Amanda Richardson – Page 12

April 2021 Sunshine State Stats

Will the adage prove true? Let’s hope the above average April 2021 showers will bring May flowers. April 2021 brought both rain and hot temperatures to Central Florida. Temperatures reached as high as 90 degrees and as low as 45 degrees. The month ended with an eight-day streak of high temperatures that reached over 80 degrees. In total, 21 days in the month reached above 80 degrees and 2 of these days the temperature reached 90.

Hotter temperatures are just over the horizon. Members may notice an increase in their April electric usage due to cooling needs increasing to combat hotter daily and nightly temps.

For April 2021 the average temperature was a comfortable 71 degrees, which is 4 degrees lower than the average temperature in April 2020. The highest recorded temperature was 90 degrees and the lowest recorded was 45 degrees. The average high temperature was 81 degrees, and the average low temperature was 61.

Average April rainfall is 2.8 inches, April 2021 was much higher at 6.08 inches. Comparatively, precipitation in April 2020 was lower at 2.92 which is closer to the normal average.

Again, members may see an increase in their energy usage for April 2021. Central Florida is entering into the late spring and summer months. Hotter temperatures mean HVACs will run for longer periods of time to keep the temperatures cool inside. Daily temperature fluctuations also increase HVAC usage. The highest daily temperature fluctuation in April was 28 degrees.

May forecast:

The forecast for May 2021 includes mostly sunny days with intermittent chances of daily thunderstorms. Expect highs in the 90s with lows in the high 60s to low 70s.

To check historical usage, log into SmartHub to view past bills and consumption 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.

Florida Fauna & Flora – Florida Manatee

One animal that is uniquely Floridian is the manatee. Florida manatees are native to Florida and are a sub-species of the West Indian manatee. These gentle giants grow to 9 – 10 feet long and weigh in at about 1,000 pounds. This gray aquatic mammal has two fore-limb flippers and a paddle-shaped tail that help it steer and propel through the water. Manatees can hold their breath for up to 20 minutes. When active, they rise up to breathe every 3 to 5 minutes.

Manatees are herbivores who spend up to 8 hours a day grazing on aquatic plants and seagrass, and eating about 10% of their body weight daily. They have no front teeth – only molars in the back of their mouth that are replaced when a tooth is lost.

Scientists are concerned about the number of observed manatee deaths this year. In 2021, there are 539 recorded deaths from January 1 through March 19, compared to 637 total deaths for 2020. This is an alarming trend that is on the rise. Manatee deaths can be attributed to a decline in seagrass and added pollution.

Fun Fauna Fact: Manatees have been a protected species in Florida since 1893. They feed and rest in shallow waters which makes them an easy target for boats.

Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission

Read the full May SECO News online.

SECO News, May 2021

Duncan’s Digest – 2021 “Just Business” Annual Meeting Recap

We celebrated our 2021 “Just Business” 83rd Annual Meeting on Thursday, March 25. We opted to hold the event virtually to avoid the large crowd that traditionally gathers for our onsite Annual Meetings. If you couldn’t watch live, you can watch the full video on our Annual Meeting website section.

The Meeting was live streamed through webcast, Facebook Live and YouTube. Members tuned in to watch our Board President and District 4 Trustee Richard Dennison call the Meeting to order and close the voting platform at 4:30 p.m. Our Vice President of Corporate Communications and Energy Services Kathryn Gloria gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem which was prerecorded by SECO Energy’s Manager Consumer Billing & Accounting Tim Wallace.

During Board introductions, we welcomed new Trustee Morgan Hatfield to the Board. Ms. Hatfield was elected in early February to represent District 9 and began her duties on March 29.

Mr. Dennison’s President’s Report provided an overview of the quorum and Annual Meeting requirements Florida cooperatives adhere to under Florida Statute. Two years ago, a Bylaws revision was approved that allows electronic, in-person and by-mail voting on Annual Meeting business to achieve a quorum. Almost 5,000 members voted this year to approve a Bylaws Revision and the 2020 Annual Meeting Minutes. All members who voted were eligible to win 1 of 100 prizes.

My state of the company address reported on the excellent financial health of the cooperative. At year-end 2020, our meter count had grown to 216,477 ranking SECO as the third-largest cooperative in Florida and seventh-largest in the nation. Last year, you and your fellow members consumed 3.64 billion kilowatt hours which is an increase of about 1.7 million over 2019.

