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Month: April 2024

SECO Energy Foundation $50,000 Grant Supports United Way of Marion County

The SECO Energy Foundation awarded a $50,000 community grant to United Way of Marion County. The SECO Energy Foundation presented the grant funds to the organization in support of both the 2-1-1 helpline and the Strong Families program that addresses homelessness and promotes debt reduction with one-on-one success coaching. 

 

The United Way’s 2-1-1 helpline connects individuals with essential community resources, such as healthcare referrals, assistance with housing, food, and mental health resources, which are directly related to the health and well-being of the community. The Strong Families initiative aims to end generational poverty by pairing participants with success coaches who will concentrate on providing guidance in managing debt, increasing personal income, and furthering their education. During this year-long program, participants will advance their long-term financial stability. 

 

The United Way of Marion County’s VP of Community Impact, Beth Nelson expressed gratitude for the SECO Energy Foundation grant, saying, “We are very grateful to the SECO Energy Foundation for this support. Our 2-1-1 helpline is very well-utilized and our ability to support it is strengthened by this grant.” She continued, “We believe teaching financial concepts to less-fortunate individuals through the Strong Families program will truly change lives and offer a brighter outlook for future generations. There really is nothing else like this available locally.” 

 

The grant was one of five grants approved by the SECO Energy Foundation Board at their first quarterly meeting in 2024. The funded grants will be used to support charitable organizations that assist residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy. SECO serves over 240,000 homes and businesses in Central Florida’s Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter Counties.  

 

The SECO Energy Foundation Executive Director Mariah Delgado was supportive of the organization’s plans for the funds. Delgado shared, “The grant to the United Way of Marion County is going to make a difference, I believe. Changing lives with education is a terrific long-term approach to improving the lives of the homeless population that truly wants to succeed in life, and the 2-1-1 program has been a valuable source of community support for years. This grant should help each initiative and the SECO Energy Foundation is happy to provide it.” 

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is a charitable organization operating as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3). Contributions to the Foundation are tax-deductible. 

 

The SECO Energy Foundation aims to support charitable organizations that assist residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy, which include the Central Florida counties of Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter. To learn more about the SECO Energy Foundation, visit SECOFoundation.org.

SECO Energy Named “Tree Line USA” Utility by Arbor Day Foundation

SECO Energy has been named a 2024 Tree Line USA Utility by the Arbor Day Foundation. Tree Line USA recognizes public and private utilities that help to preserve and enhance America’s urban forests. SECO Energy has maintained the Tree Line USA Utility designation for 17 consecutive years. 

  

Tree Line USA is a national program that is sustained through a partnership between the Arbor Day Foundation and the National Association of State Foresters. Tree Line USA promotes the coexistence of reliable and safely delivered electricity in communities that maintain vigorous tree populations.

 

Five Tree Line USA Standards

Arbor Day Foundation logo

To be recognized as a Tree Line USA Utility, SECO Energy must maintain exceptional standards in meeting five program tenets. These require utilities to respect industry standards for outstanding tree care; deliver yearly worker training in best tree care practices; promote a tree planting and education program; sustain a tree-based energy conservation program; and participate in an Arbor Day celebration. 

  

This year is the 152nd Anniversary of Arbor Day, which is celebrated on Friday, April 26. The Arbor Day Foundation is celebrating its 52nd Anniversary this year. Since its inception, it has facilitated the planting and distribution of nearly 500 million trees in more than 50 countries worldwide. Learn more about Arbor Day and its mission.

 

CEO Curtis Wynn acknowledged SECO Energy’s Vegetation Management team for their unceasing efforts that have once again earned SECO Energy the Tree Line USA Utility designation. Wynn said, “We are very proud of SECO Energy’s Vegetation Management team and our full-scale vegetation program. To be named as an Arbor Day Foundation Tree Line USA Utility for seventeen consecutive years is quite an accomplishment. SECO Energy’s consistent investment in its vegetation management program not only reduces power outages through the safe management of our existing rights-of-way, but through recognition like this, it establishes a high standard that our team members aspire to achieve, year after year.” 

