Member economic participation
Opportunities for Education
Concern for Community
Co-operation among Co-operatives
Key characteristics of Four Winds Energy Co-operative Co-op:
A single class of shares with a nominal value of ₤1
All Members have one vote regardless of how many shares they hold
No Member, except another co-operative, may hold more than 100,000 shares
The Board is elected by the Members
Only Members are eligible to serve on the Board.
The objects of the Four Winds Energy Co-operatives Co-op:
To carry on as a bona fide Co-operative, for the benefit of its members, the business of the development, management, generation, transmission and supply of electricity from renewable energy sources;
The conservation of energy through advice on energy efficiency including energy efficient products and the supply of energy efficient products and such other activities of a general commercial company as the members shall agree by amendment to these Rules from time to time;
The promotion of awareness of environmental and related issues and support for educational initiatives related to renewable energy.
Governance
Governance of the Four Winds Energy Co-op is vested in the Board. The Board shall be elected each year at or by postal ballot prior to the Annual General Meeting.
