Form990
Click to see attachment
Department of the TreasuryInternal Revenue Service
Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax
Under section 501(c), 527, or 4947(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code (except private
foundations)
MediumBullet Do not enter social security numbers on this form as it may be made public.
MediumBullet Information about Form 990 and its instructions is at www.IRS.gov/form990.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public Inspection
A For the 2015 calendar year, or tax year beginning 01-01-2015 , and ending 12-31-2015
BCheck if applicable:
CName of organization
DAKOTA ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION
 
 
Doing business as
 
 
Number and street (or P.O. box if mail is not delivered to street address)
4300 220TH STREET W
 
Room/suite
City or town, state or province, country, and ZIP or foreign postal code
FARMINGTON, MN55024
D Employer identification number

41-0212180
E Telephone number

G Gross receipts $ 198,222,713
F Name and address of principal officer:
GREG MILLER
4300 220TH STREET W
FARMINGTON,MN55024
I
Tax-exempt status: ( 12 ) LeftBullet (insert no.) or
J
Website:MediumBullet
WWW.DAKOTAELECTRIC.COM
H(a)
Is this a group return for
subordinates?
H(b)
Are all subordinates
included?
If "No," attach a list. (see instructions)
H(c)
Group exemption number MediumBullet  
K Form of organization:  
L Year of formation: 1937
M State of legal domicile: MN
Part I
Summary
Activities & Governance 1 Briefly describe the organization’s mission or most significant activities: ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION COOP
2 Check this box MediumBullet
3 Number of voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1a) ........ 3 12
4 Number of independent voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1b) ..... 4 10
5 Total number of individuals employed in calendar year 2015 (Part V, line 2a) ...... 5 220
6 Total number of volunteers (estimate if necessary) ............. 6 0
7a Total unrelated business revenue from Part VIII, column (C), line 12 ........ 7a 93,232
b Net unrelated business taxable income from Form 990-T, line 34 ......... 7b -13,335
Revenues Prior Year Current Year
8 Contributions and grants (Part VIII, line 1h) ......... 0 0
9 Program service revenue (Part VIII, line 2g) ......... 209,036,285 197,818,045
10 Investment income (Part VIII, column (A), lines 3, 4, and 7d ) .... 151,725 136,113
11 Other revenue (Part VIII, column (A), lines 5, 6d, 8c, 9c, 10c, and 11e) 8,700 9,124
12 Total revenue—add lines 8 through 11 (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12) 209,196,710 197,963,282
Expenses; 13 Grants and similar amounts paid (Part IX, column (A), lines 1–3 )... 331,204 255,214
14 Benefits paid to or for members (Part IX, column (A), line 4)..... 2,361,160 3,067,073
15 Salaries, other compensation, employee benefits (Part IX, column (A), lines 5–10) 21,526,043 22,438,292
16a Professional fundraising fees (Part IX, column (A), line 11e) ..... 0 0
b Total fundraising expenses (Part IX, column (D), line 25) MediumBullet0    
17 Other expenses (Part IX, column (A), lines 11a–11d, 11f–24e).... 174,330,607 169,095,156
18 Total expenses. Add lines 13–17 (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) 198,549,014 194,855,735
19 Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 18 from line 12....... 10,647,696 3,107,547
Net Assets or Fund Balances; Beginning of Current Year End of Year
20 Total assets (Part X, line 16)............. 298,958,098 301,558,834
21 Total liabilities (Part X, line 26)............. 151,548,982 150,583,186
22 Net assets or fund balances. Subtract line 21 from line 20..... 147,409,116 150,975,648
Part II
Signature Block
Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return, including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete. Declaration of preparer (other than officer) is based on all information of which preparer has any knowledge.
Sign Here
JumboBullet
Signature of officer Date
JumboBullet
Type or print name and title
Paid Preparer Use Only
Print/Type preparer's name
Preparer's signature
Date
PTIN
Firm's name MediumBullet
Firm's EIN MediumBullet
Firm's address MediumBullet



Phone no.
May the IRS discuss this return with the preparer shown above? (see instructions) ..........
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the separate instructions.
Cat. No. 11282Y Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 2
Part III
Statement of Program Service Accomplishments
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part III ..............
1
Briefly describe the organization’s mission: WE ARE A MEMBER-OWNED, MEMBER-FOCUSED ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION COOPERATIVE, STRIVING TO EXCEED OUR MEMBER'S ENERGY EXPECTATIONS IN A CHANGING WORLD.
2
Did the organization undertake any significant program services during the year which were not listed on
the prior Form 990 or 990-EZ? .....................
If "Yes," describe these new services on Schedule O.
3
Did the organization cease conducting, or make significant changes in how it conducts, any program
services? ...........................
If "Yes," describe these changes on Schedule O.
4
Describe the organization’s program service accomplishments for each of its three largest program services, as measured by expenses. Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations are required to report the amount of grants and allocations to others, the total expenses, and revenue, if any, for each program service reported.
4a (Code:   ) (Expenses $   including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
PROVIDE ELECTRIC AND RELATED SERVICES AND PRODUCTS FOR APPROXIMATELY 104,000 MEMBERS/CUSTOMERS.
4b (Code:   ) (Expenses $   including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
4c (Code:   ) (Expenses $   including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
4d Other program services (Describe in Schedule O.)
(Expenses $   including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
4e Total program service expensesMediumBullet  
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 3
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules
Yes
No
1
Is the organization described in section 501(c)(3) or 4947(a)(1) (other than a private foundation)? If "Yes," complete Schedule A.....................
1
 
No
2
Is the organization required to complete Schedule B, Schedule of Contributors (see instructions)? ...
2
 
No
3
Did the organization engage in direct or indirect political campaign activities on behalf of or in opposition to candidates for public office? If "Yes," complete Schedule C, Part I.............
3
 
No
4
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization engage in lobbying activities, or have a section 501(h) election in effect during the tax year? If "Yes," complete Schedule C, Part II..............
4
 
 
5
Is the organization a section 501(c)(4), 501(c)(5), or 501(c)(6) organization that receives membership dues, assessments, or similar amounts as defined in Revenue Procedure 98-19? If "Yes," complete Schedule C, Part III.................
5
 
No
6
Did the organization maintain any donor advised funds or any similar funds or accounts for which donors have the right to provide advice on the distribution or investment of amounts in such funds or accounts? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part IClick to see attachment..................
6
 
No
7
Did the organization receive or hold a conservation easement, including easements to preserve open space,
the environment, historic land areas, or historic structures? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part IIClick to see attachment...
7
 
No
8
Did the organization maintain collections of works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part III Click to see attachment.............
8
 
No
9
Did the organization report an amount in Part X, line 21 for escrow or custodial account liability; serve as a custodian for amounts not listed in Part X; or provide credit counseling, debt management, credit repair, or debt negotiation services? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part IVClick to see attachment..............
9
Yes
 
10
Did the organization, directly or through a related organization, hold assets in temporarily restricted endowments, permanent endowments, or quasi-endowments? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part VClick to see attachment......
10
 
No
11
If the organization’s answer to any of the following questions is "Yes," then complete Schedule D, Parts VI, VII, VIII, IX, or X as applicable.
a
Did the organization report an amount for land, buildings, and equipment in Part X, line 10?
If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part VI.Click to see attachment...................
11a
Yes
 
b
Did the organization report an amount for investments—other securities in Part X, line 12 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part VIIClick to see attachment.......
11b
 
No
c
Did the organization report an amount for investments—program related in Part X, line 13 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part VIIIClick to see attachment.......
11c
Yes
 
d
Did the organization report an amount for other assets in Part X, line 15 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part IXClick to see attachment............
11d
 
No
e
Did the organization report an amount for other liabilities in Part X, line 25? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part XClick to see attachment
11e
Yes
 
f
Did the organization’s separate or consolidated financial statements for the tax year include a footnote that addresses the organization’s liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC 740)? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part XClick to see attachment
11f
Yes
 
12a
Did the organization obtain separate, independent audited financial statements for the tax year?
If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Parts XI and XII Click to see attachment.................
12a
 
No
b
Was the organization included in consolidated, independent audited financial statements for the tax year? If "Yes," and if the organization answered "No" to line 12a, then completing Schedule D, Parts XI and XII is optional Click to see attachment
12b
Yes
 
13
Is the organization a school described in section 170(b)(1)(A)(ii)? If "Yes," complete Schedule E
13
 
No
14a
Did the organization maintain an office, employees, or agents outside of the United States? .....
14a
 
No
b
Did the organization have aggregate revenues or expenses of more than $10,000 from grantmaking, fundraising, business, investment, and program service activities outside the United States, or aggregate foreign investments valued at $100,000 or more? If "Yes," complete Schedule F, Parts I and IV.........
14b
 
No
15
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of grants or other assistance to or for any foreign organization? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Parts II and IV.....
15
 
No
16
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of aggregate grants or other assistance to or for foreign individuals? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Parts III and IV...
16
 
No
17
Did the organization report a total of more than $15,000 of expenses for professional fundraising services on Part IX, column (A), lines 6 and 11e? If "Yes," complete Schedule G, Part I (see instructions) ....
17
 
No
18
Did the organization report more than $15,000 total of fundraising event gross income and contributions on Part VIII, lines 1c and 8a? If "Yes," complete Schedule G, Part II............
18
 
No
19
Did the organization report more than $15,000 of gross income from gaming activities on Part VIII, line 9a? If "Yes," complete Schedule G, Part III...................
19
 
No
20a
Did the organization operate one or more hospital facilities? If "Yes," complete Schedule H....
20a
 