  

Wynn continued, “I believe most of our members recognize SECO Energy’s commitment to quality tree care that promotes healthy, well-maintained trees planted in the right place can help reduce their annual energy costs.” 

 

Visit Right Tree Right Place for tips on planting trees away from power lines and how trees can help reduce annual energy bills. SECO Energy has also launched online energy efficiency tools to help members reduce energy consumption and costs. The Home Energy Assessment is an online energy audit tailored to each member’s home and lifestyle. A member may enter details about their home that impact energy use and efficiency. This information enables SECO Energy to send free energy-saving advice. The Energy Estimator calculates the cost of electrical devices typically found in most homes.

 

“Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on X/Twitter for prize drawings, news releases, and severe weather alerts affecting SECO Energy’s service territory. Manage your outage notification preferences at StormCenter. To see when SECO Energy crews/contractors are working in your area, visit our new System Improvement Map. To learn more about SECO Energy as a not-for-profit cooperative, visit About SECO Energy.

 

 

SECO Energy Foundation $50,000 Grant Supports United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties

The SECO Energy Foundation awarded a $50,000 community grant to United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties. On Wednesday, April 10, 2024, the SECO Energy Foundation presented the funds to the organization during a brief ceremony at their Leesburg office. The grant will support the Mission United veteran’s assistance initiative dedicated to supporting the needs of veterans in our community.

 

The Mission United veteran’s assistance program addresses transportation, financial stability, emergency assistance, housing, and other essential services. Crucial transportation services to medical, dental, and mental health appointments, grocery stores, Veterans Affairs appointments, and other necessary destinations are provided along with rent and utility assistance, emergency financial support, and food assistance. Veterans are offered personalized support that connects them with necessary resources including employment, education, training, and housing.

 

United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties CEO, Jessica Davis is thankful for the SECO Energy Foundation’s community support. Davis stated, “The SECO Energy Foundation grant is instrumental, as it will enable us to reach more veterans, provide more comprehensive services, and continue making a significant impact in the lives of those who have given so much for our nation.”

 

The grant was one of five grants approved by the SECO Energy Foundation Board at their first quarterly meeting in 2024. The funded grants will be used to support charitable organizations that assist residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy. SECO serves over 240,000 homes and businesses in Central Florida’s Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter Counties.

 

The SECO Energy Foundation Executive Director Mariah Delgado is enthusiastic about the organization’s plans for the funds. Delgado stated, “The grant to the United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties will truly make a difference in our local communities. It will help the United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties’ mission, including addressing health, family stability, and education needs. In this case, it also serves our veterans, so two of the SECO Energy Foundation’s target initiatives are supported.”

 

United Way receives grant from SECO Energy FoundationDelgado added, “The SECO Energy Foundation is pleased to have these funds applied to such a good program. We are excited to contribute to efforts that will provide opportunities to improve the quality of life in our communities.”

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is a charitable organization operating as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3). Contributions to the Foundation are tax-deductible.

 

The SECO Energy Foundation aims to support charitable organizations that assist residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy, which include the Central Florida counties of Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter. To learn more about the SECO Energy Foundation, visit SECOFoundation.org.

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is a charitable organization operating as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3). Contributions to the Foundation are tax-deductible. 

 

The SECO Energy Foundation aims to support charitable organizations that assist residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy, which include the Central Florida counties of Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter. To learn more about the SECO Energy Foundation, visit SECOFoundation.org.

SECO Energy District 4 Members Elect James LaMotte as Trustee

SECO Energy members residing in District 4 elected James LaMotte as their representative to serve on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees in a Special District Meeting on April 9, following the passing of Mr. Richard Dennison, a long-standing Trustee earlier this year. The Meeting and election were held within the District at the Marion Oaks Assembly of God in Ocala. 

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative operated for and owned by its members. SECO’s service area is geographically divided into nine Districts. One Trustee is elected from each of the nine Districts to represent their fellow members 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 membership at large. 

