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Energy Insider – 2nd Quarter

SECO Energy Insider, 2nd Quarter - Avoid Taking the Bait When Hackers Phish

Avoid Taking the Bait When Hackers Phish

 

Online phishing emails are a very real and dangerous trend. According to Wikipedia, the annual worldwide impact of phishing was as high as five billion dollars as of 2015. Today, this number is substantially more.

 

Being aware of what phishing emails look like and how to avoid them can save a company a lot of money, damage, and stress. Computer hackers love to go phishing, but instead of baiting hooks, they’re sending emails. They disguise what looks like a trustworthy email in order to obtain sensitive information from companies and individuals. Phishing is a form of social engineering designed to trick people into clicking what appears to be a valid link but instead causes damage in one way or another.

 

The reason hackers phish is to obtain sensitive and profitable information. By clicking on the link in their email, you may be doing anything from installing a virus to allowing the hackers into your computer network. Either of these is to gain information to be used against the company or for access to sensitive information such as a social security number or password. For example, the hacker may obtain a company’s username and password to their bank account and start making money transfers. They may gain trade secrets or future plans. This vital information is up for grabs if someone is not careful when receiving a phishing email.

 

Phishing emails are designed to blend in with emails employees receive every day. For example, if you work in the accounting world and are accustomed to emails with invoices, you might receive the same type of email from a hacker with only a couple of variations. One may think that a small change isn’t a big deal, but that little detail could make all the difference. Often, the emails give a time frame or sense of urgency in order to prompt a quick click without thinking. For example, claiming your bank account is hacked and you need to click the link to reset your password. Phishing emails also often contain grammatical errors. A good example of a phishing email will look something like this:

 

SECO Energy Insider, 2nd Quarter - Avoid Taking the Bait When Hackers Phish, phishing email example

 

The easiest way to avoid falling victim to phishing emails is to always pay close attention. The “From” portion of the email address will often be similar to email addresses you would normally recognize. The slight difference could be as simple as an extra letter. Many times the sentences are not well written.

 

If an email is not one you’re expecting, question why it is being received. If the email is suspicious in any way, check with your company’s IT security team. If you receive an email asking to change a password for anything from a bank to a medical insurance site, call the company first or go directly to the website instead of clicking the link. Always check the legitimacy of the email before moving forward and warn others so everyone knows to be wary of a possible incoming attack.

 

 

 

SECO Energy Insider, 2nd Quarter - One-size-fits-all Does Not Apply

One-size-fits-all Does Not Apply

 

When it comes to surge protection, there is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Sometimes consumers spend a lot of money on surge products only to be disappointed. Typically this doesn’t relate to the product itself, instead, it’s because the manufacturer’s recommendations for installation have not been followed, contributing to poor product performance.

 

When contemplating surge protection think about multiple layers of protection. The goal should be to make sure the protector is installed as close as possible to the source you’re trying to protect. Let-thru voltages increase for every foot of excess wire used in an installation. This means additional unwanted surge energy can travel directly to your equipment/systems increasing the potential for damage. The rule-of-thumb is to use as little wire as possible, avoid loops and bends, and follow instructions as outlined.

 

Although installation is a key factor in ensuring success, without a properly connected ground at the service entrance, dollars spent on surge protection are spent in vain. Have a professional test your grounding effectiveness before you get started. Once grounding is confirmed, draw a circle around your facility. Take a look at all lines coming in such as the electric, phone, satellite, and cable. Then determine the best way to protect each point of entry.

 

Besides primary surge protector at your service entrance or before the first breaker in your main panel box, add protection at all subpanels. Pay careful attention not to forget panels feeding security systems, outdoor lighting, gates, fountains, etc. Utilize point-of-use devices on indoor equipment such as computers, copiers, fax machines, and phone chargers. Statistics show up to 80 percent of power surges are generated internally. Although these are not the surges that do the most damage, they degrade equipment over time.

 

For more information on how to protect your commercial/industrial facility from damaging surges contact your SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant. We’ll be glad to arrange for our surge vendor to help you formulate a plan to fit your company’s specific needs.

 

 

 

SECO Energy Insider, 2nd Quarter - Member Spotlight, E.R. Jahna Industries

Member Spotlight: E. R. Jahna 474 Sand Mine, Clermont, Florida

 

E.R. Jahna Industries is American-owned and has been independently operated since 1934 from their headquarters in Lake Wales Florida. Building upon his construction and concrete background, Emil Jahna, Jr., started mining operations in 1946 supplying sand for local businesses producing concrete. Beginning in the late 1960s, E.R. Jahna’s Central Florida locations allowed them to flourish by supplying construction grade sands to Disney World, Interstate 4 and the surrounding building growth. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, E.R. Jahna Industries purchased and started several new mines to expand their Florida footprint.

 

Today, E.R. Jahna remains owned and operated by the second and third generations of family. They continue to grow in the mining industry currently operating four sand mines in Florida and one in Savannah, GA. The company is a leading producer of high quality and reliable aggregate products – specifically sand. However, the term aggregate applies to a broad category of either fine or coarse particulate material such as silica sand, gravel, slag or crushed stone. These products are mined and used in concrete, concrete products, construction and every day modern life applications. Drain fields, road base, materials for concrete, sand for golf courses, roof tile, power poles, pavers, concrete pipe, concrete block and beach replenishment are all typical uses of aggregates here in Florida.

 

Although sand mining may sound simple, it is not! It requires a huge investment and an involved process to ensure a high quality product to meet end-use expectations. At E.R. Jahna’s in Clermont, Florida (served by SECO Energy), a dredge is used to remove sand from a pit. The sand is then transported through a pipeline to the sand plant. The sand plant washes and separates material through different processes to meet the customer’s end-use requirements. During its journey through the plant, the sand is screened of foreign debris, washed, sized, and the water removed creating the final sand aggregate product(s). Because the sand is so hard and abrasive on the metal processing equipment, continuous maintenance is required to meet production schedules and customer needs. E.R. Jahna’s maintenance program is key to its reliable production capabilities and quality products.

 

In order to compete in a competitive marketplace, E.R. Jahna continues to increase efficiency in extracting aggregates companywide. Many projects include sand plant re-configurations, efficient pump and motor upgrades, and an extensive geologic analysis of reserves and production yields. Over the next year, the E.R. Jahna 474 Independent Sand Mine will see drastic capital improvements including the total rebuild of the sand plant. With new technology and continued learning, E.R. Jahna can remain competitive and on the forefront of the aggregate mining industry.

 

 

 

SECO Energy Insider, 2nd Quarter - SECO Energy Is “Storm Ready,” Are You

SECO Energy Is “Storm Ready,” Are You?

 

Hurricane season began on June 1st and SECO Energy stands “Storm Ready.” Our System Operations Center is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and crews and support staff are available around the clock. Our Emergency Restoration Plan serves as a guide to ensure the timeliest restoration of service even under the most adverse circumstances. SECO Energy’s operating plan is continually evaluated and updated annually because we understand the importance of electricity to your business. However, this is only half the battle. You too must be storm ready.

 

For your business, being storm ready may not necessarily apply to a weather event or service interruption at your location. Depending on your operation, there could be a number of things with the potential to impact your bottom line. Having a plan in place to deal with concerns increases the chances of your business surviving. Statistics show that ninety percent of companies fail within a year unless they can resume operations within five days after a catastrophe.

 

In today’s world, businesses must prepare for the impacts of many hazards including natural disasters like hurricanes, tornados and flooding. Then there are human caused hazards, acts of violence and terrorism, technology-related issues and equipment failures. Whether the disaster is major or minor, anything that has the potential to cease operations at your location for a prolonged period of time can be crippling. A good plan is necessary to prevent this.

 

Many experts advise developing a preparedness plan consisting of the five steps as follows:

 

  1. STEP ONE-Program Management
    Assign an administrator to organize, develop and identify the regulations that establish the minimum requirements of your program.
  2.  

  3. STEP TWO-Planning
    Gather information and examine ways to identify, assess, prevent and reduce hazards and risks. Done correctly, this would include a business impact analysis.
  4.  

  5. STEP THREE-Implementation
    Create a written plan to address resource management, emergency response, communication, operational continuity, IT, employee assistance, incident management and training.
  6.  

  7. STEP FOUR-Testing and Exercises
    Evaluate your plan on an ongoing basis by conducting multiple types of training and exercises, using the results to evaluate the effectiveness of the plan.
  8.  

  9. STEP FIVE-Program Improvement
    Establish a cycle of review and methods of evaluation and make the necessary changes to keep the plan current.

 

Related to your hurricane preparedness plan, be sure your plan includes actions to be taken before, during and after the storm. Keep the lines of communication open for everyone involved. It is imperative employees understand their assignments and reporting procedures. Be sure site issues, such as boarding up buildings, securing or relocating signs or equipment and removing loose debris, are done before the storm’s arrival. After the storm, wait until the area is declared safe before proceeding to survey damage. Then, survey the site for safety hazards, downed power lines, leaking gas or fluids and damage to foundations or piping. If you lose power, report the outage to your SECO Energy representative and visit our Storm Center and Facebook at SECOenergy.com for progress updates and to monitor restoration efforts.

 

Remember, you are not alone. There are many resources to assist you in preparing for disasters. FEMA, the State of Florida and the Small Business Administration all have resources available on-line including free sample emergency plans, preparedness checklists and templates.

 

 

 

SECO Energy Insider, 2nd Quarter - Energy Conservation Tips for Small Retailers

Energy Conservation Tips for Small Retailers

 

Saving energy makes good business sense. Not only is conserving energy good for the environment, but it’s also good for your bank account. Implementing a few simple energy conservation strategies can help reduce your monthly energy bill.

 

Historical Usage
By monitoring your energy usage on your monthly electric bill you can identify patterns and understand normal monthly consumption. Knowing how and where energy is consumed is a first step to reduce costs and lower consumption.

 

Energy Efficient Equipment
Whenever possible, upgrade or retrofit light fixtures to CFLs or LEDs and consider adding occupancy sensors to turn lighting off in storerooms or other seldom-used areas. Make it convenient to unplug all equipment, not in use, with the aid of a power strip.

 

Control Your Thermostat
Many offices seem to have ongoing thermostat wars that can actually decrease your energy efficiency and lead to higher energy bills. Prevent this by investing in a programmable thermostat. According to ENERGY STAR® you can save $180 annually. Additional savings can be achieved if you program a more conservative setting during unoccupied hours.

 

Keep the Heat Outside
Ensuring your business is properly insulated and taking steps to reduce drafts can help lower your monthly bill. Door seals, window coverings, and door closers are just a few examples of low-cost ways to conserve energy.

 

For more information on how to save, contact your SECO Energy representative and arrange for a free personalized energy assessment of your facility.

 

 

 

 

BARBIE SHAW

Manager of Key Accounts & Energy Services
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

J.D. Simmons, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant

J.D. SIMMONS

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

 

 

Cheeseburgers, Fries and Life Lessons from Dad

In late May, a line of strong thunderstorms passed through Lake County creating widespread outages for SECO Energy members in Clermont. The storm damage was substantial but service was restored within the hour. The next day, however, members in the same area experienced an additional service interruption due to multiple equipment failures caused by the previous day’s lightning damage.

 

Tony Marshowsky, a SECO Energy member in Clermont, was understandably frustrated by multiple outages on consecutive days. He contacted SECO via Facebook for information about the outages. SECO had posted photos, video and other details, and Tony was happy to learn that crews were repairing the damage. The repair was extensive, as the capacitors had arced and created a fire. The pole split and broke where the capacitor bank was attached and crashed to the ground.

 

Coincidentally, Marshowsky and his nine-year-old son Tony, Jr. drove by the crew repairing the pole in the rain on their way to Wendy’s for a milkshake. As a blue-collar worker himself, Marshowsky empathized with the crew, and stated, “These men were working in the rain. I imagine they were tired, hungry and working late so that my family and neighbors would have power and air conditioning. I decided I could teach my son a life lesson, reminding him to thank the people around us who are working for our benefit.”

 

SECO Energy, Cheeseburgers, Fries and Life Lessons from Dad

 

Armed with multiple bags of Wendy’s cheeseburgers and fries, Marshowsky and his son delivered dinner and a heartfelt thank you to the SECO crew working to replace the damaged pole. Marshowsky later added, “The little guys, the blue-collar workers, the men and women who aren’t always remembered or rewarded for their hard work – they are away from their own homes missing dinner with their own families. It felt good to help someone else and to show my son respect for handworking people.”

 

The SECO Energy Facebook post about Marshowsky and his son’s goodwill grew quickly, reaching almost 20,000 Facebook users in just days. It is also one of the cooperative’s most frequently shared posts this year. The Marshowsky family met up with the SECO crew for a group photo opp and official thank you.

 

Photo caption:  SECO Energy Line Tech David Olszanski, Service Tech David Kerns, Crew Supervisor Jason Merrill, Tony Marshowsky Jr., Line Tech Doug Stanley, Line Tech Garret Keller and Tony Marshowsky Sr.  (not pictured; Line Tech Clint Brighurst and Line Tech Justin Smothers)

 

Learn more about SECO Energy at SECOEnergy.com>Your Co-op. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page to view the video footage of the pole and capacitor damage. Follow @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases, outage information and cooperative updates.

STEM Focus at Ocala’s Third Annual Youth Energy Academy

On June 8 and 9, local energy experts are teaming up to introduce high school students to the many careers in the electric utility field. SECO Energy, Duke Energy and Ocala Electric Utilities partnered with CareerSource CLM, College of Central Florida and Lockheed Martin to bring the Third Annual Youth Energy Academy to life for sixty students in Marion County.

 

The Youth Energy Academy is an interactive workshop aimed to spark the students interest in traveling an academic path toward a career in the energy industry. During the two-day event, students explore high-skill, high-wage careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The high-schoolers learn how electricity is delivered to homes and businesses, participate in hands-on demonstrations and discover the soft skills needed for a successful career.

 

Several years ago, the Florida Chapter of the American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE) incorporated a Youth Energy Academy model focused on, but not limited to, minority students in St. Petersburg, Orlando and Ocala. The AABE goal is to proactively gain the interest of an emerging workforce by educating young people about opportunities in the energy arena.

 

STEM Focus at Ocala’s 3rd Annual Youth Energy Academy

 

Kathy Judkins, SECO Energy’s Deputy Director of Civic, Charitable and Government Affairs stated, “SECO Energy, Duke Energy and Ocala Electric Utilities have formed a strong partnership in the quest to develop a future talent pipeline of local students who show an interest in the energy industry. At this year’s Academy, students are gaining essential knowledge related to the array of jobs, careers and occupational requirements in energy today.”

 

Jim Duncan, CEO stated, “The Youth Academy aligns with two key cooperative principles, Education, Training and Information and also Concern for Community. The energy field has a bundle of diverse careers just waiting for talented candidates to apply. Participating in youth education programs gives SECO a hand in crafting its future workforce and gives local, talented youngsters employment opportunities close to home and family.”

 

Learn more about SECO Energy and its Concern for Community online. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

SECO Celebrates 2017 Scholarship Awardees

SECO Energy celebrated its 2017 SECO Scholarship program with a reception for the scholarship awardees and their families at its headquarters in Sumterville Monday evening. Twelve graduating high school seniors, who live in a home served by SECO, were awarded for their scholarly pursuits with a $3,000 scholarship to the university of their choice. All of the students have plans to attend a university in The Sunshine State.

 

SECO is proud to introduce its 2017 class of scholarship awardees who hail from Citrus, Lake, Marion and Sumter Counties:

 

  •   Karla Michell DeAnda – North Marion High School – Marion County
  •   Amy Michele Folker – The Villages Charter High School – Sumter County
  •   Jordan Gangi – Lecanto High School – Citrus County
  •   Macey Marie Graham – Umatilla High School – Lake County
  •   Garret Thomas Heussner – Belleview High School – Marion County
  •   Summer Noel Hotz – Real Life Christian Academy – Lake County
  •   Daniel McNair – North Marion High School – Marion County
  •   Joaquin Isaiah Negron – The Villages Charter High School – Sumter County
  •   Sarah Rose O’Neill – Tavares High School – Lake County
  •   Hannah Lea Pendleton – Citrus High School – Citrus County
  •   Robert Reed – Dunnellon High School – Marion County
  •   Mikkala Shea Supancic – West Port High School – Marion County

 

SECO Celebrates 2017 Scholarship Awardees group picture

 

As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, SECO is guided by the seven cooperative principles. Its scholarship program encompasses two of these principles – Concern for Community and Education, Training and Information. Providing financial support to local, young scholars beginning their education, prepares them as future potential SECO employees and community leaders.

 

Ray Vick, SECO’s Board of Trustees President stated, “I am very impressed with SECO’s 2017 scholarship awardees achievements. These young men and women are bright, ambitious and a credit to their communities. On behalf of myself and the Board, I wish them the very best as they begin fulfilling their dreams.”

 

Jim Duncan, CEO agrees, “SECO’s 2017 scholarship group is impressive. I hope some of the latest crop of scholarship awardees contact SECO after graduation or during their summer break for employment and internship opportunities. This summer, one of our 2016 scholarship winners, Megan Elliott, is returning to her hometown and interning in SECO’s Operations department. SECO is a centrally located, regional utility that offers high-paying careers along with an exceptional benefits package.”

 

Learn more about SECO’s scholarship program and additional community outreach programs. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

Special Olympics Run Starts at SECO

On Wednesday morning, SECO Energy’s employees enthusiastically greeted participants of the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. Sumter County’s leg of the torch run started at SECO’s headquarters in Sumterville, FL for the second consecutive year.

 

Various branches of law enforcement officers throughout the county jumped on bicycles to trek 11 miles from SECO to SCARC Inc., a group home in Bushnell for the disabled. Major Steve Binegar from the Sumter County Sheriff’s office had the privilege of carrying the flamed torch.

 

Special Olympics Run Starts at SECO - SECO’s employees took a quick photo with law enforcement

 

SECO’s Vice President of Corporate Services & Human Resources Gregg Morrell stated, “SECO Energy, its Board of Trustees and our employees strongly support all levels of law enforcement and hosting this great cause was an honor. Employees enjoyed cheering the runners and bikers on as they geared up to carry the torch through Sumter County’s leg of the Torch Run. We look forward to participating again next year.”

 

For decades, over 5,000 officers from more than 300 Florida law enforcement agencies carry the torch on a 1,500-mile relay through all 67 counties in Florida. The state’s “Final Leg” of the Torch Run opens the State of Florida’s Special Olympics Summer Games on Friday, May 19, at Disney ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Lake Buena Vista.

 

Special Olympics Run Starts at SECO - Major Steve Binegar of Sumter County Sheriff’s office trekked off with the flame of hope torch for Sumter County’s leg of 1,500-mile relay across 67 counties in Florida.

 

Visit SECO’s Community page to learn more about our community outreach programs. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

Energy Insider – 1st Quarter

SECO Energy Insider, 1st Quarter 2017 - Squirrels, Raccoons and Birds Oh My!

Squirrels, Raccoons and Birds Oh My!

 

SECO Energy’s pursuit to deliver the most reliable electric service is challenged by a number of uncontrollable circumstances. Storms and downed trees cause the majority of power outages, but animals dish out their fair share of damage.

 

Animal attacks on SECO Energy’s electrical facilities (overhead and underground) occur daily unlike seasonal storms. From subterranean to aerial assaults, animals big and small are constantly coming in contact with our equipment.

 

SECO’s quest to reduce animal-related outages is constantly evolving. SECO utilizes various types of animal or “critter” guards placed on poles and in our substations. These guards keep squirrels, raccoons, birds, snakes and other animals from shorting out power.

 

SECO also utilizes bird “discouragers” to deter birds from building their nests on a pole. On rare occasions, large wingspan birds, like the Florida Osprey, bypass traditional “discouragers” and continue building their nest on a pole. At this point, SECO installs state-of-the-art bird nesting dishes to prevent large birds from coming in contact with energized lines. You may have noticed our nesting dishes while driving about – they look like large grey saucers on top of our electrical distribution poles.

 

“Critter” guards and bird “discouragers” help protect small animals and birds – and save your cooperative thousands of dollars annually in labor and equipment replacement costs.

 

 

SECO Energy Insider, 1st Quarter 2017 - Using Waste to Clean Water, Standard Purification

Using Waste to Clean Water

 

Watercarb, Stratocarb and Agcarb sounds like the next best thing in carbohydrates but don’t let the names fool you. They are actually forms of activated carbon produced at the Standard Purification manufacturing plant located at 551 N US Highway 41 in Dunnellon, Florida.

 

Powered by SECO Energy, Standard Purification began operations in 2010. In the summer of 2016, they merged with Donau Carbon, a global supplier of activated carbon located in three countries. Currently Standard Purification is only one of four plants in the US that produce these types of activated carbon aimed at purifying water, air and soil.

