The Salt River Project (SRP) is a community-based, not-for-profit organization that provides reliable, affordable and sustainable water and energy to over 2 million people in central Arizona. But what does it really mean to be a not-for-profit organization?
Not-for-profit vs for-profit
SRP does not have or answer to financial stakeholders or investors. This is what sets us apart as one of the only not-for-profit public utilities in Arizona. SRP was established to serve the community’s needs without the goal of generating profit for shareholders or paying out dividends. Any surplus revenue that we generate is reinvested directly back into our organization to improve services, infrastructure and customer and community programs.
Because of our not-for-profit status, we are also able to offer lower rates to our customers compared to other utilities. SRP’s price per kilowatt (kWh) averages 20% lower than other major electrical utilities in Arizona, based on data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). We prioritize the communities we serve and the satisfaction of our customers. As a community-based not-for-profit, every decision we make is in support of our customers.
Not-for-profit vs nonprofit
Although these terms not-for-profit and nonprofit are often used interchangeably, they do not mean the same thing. While nonprofit organizations, which includes charities, educational institutions and hospitals, are established to serve the good of the public, a not-for-profit is intended to serve the best interest of its customers.
Another difference is that nonprofits generate revenue through donations grants and other fundraising efforts. A not-for-profit generates revenue from customer payments and reinvests it back into serving its customers.
Financial accountability
The SRP Board & Council are elected officials dedicated to meeting the changing water and power needs of our customers. They hold a crucial role in financial oversight of our organization. They review financial reports, approve budgets and ensure that financial practices align with the mission and goals of SRP.
An important measure approved by the SRP Board & Council are the SRP 2035 Sustainability Goals. They are evaluated every five years to make sure they continue to meet the evolving needs of the Valley.
Reinvesting for the future
SRP’s annual contributions of more than $4.7 million include donations to nonprofits, including solar panel covered parking structures, grants for educators and materials for classrooms and energy efficiency rebates for customers to name a few.
To this day, we’re an integral part of the community, working together with the customers we serve to donate more than $4.7 M a year back to our communities.
As an organization, SRP has been a proud, contributing member of Arizona’s community for over a century. We’re committed to ensuring dependable water and power now and for generations to come.