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SECO Shines at Leesburg Rotary

On Wednesday, August 24, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant Hank Bolduc helped shine a light on solar power at the Leesburg Rotary Club meeting.

 

SECO Energy’s “Introduction to Photovoltaic Systems” presentation is an in-depth exploration of solar photovoltaic systems and how they work. Hank explained the process in which solar photovoltaic systems take available sunlight and convert it to energy, which is then used to power appliances and electronics in a home or business.

 

Before investing in a solar photovoltaic system, consider the initial investment needed for installation and the expense of maintaining and cleaning the system. Check the zoning ordinances and homeowners’ association rules – some do not allow visible solar systems on homes. Also consider the age of your roof – don’t put solar panels on a roof that will need to be replaced during the life of the panels. A photovoltaic system can only create energy when the sun is shining, before installation – remove trees or other obstructions that shade the panels.

 

Hank offered this advice to the Rotarians about solar installations, “Do your homework. As you would with any home improvement project, hire a reputable contractor – one that offers referrals from satisfied customers. Work with your contractor to determine how much you want to spend initially and how much you could potentially reduce your utility-supplied power.”

 

SECO Energy Shines at Leesburg Rotary

 

“The solar industry will continue to grow and as a not-for-profit electric cooperative, SECO is here to support members who choose to invest in a solar photovoltaic system,” Hank added.

 

In fact, The Florida Office on Economic and Demographic Research reports that SECO has the highest number of solar interconnections of any electric cooperative or municipal utility in Florida with 440 installations. For members who are considering solar, SECO’s experienced Energy Services Specialists can assist with determining a home’s conduciveness to solar using a device called a solar Pathfinder.

 

Try out our solar-estimator to determine how much a home could reduce its utility-supplied power by investing in a rooftop solar photovoltaic system. To learn more about the Leesburg Rotary Club, visit www.rotaryclubofleesburg.com. “Like” SECO Energy’s Facebook page and “follow” the company on Twitter for cooperative updates and the latest news releases.

Energy Efficiency Sparks for Sorrento Elementary

While summer school was still in session, SECO Energy Services Specialist Dustin Merritt introduced energy efficiency basics to students in Sorrento. As an energy efficiency expert, Dustin covered the simple ways kids can help their parents save energy at the home.

 

As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, SECO Energy is committed to educating the youngest members within the communities it serves about energy efficiency and renewable energy sources. SECO’s “Kids and Energy” presentation teaches elementary-age students about renewable types of energy such as solar, wind, water and biomass power. Students also learn ways they can be energy efficient at home. They test their new found knowledge with an interactive quiz at the end of the presentation and take home energy efficiency activity books, pencils and other small prizes.

 

Students as young as elementary age can increase energy efficiency in their homes by reminding parents to change older light bulbs to either the CFL or LED types and look for ENERGY STAR labels on light bulbs, electronics and appliances. Young children can be reminded to turn off lights in unused rooms, take shorter showers and keep doors and windows closed while the HVAC is running.

 

Dustin enjoys working with young students and stated, “The students I work with love this interactive presentation. Each child has their own personal “clicker” that allows them to answer the questions in the quiz. Kids this age are eager to learn and open to new ideas, this is the right age to begin teaching kids about saving energy and renewable energy. They want to be good stewards for the future. This generation will do more to be responsible with their energy consumption, to create less waste and invent new ways to become energy efficient.”

 

Are you interested in learning more about energy efficiency, renewable energy or electrical safety? SECO Energy offers a variety of speakers and presentations for groups of any age and size. Contact SECO to schedule a speaker and presentation. “Like” SECO Energy’s Facebook page and “follow” us on Twitter for cooperative updates and the latest news releases.

SECO Energy Welcomes New Villagers

SECO Energy representatives Melanie Hinde and J.D. Simmons joined The Villages Homeowner’s Association at their monthly Newcomer’s Meeting on Tuesday, July 12, at The Colony Recreation Center in The Villages.

 

Over 130 new Villagers were introduced to a variety of service providers, such as SECO, Villages clubs and advocacy groups available in their area. At the meeting, Villagers were treated to snacks, giveaways from vendors and the opportunity to win a 12-month supply of HVAC air filters, courtesy of SECO, and other door prizes.

 

Fred Briggs, VHA President, encouraged the new Villagers to join the VHA, which is 16,000 members strong and growing. The VHA’s mission is “To enhance the residents’ enjoyment and pride of community through compassion, advocacy and education.” Residents are encouraged to turn to the VHA for help with many issues facing senior citizens, such as scams, Medicare discrepancies and insurance claims.