SECO’s investment in its electric system is approaching the $1 billion mark at a current valuation of $955.9 million to support the increased demand for affordable energy in our area. Our TIER rating is 2.87 and member equity equals 33.64%. In the customer satisfaction arena, our 2020 ACSI score is an impressive 91. These are all very healthy ratios in the cooperative utility world.

If you’re interested in learning more about our fiscal health, the “Just Business” 2020 Annual Report is available online. Our Independent Auditor’s Report is included with the cooperative’s 2020 and 2019 financial statements.

During the “Just Business” Annual Meeting, we held the traditional military branches tribute and recognized the efforts of the 400+ SECO employees, Board of Trustees and local first responders. I also announced my plan to retire as CEO in January 2022, making this my last Annual Meeting as CEO. Admittedly, I wanted my final Annual Meeting address to be live with a large audience in attendance. Unfortunately, large gatherings are currently not in the best interest of our members and employees.

Thank you to all who tuned in to watch the Annual Meeting live. If you could not tune in, you can view the full video online.

Sincerely,

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

A new friend with fur, feathers or scales may help you reduce stress and offer valuable companionship. The Old Farmer’s Almanac has advice on which pet may be the best fit for your home and family. Almost 60% of U.S. households include at least one pet. Dogs rule the home because they are loving and affectionate but require a hefty time commitment. Cats may be less affectionate and more independent than dogs, but they usually involve less work. Fish are beautiful and colorful but need a clean and well-maintained tank to live. Birds are fun to watch and may add a lively tune or funny voices to your home – but can be messy.

Want to spread the love for pets and wildlife? Purchase or lease the Surge MitiGator and SECO will donate $5 to a pet or animal rescue or shelter of your choice. Read on for more details.

Surgeo Loves Pets – Through June 15

In February SECO News, Surgeo asked for members’ help in supporting domestic and wildlife shelters and rescues by enrolling in SECO Energy’s Surge MitiGator™. For every new MitiGator enrollment, SECO donates $5 to a local pet shelter in Citrus, Lake, Marion or Sumter Counties.

February through March, 1,120 members completed a new Surge MitiGator enrollment, which equaled a $5,600 donation divided among local pet and wildlife rescues.

Take the bite out of damaging surges and spikes with the Surge MitiGator. Surges are caused by lightning, vehicle accidents involving SECO facilities, small animals, birds or fallen trees. Power surges can damage or destroy household appliances and sensitive electronics such as televisions, computers, stereo equipment and more.

SECO’s meter-based surge arrester helps prevent unnecessary financial loss by reducing surges BEFORE they enter your home through the meter. The Surge MitiGator has a beastly 15-year warranty and is designed to protect your home’s large-motor appliances.

You can lease the MitiGator for only $5.95 plus tax per month plus a $25 installation fee. The purchase price ranges from $349 to $399, with installation included.

Enroll in SECO’s Surge MitiGator™ to donate $5 to the shelter or rescue of your choice. Visit our Surge MitiGator website section and click on the enroll icon to fill out the webform and choose which pet shelter will receive a $5 donation on your behalf from SECO. The promotion ends June 15.

EV Charger Winner

Kathy Ziegler from Ocala is the April winner of a SECO Energy branded JuiceBox Pro 40 EV Level 2 charger. We’re giving one charger away each month while supplies last. To enter, text “EV” to (352) 320-4500 for a link to enter. Or click on the EV Charger Giveaway homepage banner.

Learn more about the benefits of electric vehicle ownership on our EV website pages. You’ll find an EV savings calculator, information about CO2 reduction, an EV and PHEV model finder and a nationwide charger-finder map. Visit our Electric Vehicles website section for more details.

Watch SECO News for next month’s charger winner.

Safety Corner – Generator Safety

Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1. If you plan on using a portable or permanent generator as a source of back-up power during a power outage, learn to operate your generator correctly and safely before a storm impacts our service area.

Follow the safety warnings below to operate a generator.

• To protect yourself, your family, your property and SECO employees and contractors, read and follow the generator owner’s manual and pay close attention to the safety instructions.

• A qualified electrical contractor must install a permanent generator with a disconnect and transfer switch. This is NOT a DIY job.

