Below are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding membership and service with HOEC.
Q: I am moving into your service area. How do I set up electrical service?
A: You will need to visit our office to complete a Service Contract. Information you will need to bring with you includes the following:
The location number, found on a tag (either silver or black & yellow) on the electrical pole on the property (if a pole already exists)
The name of the nearest neighbor with electrical service (if there is no pole on the property)
The physical address for the location, along with your mailing address
Your photo ID, such as a driver's license
Your Social Security Number, as well as the SSN of your spouse if the service is to be in both names
A credit reference letter for the previous 12 months from your former utility, if applicable
Q: Are there any deposits or fees when obtaining service?
A: The following fees and deposits may apply (to be determined by Customer Service when you come in to sign up for service):
Membership & meter deposit with a favorable utility credit reference of the previous 12 months: $60.00
Membership & meter deposit without a favorable utility credit reference: $250.00 minimum
Service Installation Fee: $120.00
Deposit for any additional meter with a favorable utility credit reference: no deposit required
Deposit for any additional meter without a favorable utility credit reference: $250.00 minimum
Meter connection outside of regular working hours (applies to evenings, weekends and holidays): $125.00
Q: What is the "Service Availability" line on my bill?
A: Service Availability is the minimum monthly amount charged to each meter. This is not a new charge; it was previously included in the Energy Charge amount on billing statements, but is now listed separately (as of June 2024). The fee helps your Cooperative recover a portion of the fixed costs of delivering power to you, including maintaining the poles, lines, transformers, and meter equipment at your location, as well as billing and administrative costs. These costs are incurred even if no electricity is used. The separate lines on your statement allow you to more easily see the actual cost of your usage.
Q: I am moving. How do I transfer my service to another address?
A: Stop by our office and complete a Service Contract for your new address and a Disconnect Service Form for your old address.
Q: How do I update the information you have about me?
A: You may telephone our Customer Service Department at (417) 256-2131 or toll-free 1-888-HOE-POWER, or you may e-mail us: 
Q: How do I get Howell-Oregon Electric Cooperative to check my service, trim trees, or perform other maintenance?
A: You may telephone our Customer Service Department at (417) 256-2131 or toll-free 1-888-HOE-POWER, or you may e-mail us:
Q: Does Howell-Oregon work on electrical wiring inside my home?
A: Howell-Oregon maintains and repairs all items up to the meter. We recommend seeking a qualified electrician to review any concerns about inside wiring.
Q: I am interested in adding solar or wind power generation devices to my home; what do you suggest?
A: First, you should download and view this flyer regarding commonly asked questions and costs for installing a solar solution. Also, you will need to review the information in the Co-Generation Agreement. It is very important that this document be completed and submitted for approval before you connect any generating devices to any location receiving power from the Howell-Oregon Electric system. You can find more info solar or wind power generation, including calculators of solar energy cost and maps of wind power potential, on these pages:
Q: I have a unique question and need individual help, what do I do?
A: We would be happy to help you with whatever you need. You may telephone our Customer Service Department at (417) 256-2131 or toll-free 1-888-HOE-POWER, or you may e-mail us:
