CEO Curtis Wynn – Page 3

SECO Energy Board of Trustees Elects 2024 Officers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SECO Energy Holds 2024 Annual Meeting with Record Member Participation  

SECO Energy held its 2024 virtual Annual Meeting celebrating its 85th year as an electric cooperative on Thursday, March 21, 2024. The Meeting had a record number of member participation with over 17,000 members participating in the Cooperative’s governance process through their vote on Annual Meeting business.

During the Meeting, SECO Energy’s membership approved two revisions to the Cooperative’s Bylaws pertaining to District Meetings and Trustee Qualifications and the 2023 Annual Meeting Minutes. SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees recommended both revisions, with the first revision allowing a Trustee candidate to be declared Trustee at the District Meeting without holding an uncontested election if only one candidate is certified by the secretary and the second clarifying the District residency requirements to serve as a Trustee. Members can access the updated Bylaws on SECOEnergy.com or at any SECO Energy Member Service Center.

Highlights of the Meeting included SECO Energy’s Board President Gerald Anderson and Chief Executive Officer Curtis Wynn delivering their respective addresses to the membership, providing important updates on the Cooperative’s business and financial standing to ensure SECO Energy members are well-informed of the Cooperative’s direction and policies. Their messages reinforced SECO Energy’s dedication to providing reliable and innovative energy services and the Cooperative’s Vision to lead in member satisfaction and engagement, inviting members to partake in SECO Energy’s Member Engagement Panel and have their questions answered by the Cooperative’s Executive Leadership Team.

“This year marked a significant milestone for SECO Energy, commemorating its journey from a collective effort of rural households in 1938 to a major electric cooperative serving over 240,000 members today,” stated Wynn. “This milestone year commemorates decades of service, community involvement, and the Cooperative’s commitment to innovation and growth.”

Looking ahead, SECO Energy strategically focuses on improving operational efficiency, strengthening connections with its members, and navigating the evolving energy landscape. A vital component of this strategy is SECO Energy’s investment in Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), which marks a step towards modernizing the Cooperative’s services, offering members real-time insights into energy usage, and enabling a more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure.
SECO Energy remains steadfast in its mission to enhance member experiences and lead the way in energy innovation as the Cooperative moves into the future. SECO Energy members are encouraged to stay tuned for upcoming announcements, including the launch of a program that leverages smart technology for energy efficiency and sustainability.

For those who missed the live event, the Annual Meeting recording will be available on the SECO Energy website, YouTube, and Facebook, featuring the list of 101 prize winners and more.

SECO Energy District 8 Members Elect New Trustee Martin Proctor

SECO Energy members residing in District 8 elected Martin E. Proctor as their representative to serve on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. The meeting and election were held within the District at First Baptist Church of Leesburg South Campus on February 13, 2024.

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative, operated for and owned by its members. SECO’s service area is geographically divided into nine Districts. One Trustee is elected from each of the nine Districts to represent their fellow members on SECO’s nine-member Board of Trustees. Collectively, the Board represents the SECO membership, meeting monthly to monitor the financial status of the cooperative while providing fiduciary oversight and participating in policy decisions that serve the best interests of the membership at large.

The election was a contested ballot with two candidates, Mr. Martin Proctor, and Mr. Anthony Grove. As the newly elected Trustee, Mr. Proctor will assume the seat held since 2010 by William James, who is retiring from the Board of Trustees. Mr. Proctor will hold the Trustee position for a 3-year term. SECO’s Bylaws currently require that the cooperative hold District Meetings every three years at which time elections are held to determine representation for the district on the SECO Energy Board of Trustees. Florida Statute requires SECO to hold in-person elections, therefore, the cooperative continues to hold District Meetings as a means of electing Trustees. A drive-thru voting option was available for members for added convenience and to encourage participation.

A SECO Energy Foundation Board Vice President since 2023, Mr. Proctor is a District 1 Board Member of the Lake County Water Authority and is active with the Groveland Planning and Zoning. He is a graduate of Purdue University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering. He lives on Lake Emma, part of Palatlakaha Creek, with his wife of over 35 years.

