SECO News April 2025

2025 Annual Meeting

DEAR MEMBER,

Thank you to all who tuned in to the 2025 Annual Meeting and those who actively participated in the cooperative’s governance process. As a member of the cooperative, the Annual Meeting is for you. It’s your opportunity to learn about SECO Energy, hear important updates, vote on Annual Meeting business, and ask questions.

If you missed our Annual Meeting, I encourage you to watch the video on SECOEnergy.com; you can also watch it on our Facebook page or YouTube channel.

Watch the recorded Annual Meeting video at SECOEnergy.com to find answers to the trivia questions.

PLAY 2025 ANNUAL MEETING TRIVIA FOR A SECOND CHANCE TO WIN!

Head over to our Facebook page at Facebook.com/SECOEnergy to participate. You can mail your answers to SECOEnergy.com, Attn: Corporate Communications, P.O. Box 301, Sumterville, FL 33585. Submit your answers by May 15. Winners will be notified by May 30.

HERE’S WHAT YOU COULD WIN:

• Two (2) $250 SECO Energy bill credits

• Three (3) $100 SECO Energy bill credits

• Five (5) $50 SECO Energy bill credits

HOW TO PLAY:

Visit the trivia post on SECO Energy’s Facebook page and answer these three questions in the comments section:

1. What topic of interest was ranked number one for members participating in the Cooperative Engagement Forum?

2. What’s SECO Energy’s official online account management platform?

3. What’s the name of SECO Energy’s new program that helps members reduce peak demand using smart thermostats, EV chargers, and battery backup systems?

Thank you again for your active participation in our cooperative!

CURTIS WYNN

Chief Executive Officer

One of the leading causes of underground utility damage nationwide is individuals failing to contact 811 before digging. In Florida, it’s the law to contact 811 before you dig.

STEPS FOR SAFE DIGGING:

1. Plan

Consider the scope of your project and whether you’ll need to hire a contractor. If digging in a small area, outline that area with white paint or flags.

2. Notify 811

You’ll receive a ticket number and list of utilities that will be notified of your project. Be aware utility companies do not mark private lines.

3. Wait

Utility operators have two business days to mark underground lines before you can begin digging.

4. Confirm Responses

Track the progress of each utility response code they use to explain your dig site.

5. Respect Marks

After you’ve received responses from all relevant utilities, compare the colors of the marks and flags on your property with the utility list on your ticket.

6. Dig Carefully

With utilities marked, dig with caution. Florida has a 24-inch tolerance zone from the edges of facilities. Watch for roots and stumps that may entangle utility lines.

Approximately 98% of SECO Energy’s new facilities added last year (397 miles) were underground. If you hit a utility line, immediately contact the company – do not attempt to repair it yourself. Hitting an underground line can cause serious injuries.

Sunshine 811 is a free service available by calling 8-1-1 or online at Sunshine811.com.

Trees growing too close to power lines are a safety concern, a leading cause of power outages, and create sparks, fires, and shock hazards. To avoid these problems, SECO trims trees regularly and asks members to make good choices when planting trees. A tree placed in the proper spot today can avoid problems tomorrow, especially where power lines are concerned.

Plant trees that won’t interfere with power lines when fully grown. Small ornamental trees or shrubs that will not exceed 25 feet in height are best to plant 10 feet away from power lines. Trees that grow to a mature height of more than 40 feet should be planted at least 50 feet away from overhead power lines.

When landscaping, keep fences, shrubs, and other obstructions at least 10 feet away from the front of pad-mounted transformers where the lock is located and at least three feet from the rear and sides of the transformer.

Call Sunshine One-Call (811) locator service three days before planting to check the location of underground services. This service is free, and in Florida, it’s the law.

Note it is the homeowner’s responsibility to locate private underground services such as sprinklers or septic on the property.

Trees around power lines can disrupt electric service, particularly during severe weather events with lightning or high winds. To maintain reliability and community safety, SECO Energy prunes and removes trees near overhead power lines every three years, covering approximately 1,500 miles of lines annually.

Recently, SECO Energy was honored with the Tree Line USA Utility designation for the 18th consecutive year. This recognition acknowledges utilities that play a role in contributing to the preservation and enhancement of America’s urban forests.

Tree Line USA is a national program supported by a partnership between the Arbor Day Foundation and the National Association of State Foresters. This program promotes the coexistence of reliable electricity delivery and thriving tree populations in communities.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY TIP OF THE MONTH: Include energy efficiency in your landscaping by planting shade trees around your home. Deciduous trees planted on the south side can lower temperatures by up to six degrees. They provide shade during the summer while allowing sunlight to warm your home in the cooler months after they lose their leaves. Source: energy.gov

Read the full April SECO News.