No
b
If "Yes" to line 20a, did the organization attach a copy of its audited financial statements to this return?
20b
 
 
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 4
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules (continued)
21
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants or other assistance to any domestic organization or domestic government on Part IX, column (A), line 1? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and II.....Click to see attachment
21
Yes
 
22
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants or other assistance to or for domestic individuals on Part IX, column (A), line 2? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and III........Click to see attachment
22
 
No
23
Did the organization answer "Yes" to Part VII, Section A, line 3, 4, or 5 about compensation of the organization’s current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees? If "Yes," complete Schedule J....................... Click to see attachment
23
Yes
 
24a
Did the organization have a tax-exempt bond issue with an outstanding principal amount of more than $100,000 as of the last day of the year, that was issued after December 31, 2002? If “Yes,” answer lines 24b through 24d and complete Schedule K. If “No,” go to line 25a...............
24a
 
No
b
Did the organization invest any proceeds of tax-exempt bonds beyond a temporary period exception?...
24b
 
 
c
Did the organization maintain an escrow account other than a refunding escrow at any time during the year
to defease any tax-exempt bonds? ...............
24c
 
 
d
Did the organization act as an "on behalf of" issuer for bonds outstanding at any time during the year?...
24d
 
 
25a
Section 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(29) organizations. Did the organization engage in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person during the year? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part I............
25a
 
 
b
Is the organization aware that it engaged in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person in a prior year, and that the transaction has not been reported on any of the organization’s prior Forms 990 or 990-EZ? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part I ...................
25b
 
 
26
Did the organization report any amount on Part X, line 5, 6, or 22 for receivables from or payables to any current or former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, highest compensated employees, or disqualified persons? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part II ................Click to see attachment
26
 
No
27
Did the organization provide a grant or other assistance to an officer, director, trustee, key employee, substantial contributor or employee thereof, a grant selection committee member, or to a 35% controlled entity or family member of any of these persons? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part III......... Click to see attachment
27
 
No
28
Was the organization a party to a business transaction with one of the following parties (see Schedule L, Part IV instructions for applicable filing thresholds, conditions, and exceptions):
a
A current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If "Yes," complete Schedule L,
Part IV ........................Click to see attachment
28a
 
No
b
A family member of a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part IV.....................Click to see attachment
28b
 
No
c
An entity of which a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee (or a family member thereof) was an officer, director, trustee, or direct or indirect owner? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part IV... Click to see attachment
28c
Yes
 
29
Did the organization receive more than $25,000 in non-cash contributions? If "Yes," complete Schedule M..
29
 
No
30
Did the organization receive contributions of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets, or qualified conservation contributions? If "Yes," complete Schedule M .............
30
 
No
31
Did the organization liquidate, terminate, or dissolve and cease operations? If "Yes," complete Schedule N, Part I.
31
 
No
32
Did the organization sell, exchange, dispose of, or transfer more than 25% of its net assets? If "Yes," complete Schedule N, Part II ...........
32
 
No
33
Did the organization own 100% of an entity disregarded as separate from the organization under Regulations sections 301.7701-2 and 301.7701-3? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part I ........Click to see attachment
33
 
No
34
Was the organization related to any tax-exempt or taxable entity? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part II, III, or IV, and Part V, line 1.........................Click to see attachment
34
Yes
 
35a
Did the organization have a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)?
35a
Yes
 
b
If ‘Yes’ to line 35a, did the organization receive any payment from or engage in any transaction with a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2 ...
35b
 
 
36
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization make any transfers to an exempt non-charitable related organization? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2.............
36
 
 
37
Did the organization conduct more than 5% of its activities through an entity that is not a related organization and that is treated as a partnership for federal income tax purposes? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part VIClick to see attachment
37
 
No
38
Did the organization complete Schedule O and provide explanations in Schedule O for Part VI, lines 11b and 19? Note. All Form 990 filers are required to complete Schedule O. ............
38
Yes
 
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 5
Part V
Statements Regarding Other IRS Filings and Tax Compliance
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part V...........
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number reported in Box 3 of Form 1096 Enter -0- if not applicable ..
1a
97
b
Enter the number of Forms W-2G included in line 1a. Enter -0- if not applicable .
1b
0
c
Did the organization comply with backup withholding rules for reportable payments to vendors and reportable gaming (gambling) winnings to prize winners? ..................
1c
 
 
2a
Enter the number of employees reported on Form W-3, Transmittal of Wage and
Tax Statements, filed for the calendar year ending with or within the year covered by this return ..................
2a
220
b
If at least one is reported on line 2a, did the organization file all required federal employment tax returns?
Note. If the sum of lines 1a and 2a is greater than 250, you may be required to e-file (see instructions)
2b
Yes
 
3a
Did the organization have unrelated business gross income of $1,000 or more during the year?...
3a
Yes
 
b
If “Yes,” has it filed a Form 990-T for this year? If “No” to line 3b, provide an explanation in Schedule O...
3b
Yes
 
4a
At any time during the calendar year, did the organization have an interest in, or a signature or other authority over, a financial account in a foreign country (such as a bank account, securities account, or other financial account)? ..
4a
 
No
b
If "Yes," enter the name of the foreign country: MediumBullet
See instructions for filing requirements for FinCEN Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR).
5a
Was the organization a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction at any time during the tax year? ..
5a
 
No
b
Did any taxable party notify the organization that it was or is a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction?
5b
 
No
c
If "Yes," to line 5a or 5b, did the organization file Form 8886-T? ............
5c
 
 
6a
Does the organization have annual gross receipts that are normally greater than $100,000, and did the organization solicit any contributions that were not tax deductible as charitable contributions? ...
6a
 
No
b
If "Yes," did the organization include with every solicitation an express statement that such contributions or gifts were not tax deductible? ......................
6b
 
 
7
Organizations that may receive deductible contributions under section 170(c).
a
Did the organization receive a payment in excess of $75 made partly as a contribution and partly for goods and services provided to the payor? ....................
7a
 
 
b
If "Yes," did the organization notify the donor of the value of the goods or services provided? .....
7b
 
 
c
Did the organization sell, exchange, or otherwise dispose of tangible personal property for which it was required to file Form 8282? .........................
7c
 
 
d
If "Yes," indicate the number of Forms 8282 filed during the year ....
7d
 
e
Did the organization receive any funds, directly or indirectly, to pay premiums on a personal benefit contract?
7e
 
 
f
Did the organization, during the year, pay premiums, directly or indirectly, on a personal benefit contract? ..
7f
 
 
g
If the organization received a contribution of qualified intellectual property, did the organization file Form 8899 as required? ......................
7g
 
 
h
If the organization received a contribution of cars, boats, airplanes, or other vehicles, did the organization file a Form 1098-C? ..........................
7h
 
 
8
Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds.
Did a donor advised fund maintained by the sponsoring organization have excess business holdings at any time during the year? .........................
8
 
 
9a
Did the sponsoring organization make any taxable distributions under section 4966?...
9a
 
 
b
Did the sponsoring organization make a distribution to a donor, donor advisor, or related person?...
9b
 
 
10
Section 501(c)(7) organizations. Enter:
a
Initiation fees and capital contributions included on Part VIII, line 12 ...
10a
 
b
Gross receipts, included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, for public use of club facilities
10b
 
11
Section 501(c)(12) organizations. Enter:
a
Gross income from members or shareholders .........
11a
194,754,719
b
Gross income from other sources (Do not net amounts due or paid to other sources against amounts due or received from them.) ..........
11b
1,183,688
12a
Section 4947(a)(1) non-exempt charitable trusts. Is the organization filing Form 990 in lieu of Form 1041?
12a
 
 
b
If "Yes," enter the amount of tax-exempt interest received or accrued during the year.
12b
 
13
Section 501(c)(29) qualified nonprofit health insurance issuers.
a
Is the organization licensed to issue qualified health plans in more than one state?
Note. See the instructions for additional information the organization must report on Schedule O.
13a
 
 
b
Enter the amount of reserves the organization is required to maintain by the states in which the organization is licensed to issue qualified health plans ....
13b
 
c
Enter the amount of reserves on hand ............
13c
 
14a
Did the organization receive any payments for indoor tanning services during the tax year?.....
14a
 
No
b
If "Yes," has it filed a Form 720 to report these payments? If "No," provide an explanation in Schedule O..
14b
 
 
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 6
Part VI
Governance, Management, and Disclosure For each "Yes" response to lines 2 through 7b below, and for a "No" response to lines 8a, 8b, or 10b below, describe the circumstances, processes, or changes in Schedule O. See instructions.
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part VI ..............
Section A. Governing Body and Management
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number of voting members of the governing body at the end of the tax year
1a
12
If there are material differences in voting rights among members of the governing body, or if the governing body delegated broad authority to an executive committee or similar committee, explain in Schedule O.
b
Enter the number of voting members included in line 1a, above, who are independent
1b
10
2
Did any officer, director, trustee, or key employee have a family relationship or a business relationship with any other officer, director, trustee, or key employee? .................
2
Yes
 
3
Did the organization delegate control over management duties customarily performed by or under the direct supervision of officers, directors or trustees, or key employees to a management company or other person? .
3
 
No
4
Did the organization make any significant changes to its governing documents since the prior Form 990 was filed? ...........................
4
 
No
5
Did the organization become aware during the year of a significant diversion of the organization’s assets? .
5
 
No
6
Did the organization have members or stockholders? ................
6
Yes
 
7a
Did the organization have members, stockholders, or other persons who had the power to elect or appoint one or more members of the governing body? ....................
7a
Yes
 
b
Are any governance decisions of the organization reserved to (or subject to approval by) members, stockholders, or persons other than the governing body? ...................
7b
Yes
 