District 8 2024 Election photo

After the meeting, Mr. Proctor was congratulated by Board Trustee and President Gerald Anderson and SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn. Proctor is grateful for the opportunity to serve his community in a new capacity, stating, “I want to thank my fellow District 8 friends and neighbors who attended the meeting and election. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve on the SECO Energy Board of Trustees and expect to learn as much about the cooperative and industry as possible. Mr. James has served this District well; he mentored me and nominated me to the SECO Energy Foundation Board. This new role will increase my knowledge of the energy industry and cooperative, not-for-profit business model. I am excited for the challenge and the ability to work with and build communication with my future Board peers.”

Board Trustee Anderson added, “The Board of Trustees will look back fondly on the contributions of Mr. Bill James, and with the addition of a new Trustee we all have a duty to assist with his introduction to the industry so he can be equipped with the best tools to make a positive impact. I know our veteran Trustees will work shoulder to shoulder with Mr. Proctor to advance his familiarity with SECO’s unique processes, objectives and challenges ahead.”

SECO Energy CEO, Curtis Wynn also paid tribute to Mr. James and then welcomed Mr. Proctor, adding, “Mr. James has been a steadfast Trustee who has been a valued contributor. His dedication to SECO is admirable and respected by us all. Mr. Proctor comes with an impressive history of community service, not the least of which was his appointment as a founding SECO Energy Foundation Board Member. This experience, though relatively brief, will ease the transition into his new role as a Trustee with SECO Energy. We look forward to his future contributions and dedication to support SECO Energy.”

SECO Energy District 9 Members Re-Elect Trustee Morgan Hatfield

SECO Energy members who reside in District 9 re-elected Morgan Hatfield as the District 9 Trustee to serve on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. The District 9 Meeting was held within the District on January 30 at Spring Creek Elementary School in Paisley.

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative operated for and owned by its members. SECO’s service area is geographically divided into nine Districts. One Trustee is elected from each of the nine Districts to represent their fellow members on SECO’s nine-member Board of Trustees. Collectively, the Board represents the SECO membership, meeting monthly to monitor the cooperative’s financial status while providing fiduciary oversight and participating in policy decisions that serve the best interests of the membership at large.

The District 9 election was uncontested, with Ms. Hatfield retaining the seat for another 3-year term. SECO’s Bylaws require that the cooperative hold District Meetings. Subsequently, Florida Statute requires SECO to hold in-person elections. A drive-thru voting option was available for members for added convenience and to encourage participation.

A SECO member since 2019, Ms. Hatfield currently holds the position of Secretary/Treasurer for the Board of Trustees. She attained the Director Gold credential, which is the highest level of achievement through the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). Trustee Hatfield earned a degree in Finance from UCF and is a Senior Wealth Advisor/Partner of Ruggie Wealth Management.

Ms. Hatfield shared with the District 9 audience, “I want to thank all District 9 members for attending and showing your interest in participating as SECO members. I am eager to continue working with my fellow Board of Trustees and doing our best to serve our members with an outstanding product supported by industry-leading service.”

Board President Gerald Anderson stated, “Congratulations, Ms. Hatfield, on your re-election as District 9 Trustee. I am grateful to the District 9 members who attended the Meeting and participated in our cooperative’s governance process. On behalf of our fellow Board members and peers, we are excited to support SECO Energy’s Mission and Vision through our Board service.”

Curtis Wynn CEO stated, “The Board of Trustees and the SECO Energy membership are grateful to all Trustees who give generously of their time and experience. We are very happy to have Ms. Hatfield continue with her leadership and strong contributions to the success of SECO Energy in her role as a Board Trustee and her expanded responsibilities as Secretary/Treasurer. Thank you, District 9 members, for your attendance at the meeting and your interest in SECO Energy and the strategic direction in which the board, executive leadership team and employees are taking your electric cooperative.”