• A qualified electrician is required to connect a generator to an electrical panel. An incorrect connection could electrocute the user or endanger our employees and contractors.

• Follow local, state and national fire and electric codes. A permit is required to install a permanent generator.

• Before starting your generator–always disconnect from your metered electric utility service.

• Never run a generator inside a building – even in a garage – it is a hazard and violates safety codes because it generates deadly (and odorless) carbon monoxide (CO).

• Be sure the area where a generator is operating is adequately ventilated, has sufficient airflow and is away from open windows.

• Store gasoline and diesel in approved containers out of the reach of children. Never fuel the generator while it is running.

• Extinguish all flames and cigarettes when handling fuel.

• Stage a fully charged, approved fire extinguisher near the generator.

• Use extension cords free of exposed wires and frayed shielding.

• Never remove or tamper with a generator’s safety devices.

• Do not attempt to repair a generator. A qualified technician should perform repairs and service as needed.

• Generator engine parts are very hot during operation. Severe burns may result. Always keep children away.

Improper use or installation of an electric generator can cause property damage, severe injury or even death. Members who use a generator to operate life-saving equipment should verify the generator’s compatibility. Learn more about proper generator use and safety tips; view our generator safety video on our website.

Generator Safety Word Search

A generator may come in handy during storm season. Make a commitment to safety while running a generator to protect you, your family and SECO employees and contractors.

PCA Adjustment

The commodities market is changing, and natural gas prices are rising. This affects fuel costs associated with producing power at Seminole Electric Cooperative’s natural gas plants. In turn, those costs are passed along to SECO members with the Power Cost Adjustment (PCA) factor line item on the monthly electric bill. On May 1, the SECO Energy PCA changed to keep pace with the market and wholesale power costs. The result is the cost of 1,000 kilowatt hours increased from $116.90 to $121.00

Need help paying your bill? View our interactive map to find an agency in your area.

Winners’ Circle

Have you engaged with our virtual assistant Electra who can answer thousands of calls without missing a beat? Ask Electra for assistance instead of waiting to speak with a representative. Each week, we’ll draw one winner who will receive a $25 gift card. Winners are drawn from all members who called and successfully took care of business with Electra.

Winners Are:

Jeffrey Moody from Umatilla

Dona Macomber from Webster

Peter Cockcroft from Bushnell

Francis Campbell from Clermont

Winners in our Go Green and Win: Paperless Billing and Bank Draft incentive.

Josh McIntyre from Lake Panasoffkee is the winner of a $200 SECO Energy bill credit.

Thomas Binkley from Clermont is the winner of a NEST thermostat.

Jacob Dickman from Ocala is the winner of an Amazon Echo Dot with Alexa.

Read Winners’ Circle next month for more winners.

StormCenter

Before the Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1, enroll in StormCenter outage notifications via email, text, voice messages or all three.

StormCenter identifies the service locations affected by an outage and proactively sends a notification with the estimated restoration time, crew status and more. Once service is restored, you’ll receive a message that includes the outage cause if known. You can set do not disturb times if you don’t want to be called in the middle of the night about an outage or restoration. To choose notification preferences, visit StormCenter on the website and click on the Manage Notifications tab.

Reporting a new outage or checking the status of an existing outage with your smartphone or tablet is easy. Click “Report Outage” and enter the account holder’s last name and house number (or the account or phone number). Find the status of an existing outage on the Check Status tab.

Read the full May SECO News online.

SECO Energy Trustee Gerald Anderson Earns Director Gold Credential

SECO Energy congratulates Board of Trustees’ Vice President and District 3 Trustee Gerald Anderson on earning his Director Gold Credential (DGC) from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). The DGC offers a continuing education path for directors/trustees beyond the Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) and Board Leadership Certificate (BLC).

According to the NRECA, the DGC recognizes directors/trustees who desire a tangible credential that demonstrates their ongoing commitment to advancing their knowledge and performing their fiduciary duty to the best of their ability.

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative operated for and owned by its members. SECO’s nine-member Board of Trustees consists of members who live in SECO’s service area. They are elected to oversee the governance of the cooperative. Each Trustee on the Board is elected by the members who reside in his/her District. Collectively, the Trustees are responsible for establishing, reviewing and revising corporate policies to ensure that SECO continues to preserve reliable, affordable service for all members.