8
Did the organization contemporaneously document the meetings held or written actions undertaken during the year by the following:
a
The governing body? .......................
8a
Yes
 
b
Each committee with authority to act on behalf of the governing body? ............
8b
 
No
9
Is there any officer, director, trustee, or key employee listed in Part VII, Section A, who cannot be reached at the organization’s mailing address? If "Yes," provide the names and addresses in Schedule O.......
9
 
No
Section B. Policies (This Section B requests information about policies not required by the Internal Revenue Code.)
Yes
No
10a
Did the organization have local chapters, branches, or affiliates? ............
10a
 
No
b
If "Yes," did the organization have written policies and procedures governing the activities of such chapters, affiliates, and branches to ensure their operations are consistent with the organization's exempt purposes?
10b
 
 
11a
Has the organization provided a complete copy of this Form 990 to all members of its governing body before filing the form? ............................
11a
Yes
 
b
Describe in Schedule O the process, if any, used by the organization to review this Form 990. .....
12a
Did the organization have a written conflict of interest policy? If "No," go to line 13.......
12a
Yes
 
b
Were officers, directors, or trustees, and key employees required to disclose annually interests that could give rise to conflicts? ..........................
12b
Yes
 
c
Did the organization regularly and consistently monitor and enforce compliance with the policy? If "Yes," describe in Schedule O how this was done...................
12c
 
No
13
Did the organization have a written whistleblower policy? ...............
13
Yes
 
14
Did the organization have a written document retention and destruction policy? .........
14
 
No
15
Did the process for determining compensation of the following persons include a review and approval by independent persons, comparability data, and contemporaneous substantiation of the deliberation and decision?
a
The organization’s CEO, Executive Director, or top management official ...........
15a
Yes
 
b
Other officers or key employees of the organization ................
15b
Yes
 
If "Yes" to line 15a or 15b, describe the process in Schedule O (see instructions).
16a
Did the organization invest in, contribute assets to, or participate in a joint venture or similar arrangement with a taxable entity during the year? ......................
16a
 
No
b
If "Yes," did the organization follow a written policy or procedure requiring the organization to evaluate its participation in joint venture arrangements under applicable federal tax law, and take steps to safeguard the organization’s exempt status with respect to such arrangements? ............
16b
 
 
Section C. Disclosure
17
List the States with which a copy of this Form 990 is required to be filedMediumBullet
18
Section 6104 requires an organization to make its Form 1023 (or 1024 if applicable), 990, and 990-T (501(c)(3)s only) available for public inspection. Indicate how you made these available. Check all that apply.
19
Describe in Schedule O whether (and if so, how) the organization made its governing documents, conflict of interest policy, and financial statements available to the public during the tax year.
20
State the name, address, and telephone number of the person who possesses the organization's books and records:
MediumBulletCARLA HENKE4300 220TH STREET W   FARMINGTON,MN55024 (651) 463-7134
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 7
Part VII
Compensation of Officers, Directors,Trustees, Key Employees, Highest Compensated Employees, and Independent Contractors
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part VII ..............
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees
1a Complete this table for all persons required to be listed. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current officers, directors, trustees (whether individuals or organizations), regardless of amount
of compensation. Enter -0- in columns (D), (E), and (F) if no compensation was paid.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current key employees, if any. See instructions for definition of "key employee."
RoundBullet List the organization’s five current highest compensated employees (other than an officer, director, trustee or key employee)
who received reportable compensation (Box 5 of Form W-2 and/or Box 7 of Form 1099-MISC) of more than $100,000 from the
organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former officers, key employees, or highest compensated employees who received more than $100,000
of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former directors or trustees that received, in the capacity as a former director or trustee of the
organization, more than $10,000 of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

List persons in the following order: individual trustees or directors; institutional trustees; officers; key employees; highest
compensated employees; and former such persons.
Check this box if neither the organization nor any related organization compensated any current officer, director, or trustee.
(A)
Name and Title 		(B)
Average hours per week (list any hours for related organizations below dotted line) 		(C)
Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; OfficerInd; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; FormerOfcrDirectorTrusteeInd;
(1) JAMES SHELDON......................................................................
CHAIR
 12.90
.................
  		X   X       35,100 0 0
(2) WILLIAM HOLTON......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 15.80
.................
  		X           27,000 0 0
(3) PAUL TRAPP......................................................................
SECRETARY
 8.30
.................
  		X   X       27,000 0 0
(4) DAVID JONES......................................................................
TREASURER
 15.40
.................
  		X   X       27,000 0 0
(5) KENNETH DANNER......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 11.60
.................
  		X           27,000 0 0
(6) CLAY VAN DE BOGART......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 7.80
.................
  		X           27,000 0 0
(7) JANET LEKSON......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 14.60
.................
  		X           27,000 0 0
(8) JUDY KIMMES......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 13.80
.................
  		X           27,000 0 0
(9) MARGARET SCHREINER......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 19.00
.................
  		X           27,000 0 0
(10) GERALD PITTMAN JR......................................................................
VICE CHAIR
 9.20
.................
  		X   X       27,000 0 0
(11) PAUL BAKKEN......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 10.20
.................
  		X           27,000 0 0
(12) JOHN JACK DEYOE......................................................................
DIRECTOR
 15.70
.................
  		X           27,000 0 0
(13) GREG MILLER......................................................................
PRESIDENT/CEO
 40.00
.................
  		    X       325,464 0 150,207
(14) LOU ANN WEFLEN......................................................................
VP - FINANCE/CFO
 40.00
.................
  		    X       218,080 0 91,878
(15) MICHAEL FOSSE......................................................................
VP - ENERGY AND MEMBER SER
 40.00
.................
  		      X     192,871 0 92,200
(16) DOUGLAS LARSON......................................................................
VP - REGULATORY SERVICES
 40.00
.................
  		      X     201,887 0 93,160
(17) RANDALL POULSON......................................................................
VP - ENGINEERING SERVICES
 40.00
.................
  		      X     190,368 0 73,220
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 8
Part VII
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees (continued)
(A)
Name and Title 		(B)
Average hours per week (list any hours for related organizations below dotted line) 		(C)
Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; OfficerInd; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; FormerOfcrDirectorTrusteeInd;
(18) DIRK ROTTY........................................................................
VP - UTILITY SERVICES
 40.00
.......................   		      X     187,622 0 80,992
(19) GRANT BAUMBERGER........................................................................
METERING & ELECTRICAL EQ M
 40.00
.......................   		        X   122,942 0 58,873
(20) MICHAEL BRIGGS........................................................................
DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION
 40.00
.......................   		        X   132,522 0 57,514
(21) KEVIN FOWLER........................................................................
UTILITY SERVICES MANAGER
 40.00
.......................   		        X   124,097 0 62,462
(22) MALINDA MEHRHOFF........................................................................
HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER
 40.00
.......................   		        X   118,612 0 63,639
(23) CRAIG TURNER........................................................................
ENGINEERING SERVICES MANAG
 40.00
.......................   		        X   123,949 0 68,550














1b Sub-Total................MediumBullet
c Total from continuation sheets to Part VII, Section A....MediumBullet
d Total (add lines 1b and 1c)...........MediumBullet 2,270,514 0 892,695
2
Total number of individuals (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of reportable compensation from the organization MediumBullet50
Yes
No
3
Did the organization list any former officer, director or trustee, key employee, or highest compensated employee on line 1a? If "Yes," complete Schedule J for such individual ..............
3
 
No
4
For any individual listed on line 1a, is the sum of reportable compensation and other compensation from the organization and related organizations greater than $150,000? If "Yes," complete Schedule J for such
individual...........................
4
Yes
 
5
Did any person listed on line 1a receive or accrue compensation from any unrelated organization or individual for services rendered to the organization? If "Yes," complete Schedule J for such person ........
5
 
No
Section B. Independent Contractors
1
Complete this table for your five highest compensated independent contractors that received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
(A)
Name and business address 		(B)
Description of services 		(C)
Compensation
NPL CONSTRUCTION CO