 

The process for making activated carbon at the Dunnellon facility uses reclaimed yellow pine ash. This wood byproduct is activated by high heat in a kiln. Next, it is cooled and ground into a fine powder. “It’s exciting to think that we can clean our environment by using a waste product such as wood ash,” says CEO Tony Julian who plans to increase plant production by  50 percent before yearend.

 

Watercarb is used in municipal potable water treatment and accounts for 90 percent of standard purification’s production and sales. This product primarily removes contaminants associated with the unpleasant taste and odor in water. It removes many organic, in-organic and synthetic contaminants from a variety of industrial processes including municipal, refinery, petrochemical and coal gasification, reducing the impact of industrial pollutants on waterways and drinking water supplies.

 

Stratocarb is used to remove mercury from flue gas emissions at coal fired power plants. Agcarb is widely used as a soil treatment where herbicides, pesticides and fertilizer have been over-applied. Often Agcarb is used to remove contamination in a variety of agricultural applications before re-seeding. It can also be used in environmental cleanup situations where there has been prior pollution.

 

To learn more about Standard Purification, visit their website at http://standardpurification.com/

 

 

SECO Energy Insider, 1st Quarter 2017 - Benchmarking Made Easy

Benchmarking Made Easy

 

Are you a fan of tracking your favorite individual or team performance using statistics? Baseball and football coaches use numbers to validate performance through each respective season. They pour over these numbers to set up a successful shot at a championship. So why not benchmark your facilities by meter/building and measure energy performance?

 

Benchmarking helps to determine how energy is used and provides insight to high usage trends. Tracking energy (kWh) and demand (kW) against production cost may allow you to see how to increase energy efficiency. The Energy Star link below provides tools to assist you and useful side by side comparisons of like facilities. You can even earn an Energy Star Certificate for your efforts.

 

According to Lake County School Board’s Energy Program Manager Pete Myles, “benchmarking is important in our quest to be the best. The exchange of ideas and like metrics is an invaluable tool to keep the District’s dollars in the classroom with the students.”

 

If you are not benchmarking your energy consumption, then you’re not doing yourself any favors. Tracking electric consumption and tying this into production will show how well (or poorly) you and your team are actually performing. It’s a lot like tracking your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and understanding how driving habits, speed, start/stops and your car’s overall condition impacts the outcome.

 

If you decide to begin benchmarking your electric usage, SECO Energy can provide consumption histories for up to 36 months for comparison purposes.

 

The Department of Energy website includes tips and tools for benchmarking your energy consumption.

 

Energy Star has developed this stand alone spreadsheet to help you get started.

 

 

Our Changing World

 

At the New and Emerging Technologies (NET) conference held recently in San Diego, California, Alex Klokus, Futurism CEO, said we’re living in exponential times. Alex believes we won’t experience 100 years of progress in the 21st century, instead, it will be more like 20,000 years of progress. The expectation of the future is becoming less predictable each day.

 

Advancements in science are continually being taken to a new level with some things being more exciting than others. Of course, it may depend on who you ask. For instance, vegetarians and vegans may like the idea of lab grown meat. It is cleaner, safer and healthier – just produced in a different way. It’s the same meat as you get from an animal, it just begins through extraction of animals cells. It has no contaminants, no animals are harmed and in blind taste tests, no difference in taste has been noted.

 

If the idea of lab grown meat doesn’t excite you then maybe a cure for cancer, HIV and other diseases will. Right now scientists are experimenting with copying and pasting good DNA. So instead of taking prescription drugs to treat ailments in the future, patients may opt for an innovative gene-editing technology or genetic surgery to snip out harmful mutations and replace them with good DNA. Through this technology blind rats are beginning to see with partially restored vision. Just this past year in China they began testing on humans. Scientists believe they can even “create longevity” and dramatically extend human life since aging is now reversible in mice.

 

Advancements in science that may allow humans to live longer is good news for everyone or is it? Expected advancement of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) may soon mean competition for jobs. In recent years, Science has shown us that AI can learn to play video games. Google Deepminds’ Deep Q-learning (AI) after just two hours figured out how to play Atari Breakout. After four hours it mastered the game better than any human. AI is making music and doing so involves creativity. AI can even reflect on how to do things better and has proven they can beat fighter pilots in combat simulations. If we can fundamentally solve intelligence we can do all things – right?

 

Then what about the electric utility industry? Electricity is the lifeblood that powers our nation and currently we’re going through a significant revolution – regulation, technology and economics are continually changing. Planning for future generation is becoming more complex because of the rate of change associated with new technologies and the public’s acceptance of such.

 

Although many people like the idea of “going green,” the economics of individuals doing so is still not favorable in most areas of the country and especially in Florida. In The Sunshine State, electricity remains a good value. In addition, those who have jumped on the solar bandwagon know rainy and cloudy days provide very little generating benefit so a utility-supplied backup is a must. After all, battery storage is still not affordable for the multitudes and although great gains are expected in coming years, right now batteries are not a viable option. However, in 2016, 39 percent of all new generating capacity that came online in the US was solar photovoltaic (PV). A large percentage of these were utility-scale projects.

 

Utility-scale projects are gaining in popularity because they are more economical to build than traditional roof-top solar. The large-scale projects most often provide power to wholesale buyers and not end-use consumers. Then there is “community” solar. A community solar arrangement allows the sharing of generated electricity to more than one household. This is the premise of SECO Energy’s Solar Life program.

 

Solar Life is an opportunity for SECO members to live a greener lifestyle without the upfront investment of traditional solar panels at their location. Subscribers pay a flat monthly fee of $32 for the output of four panels of our cooperative-owned two-megawatt array. The monthly output of the four panels is shown as a kilowatt hour credit on your monthly electric bill – reducing your utility-supplied power cost.

 

Who could have imagined just a short time ago your electric cooperative would be harnessing the power of the sun. Perhaps one day we’ll have time to ponder this more while enjoying our lab-grown meal delivered by our self-driving car and served by our robotic butler.

 

For more information about solar and SECO Energy’s Solar Life program visit us at www.secoenergy.com

 

 

 

BARBIE SHAW

Manager of Key Accounts & Energy Services
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

J.D. Simmons, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant

J.D. SIMMONS

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

 

 

Energy Insider – 4th Quarter

SECO Energy Insider - Sumter County Swap Meet

Sumter County Swap Meet

 

Someone once said you can’t buy happiness but you can buy cars and that’s kind of the same thing. Perhaps this is the reason the Sumter County Swap Meet, also known as the Florida Swap Meet, has turned into such a huge event.

 

The Swap Meet, Car Corral and Car Show is held on the first Sunday of every month, except for July & August (too hot), at the Sumter County Fairgrounds. The Fairgrounds are located north of the Webster Flea Market at 7620 S.R. 471 in Bushnell. The Meet consists of over 900 vendors offering a wide variety of auto parts, cars and antique car-related parts for sale.

 

Each month the first 200 in the gate receive a collectable hat, and door prizes are offered throughout the day. The monthly car show, part of the Swap Meet, is free to enter with $5 gate admission. Participants in the car show are also eligible for a $100 prize drawing.