Trustee Anderson has completed the required coursework to earn both his CCD and BLC. Mr. Anderson stated, “Earning the Director Gold Credential from the NRECA is an exciting and rewarding educational opportunity that helps me fulfill my role on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. I am proud to represent the members in District 3 and the membership as a whole through my Board service.”

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “Congratulations, Trustee Anderson, on earning your Director Gold Credential and completing the NRECA’s director/trustee continuing education courses. I am thankful for your Board participation and willingness to serve as Board of Trustees’ Vice President and your District’s representative.”

To view a brief bio of SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees and a District boundaries map online. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

March 2021 Sunshine State Stats

Spring officially arrived in Central Florida in March 2021. Temperatures fluctuated from the high 80s to the low to mid-40s. The month ended with an eight-day streak of high temperatures that reached into the 80s. In total, 18 days in the month reached above 80 degrees. Members may notice an increase in their March electric usage due to heating and cooling needs during the month.

For March 2021 the average temperature was a comfortable 69 degrees, which is 5 degrees lower than the average temperature in March 2020. The highest recorded temperature was 89 degrees and the lowest recorded was 44 degrees. The average high temperature was 79 degrees, and the average low temperature was 59.

Rainfall for March 2021 was below the average of 4.03 inches with only 1.42 inches for the month. Precipitation in March 2021 is higher than last year’s total of only .23 inches.

Again, members may see an increase in their energy usage for March 2021. Central Florida is experiencing more days that reached highs of over 80 degrees. Daily temperature fluctuations mean members used their HVACs to cool their homes during the day and for heat after the sun went down. The highest daily temperature fluctuation was 26 degrees.

April forecast:

Expect sunny days in April 2021 with little chance of rain. The weather forecast calls for highs in the 80s and low 90s with lows in the 50s and 60s.

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 Energy Board of Trustees Elect 2021 Officers

The SECO Energy Board of Trustees elected three officers at the Board of Trustees Meeting on Monday, March 29. President and District 4 Trustee Richard Dennison was elected to continue his tenure as Board President. District 3 Trustee Gerald Anderson who had previously served as Secretary/Treasurer was elected as the Board Vice President and District 2 Trustee Joyce Anderson was elected Secretary/Treasurer.

Board President Richard Dennison lives in Marion County and has been a SECO member since 1999. Trustee Dennison was first elected to the Board in 2015 and was re-elected as the District 4 Trustee in February 2020. Mr. Dennison has served as Board Vice President, and Monday’s election began his second term as Board President.

District 3 Trustee and Board Vice President Gerald Anderson lives in The Villages. A SECO member since 2013, Trustee Anderson was elected to the Board in 2019. Mr. Anderson formerly served as Board Secretary/Treasurer.

Newly elected Board Secretary/Treasurer and District 2 Trustee Joyce Anderson resides in Sumterville. Trustee Anderson is the first woman to serve on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees and as a Board officer. Mrs. Anderson was elected to the Board in February 2020 and has been a SECO member since 2017.

CEO Jim Duncan congratulated the 2021 officers. Duncan stated, “Congratulations, Mr. Dennison, Mr. Anderson and Mrs. Anderson on your election as Board officers. Your elevation to Board officers shows your Board peers have confidence in your ability to lead the Board for the collective benefit of the entire SECO membership. I am grateful for your service to our members and the cooperative as a whole.”

The Board of Trustees also welcomed newly elected District 9 Trustee Morgan Hatfield to her first Trustees’ Meeting. Ms. Hatfield who lives in Paisley was elected in February 2021 and has been a SECO member since 2019.

“Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates. Visit our Board of Trustees page to view a short bio of SECO’s Board members. Use the interactive District Map to determine the District and Trustee of your SECO Energy service location.

Florida Fauna & Flora – Roseate Spoonbill

One of Florida’s most unique and colorful birds is the roseate spoonbill. This species is the only spoonbill that is native to the Western Hemisphere. It has pink wings, long pink legs and a white neck and back. There is no color difference between males and females of the species.

Spoonbills get their name from their spoon-shaped bill. This bird uses its bill to sweep side to side to capture prey in shallow water. The bird’s pink color comes from the organisms they eat that are full of organic pigments called carotenoids.