 

Mr. James LaMotte and Mr. Richard McGinley, both of whom reside in Ocala, submitted letters of intent to run as the District 4 candidate, and each met the Trustee qualifications. As the newly elected Trustee, Mr. LaMotte will assume the seat held since 2015 by the late Trustee, Mr. Richard Dennison. Mr. LaMotte will hold the Trustee position for the remainder of the 2023-2026 term. 

 

SECO Energy’s Bylaws require that the cooperative hold District Meetings every three years, during which time elections are held to determine the District’s representation on the SECO Energy Board of Trustees. Cooperatives that hold in-person District Meetings must also hold an in-person election per Florida Statute. A drive-thru voting option was available for members for added convenience and to encourage participation. 

 

Mr. LaMotte has served as president of the SECO Energy Foundation Board since its inception. He currently works as the Area Coordinator for Marion County Public Schools, handling the custodial and grounds of over 25 sites and managing approximately 100 employees. He lives in Ocala Waterway Estates with his wife, Suzan, and has been a member of SECO Energy for nearly 30 years.

 

Following the election, Mr. LaMotte was congratulated by Board Trustee and President Gerald Anderson and SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn. LaMotte expressed his appreciation for being chosen to contribute to his community in a significant role, stating, “I’m thankful and humbled by the support from everyone in District 4 who participated in the election. Serving on the SECO Energy Board of Trustees is a tremendous honor. Mr. Dennison has been an exemplary figure in this District. Stepping into this role, I look forward to tackling the challenges of increasing energy demand, grid security, and the integration of new technologies. I’m ready to work closely with the Board to navigate these issues and support the members of SECO Energy effectively.” 

 

President Anderson added, “Well done, Mr. LaMotte, on your successful election to the SECO Energy Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees and I are prepared to collaborate with you to deepen your understanding of SECO’s distinct operational procedures, our key goals, and the significant challenges we face moving forward.” 

 

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn expressed condolences for Mr. Dennison’s passing and welcomed Mr. LaMotte to his new role, stating, “We deeply feel the absence left by Mr. Dennison, a Trustee whose dedication and work were highly esteemed. Mr. LaMotte’s significant involvement in the SECO Energy Foundation Board has helped equip him for his responsibilities as a Trustee. Given his contributions and dedication to SECO Energy’s mission, we look forward to the future with optimism.” 

 

“Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on Twitter for prize drawings, news releases, and severe weather alerts affecting SECO Energy’s service territory. Manage your outage notification preferences at StormCenter. To see when SECO Energy crews/contractors are working in your area, visit our new System Improvement Map. To learn more about SECO Energy as a not-for-profit cooperative, visit About SECO Energy.

SECO Energy Foundation Approves $200,000 in Community Grants

The SECO Energy Foundation Directors approved $200,000 in community grants at their first quarterly meeting in 2024. The funded grants will be used to support charitable organizations that assist local residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy. SECO serves over 240,000 homes and businesses in Central Florida’s Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter Counties.  

 

Central Florida Council, Boy Scouts of America was awarded $40,000. The award will be used to purchase a generator to operate freezer and cooling equipment at the Camp La-No-Che Boy Scout Camp located in Paisley. The generator will be an asset to the Boy Scout Council and local Scouting Associations as a means of storm preparedness.  

 

Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter was awarded $50,000 for their Veterans Housing Initiative. The agency is working to help veterans maintain the safety and livability of their homes. There is a growing need to help low-income families and individuals who own a home but are unable to complete necessary repairs or improve the home’s accessibility needs due to aging or health constraints. 

 

United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties received approval for $50,000 to fund their Mission United Veteran’s Assistance program. The Mission United Program is a comprehensive initiative dedicated to supporting veteran’s needs. The program aids in transportation, financial stability, emergency assistance, housing, and other essential services for veterans.  

