REC Limited (formerly Rural Electrification Corporation Limited) was established in 1969 in response to the urgent need for rural electrification in India. At a time when the country faced severe droughts, policymakers sought to reduce agriculture’s dependency on monsoons by energizing agricultural pump-sets for efficient irrigation. Over the years, REC has expanded its focus beyond rural electrification and has become a leading financial institution in the power sector, providing financial assistance across all segments, including Generation, Transmission, and Distribution.

REC is a Maharatna company under the Ministry of Power, Government of India. It funds its operations through market borrowings of various maturities, including bonds, term loans, and foreign borrowings. Domestically, REC holds the highest credit ratings from agencies like CRISIL, ICRA, India Ratings, and CARE, while internationally, it is rated at par with India's sovereign ratings. Under the guidance of experienced leadership, REC has consistently maintained strong profit margins and has paid dividends each year since fiscal 1998. As of March 31, 2022, the company's net worth exceeded ₹50,000 crore.

REC’s commitment to nation-building remains its core value. In alignment with this, the company has been designated as the Nodal Agency for several Government of India flagship schemes, including the Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (SAUBHAGYA), Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY), and the National Electricity Fund (NEF). Additionally, along with Power Finance Corporation (PFC), REC has been designated as a Nodal Agency for the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). REC also supports the Ministry of Power in monitoring the Ujjwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana (UDAY), aimed at improving the operational and financial health of power distribution companies.

REC's wholly-owned subsidiary, REC Power Development and Consultancy Limited (RECPDCL), provides consultancy services in the Distribution and Transmission sectors, further supporting REC’s mission.

With a strong customer base, dedicated employees, and a nationwide presence through 22 state offices, REC ensures accessibility and efficiency in its operations. As a key player in India's power sector, REC continues to support infrastructure development to provide affordable, accessible, and sustainable power to the nation.