 

Kathryn Gloria, Vice President of Corporate Communications and Energy Services stated, “SECO serves almost 200,000 members – 48,000 of those members live in The Villages. The Newcomer’s Meeting is an opportune time to introduce our not-for-profit electric cooperative, along with its benefits and services, to the newest residents in The Villages.”

 

SECO Energy members don’t have to be present at a VHA meeting to take advantage of the company’s benefits. Any member can visit our website’s Energy Solutions section to access our filter change program, giving members deep discounts and free delivery on HVAC and refrigerator filters.

 

To learn more about the VHA and find a future meeting, visit www.thevha.net SECO Energy has speakers and presentations available for groups of any age or size. To learn more about SECO’s community support or to request a speaker, visit www.secoenergy.com. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” the company on Twitter.

SECO Donates to Habitat for Humanity

SECO Energy is adding to the beauty of the urban forest and energizing the community by donating trees and shrubs to Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter. The collection of cypress trees, loropetalum bushes, bougainvillea and lily hybrids will be planted at various Habitat projects in Lake and Sumter counties.

 

SECO Energy is nationally recognized as a Tree Line USA utility by the National Arbor Day Foundation for nine years in a row. SECO achieved Tree Line USA by meeting five program standards. Utilities must follow industry standards for quality tree care; provide annual worker training in best tree-care practices; sponsor a tree-planting and public education program; maintain a tree-based energy conservation program; and participate in an Arbor Day celebration.

 

Ken Lacasse, Manager of System Reliability, explains that trees and utilities can co-exist in an urban landscape. “To get the most benefit from your trees, plant the right tree in the right place to save energy and keep it away from overhead lines. As a certified arborist, I recommend planting tall trees such as oaks and pines at least 70 feet away from overhead lines and low-growing trees such as azaleas and crape myrtles at least 15 feet from lines. Larger trees near the home will offer more shade, which will reduce cooling costs, and won’t interfere with power lines.”

 

SECO Energy Donates to Habitat for Humanity

 

SECO’s donation to Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter makes a difference in the communities it serves. Habitat for Humanity of Lake-Sumter’s programs are designed to meet the needs of local communities. To learn more about Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter, visit www.habitatls.org.

 

To learn more about how trees can help consumers save energy, visit www.secoenergy.com. At SECO Energy’s website, consumers can find more information about planting the right tree in the right place and about SECO’s vegetation management program. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” SECO on Twitter for cooperative updates and news releases.

SECO Employees Raise $12,000 at Relay for Life

On Friday, April 29, SECO’s team of employee volunteers participated in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life Fundraiser for Sumter County. Relay for Life is the American Cancer Society’s signature event; and it raises donations that contribute to cancer research as well as providing support for cancer patients and their caregivers.

 

This year’s theme was “Stopping Cancer in its Tracks,” inspired by the iconic television show Soul Train. SECO team members and other volunteers boogied through the night and into the morning to represent their commitment to continue the fight against cancer. The SECO team’s fundraising efforts paid off. It raised over $12,000 for the American Cancer Society.

 

The SECO team danced to the DJ and brought the ‘70s back to life with bright lights, disco balls and psychedelic colors. SECO Energy’s Service Center Manager Donna Etts and Accounting Analyst Tanya Mikeals wore the grooviest costumes of the night and won the ‘70s themed costume contest.

 

SECO Energy Employees Raise $12,000 at Relay for Life

 

The SECO team members took turns walking or running laps to remind the community that cancer never sleeps. At the event, SECO team members walked special laps dedicated to cancer survivors and patient caregivers. A quiet memorial lap was walked in honor of loved ones who have lost their cancer fight. The memorial lap is particularly moving to many SECO team members.

 

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, SECO supports the communities it serves through strong corporate citizenship efforts. SECO employees embody the cooperative spirit by playing an active role in the communities where they live through volunteering and monetary donations. SECO employees make a difference in their communities every day.”

 

For more information about SECO Energy and its corporate citizenship, visit www.secoenergy.com.

$36,000 Awarded to Scholarship Recipients

Jim Duncan, CEO of SECO Energy, is congratulating the 12 graduating seniors from SECO’s service territory who have each been awarded a $3,000 scholarship.

 

SECO’s Board of Trustees first approved the scholarship program in 1996. In the 20 years since SECO began awarding the scholarships, it has pledged over $500,000 to 257 deserving high school seniors that live in the communities it serves.

 

“As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, Concern for Community is one of the seven cooperative principles that is near and dear to all of us here at SECO. I am thankful that our Board of Trustees has approved the continuance of the scholarship program for 20 years. As a business leader, it is exciting to meet future leaders first-hand as they begin to achieve their goals for their future,” said Duncan.