 

United Way of Citrus County will benefit from a $10,000 grant to fund The GROW Initiative: Financial Literacy Class. Financial literacy courses provided by the United Way of Citrus County teach citizens budgeting priorities, managing and building credit, help in resumé preparation, job interview skills, and other expertise to set them up for financial success. 

 

United Way of Marion County was awarded $50,000 to support the 2-1-1 and Strong Families programs. 2-1-1 is an informational and referral helpline that connects families and individuals with essential community services and resources. The Strong Families program seeks to end generational poverty by teaching financial stability to Marion County residents. The coaching program addresses homelessness, promotes debt reduction, increased income, and education attainment. 

 

The SECO Energy Foundation Board of Directors President James LaMotte is excited for the organizations receiving grant funds. LaMotte stated, “The SECO Energy Foundation Board of Directors is pleased to fund five local charitable organizations. All funded projects will enhance or expand needed social services within our communities.” 

 

The SECO Energy Foundation’s Executive Director Mariah Delgado echoes Mr. LaMotte’s sentiments by adding, “The SECO Energy Foundation was organized to help charitable organizations expand their outreach. Funding was scarce for many social service agencies, that citizens depend on, during the Covid Pandemic. There is a great risk to communities as a whole when charitable programs remain under funded, and the grants funded by the SECO Energy Foundation will help immensely.”  

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is a charitable organization operating as tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3). Contributions to the Foundation are tax deductible. 

 

The aim of the SECO Energy Foundation is to support charitable organizations that assist local residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy, which include the Central Florida counties of Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco and Sumter. To learn more about the SECO Energy Foundation, visit SECOFoundation.org.

SECO Energy Board of Trustees Elects 2024 Officers

The SECO Energy Board of Trustees elected its 2024 Officers during their March Trustee Meeting. District 3 Trustee Gerald Anderson was re-elected Board President. Scott Boyatt, District 1 Trustee, was elected to once again serve as Board Vice President and District 9 Trustee Morgan Hatfield was re-elected to continue her role as Secretary/Treasurer.  

  

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative owned by its members, who elect representatives from their respective Districts to serve on the SECO Energy Board of Trustees for three-year terms. Collectively, the nine-member SECO Board of Trustees represents all members by meeting monthly to monitor the cooperative’s governance process, provide fiduciary oversight, and participate in policy decisions that serve the best interests of the members at large.  

 

District 3 Trustee and Board President Gerald Anderson was re-elected for a third consecutive term. Mr. Anderson has been a SECO Energy member since 2013 and resides in The Villages. His first election to the SECO Energy Board of Trustees was in 2019. During his tenure, he has earned his Credentialed Cooperative Director’s Certificate (CCD), Board Leadership Certificate (BLC), and maintained the prestigious Director Gold Credential (DGC) from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). 

 

President Anderson stated, “I’m truly moved and honored to continue serving our members as President. Leading such a talented and diverse team is a privilege and responsibility. Together, we’re not just facing challenges but seizing opportunities to make SECO Energy even stronger for our members.”  

 

District 1 Trustee Scott Boyatt retained his office as Vice President. Mr. Boyatt has been a SECO Member since 2004 and resides in Clermont. His first election to the Board was in 2013. Since joining the SECO Board, he has completed the Credentialed Cooperative Director’s Certificate (CCD) and Board Leadership Certificate (BLC) and has achieved Director Gold Credentials from the NRECA.  

  

Vice President Boyatt reflected on his continued service with a sense of purpose and commitment, saying, “Being a part of this Board has been a rewarding experience. Each decision we make is an opportunity to positively impact our community and ensure the sustainability of our service area. As we navigate growth and transformation in our region, I’m eager to shape a future where every member benefits from reliable, sustainable, and efficient energy solutions.” 

  

District 9 Trustee Morgan Hatfield was re-elected to serve a second term as Secretary/Treasurer. She has been a member since 2019 and resides in Paisley. Her first election to the Board was in 2021. Ms. Hatfield successfully holds her Credentialed Cooperative Director’s Certificate (CCD), the Board Leadership Certificate (BLC), and Director Gold Credential (DGC) from the National Rural Electric Cooperatives Association (NRECA).   