2355 UTOPIA RD
PHOENIX,AZ85027 		UNDERGROUND CONSTRUCTION 2,710,606
WRIGHT TREE SERVICE

2943 PAYSPHERE CIRCLE
CHICAGO,IL60674 		TREE TRIMMING 445,276
CARR'S TREE SERVICE

307 MINNESOTA 78
OTTERTAIL,MN56571 		TREE TRIMMING 313,426
PREMIER LOCATING INC

2034 CTY RD 35 W
BUFFALO,MN55313 		LOCATING 293,624
KUBRA AMERICA SOUTH EAST INC

5310 WESTPARK DR
ATLANTA,GA30336 		CUSTOMER BILLING 232,647
2
Total number of independent contractors (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization MediumBullet7
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 9
Part VIII
Statement of Revenue
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part VIII .............
(A)
Total revenue 		(B)
Related or
exempt
function
revenue 		(C)
Unrelated
business
revenue 		(D)
Revenue
excluded from
tax under sections
512-514
Contributions, Gifts, GrantAmt and OtherAmt Similar Amounts 1a Federated campaigns..1a  
b Membership dues..1b  
c Fundraising events..1c  
d Related organizations1d  
e Government grants (contributions)1e  
f All other contributions, gifts, grants, and similar amounts not included above1f  
g Noncash contributions included in lines 1a-1f:$  
h Total.Add lines 1a-1f.......MediumBullet  
Program Service RevenueAmt Business Code
2a SALE OF POWER 221000 197,724,813 197,724,813    
b VEHICLE REPAIR 811000 41,694   41,694  
c DISPATCHING 561439 37,347   37,347  
d SALES TO NON-MEMBERS 221000 12,055   12,055  
e IWATCH WEATHER SERVICE 900099 2,136   2,136  
f All other program service revenue.        
g Total.Add lines 2a–2f.....MediumBullet 197,818,045
OtherAmt RevenueAmt 3 Investment income (including dividends, interest, and othersimilar amounts) ..........MediumBullet 137,835     137,835
4 Income from investment of tax-exempt bond proceedsMediumBullet        
5 Royalties...........MediumBullet        
(ii) Personal (i) Real
6a Gross rents    
b Less: rental expenses    
c Rental income or (loss)    
d Net rental income or (loss)......MediumBullet        
(ii) Other (i) Securities
7a Gross amount from sales of assets other than inventory 153,575  
b Less: cost or other basis and sales expenses 155,297  
c Gain or (loss) -1,722  
d Net gain or (loss).....MediumBullet -1,722     -1,722
8a Gross income from fundraising events (not including $   of contributions reported on line 1c). See Part IV, line 18 ....
a  
b Less: direct expenses ...b  
c Net income or (loss) from fundraising events..MediumBullet      
9a Gross income from gaming activities.
See Part IV, line 19 ...
a  
b Less: direct expenses ...b  
c Net income or (loss) from gaming activities..MediumBullet        
10a Gross sales of inventory, less
returns and allowances ..
a 113,258
b Less: cost of goods sold ..b 104,134
c Net income or (loss) from sales of inventory..MediumBullet 9,124 9,124    
Business Code Miscellaneous Revenue
11a            
b            
c            
d All other revenue ....        
e Total. Add lines 11a–11d ...... MediumBullet  
12 Total revenue. See Instructions......MediumBullet 197,963,282 197,733,937 93,232 136,113
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 10
Part IX
Statement of Functional Expenses
Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations must complete all columns. All other organizations must complete column (A).Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part IX ..............
Do not include amounts reported on lines 6b,
7b, 8b, 9b, and 10b of Part VIII. 		(A)
Total expenses 		(B)
Program service expenses 		(C)
Management and general expenses 		(D)
Fundraising expenses
1 Grants and other assistance to domestic organizations and domestic governments. See Part IV, line 21 255,214  
2 Grants and other assistance to individuals in the United States. See Part IV, line 22    
3 Grants and other assistance to governments, organizations, and individuals outside the United States. See Part IV, lines 15 and 16    
4 Benefits paid to or for members 3,067,073  
5 Compensation of current officers, directors, trustees, and key employees .... 2,230,049      
6 Compensation not included above, to disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)) and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B) ....        
7 Other salaries and wages 13,449,319      
8 Pension plan accruals and contributions (include section 401(k) and 403(b) employer contributions) .... 3,259,027      
9 Other employee benefits ....... 2,413,020      
10 Payroll taxes ........... 1,086,877      
11 Fees for services (non-employees):        
a Management ......        
b Legal ......... 88,070      
c Accounting ........... 23,404      
d Lobbying ...........        
e Professional fundraising services. See Part IV, line 17    
f Investment management fees ......        
g Other (If line 11g amount exceeds 10% of line 25, column (A) amount, list line 11g expenses on Schedule O) 2,626,771      
12 Advertising and promotion .... 2,050,980      
13 Office expenses ....... 2,005,238      
14 Information technology ......        
15 Royalties ..        
16 Occupancy ........... 225,242      
17 Travel ............ 208,160      
18 Payments of travel or entertainment expenses for any federal, state, or local public officials .        
19 Conferences, conventions, and meetings ....        
20 Interest ........... 4,653,221      
21 Payments to affiliates .......        
22 Depreciation, depletion, and amortization .. 8,716,071      
23 Insurance ... 571,002      
24 Other expenses. Itemize expenses not covered above (List miscellaneous expenses in line 24e. If line 24e amount exceeds 10% of line 25, column (A) amount, list line 24e expenses on Schedule O.)
a COST OF PURCHASED POWER 141,565,240      
b PROPERTY AND OTHER TAXE 3,443,074      
c EXTERNAL CONTRACT LABOR 1,359,916      
d DISTRIBUTION PLANT MAIN 659,700      
e All other expenses 899,067      
25 Total functional expenses. Add lines 1 through 24e 194,855,735      
26 Joint costs. Complete this line only if the organization reported in column (B) joint costs from a combined educational campaign and fundraising solicitation. Check here MediumBullet if following SOP 98-2 (ASC 958-720).        
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 11
Part X
Balance Sheet
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part IX ..............
(A)
Beginning of year 		(B)
End of year
Assets 1 Cash–non-interest-bearing ........ 447,790 1 536,825
2 Savings and temporary cash investments .........   2  
3 Pledges and grants receivable, net ......   3  
4 Accounts receivable, net ............. 19,247,756 4 17,478,196
5 Loans and other receivables from current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees. Complete Part II of Schedule L
  5  
6 Loans and other receivables from other disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)), persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B), and contributing employers and sponsoring organizations of section 501(c)(9) voluntary employees' beneficiary organizations (see instructions) Complete Part II of Schedule L
  6  
7 Notes and loans receivable, net ....   7  
8 Inventories for sale or use ........ 5,257,918 8 5,228,721
9 Prepaid expenses and deferred charges ...... 2,956,473 9 1,265,134
10a Land, buildings, and equipment: cost or other basis. Complete Part VI of Schedule D 10a 278,332,269
b Less: accumulated depreciation 10b 112,511,485 161,862,877 10c 165,820,784
11 Investments—publicly traded securities .   11  
12 Investments—other securities. See Part IV, line 11 ..... 9,894,848 12 9,713,386
13 Investments—program-related. See Part IV, line 11 .. 95,501,080 13 98,142,807
14 Intangible assets ...............   14  
15 Other assets. See Part IV, line 11 ........... 3,789,356 15 3,372,981
16 Total assets. Add lines 1 through 15 (must equal line 34)... 298,958,098 16 301,558,834
Liabilities 17 Accounts payable and accrued expenses ..... 37,636,778 17 37,013,762
18 Grants payable ...   18  
19 Deferred revenue ......... 736,618 19 559,822
20 Tax-exempt bond liabilities .........   20  
21 Escrow or custodial account liability. Complete Part IV of Schedule D 125,612 21 126,062
22 Loans and other payables to current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, highest compensated employees, and disqualified
persons. Complete Part II of Schedule L..   22  
23 Secured mortgages and notes payable to unrelated third parties .. 96,605,051 23 94,984,079
24 Unsecured notes and loans payable to unrelated third parties .. 11,500,000 24 9,100,000
25 Other liabilities (including federal income tax, payables to related third parties, and other liabilities not included on lines 17-24). Complete Part X of Schedule D 4,944,923 25 8,799,461
26 Total liabilities. Add lines 17 through 25.. 151,548,982 26 150,583,186
Net Assets or Fund Balance Organizations that follow SFAS 117 (ASC 958), check here MediumBullet and complete lines 27 through 29, and lines 33 and 34.
27 Unrestricted net assets   27  
28 Temporarily restricted net assets ...........   28  
29 Permanently restricted net assets   29  
Organizations that do not follow SFAS 117 (ASC 958), check here MediumBullet and complete lines 30 through 34.
30 Capital stock or trust principal, or current funds ..... 0 30 0
31 Paid-in or capital surplus, or land, building or equipment fund ... 0 31 0
32 Retained earnings, endowment, accumulated income, or other funds 147,409,116 32 150,975,648
33 Total net assets or fund balances ........... 147,409,116 33 150,975,648
34 Total liabilities and net assets/fund balances ........ 298,958,098 34 301,558,834
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 12
Part XI
Reconcilliation of Net Assets
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part XI ..............
1
Total revenue (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12) ............
1
197,963,282
2
Total expenses (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) ............
2
194,855,735
3
Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 2 from line 1 ..............
3
3,107,547
4
Net assets or fund balances at beginning of year (must equal Part X, line 33, column (A)) ..
4
147,409,116
5
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments ...............
5
 
6
Donated services and use of facilities .................
6
 
7
Investment expenses .....................
7
 
8
Prior period adjustments .....................
8
 
9
Other changes in net assets or fund balances (explain in Schedule O) ........
9
458,985
10
Net assets or fund balances at end of year. Combine lines 3 through 9 (must equal Part X, line 33, column (B))
10
150,975,648
Part XII
Financial Statements and Reporting
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part XII .............
Yes
No
1
Accounting method used to prepare the Form 990:  
If the organization changed its method of accounting from a prior year or checked "Other," explain in
Schedule O.
2a
Were the organization’s financial statements compiled or reviewed by an independent accountant?
2a
 
No
If ‘Yes,’ check a box below to indicate whether the financial statements for the year were compiled or reviewed on a separate basis, consolidated basis, or both:
b
Were the organization’s financial statements audited by an independent accountant?
2b
Yes
 
If ‘Yes,’ check a box below to indicate whether the financial statements for the year were audited on a separate basis, consolidated basis, or both:
c
If "Yes," to line 2a or 2b, does the organization have a committee that assumes responsibility for oversight of the audit, review, or compilation of its financial statements and selection of an independent accountant?
2c
Yes
 
If the organization changed either its oversight process or selection process during the tax year, explain in Schedule O.
3a
As a result of a federal award, was the organization required to undergo an audit or audits as set forth in the Single Audit Act and OMB Circular A-133?
3a
 
No
b
If "Yes," did the organization undergo the required audit or audits? If the organization did not undergo the required audit or audits, explain why in Schedule O and describe any steps taken to undergo such audits.
3b
 
