About Us

We are an Ontario-based energy co-operative focused on being the first choice for agricultural producers/processors seeking energy strategies and solutions. We exist as a co-operative to meet the energy needs of our members recognizing that cost is of the utmost importance. We do this by purchasing energy commodity on the wholesale market to pass energy savings on to you. We represent you and liaison with your utility, ensuring seamless energy for your business.

Energy Explained

What is a Co-operative?

Under the co-operative business model, members own the organization and vote on how services will be offered. All directors are elected by the membership; ensuring member needs are prominent in the delivery of our mission and vision.

Securing the services of a co-operative does not give you any liability. We are a normal business entity held responsible to the Co-op Act, standard business practices, and FISRA scrutiny.

Our Values

I’m Not a Member, Why Would I Benefit from Working With a Co-operative?

Co-operatives can offer more stability than some traditional business structures (like sole proprietorship) which are more likely to sell their business or fail. AEC has remained a skilled energy marketer since its founding in 1988, much longer than most energy companies in Ontario. As a part of our bylaws, we regularly conduct external finance and risk audits that go above and beyond industry expectations for a company of our size.

Learn More About Membership

where it all started

1988

F & V Energby Co-operative was formed on May 30th, 1988 when a group of greenhouse growers in Ontario pooled their purchasing power to collectively buy natural gas.

2021

2003

humble beginnings

2003

AEC opens membership to allow all businesses in the agri-value chain, from producers to processors, to become members, and files an application with the OEB to obtain an Electricity Retailer License.

1988

2004

First Rebranding

2004

Our first rebranding! In 2004, our co-operative’s name was officially changed from F & V Energby Co-operative to Ag Energy Co-operative Ltd .

2003

2005

First in Ontario

2005

The Co-operative offers the first market-rate electricity program in Ontario. A customer-focused cost-saving program.

2004

2013

Milestone

2013

Ag Energy Co-operative reaches a quarter-century milestone! 25 years in operation.

2005

2017

ECPA Exemption

2017

The Co-operative receives an exemption from the Energy Consumer Protection Act (ECPA). After careful examination, the provincial government decided the co-operative business model had significant built-in consumer protections. The exemption was granted specifically for Ag Energy members, demonstrating significant trust in our ability to protect customer welfare.

2013

2018

where we are now

2018

Since Ag Energy Co-operative started distributing profits in 2003, over $10 million was returned to members in the Patronage and Dividends.

2017

2019

Another first

2019

The Co-operative becomes the first in Ontario to offer natural gas term limits longer than 5 years

2018

2021

where we are now

2021

In September 2021, Ag Energy Co-operative rebrands to AEC. Our logo, name and colour scheme was updated to reflect our evolution.

2019

1988

Meet Our Team

Michelle VieiraCEO & Director of Sales

With approximately 25 years in the North American energy market, Michelle brings strong leadership to the Ag Energy Co-operative Ltd. team. She is motivated to provide customers with value and transparency in all interactions fostering strong relationships. Michelle offers vast experience with a strong background in customer relations and sales, strategic planning, regulatory affairs, and operations oversight. Michelle has deep knowledge regarding counter-party relations and processes, and energy strategy optimization as it pertains to utility efforts.

Robert De ChiaraSales Manager

Rob De Chiara is an accomplished professional with over 20 years of business development and management experience in the energy industry. Rob began his career as a trusted advisor to customers by offering a full suite of energy solutions from natural gas and electricity hedging strategies to HVAC and building automation software customization. Since then, Rob has taken on many leadership roles and has led many sales teams to consistently exceed company targets. Rob brings to AEC, knowledge of commodity, HVAC, and LED solutions.

Thomas BellissimoInside Sales

Thomas joined Ag Energy in 2019 and brought with him significant experience in communication and logistical coordination which prepared him to dive into a customer care role. During this time, he has transitioned from a promising rookie to skillfully managing 27.5 million m³ of gas and 127 million kWh of electricity. Thomas provides pricing and market updates daily, weekly, and monthly to over 300 members and customers. While ensuring that these same members and customers have the service support that they require. Over the last year, Thomas has played a role in adding, extending, and renewing 14 million m³ of natural gas and 37.9 million kWh of electricity.

Gabe PeressuttiInside Sales

Gabe joined in 2023 as Inside Sales. Gabe is an accomplished professional with 25+ years of experience in retail, commercial and industrial natural gas, and power industry. Throughout his career he has held many roles from sales to procurement providing him a great understanding of all facets relating to energy services.
Gabe values strong customer relationships, giving customers “peace of mind” which aligns with AEC’s values and integrity

AEC purchases energy commodity on the wholesale market to pass energy savings on to you. We represent you and liaison with your utility, ensuring seamless energy for your business.