  

Ms. Hatfield expressed her enthusiasm and dedication to her role, stating, “It’s genuinely an honor to serve in this capacity. I enjoy contributing to the cooperative’s welfare and success to ensure our cooperative’s financial health and operational efficiency lay a strong foundation for a sustainable future.”  

  

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn applauded the Board’s commitment and vision. “Our Board of Trustees embodies the Mission, Vision, and Core Values of SECO. Their dedication is pivotal to our success as we continue to grow. These Officers have demonstrated their ability to help lead SECO Energy in a direction that will not only meet but exceed the needs of our members, ensuring we remain a reliable and trusted energy provider for years to come.”  

  

The NRECA offers the Director Certification Program to equip cooperative trustees with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective governance, preparing them to address current and future challenges within the electric cooperative sector. This program also awards the Director Gold Credential (DGC) to those continuously seeking to expand their knowledge and fulfill their governance duties to the highest standard.  

  

For more information about SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees, initiatives, and how the cooperative serves its members, visit SECOEnergy.com>Your Co-op.  

 

“Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on Twitter for prize drawings, news releases, and severe weather alerts affecting SECO Energy’s service territory. Manage your outage notification preferences at StormCenter. To see when SECO Energy crews/contractors are working in your area, visit our new System Improvement Map. To learn more about SECO Energy as a not-for-profit cooperative, visit About SECO Energy.    

March 2024 Sunshine State Stats

In March 2024, the average high and low temperatures rose substantially over February. The month’s lowest temperature of 47 degrees was 7 degrees higher than in February, while the highest temperature of 88 degrees was 4 degrees higher than last month. Central Florida is headed away from the coolest part of the year into milder spring weather. The average high of 79 degrees matches the “normal” temperature for March, while the average low of 60 degrees was two degrees warmer than usual, as recorded at Leesburg International Airport (KLEE). 

Reported rainfall increased slightly from February, totaling 3.44 inches. This total is .59 inches lower than the average March precipitation level of 4.03 inches, but significantly higher than a year ago when only .16 inches fell. Measurable precipitation was limited to just 7 of 31 days and the rainiest days were March 10 and 22, when 1.14 inches fell. 

 

March recorded its highest temperature of 88 degrees on the 9th. The lowest daily recorded temperature of 47 degrees was on the 20th, one day after the lowest measured high temp of 67 degrees.

 

Thunderstorm activity within a 20-mile radius of Leesburg International Airport was much higher in the first half of March than in the second half. WeatherSentry recorded 2045 cloud-to-ground lightning strikes on March 2, 3, 6, and 10, while only 182 strikes were recorded on March 18 and 27.

 

 

Lightning Archive Report – 20-mile radius from Leesburg International Airport (KLEE)

Data and charts provided by weathersentry.dtn.com

 

Cloud to ground lightning in March 2024

Cloud to Ground Lightning – March 1-14, 2024 (2045 strikes)

 

 

Cloud to ground lightning in March 2024

Cloud to Ground Lightning – March 15–31, 2024 (182 strikes) 

 

 

The increase in thunderstorm activity is a reminder to those who own a backup power generator to be sure the unit is in safe operating condition. In 2023, lightning was the single highest cause of power outages in the SECO Energy service area. SECO offers a meter-based surge arrester designed to protect large appliances (motors and compressors) by reducing surges at the meter BEFORE they enter the home. Members can lease or purchase the “Surge MitiGator” by filling out a contact form.

 

HVAC is the largest energy user in Central Florida homes, accounting for an average of 35 to 40% of kWh usage. As daytime temperatures are rising into the 80s and 90s, many households may notice an increase in energy costs. Be sure to check your thermostat settings to properly update them for these warmer months. The energy-efficient thermostat setting during hotter months is 78 degrees.

 

April forecast from The Old Farmer’s Almanac:

The weather outlook for April 2024 begins with sunny and warm temperatures with scattered showers in the first two weeks. The following two weeks are expected to deliver isolated showers to heavy rain while temps remain mild to warm.