 
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  
Form 990, Special Condition Description:
Special Condition Description
SCHEDULE D
(Form 990)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Financial Statements
SchDMd Bullet Complete if the organization answered "Yes," on Form 990,
Part IV, line 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, 11e, 11f, 12a, or 12b.
SchDMd Bullet Attach to Form 990.
Information about Schedule D (Form 990) and its instructions is at www.irs.gov/form990.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
DAKOTA ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION
 
Employer identification number

41-0212180
Part I
Organizations Maintaining Donor Advised Funds or Other Similar Funds or Accounts. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 6.
(a) Donor advised funds (b) Funds and other accounts
1 Total number at end of year ....    
2 Aggregate value of contributions to (during year)    
3 Aggregate value of grants from (during year)    
4 Aggregate value at end of year ....    
5
Did the organization inform all donors and donor advisors in writing that the assets held in donor advised
funds are the organization's property, subject to the organization's exclusive legal control? ...........
6
Did the organization inform all grantees, donors, and donor advisors in writing that grant funds can be
used only for charitable purposes and not for the benefit of the donor or donor advisor, or for any other purpose conferring impermissible private benefit? ............................
Part II
Conservation Easements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 7.
1
Purpose(s) of conservation easements held by the organization (check all that apply).
2
Complete lines 2a through 2d if the organization held a qualified conservation contribution in the form of a conservation easement on the last day of the tax year.
Held at the End of the Year
a Total number of conservation easements ...................... 2a  
b Total acreage restricted by conservation easements .................... 2b  
c Number of conservation easements on a certified historic structure included in (a) ..... 2c  
d Number of conservation easements included in (c) acquired after 8/17/06, and not on a historic structure listed in the National Register ... 2d  
3
Number of conservation easements modified, transferred, released, extinguished, or terminated by the organization during the
tax year SchDMd Bullet  
4
Number of states where property subject to conservation easement is located SchDMd Bullet  
5
Does the organization have a written policy regarding the periodic monitoring, inspection, handling of violations, and enforcement of the conservation easements it holds? ............
6
Staff and volunteer hours devoted to monitoring, inspecting, handling of violations, and enforcing conservation easements during the year
SchDMd Bullet  
7
Amount of expenses incurred in monitoring, inspecting, handling of violations, and enforcing conservation easements during the year
SchDMd Bullet $  
8
Does each conservation easement reported on line 2(d) above satisfy the requirements of section 170(h)(4)(B)(i) and section 170(h)(4)(B)(ii)? .............................
9
In Part XIII, describe how the organization reports conservation easements in its revenue and expense statement, and
balance sheet, and include, if applicable, the text of the footnote to the organization’s financial statements that describes
the organization’s accounting for conservation easements.
Part III
Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 8.
1a
If the organization elected, as permitted under SFAS 116 (ASC 958), not to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education, or research in furtherance of public service, provide, in Part XIII, the text of the footnote to its financial statements that describes these items.
b
If the organization elected, as permitted under SFAS 116 (ASC 958), to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education, or research in furtherance of public service, provide the following amounts relating to these items:
(i)
Revenue included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 .........................SchDMd Bullet $  
(ii)
Assets included in Form 990, Part X ...............................SchDMd Bullet $  
2
If the organization received or held works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets for financial gain, provide the
following amounts required to be reported under SFAS 116 (ASC 958) relating to these items:
a
Revenue included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 ..........................SchDMd Bullet $  
b
Assets included in Form 990, Part X ...............................SchDMd Bullet $  
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 52283D
Schedule D (Form 990) 2015

Schedule D (Form 990) 2015
Page 2
Part III
Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets (continued)
3
Using the organization’s acquisition, accession, and other records, check any of the following that are a significant use of its collection items (check all that apply):
a
d
b
e
 
c
4
Provide a description of the organization’s collections and explain how they further the organization’s exempt purpose in
Part XIII.
5
During the year, did the organization solicit or receive donations of art, historical treasures or other similar
assets to be sold to raise funds rather than to be maintained as part of the organization’s collection?...
Part IV
Escrow and Custodial Arrangements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 9, or reported an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21.
1a
Is the organization an agent, trustee, custodian or other intermediary for contributions or other assets not
included on Form 990, Part X? ....................................
b If "Yes," explain the arrangement in Part XIII and complete the following table: Amount
c Beginning balance ............................. 1c  
d Additions during the year ............................ 1d  
e Distributions during the year .......................... 1e  
f Ending balance ................................ 1f  
2a
Did the organization include an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21, for escrow or custodial account liability?
b
If "Yes," explain the arrangement in Part XIII. Check here if the explanation has been provided in Part XIII ........
Part V
Endowment Funds. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 10.
(a)Current year (b)Prior year (c)Two years back (d)Three years back (e)Four years back
1a Beginning of year balance ....          
b Contributions ...          
c Net investment earnings, gains, and losses          
d Grants or scholarships ...          
e Other expenditures for facilities
and programs ... 		         
f Administrative expenses ....          
g End of year balance ......          
2
Provide the estimated percentage of the current year end balance (line 1g, column (a)) held as:
a
Board designated or quasi-endowment SchDMd Bullet  
b
Permanent endowment SchDMd Bullet  
c
Temporarily restricted endowment SchDMd Bullet  
The percentages on lines 2a, 2b, and 2c should equal 100%.
3a
Are there endowment funds not in the possession of the organization that are held and administered for the
organization by:

Yes
No
(i) unrelated organizations .................
3a(i)
 
 
(ii) related organizations .................
3a(ii)
 
 
b
If "Yes" on 3a(ii), are the related organizations listed as required on Schedule R? .........
3b
 
 
4
Describe in Part XIII the intended uses of the organization's endowment funds.
Part VI
Land, Buildings, and Equipment.
Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11a. See Form 990, Part X, line 10.
Description of property (a) Cost or other basis
(investment) 		(b)Cost or other basis (other) (c) Accumulated depreciation (d) Book value
1a Land ...   4,068,287 4,068,287
b Buildings   7,631,002 3,297,477 4,333,525
c Leasehold improvements        
d Equipment ...   263,060,907 109,214,008 153,846,899
e Other ...   3,572,073   3,572,073
Total. Add lines 1a through 1e. (Column (d) must equal Form 990, Part X, column (B), line 10(c).)..SchDMdBullet 165,820,784
Schedule D (Form 990) 2015

Schedule D (Form 990) 2015
Page 3
Part VII
Investments—Other Securities. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11b. See Form 990, Part X, line 12.
(a) Description of security or category
(including name of security)		 (b)Book value (c)Method of valuation:
Cost or end-of-year market value
(1)Financial derivatives    
(2)Closely-held equity interests    
(3)Other
(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
(E)
(F)
(G)
(H)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col. (B) line 12.)Small Bullet  
Part VIII
Investments—Program Related. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11c. See Form 990, Part X, line 13.
(a) Description of investment (b) Book value (c) Method of valuation:
Cost or end-of-year market value
(1)GREAT RIVER ENERGY CAPITAL CREDITS 92,690,746 C
(2)NRUCFC CAPITAL CREDITS 3,930,487 C
(3)COBANK 721,126 C
(4)OTHER COOPERATIVE CAPITAL CREDITS 687,918 C
(5)COOPERATIVE MEMBERSHIPS 7,200 C
(6)MN RURAL ELECTRIC TRUST 105,330 C
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 13.)Small Bullet 98,142,807
Part IX
Other Assets. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11d. See Form 990, Part X, line 15.
(a) Description (b) Book value
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 15.)...........Small Bullet  
Part X
Other Liabilities. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11e or 11f. See Form 990, Part X, line 25.
1.(a) Description of liability (b) Book value
(1) Federal income taxes  
CAPITAL LEASE 1,100,596
FAS106 POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS 4,016,000
POWER COST RECOVERY 3,682,865
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 25.)Small Bullet 8,799,461
2. Liability for uncertain tax positions. In Part XIII, provide the text of the footnote to the organization's financial statements that reports the organization's liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC 740). Check here if the text of the footnote has been provided in Part XIII
Schedule D (Form 990) 2015

Schedule D (Form 990) 2015
Page 4
Part XI Reconciliation of Revenue per Audited Financial Statements With Revenue per Return Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 12a.
1 Total revenue, gains, and other support per audited financial statements ....... 1  
2 Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12:
a Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments .... 2a  
b Donated services and use of facilities ......... 2b  
c Recoveries of prior year grants ........... 2c  
d Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ............ 2d  
e Add lines 2a through 2d ..................... 2e  
3 Subtract line 2e from line 1.................. 3  
4 Amounts included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, but not on line 1:
a Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b . 4a  
b Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ........... 4b  
c Add lines 4a and 4b.................... 4c  
5 Total revenue. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This must equal Form 990, Part I, line 12.) ...... 5  
Part XII Reconciliation of Expenses per Audited Financial Statements With Expenses per Return. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 12a.
1 Total expenses and losses per audited financial statements ........... 1  
2 Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part IX, line 25:
a Donated services and use of facilities ......... 2a  
b Prior year adjustments ............ 2b  
c Other losses ................ 2c  
d Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ............ 2d  
e Add lines 2a through 2d.................... 2e  
3 Subtract line 2e from line 1................... 3  
4 Amounts included on Form 990, Part IX, line 25, but not on line 1:
a Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b .. 4a  
b Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ............ 4b  
c Add lines 4a and 4b..................... 4c  
5 Total expenses. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This must equal Form 990, Part I, line 18.) ...... 5  