Roseate spoonbills have a wingspan of 50 to 53 inches and grow to a length of 30 to 40 inches. Males retrieve nest-building materials while females build the nest. Females lay no more than 3 eggs, and both parents help with incubation duties while waiting about 24 days for the eggs to hatch.

Fun Fauna Fact: Roseate spoonbills were once threatened by hunters for their feathers. Because this practice is now illegal, the population has rebounded. The bird is still protected by the U.S. Migratory Bird Treaty Act and is a Florida Threatened species.

Read the full April 2021 SECO News online.

SECO News, April 2021

Duncan’s Digest – Inverness Substation Upgrade

SECO Energy’s service territory covers 2,100 square miles, which is about the size of Delaware. At year-end 2020, we were serving 216,477 homes and businesses in seven Central Florida counties. The bulk of our members live in Citrus, Lake, Marion and Sumter Counties, with smaller numbers of members in Hernando, Levy and Pasco Counties.

Our cooperative purpose is to provide exceptional service to our members, co-workers and communities. That exceptional service is reflected in SECO Energy winning coveted J.D. Power awards in 2015, 2016 and 2017 when our satisfaction scores topped all utilities in the nation. In 2020, we upheld our position as an American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) frontrunner in Florida and nationally with a score of 91.

We definitely have a strong reputation to uphold. Another example of our exceptional service is a meticulous inspection and maintenance schedule that ensures day-to-day reliability while expanding an electric system that meets both current and future members’ energy needs.

In the July 2020 SECO News edition, I communicated about the Marion Oaks substation rebuild underway in Marion County. That project, including the demolition of the older adjacent substation, is almost complete.

A new project in the works is the Inverness substation rebuild in Citrus County. The Inverness substation was reconstructed in 1982. Due to its age, the substation needed a complete rebuild. This substation serves just under 6,000 members. The rebuild includes a high-side ring bus and steel structures that support the heavy, high voltage transmission line. The high-side ring bus will increase service reliability for all members served by the Inverness sub by creating redundancy through looped service.

The Inverness substation rebuild also improves reliability for members served by the nearby Floral City substation as well. Both substations are looped in with two separate Duke Energy transmission lines. Currently, members served by both substations experience an outage if even one of the Duke transmission lines experiences a fault or operates. When the new ring bus is in place at the Inverness substation, members served by our Floral City sub will no longer experience an outage if the fault occurs between the transmission line and the Inverness substation.

Along with the ring bus on the high side, we’re working to re-gasket the existing power transformer, install a new metering package and implement a state-of-the-art relay schematic. The new foundation is in place, the fence surrounding the substation has been installed, and a new control house is being constructed on-site. The Inverness substation rebuild is on schedule for completion in early summer, just in time for storm season to arrive.

The total value of our electric facilities systemwide is inching closer to the $1 billion mark. At year-end 2020, the value of SECO’s utility plant was $955.9 million. We’re spending about $3.2 million per month to improve existing members’ service reliability and to build new infrastructure to meet the growing demand in our area.

Without question, your electric service is supported by an extensive, robust and well-maintained infrastructure.

Sincerely,

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

The Old Farmer’s Almanac recommends the best days in April and May to complete indoor and outdoor projects. Ready for spring cleaning? Wash windows on April 10 and 11 and May 7 – 9, and wash floors on April 8 and 9 or May 5 and 6. The best days to bake are on April 18 and 19 and May 15 and 16. If spring yard work is on your list, the best days prune to encourage growth are April 20 and 21 and May 17 – 19. Prune to discourage growth on April 1, 2, and 10 and May 7 – 9.

Call 811 Before You Dig

Longer days and sunny weather make spring the perfect time to tackle your honey-do list. April is Safe Digging Month and Florida law requires you to call 811 or visit www.call811.com online before you dig.

811 is a free service that will locate and mark underground utilities on your property or in the area you plan to dig. Never install a fence, plant a garden, add new landscaping or trees before contacting 811. Are you working with a contractor on a project? Make sure your contractor has connected with 811 before beginning the project on your property.

Wait for the flags! Keep shovels out of the ground until the 811 locating service has responded to your request and flagged the approximate area where underground utility lines (electric, water, gas, communications, etc.) are located.

Know what’s below – call 811 before you dig. In Florida – it’s the law.