 

SECO Energy Insider - Sumter County Swap Meet

 

In 2017, the Sumter Swap Meet will celebrate its 24th season with the yearly Winter Extravaganza Swap Meet, Car Corral and Car Auction on February 10, 11 and 12. Craig and Joann Pearson, the promoters of Swap Meet, would like to entice you to attend their monthly events and upcoming Extravaganza. “We have been doing Swap Meets in Sumter County for the past 23 years, this is a great place to discover those hard-to-find auto parts and accessories you’ve been looking for,” says Joann.

 

So whether you’re in the market for a new car, looking for special parts or want to take a stroll down memory lane, the Sumter County Swap Meet is a great start. Visit Florida Swamp Meet online for more information.

 

 

SECO Energy Insider - Domino’s Pizza #1 in the world!

 

Domino’s Pizza #1 in the world!

This company has 12,600 restaurants in 80 countries around the world with 345 of them located in Florida and southern Georgia. This company is also in the top five in online ordering and 50% of all US sales are digital. The company even invented the 3D car top delivery signs now used in their industry. With the busiest delivery days at Halloween, New Year’s eve and New Year’s day, Super Bowl Sunday and Thanksgiving eve, chances are you’re a customer.

 

Besides the 3D car top delivery signs, Domino’s Pizza pioneered and patented the first insulated delivery bags and created the corrugated pizza box to prevent moisture from weakening the box and toppings from sticking to the box top. In 2007-2008, Domino’s rolled out online ordering, pizza building tools and service tracking.

 

Domino’s Pizza began operations in 1960. Their corporate office is in Ann Arbor, Michigan. One of their largest distribution centers is located in Lake County at the Christopher Ford Industrial Park and served by SECO Energy. Referred to as the Groveland operation, this Domino’s Pizza facility franchises 95% of Florida, parts of southern Georgia and even South America, the Caribbean and Portugal.

 

With 100 employees, half of whom are truck drivers, the Groveland distribution center provides for all the needs of the Domino’s Pizza restaurants. Fresh dough is mixed on location, and never frozen, for use in pizzas and breadsticks. Dough types are thick crust, gluten free and whole wheat which is used at schools and Boys and Girls clubs. Fresh vegetables, except for locally-grown mushrooms, and cheese are shipped from Georgia for the pizza toppings and signature salad packaging. The produce must reach the franchise within a minimum of six days of usable freshness so nothing gets stale. This, along with all the uniforms, hats, boxes, insulated delivery bags, flatware, plates, cleaning supplies and everything a franchise needs, with the exception of Coca-Cola products, are assembled for delivery in Groveland.

 

Deliveries can be tracked online real-time with software similar to the Domino’s Pizza App that allows customers to create, order, and track their pizza from start to finish. With employees committed to service, quality ingredients and efficient technology, Domino’s Pizza has gone from 1st in people and 1st in pizza to number one in the world. Their quality guarantee says if you’re not completely satisfied, they’ll make it right or refund your money – you can bet they will.

 

 

SECO Energy Insider - The City of Tavares, Florida

 

Tavares – “A Great Place to Land”

The City of Tavares, Florida, successfully went through the long process of branding itself into “America’s Seaplane City.” The leadership created a vision to reinvent the downtown area by creating a unique niche and wow factor to drive themed events aimed at attracting residents and visitors. The vision was created by city leaders although it helped tremendously to have a serious administrator to implement the plan. “Civic Entrepreneurship is fostering a good business climate,” says John Drury, Tavares City Administrator.

 

America’s Seaplane City now hosts 21 yearly events and has attracted 52,000 visitors to the downtown area. The themed events all support the brand and vision of the city leaders. A few of the annual activities are Planes, Trains and BBQ, Sunnyland Antique Boat Show, Classic Raceboat Association Regatta, Monster Splash Pumpkin Drop, Seaplane Apoolaza and Bootastic Halloween.

 

Besides the downtown events, Tavares is averaging 3,000 aircraft operations per year. The city maintains an active marina with AvGas (aviation fuel) at the waterline to support its seaplane and boat activities. The seaplane base supports amphibious operations and offers tie downs for aircraft both wet and dry. Base and port operations offer a whole host of services for daily arrivals provided by Jones Brothers & Co., Air and Sea Adventures.

 

SECO Energy Insider - The City of Tavares, Florida, Downtown Tavares

 

Moving forward, the City of Tavares focused economic development team plans to keep the vision rolling with new start-ups or others re-locating businesses to the downtown area. Bob Tweedie, Economic Growth and Grants Director says, “Tavares’ approach to economic growth is to minimize barriers and obstacles to create an environment for businesses to thrive.” The branding effort is the bait and the entrepreneur environment is the hook. So far, the City’s branding efforts have attracted a hotel chain, restaurants, a sushi bar, a wine bar and a craft brewery to name a few. Older restaurants and other businesses have enjoyed a re-birth attracting many new visitors as well. This has been extremely appealing to millennials who support and enjoy the ‘buy local’ mantra. The City is now moving in the direction of reinvigorating the portion of the downtown area that has been vanishing due to growth along highway 441. So if you haven’t visited Tavares in a while, now may be a good time to do so.

 

 

SECO Energy Insider - Rebranding

 

Rebranding

Starting a process to rebrand requires a vision. It is more than a new logo, tagline and marketing campaign, it’s creating a new identity. Companies rebrand all the time, some successful and others not so much. Remember Coca-Cola in the 80s? They tried to rebrand and the backlash prompted what is now known as Classic Coke. Consumers wanted their old coke back.

 

If you’re contemplating a rebranding, give much thought to what you’re trying to accomplish before embarking on what could be a long and costly journey. Whether it’s a place, a product or company you wish to reinvent, the following six tips may be helpful.

 

  1. Establish a team and engage in dialogue with those who frequently interact with consumers. Determine how people think about you and what it is you want people to think about your business moving forward. Make sure your expectations are realistic. This will help you begin establishing a brand.
  2. Utilize various types of communication, surveys, social media, etc., to gain feedback from all people who use your product/service.
  3. Determine what is “not” working. You cannot fix something you don’t know is broken.
  4. Create a memorable story to sell your brand and make it something employees can believe in and support. This will encourage a sense of pride and cooperation.
  5. Create a consistent message, even in down times, by continually promoting your brand on your website, social media and all communications, products and signage.
  6. Commit to your brand!

 

 

 

BARBIE SHAW

Manager of Key Accounts & Energy Services
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

J.D. Simmons, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant

J.D. SIMMONS

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

 

 

SECO News, January 2017

SECO News, January 2017 - Toys for Tots and United Way

 

Duncan’s Digest: Toys for Tots and United Way

 

The Christmas spirit was upon us all as we participated in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. SECO’s employees helped me load hundreds of toys, donated by employees and members, for local children.

 

Toys for Tots collects new, unwrapped toys and distributes as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in the community. As a Marine myself before my hair turned gray, I know thatToys forTots is a special program for children in need. Hundreds of children will wake up to Christmas presents under the tree, thanks to the generosity of our employees and members.

 

SECO News, January 2017 - Toys for Tots and United Way

 

During SECO’s 2017 United Way campaign, employees opened their checkbooks and donated generously. SECO employees pledged $50,171 for United Way’s campaign for local communities.