 

SECO Energy Scholarship, $36,000 Awarded to Scholarship Recipients

 

SECO’s Board of Trustees President Ray Vick looks forward to meeting the 2016 scholarship awardees. “As the Board President, I am proud that SECO continues to enable young people in the community to begin their career path by assisting in their education expenses. SECO has a number of technology focused careers available and I hope to have the opportunity to work with some of our scholarship awardees in the future.”

 

The applicants were evaluated based on their scholastic achievements, school and community service activities, and financial need. The 12 SECO scholarship awardees for 2016 are:

 

SECO Scholars

  • Merari Flores Saldana from Ocala – West Port High School
  • Megan M. Elliott from Tavares – Tavares High School
  • Citlali Barragan-Hernandez from Summerfield — Belleview High School
  • James C. Cato from Summerfield — Lake Weir High School
  • Cayley L. Buckner from Silver Springs – West Port High School
  • Melissa L. Moreno from Ocala – West Port High School
  • Shelby C. Smith from Webster – South Sumter High School
  • Ana J. Mata from Summerfield — Belleview High School
  • Elijah T. Hughes from Bushnell – South Sumter High School
  • Karla G. Carvajal from Wildwood – Wildwood Middle-High School
  • Raul A. Bayas from Ocala – Vanguard High School
  • Richanda M. Pierre from Ocala – West Port High School

The applicants were judged by SECO Energy’s Scholarship Committee of independent educators. The Committee chose 12 outstanding seniors based on the application materials each student submitted. Scholarship awardees and their families will be honored at a special reception at SECO Energy’s headquarters building in Sumterville on Monday, May 23, at 4:00 p.m.

The SAFE ZONE: Landscaping Safely

SECO Energy Service’s employees are out and about in the community inspecting the underground padmount transformers (big green above-ground boxes) to ensure that Operations employees can quickly and safely access the transformers to perform maintenance and in the event of a power outage. During the access investigations, a SECO employee may contact you directly or leave a door hanger when plants, shrubs or fences are inside the SAFE ZONE and too close to transformers.

 

SECO is communicating with members proactively and giving them time to relocate plants, shrubs, fences or other obstructions that have been placed near transformers. This clearance is required so that SECO’s access to the equipment is not impeded and so that employee safety is not compromised. Equally important, safe access to equipment reduces outage duration for SECO members. After SECO has communicated the need to transplant or remove an obstruction and the member fails to comply, the company must take action.

 

The SAFE ZONE: Landscaping Safely

 

For the safety of SECO employees and reduced outage duration, please heed the SAFE ZONE. Keep fences and plants at least 10 feet away from the front of the transformer where the lock is located and 3 feet away from the sides. Please visit the Landscaping Safely section of our website to learn more, send your questions in this handy form or call 352-793-3801.

 

Currently, access investigations are underway in the Plantation at Leesburg, Legacy of Leesburg and the Center Hill area.

Free Trees – Earthfest at Arbor Day

SECO Energy is spreading the word about the City of Ocala’s Earthfest at Arbor Day on Saturday, April 23. Earthfest at Arbor Day is a family-friendly event featuring live entertainment, youth archery, crafts, demonstrations, food and fun.

 

As an Oak Tree Sponsor of Earthfest at Arbor Day, SECO Energy will have an array of giveaways, information and activities at its booth. Representatives from SECO Energy’s Vegetation Management team of Certified Arborists will be on hand to answer questions about trees native to Florida and offer tree planting advice. Visit SECO’s booth for face painting for the kids, tree giveaways and more!

 

Free Trees - Earth fest at Arbor Day

 

SECO Energy and its Vegetation Management team are committed to maintaining and improving the urban forests in its service area. For nine years running, the Arbor Day Foundation has recognized SECO as a Tree Line USA Utility. To be designated a Tree Line USA Utility, SECO follows five core standards: quality tree care, annual worker training, tree planting and public education, a tree-based energy conservation program and participating in an Arbor Day celebration.

 

Ken Lacasse, SECO Energy’s Manager of System Reliability believes that SECO’s successful vegetation management program has improved power reliability and power quality. “Over the last decade, SECO Energy has honed a comprehensive Vegetation Management program. SECO’s proactive response to vegetation near overhead power lines has consistently reduced tree-related service interruptions and maintained healthy trees along our rights-of-way.”

 

Free Trees - Earth fest at Arbor Day

 

In fact, SECO Energy was awarded the J. D. Power Award in 2015 for, “Highest in Customer Satisfaction among Midsize Utilities in the South”. The level of customer satisfaction with SECO is also reflected in its 2015 ACSI score of 88.