Part XIII
Supplemental Information
Provide the descriptions required for Part II, lines 3, 5, and 9; Part III, lines 1a and 4; Part lV, lines 1b and 2b;
Part V, line 4; Part X, line 2; Part XI, lines 2d and 4b; and Part XII, lines 2d and 4b. Also complete this part to provide any additional information.
Return Reference Explanation
PART IV, LINE 2B: THE MEMBERS OF THE COOPERATIVE CAN ELECT TO PAY AN ADDITIONAL SET AMOUNT ON THEIR ELECTRIC BILL EACH MONTH AS A CONTRIBUTION TO THE HELPING NEIGHBORS TRUST. THE FUNDS COLLECTED FROM THE MEMBERSHIP ARE HELD IN A COOPERATIVE ACCOUNT AND ARE PAID TO THE TRUST QUARTERLY. THE TRUST USES THE FUNDS FOR CHARITABLE PURPOSES. FUNDS THAT EXIST AT THE END OF THE YEAR ARE A RESULT OF A TIMING DIFFERENCE FROM WHEN THE FUNDS ARE COLLECTED FROM THE COOPERATIVE MEMBERS, TO WHEN THEY ARE DISTRIBUTED TO THE HELPING NEIGHBORS TRUST. AT DECEMBER 31, 2015 THE COOPERATIVE HELD $2,435. THE COOPERATIVE ALSO COLLECTS FRANCHISE FEES FROM ITS MEMBERS AND DISTRIBUTES THESE FEES DIRECTLY TO THE CITY OF APPLE VALLEY. THE AMOUNT OF $123,627 THAT EXISTS AT DECEMBER 31, 2015 IS A RESULT OF A TIMING DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WHEN THE FUNDS ARE COLLECTED AND WHEN THEY ARE DISTRIBUTED TO THE CITY OF APPLE VALLEY.
PART X, LINE 2: DAKOTA ELECTRIC IS EXEMPT FROM INCOME TAXES UNDER SECTION 501(C)(12) OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE AND THE STATE OF MINNESOTA. MES PROVIDES FOR DEFERRED TAXES ON TEMPORARY DIFFERENCES ARISING FROM ASSETS AND LIABILITIES WHOSE BASIS IS DIFFERENT FOR FINANCIAL REPORTING AND INCOME TAX PURPOSES. DAKOTA ELECTRIC WILL RECOGNIZE FUTURE ACCRUED INTEREST AND PENALTIES RELATED TO UNRECOGNIZED TAX BENEFITS IN INCOME TAX EXPENSE IF SUCH PENALTIES AND INTEREST ARE INCURRED. UNDER NORMAL CIRCUMSTANCES, DAKOTA ELECTRIC, MES AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES ARE NO LONGER SUBJECT TO FEDERAL OR STATE TAX EXAMINATIONS BY TAX AUTHORITIES FOR YEARS BEFORE 2013. DAKOTA ELECTRIC AND SUBSIDIARIES UNDERGO AN ANNUAL ANALYSIS OF VARIOUS TAX POSITIONS, ASSESSING THE LIKELIHOOD OF THOSE POSITIONS BEING UPHELD UPON EXAMINATION WITH RELEVANT TAX AUTHORITIES, AS DEFINED BY ASC 740-10. THE UNRECOGNIZED TAX BENEFIT ACCRUAL WAS ZERO AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2015 AND DECEMBER 31, 2014.
Schedule D (Form 990) 2015


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Schedule I
(Form 990)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Grants and Other Assistance to Organizations,
Governments and Individuals in the United States
Complete if the organization answered "Yes," on Form 990, Part IV, line 21 or 22.
lBullet Attach to Form 990.
lBullet Information about Schedule I (Form 990) and its instructions is at www.irs.gov/form990.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public
Inspection
Name of the organization
DAKOTA ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION
 
Employer identification number
41-0212180
Part I
General Information on Grants and Assistance
1
Does the organization maintain records to substantiate the amount of the grants or assistance, the grantees' eligibility for the grants or assistance, and
the selection criteria used to award the grants or assistance? ........................
2
Describe in Part IV the organization's procedures for monitoring the use of grant funds in the United States.
Part II
Grants and Other Assistance to Domestic Organizations and Domestic Governments. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 21, for any recipient
that received more than $5,000. Part II can be duplicated if additional space is needed.
(a) Name and address of organization
or government		 (b) EIN (c) IRC section
if applicable		 (d) Amount of cash grant (e) Amount of non-cash
assistance		 (f) Method of valuation
(book, FMV, appraisal,
other)		 (g) Description of
non-cash assistance		 (h) Purpose of grant
or assistance
(1) DAKOTA COUNTY TECHNICAL COLLEGE FOUNDATION
1300 145TH STREET E
ROSEMOUNT,MN55068 		41-1488605 501(C)(3) 174,000       SCHOLARSHIPS OR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES
(2) COMMUNITY ACTION COUNCIL (DBA 360 COMMUNITIES)
501 E HWY 13 SUITE 102
BURNSVILLE,MN55337 		41-0987708 501(C)(3) 5,000       FOOD SHELF/ENERGY ASSISTANCE
(3) FAIRVIEW FOUNDATION
2344 ENERGY PARK DR
ST PAUL,MN55108 		41-1573810 501(C)(3) 10,000       EXPANSION CAMPAIGN
(4) CITY OF CANNON FALLS
918 RIVER RD
CANNON FALLS,MN55009 		41-6005032 GOVERNMENTAL ENTITY 10,000       DATA CENTER CERTIFICATION
2
Enter total number of section 501(c)(3) and government organizations listed in the line 1 table ................. Bullet Image
4
3
Enter total number of other organizations listed in the line 1 table ........................ . Bullet Image
0
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 50055P
Schedule I (Form 990) 2015

Schedule I (Form 990) 2015
Page 2
Part III
Grants and Other Assistance to Domestic Individuals. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 22.
Part III can be duplicated if additional space is needed.
(a) Type of grant or assistance (b) Number of
recipients		 (c) Amount of
cash grant		 (d) Amount of
non-cash assistance		 (e) Method of valuation (book,
FMV, appraisal, other)		 (f) Description of non-cash assistance
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
Part IV
Supplemental Information. Provide the information required in Part I, line 2, Part III, column (b), and any other additional information.
Return Reference Explanation
PART I, LINE 2: THE COOPERATIVE RECEIVES VERIFICATION FROM THE DONEES OF THEIR TAX-EXEMPT STATUS.
FORM 990, SCHEDULE I, PART II THERE IS A MINNESOTA STATUTE THAT A COOPERATIVE MAY, IN LIEU OF PAYING OR DELIVERING TO THE STATE THE UNCLAIMED PROPERTY SPECIFIED IN ITS REPORT OF UNCLAIMED PROPERTY, DISTRIBUTE THE UNCLAIMED PROPERTY TO A BUSINESS ENTITY OR ORGANIZATION THAT IS EXEMPT FROM TAXATION. AFTER 7 YEARS, DAKOTA ELECTRIC REMITS ITS MINNESOTA UNCLAIMED CAPITAL CREDITS TO DCTC FOUNDATION. THE COOPERATIVE THEN DIRECTS THE FOUNDATION TO PAY SPECIFIED AMOUNTS AS SCHOLARSHIPS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES.
Schedule I (Form 990) 2015



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Schedule J
(Form 990)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Compensation Information
For certain Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest
Compensated Employees
SchJMediumBullet Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 23.
SchJMediumBullet Attach to Form 990.
SchJMediumBullet Information about Schedule J (Form 990) and its instructions is at www.irs.gov/form990.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
DAKOTA ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION
 
Employer identification number

41-0212180
Part I
Questions Regarding Compensation
Yes
No
1a
Check the appropiate box(es) if the organization provided any of the following to or for a person listed on Form
990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a. Complete Part III to provide any relevant information regarding these items.
b
If any of the boxes in line 1a are checked, did the organization follow a written policy regarding payment or reimbursement or provision of all of the expenses described above? If "No," complete Part III to explain .........
1b
Yes
 
2
Did the organization require substantiation prior to reimbursing or allowing expenses incurred by all
directors, trustees, officers, including the CEO/Executive Director, regarding the items checked in line 1a? ..
2
Yes
 
3
Indicate which, if any, of the following the filing organization used to establish the compensation of the
organization's CEO/Executive Director. Check all that apply. Do not check any boxes for methods
used by a related organization to establish compensation of the CEO/Executive Director, but explain in Part III.
4
During the year, did any person listed on Form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a with respect to the filing organization or a related organization:
a
Receive a severance payment or change-of-control payment? ................
4a
 
No
b
Participate in, or receive payment from, a supplemental nonqualified retirement plan? .........
4b
 
No
c
Participate in, or receive payment from, an equity-based compensation arrangement? .........
4c
 
No
If "Yes" to any of lines 4a-c, list the persons and provide the applicable amounts for each item in Part III.
Only 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(29) organizations must complete lines 5-9.
5
For persons listed on Form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a, did the organization pay or accrue any
compensation contingent on the revenues of:
a
The organization? ...........................
5a
 
 
b
Any related organization?
5b
 
 
If "Yes," on line 5a or 5b, describe in Part III.
6
For persons listed on Form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a, did the organization pay or accrue any
compensation contingent on the net earnings of:
a
The organization?
6a
 
 
b
Any related organization? .........................
6b
 
 
If "Yes," on line 6a or 6b, describe in Part III.
7
For persons listed on Form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a, did the organization provide any non-fixed
payments not described in lines 5 and 6? If "Yes," describe in Part III ............
7
 
