Dakota Electric Association (DEA) was founded in 1937 by a group of farmers, with the help of the Rural Electric Association. On April 5, 1937, articles were adopted and Dakota Electric was incorporated. On Monday, Feb. 21, 1938, the lights came on in rural Dakota County. At that time, DEA covered 240 miles and served 800 members. DEA has grown considerably since its humble beginnings, now covering 500 miles and serving more than 107,000 members. Because Dakota County cities are growing rapidly, Dakota Electric Association acquires approximately 1,100 new members each year.