 

SECO Energy’s Vice President of Operations John LaSelva stated, “Concern for Community is one of the seven cooperative principles. As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, SECO Energy is proud to show its commitment to the community through its Tree Line USA Utility distinction and its presence at community events such as Earthfest at Arbor Day.”

 

Earthfest at Arbor takes place in beautiful downtown Ocala’s Tuscawilla Park located at 300 NE Sanchez Ave, the fun begins at 9:00 a.m. and ends at 3:00 p.m.

SECO News, April 2016

SECO News, Duncan's Digest, February 2016

 

As you opened your March billing statement, I hope you were pleasantly surprised to see that SECO Energy’s “Hot Bucks” are hotter than ever. In fact, as of March 1st, residential members are now paying $114.60 based on 1,000 kWh, which is average usage for residential members in our area.

 

Over the past 27 months, SECO Energy has lowered the cost of electricity seven times; this latest reduction equates to a 10.3% decrease over this time frame. The reduction appears as a credit on your bill under the line item “Hot Bucks.” The term refers to the Power Cost Adjustment (PCA) portion of your bill.

SECO “Hot Bucks” are Hotter than Ever

 

We work closely with our wholesale power provider, Seminole Electric, to ensure that we offer members the lowest rate possible and still eke out a small margin (required of us as a not-for-profit electric cooperative).

 

When the wholesale price goes down, usually due to reduced fuel costs, SECO Energy lowers the PCA factor and members see their bills decrease.

 

As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, when wholesale power costs are lower, SECO Energy shares the savings with members. Lowering the cost of power is a joint effort between SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees, our employees and our wholesale power provider, Seminole Electric Cooperative. Controlling costs is essential for members and the communities we serve. I know how carefully many of you track your expenditures. I want to assure you that our company’s management team and employees work diligently to keep costs down and control expenses to match your effort.

 

I think it’s safe to say that SECO Energy is one of the most affordable, reliable electric utilities in Central Florida. Hands down, we offer the best customer service. I know this because in 2015, SECO Energy was ranked by J.D. Power as highest in customer satisfaction among midsize utilities in the south. I believe our continued commitment to offer members low electric rates, outstanding reliability and strong community support are just a few of the reasons why members are satisfied with the service they receive from their cooperative.

 

To read more about our commitment to members and our communities, visit SECOEnergy.com. Next month, look for a snapshot overview of our 2016 Annual Meeting of the Membership or watch the video on our website, Facebook or YouTube channel.

 

 

Register for Smarthub and win an iPad Mini

 

Win an iPad mini!

 

Click on “My Account” to sign up for SmartHub®. All SECO Energy members who register online with SmartHub by May 15 will be entered in a drawing to win an iPad mini!

 

Using a computer, tablet or smartphone, members can access and manage their SECO account(s) via SmartHub. Seasonal members can use SmartHub to change their mailing address and also gain instant access to current and previous bills. SmartHub allows members to track their energy use and is helpful for members on a budget.

 

Access these convenient features:

 

  • Access current bills – no need to wait for USPS
  • View and pay your bill online via debit or credit card
  • Subscribe to receive text or email alerts
  • Sign up for automatic bank draft or MyWay Prepay
  • Update mailing address and phone number
  • Access billing history and view previous bills
  • Compare yearly or monthly energy usage
  • View social media news feeds
  • Plot high, low and average temperatures against energy use
  • Record energy-saving events (appliance purchases, filter changes)

 

Give SmartHub a try.

 

Contact us at (352) 793-3801 or email customerservice@secoenergy.com for help with registering or with questions. Don’t forget, register by May 15 for a chance to win! Members currently using SmartHub are automatically entered.

 

Get the app for your mobile device – search for “SmartHub” in the App Store for iOS in the Google Play™ store for Android™.

 

 

SECO News HVAC Tune-Up and Filter Change June 2019

 

Want a quick and easy way to reduce energy consumption? Change your HVAC filter regularly. Routinely changing your HVAC filter improves your home’s air quality and reduces energy costs. Also, remember to change the filter on your refrigerator. Clean refrigerator filters provide cleaner water and ice, which can reduce spending on bottled water.

 

Read additional energy-saving tips.

 

 

Car on guy wire
Vehicle accidents are scary, especially if the accident involves power lines or poles.

 

Remember these 5 steps to help you stay safe.

 

  1. Stay in your car − only exit the car if it is on fire
  2. Remain calm
  3. Call 911 immediately.  Tell the operator that a power line or pole is down
  4. Warn bystanders to stay away
  5. Warn first responders the line could be energized

 

Broken power lines can still be energized; touching these can be fatal. Please share this information with family and friends. It could save a life.

 

Read the full April 2016 SECO News here.