 

United Way improves the quality of life for millions of people. I am grateful to work with employees who have the power and goodwill to improve the communities we serve. SECO employees are a generous bunch of folks, and their efforts are applauded.

 

From my family to yours, I wish you a healthy, Happy New Year!

 

SECO News, January 2017 - New Year, New Efficiency Tool

 

New Year, New Efficiency Tool

 

Happy New Year! What are your resolutions this year? Start off on the right foot with SECO’s new online Energy Estimator tool.

 

The estimator helps members understand the amount and cost of the energy that appliances, lighting, and other electronics use in their home. It calculates your monthly refrigeration costs, the price for each load of laundry, the annual amount of energy your oven uses and more. Submit your results and within minutes you will receive an email comparing your usage to the average Central Florida household and tips to save energy and money.

 

SECO has three great prizes up for grabs for members who explore the Energy Estimator and increase their energy efficiency IQ. After completing the Energy Estimator and emailing your results, your name will be entered into a random drawing to win a $300 bill credit, a package of energy efficiency tools that includes a $100 Lowe’s gift card, and a programmable Wi-Fi thermostat. Winners will be notified via email on February 16.

 

Make a resolution to reduce your energy usage and lower your energy bill. Here’s to an Energy Efficient New Year!

 

SECO News, January 2017 - Protection Begins at the Meter

 

Protection Begins at the Meter

 

Today’s appliances are sensitive to power surges caused by lightning, accidents, animals and more. Surges can cause catastrophic damage or degrade appliance circuitry over time.

 

Protection begins at the meter. SECO’s meter base surge arrester reduces most surges to a safe level before they enter your home. The arrestor helps protect large motor appliances like the air conditioner, washer and dryer, refrigerator, stove and dishwasher.

 

Beat the upcoming storm season rush and subscribe to SECO’s meter-based surge protection by February 15 for a chance to win a $100 Lowe’s gift card. All SECO members currently enrolled in SECO’s surge protection are also eligible to win.

 

Enroll online or call us at (800) 732-6141. A random winner will be chosen February 15.

 

SECO News, January 2017 - Does a Fireplace Save Energy?

 

Does a Fireplace Save Energy?

 

Wood burning fireplaces provide a soothing ambience and warmth, but can actually increase your energy usage. Fireplaces pull oxygen and heat from other areas within the home. Approximately 30% of heat goes up the chimney, creating a drop in temperature, prompting your central heating unit to cycle more frequently.

 

Installing glass doors or a fireback can increase your fireplace’s efficiency. Glass doors act as a barrier to reduce the amount of indoor air escaping through the chimney. In the summer, glass doors help prevent warm air from entering into your home. Firebacks are decorative, cast iron plates that when placed at the back of the fireplace absorb heat and radiate it back into the room.

 

Although glass doors and firebacks may improve a fireplace’s efficiency, your best course of action is to use your fireplace when it’s just a little chilly and forgo operating your central heating unit during that time. Learn more about SECO’s products and services and energy savings online.

 

SECO News, January 2017 - SECO Scholars

 

SECO Scholars

 

For over 20 years, SECO Energy has awarded more than $500,000 in scholarships – launching young scholars on their path to a college education. Once again, SECO’s Board of Trustees has approved up to $36,000 in scholarships for twelve deserving high school seniors.

 

To be eligible, the student must:

  • Reside in a home served by SECO.
  • Graduate high school by the end of the current school year.
  • Provide proof of acceptance to an accredited college, university or vocational/technical school by the end of 2017.
  • Plan to be enrolled as a full-time college student.

 

Applications are available beginning January 4, at SECO’s five Member Service Centers in Lake, Sumter, Marion and Citrus counties, area high school guidance offices, at the SECO corporate offices in Sumterville and online.

 

To be considered, completed applications must be received no later than 5 p.m. on March 31. Applications may be dropped off at any SECO Member Service Center or mailed to:

 

SECO Energy<br\>Attn: Youth Scholarship<br\>330 South U.S. Highway 301<br\>Sumterville,FL 33585-0301

 

Winners will be notified by phone or mail on or about April 28. Learn more about SECO’s scholarship program online or call (352) 569-9561.

 

Read the full January 2017 SECO News here.

 

SECO News, October 2016

SECO News, Duncan's Digest, February 2016

 

The Hot Bucks streak continues

SECO Energy has lowered the cost of energy again! As of October 1, the price for the first 1,000 kWh – average residential energy consumption in SECO’s area – has been reduced another dollar to $112.60.

 

Since January 2014, our cooperative has reduced the cost of energy nine times. In less than three years, SECO has lowered members’ bills by almost 12%. This latest reduction means that SECO members pay one of the lowest rates for energy in Central Florida (and per J.D. Power, our members receive the best service in the nation).

 

SECO Energy, October 2016 SECO News, The Hot Bucks streak continues

 

The decrease is formally called a Power Cost Adjustment or PCA – but our members know it better as “Hot Bucks.” The PCA is a line item component on your bill representing positive reductions in our cost of power. As a not-for-profit electric cooperative and a two-time J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction winner, SECO’s dedication to its members is clear. SECO is committed to providing members with low rates, reliable electric service and excellent customer service.

 

Be sure to look for the latest reduction on your October bill, as your Board of Trustees (your fellow members who govern your cooperative) approved the reduction in their September meeting.

 

 

SECO Energy, October 2016 SECO News, What it takes to be a JDP Winner

 

What it takes to be a JDP Winner

 

SECO Energy earned its second J.D. Power award in 2016 – ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction among Cooperatives.” J.D. Power examines the six factors, highlighted below, that explain SECO’s success.

 

Corporate Citizenship

 

As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, SECO has deep roots in the communities we serve. SECO Energy and its members team up through our Pennies from Heaven Program that rounds members’ bills up to the nearest dollar. The funds collected support area social service agencies to provide financial assistance for members in need. SECO’s scholarship program awards 12 deserving high school seniors in our service area a $3,000 scholarship to an accredited college, trade or technical school. SECO’s scholarship program has awarded over $500,000 to local students over the last 20 years.

 

Billing & Payment

 

SECO Energy offers a variety of convenient ways to pay your bill – without convenience fees. Members can pay online via SmartHub (SECO’s account management system), pay by bank draft, by mail or by phone. Members can pay in person at one of our five member service center locations – some include kiosks available 24/7. Another option is SECO’s MyWay PrePay program – members pay for their daily energy before usage. MyWay PrePay is perfect for members on a budget who closely track their usage and expenses.

 

Communications

 

SECO Energy’s Communications score is highest in the nation in our segment according to J.D.Power’s 2016 Customer Satisfaction Study. In February, SECO launched a brand-new website with a user-friendly platform that performs on a variety of mobile devices and browsers. SECO members also interact online with the cooperative through Facebook and Twitter. Members are reporting service interruptions online using their smart phones/tablets through our Storm Center application. Your monthly SECO News publication has been enhanced to be more informative and dynamic as well.

