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Month: January 2019

SECO News, February 2019

DUNCAN’S DIGEST

 

SECO Energy is an advocate for members who choose to reduce their utility-supplied power by purchasing their own systems. In fact, as of mid-January, 1,050 SECO members have interconnected with SECO’s facilities by installing a member-owned solar array.

 

SECO News Duncan's Digest 2019

 

SECO members considering a solar investment are often frustrated by the confusion about return on investment, less-than-reputable contractors and dishonest business practices. To help inform and protect our members, SECO has completed an enhancement and redesign of the Solar Power section of our website. Valuable information from a trusted source is now just a click away.

 

Our new online tools like the Solar Estimator can help you determine the reduction in utility-supplied power for a specific system size/orientation. The 10-step process and timeline to interconnect with SECO’s system is outlined. We provide answers to frequently asked questions, an explanation of net metering, a sample bill and other resources. We’ve published a comprehensive checklist and list of resources for vetting and selecting a contractor.

 

When visiting the website, carefully read through “Selecting Your System.” This section explains how to determine system size and the math behind member generation. You’ll find advantages and disadvantages of different panel and inverter types keep reading to find insurance requirements (Florida Administrative Code requires insurance for systems over 10kW).

 

Most important, the interconnection process and agreement is enhanced with an online application. Members and contractors will now establish login credentials and register to begin the process online. Contractors can register and help manage the interconnection process and agreement on behalf of their client.

 

At every step of the process toward interconnection with SECO’s facilities, members and contractors will be notified via email to provide updates. We’re leaping into 21st Century technology by incorporating electronic signatures and communications into our new system.

 

But wait! Before you take another step toward solar, contact SECO for a free solar audit. Our Energy Services Specialists will visit your home and use the Solar Pathfinder to determine the amount of sun your home receives. Our expert will assess your roof, note home orientation and measure obstructions that may block solar power production.

 

Before signing a contract with an installer, do your homework. Let SECO help you research any potential return on investment. The calculation must include the system investment, maintenance and the cost of utility-supplied power used at night, chilly early mornings or cloudy days.

 

Attend SECO’s 81st Annual Meeting of the Membership on Saturday, March 23 for a live demonstration at our Solar Square. Gates open at 8 a.m. – join us for breakfast, snacks, live entertainment, gifts, the potential to win door prizes and top-notch hospitality of our local employees.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

SECO News Champion Tony Shaw February 2019
Meet SECO Champion Tony Shaw – an example of our 400+ SECO Champion employees. Tony is dedicated to providing exceptional service to members, co-workers and communities.

 

TONY SHAW – ENERGY SERVICES SPECIALIST

 

LENGTH OF SERVICE – 19 YEARS

 

“I make a difference.”

 

 

SECO Champion Tony Shaw is an Energy Services Specialist who is a subject matter expert on member-owned solar systems and energy-efficiency measures. As a Citrus County resident, he is often the SECO contact stationed in the Citrus County Emergency Operations Center during emergencies such as Hurricanes Irma and Matthew. Tony’s family has called Central Florida home for generations. He and his family enjoy fishing and golf, and he loves to spend time with his young grandson. Tony is proud that he helps members save money and reduce energy usage by conducting energy and solar audits. Tony is often out and about in the community offering energy-efficiency tips, providing money-saving ideas and sharing his knowledge of solar generation. Tony states, “People really trust and believe in SECO Energy as a company.”

 

 

 

SECO News FL Special Needs Registry February 2019

FLORIDA SPECIAL NEEDS REGISTRY

The Florida Division of Emergency Management has developed the Florida Special Needs Registry to allow residents with special needs to register with their local emergency management agency to receive assistance during a disaster. The statewide registry provides first responders with valuable information to prepare for disasters or other emergencies. The Special Needs Registry may help save your life. Visit the Florida Disaster website to locate your county and register.

 

 

 

SECO News ACSI February 2019

SECO IS TOPS!

Thank you, SECO Members, for rating your not-for-profit electric cooperative top in customer satisfaction. SECO received an outstanding ACSI score of 89 in 2018! When comparing SECO to average ACSI scores in the energy industry – SECO is a clear Florida and national frontrunner. Nationally, cooperative utilities averaged 77 in 2018. Scores for municipal and investor-owned utilities both averaged slightly lower at 75.

 

 

 

SECO News Move Over February 2019

MOVE OVER FOR SAFETY

 

Did you know that Florida law requires drivers to Move Over a lane – safely – for law enforcement, emergency, sanitation, utility vehicles, tow trucks and wreckers that are stopped on the roadside? Heed the law or pay a hefty fine – $100 to $500 (dependent on the county where cited) – and three points on your driving record.

 

If you can’t safely move over a lane – Slow Down to a speed that is 20 mph less than the posted speed limit.

 

In 2017, over 17,000 Move Over citations were issued in Florida– this includes 1,756 logged in SECO’s service area. There were 212 Move Over crashes in the state and 16 Move Over crashes in our area.