 

Online Energy-Efficiency Tools

Log into SmartHub to view past bills and consumption charts to check historical usage. If you want help in reducing your energy usage, 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.

SECO News April 2024

Thank you to all who tuned in to our 2024 Annual Meeting and participated in your cooperative’s governance process! If you were unable to tune in live, watch the Annual Meeting video on SECOEnergy.com to see the list of 101 prize winners. The video is also available on YouTube and Facebook.

 

Wynn's Wire

 

17,209 members voted on Annual Meeting business. Both the revisions to SECO Energy’s Bylaws pertaining to District Meetings and Trustee qualifications and the 2023 Annual Meeting Minutes were approved by the membership.

 

During the meeting, Board of Trustees President Gerald Anderson and I provided an update on SECO Energy’s successful 2023, specifically celebrating our 85th anniversary as an electric cooperative. This significant milestone represents decades of service, innovation, and community involvement that originated from a collective effort of rural households in 1938. Our journey has brought electricity to over 240,000 members and employment opportunities to Central Florida making 2023 a truly remarkable achievement.

 

In response to growth and the evolving energy landscape, SECO Energy introduced a new Strategy Map at the start of 2023. Our Mission steadfastly remains committed to providing reliable and innovative energy services and our Vision is to lead the industry in member satisfaction and engagement while becoming the preferred employer in our region. This strategic approach enables the Cooperative to focus on our core business, navigate industry changes and rising costs, operate more efficiently, enhance member engagement, and overcome labor and supply chain shortages.

 

In 2022, the SECO Energy Board of Trustees approved a multi-million-dollar investment in advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) with plans to implement the technology across our service area. AMI is one of the most innovative services investments we can provide that will reach practically every member.

 

Reducing labor and contractor costs, identifying service anomalies, and almost instantaneous power outage detection make AMI a win for members and the Cooperative.

 

AMI allows us to connect and engage directly with you through the system’s ability to provide real insight into your home’s energy use. This technology is the first step for SECO to open the door to new ideas and innovations. Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems, or DERMS, will pave the way for a more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure. Soon, you will be able to enroll your smart devices, such as your thermostat, water heater, Wi-Fi-connected whole home generator, batteries, and electric vehicle, to connect with our DERMS provider.

 

We plan to incentivize members who take advantage of this newer technology that will help us consume less energy when demand is high. Watch for an announcement of the program launch in an upcoming edition of SECO News.

 

Best regards,

 

Curtis Wynn

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

SECO News April 2024 Annual Meeting Trivia

 

If you missed this year’s Annual Meeting or didn’t win a prize, don’t worry – there’s a second chance to win. Simply head over to www.Facebook.com/SECOEnergy and play 2024 Annual Meeting trivia.

 

HERE ARE THE TEN PRIZES UP FOR GRABS:

• Two (2) $250 SECO Energy bill credits

• Three (3) $100 Amazon gift cards

• Five (5) $50 SECO Energy bill credits

 

HOW DO YOU PLAY? On SECO Energy’s 2024 Annual Meeting trivia Facebook post, answer these five questions in the comments section:

1. What anniversary milestone did SECO Energy commemorate in 2023?

2. What was SECO Energy’s 2023 ACSI score?

3. How many Trustee Districts make up the SECO Energy Board?

4. What was the total number of members served by SECO Energy by the end of 2023?

5. What does AMI stand for?

 

NEED SOME HELP FINDING THE ANSWERS? No problem! Visit SECOEnergy.com > Your Co-op > Annual Member Meeting and watch the recorded virtual meeting. You can submit your answers by mail to SECO Energy, P.O. Box 301, Sumterville, FL 33585, or play online. Make sure to submit your answers before June 14th. Winners will be notified by June 21st. GOOD LUCK!