 

Customer Service

 

At SECO Energy, our customer service team is the best of the best. In fact, SECO is ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction” among electric cooperatives across the nation. The SECO Team is staffed with employees who live locally in the communities we serve. Phone calls to SECO are answered by a local employee. These calls are not outsourced. Members can engage with a local associate – to pay a bill, ask a question or voice a concern – in one of our five convenient locations. Or you can contact us online at your convenience.

 

Price

 

SECO Energy continues to lower energy costs – nine times in less than three years. Our cost per kilowatt hour is one of the lowest in Central Florida. SECO members also benefit from our Capital Credits program. Through sound financial stewardship, SECO has returned (retired) Capital Credits to members for years. Since inception, SECO has returned over $47.3 million to current and former members. Watch your November bill and SECO News for more information.

 

Power Quality & Reliability

 

SECO Energy is the third largest co-op in Florida and the sixth largest nationally. We serve almost 200,000 members across seven Central Florida counties over 2,000 square miles. SECO maintains, inspects and upgrades 12,000 miles of power lines to provide reliable power to members. To increase reliability, SECO has honed a comprehensive vegetation management program, and has been recognized as a Tree Line USA utility by the National Arbor Day Foundation for nine years in a row. SECO continues to expand to meet the growing power demand.

 

 

SECO Energy, October 2016 SECO News, Energy Efficiency Insulation Investment Pays Off

 

Energy Efficiency Tips – Insulation Investment Pays Off

 

Homes with the proper level of attic insulation provide reduced energy costs and increase your comfort level year-round. Upgrading attic insulation is one of the best energy efficiency investments – paying dividends year after year.

 

Attic insulation works to slow the movement of heat, reducing the HVAC system workload. Insufficient insulation causes the HVAC to work harder to cool or heat the home. It also causes the HVAC to run less efficiently and increase energy bills over time. Fiberglass batting is a pre-formed material sized to fit between ceiling joists and should be trimmed to rest snugly against any obstructions such as electrical wiring and air-conditioning ductwork. This makes fiberglass batting somewhat difficult to install as an upgrade.

 

Loose-fill fiberglass insulation is fed into a machine that loosens and propels the material through a hose allowing the installer to place a uniform blanket throughout the attic.

 

Loose-fill cellulose, like loose-fill fiberglass, is blown into attic spaces through special hoses. It can settle over time – you may need to install extra to account for settling. When upgrading attic insulation, make sure any recessed lighting is approved to be in direct contact with insulation. For more energy-saving ideas, check out the Energy Solutions section of our website.

 

 

SECO Energy, Like us on Facebook by Nov. 30 to be entered into a drawing for a $500 electric bill credit

 

Facebook Contest

 

Want to win a $500 bill credit? “Like” SECO Energy on Facebook today. All members who “like” SECO Energy’s Facebook page by November 30 will automatically be entered into a random drawing to win the $500 bill credit.

 

 

SECO Energy, Expressions

 

Expressions

 

Recently, members recognized the SECO Team and our hard work. The restoration effort after Hurricane Hermine was truly a team effort and was accomplished within 24 hours of the storm. The SECO Team of employees is the best of the best and our members continue to show us their appreciation on Facebook!

 

Thomas House  –  Just want to thank each and every one of you for your tireless devotion to ensuring that everyone had their power back on. You did a great job in horrible weather. Bless you all!!!

 

Barbara Maurer Chadwick  –  Love being a member of this electric cooperative! It’s so reliable, and who wouldn’t love getting money back every year, and “Hot Bucks” back every month!

 

Howard Shehan  –  You guys and gals are the best. I tip my hat to all of you. Stay safe out there.

 

Bart Walker  –  Well done and the tree trimming mitigation over the last few years really paid off. We used to lose power a lot, the lights barely blinked this time around, great job!

 

John Parker Awesome work SECO Energy! You Rock!!
 

 

Read the full October 2016 SECO News here.

Energy Insider – 3rd Quarter

SECO Energy Insider - 3rd Quarter, Local Resource for Lighting Choices, Besco Lighting and Electric Supply

 

Local Resource for Lighting Choices

 

When it comes to lighting, there is much to know. The average person can be easily overwhelmed especially since technology continues to change at such a rapid pace. Just when you think you’ve got it figured out, the “next best” product hits the market. Although residential lighting doesn’t have the energy impact it does in a commercial operation, you need to make an informed choice. Besco Lighting and Electric Supply, located at 711 South Main Street in Leesburg can help you.

 

Besco’s Leesburg headquarters office and retail lighting showroom offers a wide variety of decorative fixtures in addition to a number of décor items including fans, silk plants and mirrors. However, this is only a small portion of the business; their wholesale operation caters to contractors and commercial businesses in need of lighting and/or electrical supplies.

 

According to Andy Braun, Besco Vice President, the business his father built from the ground up is helping consumers find the “right” product. “We will sit with our customer for hours; we will go to the jobsite or residential home. We provide commercial/industrial lighting assessments at no charge. Our team understands the importance of selecting a good quality light and matching the light to the application in which it will be used. We are proud of our reputation and to have served Central Florida since 1954.”

 

With over 35 years of expertise, Andy is quick to point out that it’s a full-time job keeping up with technology. He says, “everyone is moving toward light-emitting diodes, commonly referred to as LEDs. When they initially hit the market, LEDs were very expensive and had some flaws. Now it appears market price and quality are beginning to stabilize making it a good time to consider new lighting.”

 

LED sales continue to increase nationwide. Most consumers like the bright white light, although there is actually a range of colors to choose from. LEDs are attractive because of their long life span and because they emit less heat. Another benefit is that unlike fluorescent lighting, they contain no mercury. Today’s LEDs are also very versatile. There are literally hundreds of styles to choose from and a number of those are dimmable. At Besco, one of the most popular residential sellers is “tape” lighting. This thin rope-like LED lighting can be cut to specs and easily adheres to cabinet bottoms.

 

SECO Energy Insider - 3rd Quarter, Local Resource for Lighting Choices, Besco Lighting and Electric Supply

 

In commercial and industrial operations, LEDs are making their mark as well. They are replacing fluorescents in troffers and recessed fixtures and becoming increasingly popular as canopy lighting in gas stations.

 

When it comes to LEDs, experts like Andy say you get what you pay for. He recommends to pay close attention and look at ratings, hours and for name-brand recognition. Give thought also to the number of hours a light operates. Don’t spend your hard-earned dollars to replace a light that is seldom used.

 

For help determining specialized needs, forgo big box retailers and tap into more personalized advice from one of Central Florida’s experts – Besco Lighting and Electrical Supply. For more information visit their website  or email one of SECO’s Key Account Consultants. We’ll perform a lighting assessment of your facility free of charge and help you evaluate if your business can benefit from a lighting upgrade.

 

 

SECO Energy Insider - 3rd Quarter, Publix, Ensuring a Healthier World for Generations to Come

 

Ensuring a Healthier World for Generations to Come

 

This quarter, Publix Super Markets, Inc. opened two new stores in SECO Energy’s service territory. One of the new stores is located at Lake Deaton Plaza in The Villages and the other at the Tavares Crossroads Plaza. The stores offer a full range of services including grocery, deli, meat & seafood, produce, floral, dairy, health & nutrition, beauty & personal care, housewares, pet, non-foods, liquors, Green Wise products, and pharmacy.

