Córdoba electric cooperatives demand tariff equity amid service disputes

Electric cooperatives in Córdoba, Argentina, are advocating for greater tariff equity and defending the cooperative model against challenges to their service provision. The Association Coordinating of Regional Councils of Córdoba (FECOSI) highlighted the structural disadvantages cooperatives face compared to the Provincial Energy Company of Córdoba (EPEC). While EPEC serves 70% of users in 30% of the territory, cooperatives serve approximately 30% of users across 70% of the province, requiring the maintenance of extensive infrastructure in low-density rural areas.

This debate has intensified due to a specific conflict in Anisacate, where the local municipality and some residents have proposed replacing the local cooperative with EPEC to potentially reduce electricity bills. In response, three major federations—FACE, FECESCOR, and FECOSI—have issued statements supporting the cooperative model. They argue that cooperatives are essential for local development and territorial rights, emphasizing that their rates are regulated by provincial authorities and the Public Services Regulatory Entity (ERSeP) rather than being set unilaterally.