 

 

2024 Annual Meeting Prize Winners

All members who voted on 2024 Annual Meeting business were eligible to win 1 of 101 prizes. To check and see if you’re one of the lucky winners, head over to SECOEnergy.com > Your Co-Op > Annual Member Meeting.

 

In case you missed out on the live feed of the Annual Meeting, you can watch the video posted on our website and YouTube channel. Don’t miss the chance to catch up on the latest updates and to find out if you’re among the fortunate prize recipients!

 

 

SECO News April 2024 Tree Line USA

 

SECO Energy has been named a 2024 Tree Line USA Utility by the Arbor Day Foundation for 17 years in a row. Tree Line USA recognizes public and private utilities that help to preserve and enhance America’s urban forests. Nationally, Tree Line USA fosters the coexistence of reliable and safely delivered electricity with communities that maintain healthy trees.

 

To earn the Tree Line USA designation, SECO Energy meets five program standards: quality tree care, providing yearly worker training in best tree care practices, sponsoring a tree planting and education program, maintaining a tree-based energy conservation program, and participating in an Arbor Day celebration. Celebrate Arbor Day on Friday, April 26, by planting a tree. Be sure to call 811 before you dig and plant the tree away from overhead power lines.

 

 

SECO News April 2024 Invest In Surge Mitigator™ For A Chance To Win A Generator

 

SECO’s Surge MitiGator™ protection program takes the bite out of damaging spikes and surges, and you can too! Enroll in the Surge MitiGator™ program by June 30, 2024, for a chance to win one of three portable generators. Members in a current lease or have a previously purchased Surge MitiGator™ are automatically entered to win.

 

Scan the QR code or go to SECOEnergy.com > Energy Solutions > Surge MitiGator™ and complete the web form to get started. We’ll pick a winner in April, May, and June.

 

The Surge MitiGator™ program provides a meter-based arrestor that acts as the first line of defense to block electrical disturbances from entering through the electric line before they damage appliances and lead to financial loss. Surges are often caused by lightning, vehicle accidents involving SECO Energy’s infrastructure, small animals, fallen trees, and other unforeseeable events.

 

Lease the Surge MitiGator™ for a monthly fee* of only $5.95 or purchase the protection for $349. Both options include a 15-year manufacturer warranty.

 

SECO Energy recommends installing point-of-use devices to provide additional protection for sensitive appliances inside the home. These can be purchased at most major home improvement stores.

 

*Plus tax and applicable installation fees.

 

 

SECO News April 2024 A Message from Presiden Anderson: National Safe Digging Month (811)

 

April is National Safe Digging Month, which serves as an important reminder to always know what lies beneath before breaking ground on any outside projects requiring digging.

 

It’s alarming to note that every year, millions of dollars in property damage, personal injury, and even fatalities occur due to accidental digging into buried utility lines. Whether you’re planning to install a fence, plant a tree, or embark on a construction project, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to know what’s below to avoid potential hazards underground before digging.

 

HERE’S HOW THE PROCESS WORKS:

1. Plan Your Project. Gather specific information about your digging project, such as street address, type of project, and timeline.

2. Call 811 or Submit a Request Online at Sunshine811.com. It’s free and easy. You’ll receive a ticket number and a list of public utility companies that will be notified of your intent to dig.

3. Wait Two Full Business Days. Affected public utilities will be notified of your intent to dig and will dispatch someone to the approximate location of these underground facilities on your property.

4. Confirm Utility Responses and Marks. Before breaking ground, confirm that all utilities have responded to your request and marked the appropriate locations.

5. Dig Carefully. If digging within 24 inches from the outer edge of each marked facility can’t be avoided, consider moving your project location.

 

Florida's Sunshine 811 logo

Ensuring your safety and the integrity of SECO Energy’s infrastructure remains the utmost priority. By following these steps and calling 811 before digging, you not only safeguard yourself but our entire community.

 

Let’s use this month as an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to prioritizing safety and ensuring that every digging project is approached with caution and foresight. Together, we can prevent accidents, protect infrastructure, and promote a safer environment for all.

 

Read the full April 2024 SECO News.