 
8
Were any amounts reported on Form 990, Part VII, paid or accured pursuant to a contract that was
subject to the initial contract exception described in Regulations section 53.4958-4(a)(3)? If "Yes," describe
in Part III .............................
8
 
 
9
If "Yes" on line 8, did the organization also follow the rebuttable presumption procedure described in Regulations section 53.4958-6(c)? .........................
9
 
 
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 50053T
Schedule J (Form 990) 2015

Schedule J (Form 990) 2015
Page 2
Part II
Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees. Use duplicate copies if additional space is needed.
For each individual whose compensation must be reported on Schedule J, report compensation from the organization on row (i) and from related organizations, described in the
instructions, on row (ii). Do not list any individuals that are not listed on Form 990, Part VII.
Note. The sum of columns (B)(i)-(iii) for each listed individual must equal the total amount of Form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a, applicable column (D) and (E) amounts for that individual.
(A) Name and Title (B) Breakdown of W-2 and/or 1099-MISC compensation (C) Retirement and other deferred compensation (D) Nontaxable
benefits		 (E) Total of columns
(B)(i)-(D) 		(F) Compensation in column(B) reported as deferred on prior Form 990
(i) Base compensation (ii) Bonus & incentive compensation (iii) Other reportable compensation
1GREG MILLERPRESIDENT/CEO (i)

(ii)		 280,096
-------------
0 		26,200
-------------
0 		19,168
-------------
0 		123,884
-------------
0 		26,323
-------------
0 		475,671
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0
2LOU ANN WEFLENVP - FINANCE/CFO (i)

(ii)		 195,234
-------------
0 		6,500
-------------
0 		16,346
-------------
0 		80,498
-------------
0 		11,380
-------------
0 		309,958
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0
3MICHAEL FOSSEVP - ENERGY AND MEMBER SER (i)

(ii)		 166,260
-------------
0 		4,000
-------------
0 		22,611
-------------
0 		65,657
-------------
0 		26,543
-------------
0 		285,071
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0
4DOUGLAS LARSONVP - REGULATORY SERVICES (i)

(ii)		 181,056
-------------
0 		6,500
-------------
0 		14,331
-------------
0 		66,990
-------------
0 		26,170
-------------
0 		295,047
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0
5RANDALL POULSONVP - ENGINEERING SERVICES (i)

(ii)		 164,741
-------------
0 		4,000
-------------
0 		21,627
-------------
0 		51,110
-------------
0 		22,110
-------------
0 		263,588
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0
6DIRK ROTTYVP - UTILITY SERVICES (i)

(ii)		 171,634
-------------
0 		4,000
-------------
0 		11,988
-------------
0 		70,627
-------------
0 		10,365
-------------
0 		268,614
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0
7GRANT BAUMBERGERMETERING & ELECTRICAL EQ M (i)

(ii)		 120,746
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0 		2,196
-------------
0 		36,293
-------------
0 		22,580
-------------
0 		181,815
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0
8MICHAEL BRIGGSDIRECTOR OF INFORMATION (i)

(ii)		 128,562
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0 		3,960
-------------
0 		46,669
-------------
0 		10,845
-------------
0 		190,036
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0
9KEVIN FOWLERUTILITY SERVICES MANAGER (i)

(ii)		 114,440
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0 		9,657
-------------
0 		45,491
-------------
0 		16,971
-------------
0 		186,559
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0
10MALINDA MEHRHOFFHUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER (i)

(ii)		 109,650
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0 		8,962
-------------
0 		41,276
-------------
0 		22,363
-------------
0 		182,251
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0
11CRAIG TURNERENGINEERING SERVICES MANAG (i)

(ii)		 120,121
-------------
0 		1,200
-------------
0 		2,628
-------------
0 		42,460
-------------
0 		26,090
-------------
0 		192,499
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0
Schedule J (Form 990) 2015

Schedule J (Form 990) 2015
Page 3
Part III
Supplemental Information
Provide the information, explanation, or descriptions required for Part I, lines 1a, 1b, 3, 4a, 4b, 4c, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7, and 8, and for Part II. Also complete this part for any additional information.
Return Reference Explanation
PART I, LINE 1A HEALTH CLUB DUES ARE AVAILABLE TO ALL EMPLOYEES OF DEA AND ARE INCLUDED IN THE W-2'S OF THE EMPLOYEES. THESE DUES ARE LIMITED TO $240 PER YEAR AND EMPLOYEES MUST ATTEND 12 TIMES PER MONTH.
SCHEDULE J, PART II, COLUMN C: THE ESTIMATED CURRENT YEAR INCREASE IN THE ACTUARIAL VALUE OF THE DEFINED BENEFIT PLAN IS INCLUDED IN OTHER COMPENSATION FOR EMPLOYEES LISTED IN PART II OF SCHEDULE J. THESE AMOUNTS DO NOT REPRESENT ANY CURRENT YEAR CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PLAN. THEY ARE ESTIMATES OF THE INCREASE IN THE ACTUARIAL VALUE OF THE PLANS PROVIDED BY THE NRECA.
Schedule J (Form 990) 2015
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Schedule L
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Transactions with Interested Persons
MediumBullet Complete if the organization answered
"Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, lines 25a, 25b, 26, 27, 28a, 28b, or 28c,
or Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 38a or 40b.
MediumBullet Attach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ.
MediumBulletInformation about Schedule L (Form 990 or 990-EZ) and its instructions is at www.irs.gov/form990.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
DAKOTA ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION
 
Employer identification number

41-0212180
Part I
Excess Benefit Transactions (section 501(c)(3), section 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(29) organizations only).
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 25a or 25b, or Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 40b.
1(a) Name of disqualified person (b) Relationship between disqualified person and organization (c) Description of transaction (d) Corrected?
Yes No
2
Enter the amount of tax incurred by organization managers or disqualified persons during the year under section 4958. ........................... Bullet Image$
 
3
Enter the amount of tax, if any, on line 2, above, reimbursed by the organization ........ Bullet Image$
 

Part II
Loans to and/or From Interested Persons.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 38a, or Form 990, Part IV, line 26; or if the organization reported an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 5, 6, or 22
(a) Name of interested person (b) Relationship with organization (c) Purpose of loan (d) Loan to or from the organization? (e)Original principal amount (f)Balance due (g) In default? (h) Approved by board or committee? (i)Written agreement?
To From Yes No Yes No Yes No
Total ...............Small Bullet $  
Part III
Grants or Assistance Benefiting Interested Persons.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 27.
(a) Name of interested person (b) Relationship between interested person and the organization (c) Amount of assistance (d) Type of assistance (e) Purpose of assistance
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 50056A
Schedule L (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Schedule L (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Page 2
Part IV
Business Transactions Involving Interested Persons.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 28a, 28b, or 28c.
(a) Name of interested person (b) Relationship between interested person and the organization (c) Amount of transaction (d) Description of transaction (e) Sharing of organization's revenues?
Yes No
(1) MARGARET SCHREINER MEMBER OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS 141,565,240 MARGARET SERVES ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR BOTH DAKOTA ELECTRIC AND GREAT RIVER ENERGY. DAKOTA ELECTRIC PURCHASES ITS WHOLESALE POWER FROM GREAT RIVER ENERGY.   No
(2) CLAY VAN DE BOGART MEMBER OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS 141,565,240 CLAY SERVES ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR BOTH DAKOTA ELECTRIC AND GREAT RIVER ENERGY. DAKOTA ELECTRIC PURCHASES ITS WHOLESALE POWER FROM GREAT RIVER ENERGY.   No
Part V
Supplemental Information
Provide additional information for responses to questions on Schedule L (see instructions).
Return Reference Explanation
Schedule L (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015


Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  




SCHEDULE O
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Information to Form 990 or 990-EZ

Complete to provide information for responses to specific questions on
Form 990 or 990-EZ or to provide any additional information.
MediumBullet Attach to Form 990 or 990-EZ.
MediumBullet Information about Schedule O (Form 990 or 990-EZ) and its instructions is at
www.irs.gov/form990.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public
Inspection
Name of the organization
DAKOTA ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION
 
