NERC defines the bulk power system (BPS) as the facilities and control systems necessary to operate an interconnected electric energy transmission network (or any portion thereof) and transmit electric energy from generation facilities. It's important to note that the term does not include facilities used in the local electric power distribution, providing a clear and precise definition.

First Electric Cooperative, as a distribution utility, is an integral part of the electricity supply chain.

Our role is significant, even though we do not own or have operational control over any power plants or power-generating facilities. First Electric and the other electric cooperatives in Arkansas purchase their electricity requirements directly from Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corporation (AECC). AECC, a generation and transmission company, supplies wholesale electricity to all seventeen distribution cooperatives in Arkansas. AECC participates in two regional transmission organizations (RTOs): Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) and the Southwest Power Pool (SPP).