 

The fine will lighten your wallet and the points will damage your driving record. But the law is designed to protect defenseless roadside workers including SECO‘s line technicians. Let’s all Move Over and allow these folks to return home safely to their loved ones after a hard day’s work.

 

 

SECO News February 2019 Right Tree Right Place

RIGHT TREE – RIGHT PLACE

 

Spring is just around the corner and many of us are looking forward to planting a new landscape. For energy efficiency and safety, plant the right tree in the right place and always call 811 Sunshine One-call (it’s free!) before you dig. 811 will arrange for the free service of locating and marking underground utilities.

 

Did you know the right landscape plan can greatly reduce your annual energy costs? Deciduous trees planted to the south, southwest or west side of buildings can provide shade that helps reduce cooling costs. Evergreen trees planted on the north and west sides help to block winter winds and reduce heating costs.

 

When planning, consider the tree’s height when fully grown. Trees growing too close to lines are a safety hazard to SECO field employees and the public. Trees touching lines can cause sparks, fires, power outages and shock hazards. Never plant tall oak, pine, sycamore or palm trees near power lines.

 

Planning the right landscape today can avoid problems in the future, especially where power lines are concerned.

 

Read the full February 2019 SECO News online.

SECO Trustee Scott Boyatt Earns Director Gold Credential

SECO Energy congratulates District 1 Trustee Scott Boyatt for continuing his education and earning the Director Gold Credential from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

 

The NRECA offers a Director Certification Program for not-for-profit electric cooperative Trustees to better understand their roles and responsibilities, stay up-to-date on key issues and energy trends while preparing them to meet the challenges facing electric cooperatives now and in the future. To attain the Director Gold Credential, Mr. Boyatt first completed the Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) Certificate and the Board Leadership Certificate (BLC).

 

Mr. Boyatt lives in Clermont and became a SECO member in 2004. He was elected by District 1 members to serve as their representative on SECO’s Board of Trustees in 2013. Collectively, SECO’s nine-member Board of Trustees represents members as a whole with one Trustee elected from each of SECO’s nine Districts.

 

Trustee Boyatt stated, “I am very proud to represent my fellow District 1 members as their voice on SECO Energy’s Board. After earning the BLC last year, I was inspired to earn the Director Gold Credential before the District 1 Trustee election on January 31. Upon completing the Director Certification Program, I felt that I was called to run for Trustee again and I am confident in my ability to serve our members.”

 

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “Congratulations to Mr. Boyatt on his recent educational achievement and his willingness to serve as District 1 Trustee. SECO’s Board has continually supported our cooperative’s efforts to offer members improved reliability, safe and affordable power with excellent customer service. I am grateful for the Board’s guidance and their commitment to fellow members.”

 

Duncan continued, “Make plans to attend our 81st Annual Meeting of the membership on Saturday, March 23. We are serving breakfast and snacks, providing live entertainment and offering members chances to win prizes, including a refurbished 2009 Ford SuperCab, a golf cart, several cash prizes and a large variety of other door prizes.”

 

Visit our Board of Trustees page to view a photo and brief bio of SECO’s Trustees along with a District map. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

Members Re-elect District 3 Trustee Richard Belles

SECO Energy District 3 members gathered at The Villages’ Savannah Center on Thursday, January 24 to elect a Trustee to represent their District on SECO’s Board. Members voted to re-elect District 3 Trustee Richard Belles. A SECO member since 2001, Mr. Belles was first elected to the Board in 2013.

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative, operated for and owned by its members. SECO members who reside in the District elect one of their fellow members to serve on SECO’s nine-member Board of Trustees. Collectively, the Board represents the SECO membership, meeting monthly to monitor the financial status of the cooperative while providing fiduciary oversight and participating in policy decisions that serve the best interests of the members at large.

 

In January, both Mr. Belles and fellow District 3 resident Bryan Lifsey declared their willingness to serve the members in District 3 by submitting letters of intent to run. On the afternoon of January 24, a large crowd assembled in the Savannah Center to elect a District 3 Trustee for a three-year term.

 

Trustee Belles stated, “Thank you District 3 members for choosing me as your Trustee. I am humbled and honored by your support and trust. It is a pleasure to work on your behalf with my fellow Trustees, and I look forward to continuing my Board service.”

 

President Jerry Hatfield stated, “Mr. Belles’ Board service has had a meaningful impact on SECO’s improved reliability, financial stability and customer service recognitions and success. I congratulate him on his re-election and I look forward to his assistance in serving our fellow SECO members.”

 

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “Congratulations to Mr. Belles on his re-election and thank you District 3 members for participating in your District Meeting. SECO’s Board of Trustees is an important piece of the cooperative process. They are a fiscally responsible group who is very supportive of SECO, its members and employees. I am grateful for our Board’s fiduciary guidance and oversight, and their collective knowledge of the utility industry.”

 

Duncan continued, “I hope members plan to attend our Annual Meeting on Saturday, March 23. We will be serving breakfast, snacks, visit the Energy Showcase for energy-efficiency displays, enjoy live entertainment and the chance to win door prizes. The grand prizes this year are a refurbished 2009 Ford SuperCab 4-wheel drive with less than 60,000 miles, a golf cart, cash and many other prizes.”