Employer identification number

41-0212180
Return Reference Explanation
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION A, LINE 2 ALL OF THE BOARD MEMBERS OF THE ORGANIZATION ALSO SERVE AS BOARD MEMBERS FOR THE SUBSIDIARIES OF THE ORGANIZATION AND THUS HAVE A BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION A, LINE 6 THE ORGANIZATION HAS MEMBERS, ALL OF WHICH ARE IN THE SAME CLASS WITH THE SAME VOTING RIGHTS.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION A, LINE 7A THERE ARE FOUR DISTRICTS AND EACH DISTRICT HAS THREE BOARD MEMBERS. ALL MEMBERS VOTE ON ALL FOUR DISTRICTS.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION A, LINE 7B MEMBERS HAVE THE POWER TO REMOVE ANY DIRECTOR OR OFFICER IF THEIR ACTIONS CAUSE SUBSTANTIAL HARM TO THE INTERESTS OF THE ORGANIZATION. MEMBERS ALSO HAVE THE RIGHT TO ALTER, AMEND, OR REPEAL THE BYLAWS IF APPROVED BY MAJORITY OF VOTES CAST.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION A, LINE 8B THE COOPERATIVE DOES NOT HAVE AN EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE WITH THE AUTHORITY TO ACT ON BEHALF OF THE FULL BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION B, LINE 11 THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS WAS PROVIDED A COPY OF THE FORM 990 FOR THEIR REVIEW AT A BOARD MEETING PRIOR TO FILING.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION B, LINE 15 THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS SERVES AS THE COMPENSATION COMMITTEE. THE BOARD OFTEN USES A SALARY SURVEY OR COMPARISON OF WAGES FROM OTHER COMPARABLY SIZED ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES. THE WAGES DATA MAY COME FROM 990S OF COOPERATIVES OF SIMILAR SIZE OR FROM THE NRECA COMPENSATION SURVEY. FOLLOWING YEAR END, THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS DELIBERATES AS TO WHETHER OR NOT SAFETY, DISTRIBUTION, RELIABILITY, AND OTHER FACTORS WERE MET. IF THESE FACTORS WERE MET THE BOARD WILL AWARD ALL OR A PORTION OF THE "MARKET PAY" THAT HAD BEEN WITHHELD. THE COMPENSATION APPROVAL PROCESS OF THE PRESIDENT/CEO LAST TOOK PLACE IN MARCH 2016. THE COMPENSATION OF THE VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE IS DETERMINED BY THE CEO THROUGH A PERFORMANCE EVALUATION, AS WELL AS PERIODIC AREA MARKET SALARY COMPARISONS. THIS PROCESS LAST TOOK PLACE IN MARCH 2015. THE HR DEPARTMENT USES COMPARISON WAGE DATA FROM SURVEYS FOR ALL POSITIONS TO DETERMINE APPROPRIATE MARKET COMPENSATION, BUT THE BOARD DOES NOT VOTE ON THE COMPENSATION OF OTHER POSITIONS.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION C, LINE 19 THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ARE AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC ON THE WEBSITE OR UPON REQUEST.
FORM 990, PART XI, LINE 9: EQUITY IN EARNINGS OF SUBSIDIARY -119,282. PATRONAGE DIVIDENDS ALLOCATED 3,067,073. CAPITAL CREDITS RETIRED -2,662,806. UNCLAIMED CAPITAL CREDITS DONATED 174,000.
FORM 990, PART XII, LINE 2C THE COOPERATIVE'S BOARD OF DIRECTORS ASSUMES RESPONSIBILITY FOR OVERSIGHT OF THE AUDIT OF ITS FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND THE SELECTION OF ITS INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANT. THIS PROCESS HAS NOT CHANGED FROM THE PRIOR YEAR.
FORM 990, PART IX, LINE 4 THE IRS INSTRUCTIONS STATE THAT PATRONAGE DIVIDENDS PAID BY SECTION 501(C)(12) ORGANIZATIONS TO THEIR MEMBERS SHOULD BE REPORTED ON LINE 4. THE ORGANIZATION HAS INTERPRETED PATRONAGE DIVIDENDS PAID TO MEAN PATRONAGE DIVIDENDS ALLOCATED OR TO BE ALLOCATED FOR THE CURRENT YEAR. SINCE THIS ALLOCATION IS NOT AN EXPENSE UNDER GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES (GAAP), THIS HAS RESULTED IN A RECONCILING ITEM TO NET ASSETS IN PART XI ON PAGE 12 OF THE FORM 990.
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 51056K
Schedule O (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015


Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  
SCHEDULE R
(Form 990)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Related Organizations and Unrelated Partnerships
MediumBulletComplete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 33, 34, 35b, 36, or 37.
MediumBulletAttach to Form 990.
MediumBullet Information about Schedule R (Form 990) and its instructions is at www.irs.gov/form990.

OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
DAKOTA ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION
 
Employer identification number

41-0212180
Part I
Identification of Disregarded Entities Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 33.
(a)
Name, address, and EIN (if applicable) of disregarded entity


(b)
Primary activity


 		(c)
Legal domicile (state
or foreign country)

 		(d)
Total income


 		(e)
End-of-year assets


 		(f)
Direct controlling
entity










Part II
Identification of Related Tax-Exempt Organizations Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 34 because it had one or more related tax-exempt organizations during the tax year.
(a)
Name, address, and EIN of related organization


(b)
Primary activity


 		(c)
Legal domicile (state
or foreign country)

 		(d)
Exempt Code section


 		(e)
Public charity status
(if section 501(c)(3))

 		(f)
Direct controlling
entity

 		(g)
Section 512(b)(13) controlled entity?
Yes No
(1)HELPING NEIGHBORS TRUST
4300 220TH STREET W

FARMINGTON,MN55024
41-1837793 		CHARITY - ENERGY ASSISTANCE MN 501(C)(3) LINE 9 DAKOTA ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION
 
 
No












For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 50135Y
Schedule R (Form 990) 2015
Schedule R (Form 990) 2015
Page 2
Part III
Identification of Related Organizations Taxable as a Partnership Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 34 because it had one or more related organizations treated as a partnership during the tax year.
(a)
Name, address, and EIN of
related organization



 		(b)
Primary activity




 		(c)
Legal
domicile
(state or foreign
country)


 		(d)
Direct controlling
entity



 		(e)
Predominant income(related, unrelated, excluded from tax under sections 512-514)

(f)
Share of total income




 		(g)
Share of end-of-year
assets



 		(h)
Disproprtionate allocations?




 		(i)
Code V-UBI
amount in box 20 of
Schedule K-1
(Form 1065)
 		(j)
General or
managing
partner?



 		(k)
Percentage
ownership
Yes No Yes No












Part IV
Identification of Related Organizations Taxable as a Corporation or Trust Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 34 because it had one or more related organizations treated as a corporation or trust during the tax year.
(a)
Name, address, and EIN of
related organization
 		(b)
Primary activity
 		(c)
Legal
domicile
(state or foreign
country)
 		(d)
Direct controlling
entity
 		(e)
Type of entity
(C corp, S corp,
or trust) 		(f)
Share of total income
 		(g)
Share of end-of-year
assets
 		(h)
Percentage
ownership
 		(i)
Section 512(b)(13) controlled entity?
Yes No
(1) MIDWEST ENERGY SERVICES INC

4300 220TH STREET W
FARMINGTON,MN55024
41-1757574 		PARENT COMPANY OF ENERGY ALTERNATIVES MN DAKOTA ELECTRIC ASSOCATION
  		C -119,289 4,879,592 100.000 %   No
(2) ENERGY ALTERNATIVES PARENT INC

4300 220TH STREET W
FARMINGTON,MN55024
41-1938868 		BACKUP ELECTRIC GENERATION MN MIDWEST ENERGY SERVICES INC
  		C 146,935 5,098,638 100.000 %   No










Schedule R (Form 990) 2015
Schedule R (Form 990) 2015
Page 3
Part V
Transactions With Related Organizations Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 34, 35b, or 36.
Note. Complete line 1 if any entity is listed in Parts II, III, or IV of this schedule.
Yes
No
1 During the tax year, did the orgranization engage in any of the following transactions with one or more related organizations listed in Parts II-IV?
a Receipt of (i) interest, (ii) annuities, (iii) royalties, or (iv) rent from a controlled entity .....................
1a
 
No
b Gift, grant, or capital contribution to related organization(s) ............................
1b
 
No
c Gift, grant, or capital contribution from related organization(s) ............................
1c
 
No
d Loans or loan guarantees to or for related organization(s) ............................
1d
 
No
e Loans or loan guarantees by related organization(s) ............................
1e
Yes
 
f Dividends from related organization(s) ............................
1f
 
No
g Sale of assets to related organization(s) ............................
1g
 
No
h Purchase of assets from related organization(s) ............................
1h
 
No
i Exchange of assets with related organization(s) ............................
1i
 
No
j Lease of facilities, equipment, or other assets to related organization(s) .......................
1j
 
No
k Lease of facilities, equipment, or other assets from related organization(s) ......................
1k
 
No
l Performance of services or membership or fundraising solicitations for related organization(s) .....................
1l
Yes
 
m Performance of services or membership or fundraising solicitations by related organization(s) .................
1m
 
No
n Sharing of facilities, equipment, mailing lists, or other assets with related organization(s) ...................
1n
 
No
o Sharing of paid employees with related organization(s) ............................
1o
 
No
p Reimbursement paid to related organization(s) for expenses ............................
1p
 
No
q Reimbursement paid by related organization(s) for expenses ............................
1q
Yes
 
r Other transfer of cash or property to related organization(s) ............................
1r
 
No
s Other transfer of cash or property from related organization(s) ............................
1s
 
No
2
If the answer to any of the above is "Yes," see the instructions for information on who must complete this line, including covered relationships and transaction thresholds.
(a)
Name of related organization 		(b)
Transaction
type (a-s) 		(c)
Amount involved 		(d)
Method of determining amount involved
(1) NO TRANSACTION OVER 50000

      





Schedule R (Form 990) 2015
Schedule R (Form 990) 2015
Page 4
Part VI
Unrelated Organizations Taxable as a Partnership Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 37.
Provide the following information for each entity taxed as a partnership through which the organization conducted more than five percent of its activities (measured by total assets or gross revenue) that was not a related organization. See instructions regarding exclusion for certain investment partnerships.
(a)
Name, address, and EIN of entity 		(b)
Primary activity 		(c)
Legal domicile
(state or foreign
country) 		(d)
Predominant income (related, unrelated, excluded from tax under sections 512-514)

(e)
Are all partners
section
501(c)(3)
organizations? 		(f)
Share of total income




 		(g)
Share of
end-of-year
assets 		(h)
Disproprtionate allocations? 		(i)
Code V-UBI
amount in box 20
of Schedule K-1
(Form 1065) 		(j)
General or
managing
partner? 		(k)
Percentage
ownership
Yes No Yes No Yes No






























Schedule R (Form 990) 2015
Schedule R (Form 990) 2015
Page 5
Part VII
Supplemental Information
Provide additional information for responses to questions on Schedule R (see instructions).
Return Reference Explanation
Schedule R (Form 990) 2015

Additional Data


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