EV Charger Winner

Pamela Gladd from Minneola is the March winner of a SECO Energy branded JuiceBox Pro 40 EV Level 2 charger. We’re giving one charger away each month while supplies last. To enter, text “EV” to (352) 320-4500 for a link to enter. Or click on the EV Charger Giveaway homepage banner.

Watch SECO News for next month’s charger winner.

Spring for Energy Savings

The Department of Energy (DOE) at energy.gov estimates the energy used to cool and heat your Central Florida home is 35 to 40% of your total energy consumption. You control how and when you use electricity. The condition and age of your home’s HVAC system, insulation, roof, windows, ducts, appliances and lifestyle also affect your energy consumption. Newer, well-insulated, properly weatherized homes with double-pane windows and ENERGY STAR-rated appliances consume less energy.

The number of people living in your home and weather also affect energy consumption. More people living in the house create more laundry, heating, cooling, cooking and increased hot water and electronics use. Central Florida is known for scorching summer temperatures that cause your HVAC to work overtime to keep the home cool. During a cold snap, the heating system also runs more frequently to warm the house.

Want help to reduce your energy consumption and lower your monthly energy bill? SECO Energy’s online energy-efficiency tools can help you spring for energy savings with low-cost and no-cost tips and ideas to help you reduce your energy use.

Home Energy Assessment

Our Home Energy Assessment is an online energy audit that you can complete from the comfort of your home. Fill out the assessment based on your home and lifestyle. Submit your answers and email address, and in just minutes you’ll receive energy-savings advice tailored to your home and lifestyle. Complete the energy-saving ideas, and you’ll be on your way to consuming less energy – and saving money.

Energy Estimator

Are you interested in seeing the math associated with your energy usage? Visit our Energy Estimator online to calculate the estimated costs for each of your home’s appliances and electronics. Submit your email address to receive no-cost and low-cost energy-savings suggestions via email.

Energy Savings Word Search

After completing our Home Energy Assessment and Energy Estimator, sharpen your energy-saving knowledge with this month’s Energy Savings word search.

2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season Early Warning

Traditionally, the Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1. But the past six hurricane seasons have seen hurricanes and tropical storms form in mid-May. Because of this change, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) will begin its Atlantic Tropical Weather Outlook earlier on May 15 instead of waiting until June 1.

What does this mean for SECO Energy members? SECO is StormReady, and we encourage you to begin your preparations for hurricane season now. Don’t wait until a hurricane or tropical storm is heading our way to prepare.

Learn more about hurricanes and tropical storms in our Hurricane Handbook. You’ll find helpful information on emergency supplies for people and pets. We’ve also included tips for before, during and after a storm. Pick up a copy of our Hurricane Handbook at one of our five Member Service Centers or visit our Storm Preparation page.

Winners’ Circle

February’s Winners Are:

Mark Fagan from Clermont

Lynn Pulchano from Inverness

Don Whittigton from Dunnellon

Sandra Ennulat-Davis from Eustis

Congratulations to our three March winners in our Go Green and Win: Paperless Billing and Bank Draft incentive.

Narasimha Murthy from Tavares is the winner of a $200 SECO Energy bill credit.

Karen Chapman from Ocala is the winner of a NEST thermostat.

John Johnson from Summerfield is the winner of an Amazon Echo Dot with Alexa.

Read Winners’ Circle next month for more winners.

Thank a Lineman License Plate

Members can show their support for the thousands of Florida lineworkers and utility personnel who restore power to millions of Floridians after devastating natural disasters by ordering a “Thank a Lineman” license plate. The 2020 Florida Legislature approved the plate after Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 1135 into law.

This cause is local and benefits a key SECO Energy employee recruitment partner. For every “Thank a Lineman” plate sold, $25 goes to Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) to support their Electric Utility programs. According to LSSC’s website (www.lssc.edu), the college is ranked in the top 150 Community Colleges nationally. Their student job placement or continuing education rate is 97%. The scholarship boost is an exciting opportunity for LSSC, utility personnel across the state and cooperative members.

Reserve your plate today by purchasing a pre-sale voucher. Purchase avenues vary from county to county. Contact your local county tax collector’s office for guidance or visit https://myfloridaspecialtyplate.com/lineman-order.html, where you can pay for the pre-sale voucher and process your order online. Learn more at www.thankalineworker.com.

The actual “Thank a Lineman” license plates will be available once the pre-sale threshold is met.