Visit our Trustees page to view a photo and read a brief bio of SECO’s Trustees along with a District map. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

Members Rate SECO Tops in Satisfaction

SECO Energy members have once again rated the not-for-profit electric cooperative top in customer satisfaction. SECO received an outstanding ACSI score of 89 in 2018, a one-point increase from the cooperative’s 2017 score.

 

The American Customer Satisfaction Index provides a one-of-a-kind, cross-industry measurement of customer satisfaction. ACSI scores are comparable across all sectors, industries, companies and time periods. SECO Energy conducted the membership survey that included the ACSI metrics at year end and contacted members both by phone and online to ask about their unique experience with the cooperative. Members rated SECO an impressive score of 89.

 

When comparing SECO to average ACSI scores in the energy industry – SECO is a clear Florida and national frontrunner. Nationally, cooperative utilities averaged 77 in 2018. Scores for municipal and investor-owned utilities both averaged slightly lower at 75.

 

Among 18 other metrics in the survey, members ranked SECO as “excellent” on 16 of 18 attributes with the highest ratings for employees, bills and payment options, minimizing outages, having consumers’ best interests at heart and the cooperative’s corporate citizenship initiatives. Three attributes increased significantly from 2017: having highly trained, professional employees, communicating with members and keeping them informed and being easy to reach.

 

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “SECO’s recent increase in our ACSI score is a clear indicator that our employees are our cooperative’s greatest asset. Accolades and high rankings from members are a testament to our employees’ dedication to improving reliability, maintaining low rates and offering members world-class customer service. I am grateful to work with a group of folks committed to the cooperative purpose.”

 

Duncan continued, “And thank you, members, in particular for recognizing our employees’ efforts on your behalf. We are grateful for your continued approval and support.”

 

The survey also included feedback that members’ satisfaction increased with the addition of our new StormCenter outage map and communications suite that offers proactive email, text and voice notifications. To manage preferences, visit SECO Energy’s StormCenter.

 

In recent years, SECO Energy has received national attention, and three J.D. Power trophies, for its exceptional customer satisfaction rankings. In the 2015 J.D. Power study, SECO Energy was ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction Among Midsize Utilities in the South.” And in 2016 and 2017, SECO was ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction Among Cooperatives.”

 

“Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates. Visit SECO Energy’s About SECO page to learn more about the Central Florida not-for-profit electric cooperative.

Sunshine State Stats, December 2018

December 2018 was chilly compared to December 2017. The average temperature was 62°, while December of 2017 had an average temperature of 64°. The average high in December 2018 was three degrees cooler than 2017. This December also saw heavier precipitation. Rainfall for December 2018 was 5.55 inches compared to last December at 1.20 inches.

 

SECO Energy Sunshine State Stats December 2018 breakdown

 

There were 62 cooling degree days and 157 heating degree days for December 2018, while last year there were 81 cooling degree days with 107 heating degree days. The Degree Days are based on how much warmer or cooler the average temperature at a particular location is than 65°F. In other words, if the average temperature is 60° degrees outside on a particular day, there are 5 Heating Degree Days for that day in that location.

 

January 2019 is forecast to be somewhat the same as last January and is still Central Florida’s coldest month of the year. Our local forecast calls for lows in the 40s for at least sixteen nights in January. Be sure you’ve changed your heating unit’s air filter and have had the unit serviced by a qualified technician. Rainfall is forecast to be heavier than normal so keep an umbrella handy.

 

For those with heat pumps, raise the thermostat setting no more than 1-2 degrees at a time when heating is being used to prevent back-up heat strips from operating. Heat strips can cost up to five times more per hour in energy use.

 

If you want to check historical usage, log into SmartHub to view past bills and charts. If your usage is high, SECO offers several energy-efficiency tools to help you identify energy wasters. Take the Home Energy Assessment to receive a detailed email tailored to your home’s features and lifestyle. The energy-saving advice will provide low-cost ways to decrease your usage – and your electric bill.

 

To easily calculate how much energy your appliances, lighting, electronic devices, and other energy-using items in your home consume, use the Energy Estimator. If you want a member of our Energy Services team to come to your home to perform a free energy audit, contact us today to book an appointment.

 

** Past weather data sourced from Leesburg Airport weather station. 

 

Florida Fauna & Flora – The Basking Shark

THE BASKING SHARK

 

The basking shark is the second-largest living shark in the world. Basking sharks can grow up to a massive 40 feet long and weigh between 6,600 and 13,000 pounds. This shark is thought to mate in early summer, with gestation of a year up to three years. It gives birth only once every two to four years. Its life expectancy is fifty years.

 

Despite their large appearance, basking sharks are non-aggressive and harmless to humans. The basking shark has the smallest brain weight of any shark – a reflection of its relatively passive lifestyle. Listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature‘s (IUCN) Red List as a vulnerable species, this shark is fully protected in the UK, Malta, New Zealand, Florida and the Gulf Coast.

 

Read the full January 2019 SECO News online.