 

As part of Publix’s mission to be the “premier quality food retailer in the world,” the Get into the Green Routine® program was created back in 2001. The program emphasizes sustainability by balancing the needs of the community with the environment. One of the key components of the program is energy conservation with a focus on refrigeration, air conditioning, lighting, and solar energy. Publix takes this commitment very seriously when designing new facilities, but they have also retrofitted a number of their older stores.

 

In the areas of refrigeration and air conditioning, Publix utilizes secondary coolant technology. This technology results in a refrigerate charge reduction, reduces the potential for refrigerant leaks, and simplifies maintenance. Low-ozone refrigerants are also being used in their low-temperature cases. Because of these efforts, Publix received the GreenChill Achievement award from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and is currently partnering with the agency to evaluate new refrigeration technologies.

 

SECO Energy Insider - 3rd Quarter, Publix Mission

 

Another “bright” idea you’ll see in Publix stores is the latest fluorescent lighting technologies, state-of-the-art metal halide fixtures, and energy management system (EMS) controls. You’ll also notice Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are replacing traditional incandescent lamps and motion sensors on refrigerated door cases. These upgrades have reduced their lighting energy usage by 50 to 80 percent.

 

To date, 780 stores, both new and existing, have incorporated new technologies. These measures save almost 100,000 kWh annually per store. Although this figure is quite impressive, the retail giant’s combined conservation efforts have saved over 1 billion kWh- enough to power 84,000 homes for a year at an average of 1000 kWh per month.

 

The Publix commitment to the environment and energy conservation doesn’t stop there. The grocer has partnered with the Florida Solar Energy Center and other solar companies to conduct feasibility studies at five Publix locations. The goal is to determine the best way to integrate solar into their energy management strategy. So the next time you’re shopping at Publix, remember – for them, it’s not just about the goods, it’s about ensuring a better world for generations to come.

 

Publix Super Market was founded in Winter Haven, Florida in 1930 by George W. Jenkins and represents the largest employee-owned grocery chain in the Unites States. They currently operate 1,127 stores, 8 distribution centers, and 10 manufacturing facilities in the southeast with retail sales totaling $32.4 billion annually. Publix Super Markets is the largest private employer in the state of Florida with 184,500 people on their payroll. They also purchase 1% of all the electric generation in Florida.

 

 

SECO Energy Insider - 3rd Quarter, Infrared (IR) Thermal Imagers

 

Beyond What Your Eyes Can See

 

Does your business have a predictive maintenance plan? How would you like to get ahead of a mechanical/electrical breakdown of your plant equipment? Would you like to repair potential problems at your discretion and at a time convenient with your production schedule? If so, now may be the time to start thinking thermally.

 

Infrared (IR) Thermal Imagers (cameras) have radically transformed the predictive maintenance field. Each year products are getting better and are less costly. Years ago an IR camera was thousands of dollars – now one can be purchased for as little as a couple hundred dollars.

 

There are many camera options. Cameras can be standalone or built into a multi-meter. Some IR cameras offer digital imaging to provide an accurate visual record. Most are supported with memory cards for image storage and reporting purposes. There are also cameras that attach to your smart phones for additional flexibility and ease of use.

 

With so many camera choices today, it might be a bit confusing trying to select one that’s right for your operation. To help you decide, consider one of the well-established tech giants like Fluke Corporation or FLIR. These companies have been in the business of predictive maintenance for a long time and are recognized leaders in the industry.

 

SECO Energy Insider - 3rd Quarter, Infrared (IR) Thermal Imagers

 

At SECO Energy, we have used thermography for imaging as part of our preventive maintenance plan for years. Even before thermal imaging became popular, we were patrolling our substations and distribution facilities to identify potential problems. Today we understand what a valuable resource IR technology is and all service personnel carry thermography cameras in their trucks. We also utilize the cameras when performing commercial energy assessments.

 

The fact is, the cameras can be used for a multitude of purposes. They have been used to inspect switchgear, breaker panels, roofs, walls, leaks, human bodies and even horses for many years. You can scan anything that moves such as motors, conveyors, vehicle engines, pulley bearings, brakes, drive shafts and all other kinds of items that generate heat. The possibilities are endless.

 

Once you decide that an IR camera is right for your business, establish a routine inspection schedule. Using your initial survey as your baseline moving forward you can identify and correct potential problems before they impact your operation.

 

For more information about infrared technologies contact your account representative or visit Flir or Fluke online. Go online to learn more about SECO products and services.

 

 

SECO Energy Insider - 3rd Quarter, The Power of Reliability

 

The Power of Reliability

 

“Our goal is to construct electrical facilities to the highest standards and maintain our vast system to prevent outages. When outages do occur we restore the power safely, quickly and professionally. Our average restoration time is 60 minutes which is World Class.” John LaSelva, VP of Operations.

 

SECO Energy’s system held up remarkably well despite the high winds and rains associated with Hurricane Hermine. For those thousands of members who did incur outages, the majority were back in service within 153 minutes – pretty darn quick for a hurricane-driven outage event.

 

With almost 200,000 members, 12,000 miles of lines covering over 2000 square miles of service territory keeping your lights on is a huge responsibility – one that SECO Energy’s Vice President of Operations, John LaSelva, takes very seriously.

 

As leader of the reliability and operations group, John oversees 271 employees and contractors. His goal is to prevent outages by constructing facilities to the highest standards and through ongoing maintenance. This means continually inspecting and upgrading existing facilities – distribution and transmission poles, underground equipment and substation infrastructure.

 

Although replacement of poles and transformers is ongoing, it is only a small portion of what your cooperative does to maintain our “World Class” reliability rating worthy of two consecutive J.D. Power customer satisfaction awards. Every substation throughout the SECO Energy system is inspected monthly and upgraded as needed. Marion Oaks, Continental and Mt. Dora are currently scheduled for upgrades to meet the needs of a growing membership.

 

SECO Energy Insider - 3rd Quarter, The Power of Reliability

 

In addition to high construction standards and ongoing upgrades, SECO Energy employs a comprehensive vegetation management program trimming over 1500 miles of right-a-way each year. Infrared imaging is also utilized to perform bi-annual inspections on overhead and underground facilities. Both of these efforts drastically reduces outages.

 

Reliability of your electric service doesn’t stop with the facilities that bring the power to your plant. SECO’s system contains 1159 active Current Transformer (CT) meters, most installed at commercial/industrial accounts. These CT meters are tested on a 3-year cycle and the top 30 (highest monthly energy usage) are tested annually. These metering inspections increase reliability at your location and ensure accurate billing of your electric usage.

 

When we think of reliability, we tend to think only of the power to make things work. However, SECO Energy takes pride in repairing area lights in a timely manner. Of the 9,000 lights reported annually, 95% of them are back in service within our goal of 24 hours. Just a reminder, if you have a lights(s) in need of repair, just email us or fill out our convenient web form.

 

 

 

BARBIE SHAW

Manager of Key Accounts & Energy Services
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

J.D. Simmons, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant

J.D. SIMMONS

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