Read the full April 2021 SECO News online.

Energy Insider – 1st Quarter 2021

Welcome to the end of Q1 2021! Needless to say, 2020 created some interesting challenges in how we conduct business. Companies found creative ways to cut overhead and do more with less due to the unparalleled consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the Inauguration in January, the direction of the country has drastically changed. The conversations about sustainable energy, in addition to the new and invigorated attention to electric vehicles (EVs), is reaching an all-time high with businesses and individuals alike.

As businesses explore EVs as a possibility for their fleet, some very interesting information has come to light and many businesses are deciding to join the EV movement. With this change, several cost savings come to fruition immediately. As an example, with a fleet of EVs, the extremely costly fleet fueling contracts become nonexistent. If you do not have the fleet fueling contracts, the unproductive man hours associated with sitting at a fuel island waiting to be fueled becomes a thing of the past. The scheduled maintenance of normal combustion engine vehicles ceases to exist, equating to more cost savings in labor, petroleum products, and downtime for the vehicle.

“Range Fear” is always an EV topic of concern for businesses and individuals. However, improvement in technology and batteries make range fear a rapidly diminishing concern. Many EVs can travel 200-300 miles on a single charge, making EVs a much more conducive option for businesses. Many batteries today have a multi-year and up to 100,000-mile warranty, helping to ease the fear of the reliability of electric vehicles.

When we discuss sustainable energy, reducing the carbon footprint is always at the heart of the matter. Many big businesses have pledged to reduce their carbon footprint with some touting to be mostly green energy fueled much sooner than later. Part of their plan is dependent upon EVs. With no tailpipe emissions, an electric vehicle fleet can greatly reduce your business’ carbon footprint.

Tax credits are still available on some makes and models as well. Taking this idea into the total budget discussion, the cost of the initial purchase is lucrative when you consider total cost of the vehicle over the life of the vehicle. Operating electric vehicles can cost three to five times LESS than a conventional internal combustion engine, depending on local fuel cost and electric rates. As a bonus, some manufacturers are giving consumers a level two charger with the purchase of a new EV.

Take “charge” of your fleet, the wave of the future is now. For more information about EVs visit our
Energy Solutions website section.

BARBIE SHAW

Manager of Key Accounts & Revenue Programs
OFFICE: (352) 569-9787
CELL: (352) 303-3567
barbie.shaw@secoenergy.com

Hank Bolduc, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant

HANK BOLDUC

Key Accounts Consultant
OFFICE: (352) 569-9789
CELL: (352) 303-3546
hank.bolduc@secoenergy.com

Ryon Meyers, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant

RYON MEYERS

Key Accounts Consultant
OFFICE: (352) 569-9781
CELL: (352) 636-9593
ryon.meyers@secoenergy.com

Jeff Light, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant

JEFF LIGHT

Key Accounts Consultant
OFFICE: (352) 569-9790
CELL: (352) 303-3183
jeff.light@secoenergy.com

SECO Energy Celebrates 83rd Annual Meeting Virtually

SECO Energy celebrated its “Just Business” 83rd Annual Meeting of the Membership on Thursday, March 25. Because of the continuing COVID-cautious environment and the need to limit large gatherings, the not-for-profit cooperative held the Just Business Meeting virtually.

Members tuned in via Facebook live, YouTube and live stream to watch the cooperative’s second virtual Annual Meeting. Board President and District 4 Trustee Richard Dennison called the Meeting to order and closed the voting platform at 4:30 p.m. SECO’s VP of Corporate Communications and Energy Services Kathryn Gloria led the invocation and asked the virtual audience to join her in the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem. Ms. Gloria introduced the Trustees and welcomed District 9 Trustee-elect Morgan Hatfield, who began her duties at the Trustees’ Meeting on Monday, March 29. Ms. Gloria also introduced CEO Jim Duncan, Cooperative Attorney Scott Gerken and Executive Administrator to the CEO and Board Nora Brown, who served as Recording Secretary during the Meeting. Board Secretary/Treasurer and District 3 Trustee Gerald Anderson certified the Official Annual Meeting Notice that was mailed to all cooperative members per the terms of the Bylaws.

Mr. Dennison began his President’s Report by welcoming the virtual audience. He thanked the members who voted electronically, in person, by phone or by mail, and announced that SECO achieved a quorum by virtue of votes cast on Annual Meeting business. Mr. Dennison stated, “Florida cooperatives are required by statute to hold an Annual Meeting and must achieve a quorum to conduct official business. I am happy to announce that member voting participation has indeed helped us achieve a quorum this year. Thank you so much to all who cast a vote this year.”

Following the President’s Report, CEO Jim Duncan began his CEO Report. Mr. Duncan welcomed the virtual audience, performed the traditional military salute and first responders’ recognition. He acknowledged the Board of Trustees’ service and employees’ hard work and dedication to members.

Mr. Duncan also formally announced his plan to retire as CEO. Duncan stated, “Today is bittersweet for me. Earlier this year, I conveyed to the Board my plan to retire from SECO Energy in January 2022. That making the 83rd Annual Meeting my last as CEO. The decision to retire was a difficult and emotional one. My wife Connie and I have been married for 53 years, and we are looking forward to more vacations, scuba diving and family time with our sons and grandchildren.”

CEO Duncan’s state of the company address included an overview of his 42-year SECO career, the cooperative’s financial health, significant meter growth and reliability improvements during his tenure as CEO. Duncan stated, “Much has changed during my three decades as CEO. If you’ve been a member for decades, you may remember the days when our unflattering but true moniker ‘Sometimes Sumter’ was coined. Not only was our reliability marginal, but our rates were also some of the highest in the state. During my tenure as CEO, we dramatically improved service reliability through increased investments in our electric infrastructure and a strengthened vegetation management program.”

Cooperative Attorney Scott Gerken certified the 2021 Annual Meeting voting results. In total, 4,576 members voted on 2021 Annual Meeting business. As to the 2021 Bylaws Revision: 4,263 members voted “Yes,” 93 members voted “No,” and 220 members abstained. As to the 2020 Annual Meeting Minutes approval: 4,368 members voted “Yes,” 7 members voted “No,” and 201 members abstained. Mr. Gerken announced, “The membership clearly approves the 2021 Bylaws Revision and 2020 Annual Meeting Minutes.”

SECO Energy established a special phone number, email address and social media presence for the Virtual Annual Meeting. A panel of SECO employees interacted with members who posed questions and comments that were read and answered during the meeting by CEO Jim Duncan.

Mr. Duncan concluded the Virtual Annual Meeting by saying, “I appreciate you joining us and participating in the cooperative governance process.” He reminded members to stay tuned for the live prize drawing.

The meeting ended with the announcement of prize winners. All members who voted were entered into the random drawing for 100 prizes. Russell Rager from Tavares won the 2011 GMC Canyon 4X4 Extended Cab. A commercial member under The Stardust Collection account from Lake Panasoffkee won the golf cart that was provided at cost by The Villages Golf Cars. The four $1,000 winners are James Wilson from The Villages, Christine Hankla from The Villages, Kenneth A. Merritt from Center Hill and Leonard J. George from The Villages. Other prizes including Apple TVs, Instapots, toolsets, Amazon Fire tablets and airfryers will be shipped directly to winners. SECO will arrange for delivery of grand prizes. View the complete list of prize winners.

“Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates. If you missed the virtual meeting, visit SECOEnergy.com>Your Co-op>Annual Meeting to view the video.

MY ACCOUNT

AMI

MEMBER PERKS

ENERGY SOLUTIONS

SOLAR

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

SAFETY

VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

RELIABILITY

VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

MEMBER PERKS

YOUR CO-OP

MEMBER PERKS

COMMUNITY

Archive

Florida Fauna & Flora – Florida Manatee

Duncan’s Digest – 2021 “Just Business” Annual Meeting Recap

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

Surgeo Loves Pets – Through June 15

EV Charger Winner

Safety Corner – Generator Safety

Generator Safety Word Search

PCA Adjustment

Winners’ Circle

StormCenter

Florida Fauna & Flora – Roseate Spoonbill

Duncan’s Digest – Inverness Substation Upgrade

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

Call 811 Before You Dig

EV Charger Winner

Spring for Energy Savings

Energy Savings Word Search

2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season Early Warning

Winners’ Circle

Thank a Lineman License Plate

NEED HELP? CALL (352) 793 -3801

Search our website

CONNECT WITH US

NEED HELP? CALL (352) 793 -3801

Search our website

CONNECT WITH US