SECO Energy District 7 Members Re-elect Trustee Joseph Kusiak

SECO Energy members who reside in District 7 re-elected Joseph E. Kusiak to represent them on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. The meeting was held on January 23 at the Rainbow Lakes Estates Community Center that is located within the District.

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative, operated for and owned by its members. SECO’s service area is geographically divided into nine Districts. One Trustee is elected from each of the nine Districts to represent their fellow members on SECO’s nine-member Board of Trustees. Collectively, the Board represents the SECO membership. The Board meets monthly to provide fiduciary oversight and participate in policy decisions that serve the best interests of the membership at large.

Trustee Kusiak and Paul Schwarz both submitted a letter of intent to run for Trustee. SECO’s Bylaws currently require that the cooperative hold District Meetings. Subsequently, Florida Statute requires SECO to hold in-person elections. A drive-thru voting option was available for members for added convenience and to encourage participation.

A SECO member since 2002, Mr. Kusiak was first elected to SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees in 2018. He earned the Director Gold Credential from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), the highest Trustee accreditation from the NRECA. Mr. Kusiak lives in Dunnellon.

Trustee Kusiak enjoys serving his fellow District 7 neighbors, stating, “Thank you to the sizable crowd of District 7 members who attended the District Meeting and for once again entrusting me to serve as your Trustee. It has been an honor to serve as the District 7 Trustee and to grow my knowledge base about the cooperative and the energy industry. I have enjoyed serving SECO Energy members and achieving the Director Gold Credential by continuing my education through the NRECA. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve my community.”

Board President Gerald Anderson stated, “Congratulations, Mr. Kusiak, on your re-election as District 7 Trustee. I am grateful for the many District 7 members who attended the Meeting and participated in our cooperative’s governance process. On behalf of my fellow Board Officers and peers, we are excited to support SECO Energy’s Mission and Vision through our Board service.”

Curtis Wynn CEO stated, “Thank you, District 7 members, who attended the meeting in what could easily be record numbers. We are incredibly grateful to have had two candidates demonstrate their interest in serving their community through SECO Energy Board service. The Executive Leadership Team and I are thankful for Mr. Kusiak’s service as District 7’s Trustee. I congratulate him on his re-election and look forward to working with him and the Board for continued success at SECO Energy.”

SECO Energy Mourns Passing of Long-Tenured Trustee Richard Dennison

SECO Energy is mourning the passing of one of its long-tenured Trustees, Richard Dennison who represented District 4. Mr. Dennison has been a SECO Energy member for almost 25 years. He was first elected to serve on SECO’s Board of Trustees in 2015 and was re-elected in 2023.

During Mr. Dennison’s Board service, the cooperative celebrated member satisfaction awards and recognition for best-in-class service reliability. Mr. Dennison has given much of his time and energy to the SECO Energy Board, and the members served by the cooperative. He was a tireless advocate for the membership and his District.  SECO Energy’s District 4 is located in west Marion County. Mr. Dennison lived in Marion Oaks and was an active member of his community outside of his SECO Board service. He counted his SECO Energy Board service as one of his greatest honors and achievements.

Mr. Dennison served as Board Vice President and President. He worked to earn the esteemed Director Gold Credential from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) and maintained the distinction through continuing education credits.

Board of Trustees President and District 3 Trustee Gerald Anderson grieves the loss of a fellow Trustee. President Anderson stated, “Mr. Dennison was a tireless advocate for SECO Energy, its members and his District. He was a dedicated Board member, who believed in the cooperative business model and its benefits for our members. The Board and SECO lost a friend in Mr. Dennison, and he will be greatly missed.”

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn shares his condolences. Mr. Wynn stated, “Mr. Dennison’s deep understanding of the electric utility business, the wisdom he shared with the Board and the Executive Leadership team, and his caring spirit will be deeply missed. Mr. Dennison cared about SECO Energy, its employees and its members. On behalf of the entire SECO Energy team, we share our condolences with his family and friends, and we are grateful for his Board service and dedication to members.”

“Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on Twitter for prize drawings, news releases, and severe weather alerts affecting SECO Energy’s service territory. To learn more about SECO Energy as a not-for-profit cooperative, visit About SECO Energy.

SECO News January 2024

Dear Members,

SECO Energy has been your local, trusted electric service provider for 85 years. We are an award-winning, not-for-profit electric cooperative that is growing, changing, and striving to be your cooperative of the future.

In January 2023, I unveiled our updated Mission, Vision and Core Values and a clear, focused strategic direction through our Strategy Map. Throughout the past year, we have focused on the fundamental objectives in our Strategy Map to build a solid foundation for success.

One foundational technology currently underway is our systemwide automated metering infrastructure (AMI) project. Members with an AMI meter installed already see the benefit of this cutting-edge technology. AMI meters collect usage data in 15-minute intervals and break down the patterns recorded by common appliances and electronics to provide a comprehensive snapshot of your household’s usage. With AMI meters, SECO can assist you with more innovative and energy-efficient services that reduce costs in the long run.

With the adoption of AMI, we can expand demand response programs that will provide wholesale power cost reductions and lower your bills. Demand response programs put you in control of the amount of energy you use and when you use it. We are exploring several bring-your-own-device programs for smart thermostats, smart water heaters, electric vehicles and chargers, and whole-home generators.

Many of these are already owned by you, and programs featuring these devices are the key to reducing your energy bill.

Another project of note is transitioning older, high-pressure sodium area lighting (HPS) fixtures to LED (light-emitting diode) area and street lighting. LED area lighting is a newer technology that is more energy efficient. LEDs use less energy, are more reliable, use less heat, and many fixture types are DarkSky friendly. The SECO team is devising a plan to fully transition to LED lighting in the future as the availability of HPS fixtures is scarce.

Our focus remains on our core business and meeting the increasing demand for reliable, affordable, and safe energy in our area. These proposed innovative energy services will enable SECO to maintain competitive rates and member satisfaction.

Review our Strategy Map online at SECOEnergy. com > Your Co-op > Strategy Map. Happy New Year from the SECO family to yours. Best regards,

Best regards,

Curtis Wynn
Chief Executive Officer

SECO Energy is excited to offer members an exclusive opportunity to enhance the electric vehicle (EV) charging experience! Upgrade from a Level 1 Charger to our top-of-the-line ChargePoint Home Flex Level 2 Fast Charger and unlock a world of convenience and efficiency for your EV.

WHY UPGRADE TO A LEVEL 2 FAST CHARGER?

SPEED AND EFFICIENCY: The ChargePoint Level 2 Fast Charger is designed to significantly reduce charging time compared to Level 1 Chargers. With its 240-volt power supply, charging is faster, ensuring your EV is ready to hit the road quickly.
CONVENIENT HOME CHARGING: Imagine the convenience of charging your EV overnight in the comfort of your home. No trips to public charging stations – plug in and wake up to a fully charged vehicle. Plus, you can take advantage of SECO’s Super Off-Peak EV Charging Incentive!
AFFORDABLE LEASING OPTIONS: Make a sustainable choice without breaking the bank. Lease the ChargePoint Level 2 Fast Charger for just $14.50 monthly plus tax.
OWNERSHIP BENEFITS: If you prefer to own your charging solution, you can purchase the ChargePoint Level 2 Fast Charger for only $699 plus tax. It’s a one-time investment that pays off in the long run, offering you the convenience of home charging for years to come.

We’re waiving the $50 installation fee for a limited time. Contact a licensed electrician to assess your breaker panel capacity and installation of the 240-volt outlet and NEMA 14 50-amp receptacle. We’ll install the charger and offer technical assistance.

SUPER OFF-PEAK CHARGING INCENTIVE

Do you already own an EV? Sign up for SECO’s Super Off-Peak Charging Incentive. Charge your all-electric EV during Super Off-Peak hours (12 a.m. to 6 a.m.) and be rewarded with a $7 monthly incentive.

Take advantage of the chance to elevate your EV charging experience with a Level 2 EV Charger and Super Off-Peak Incentive from SECO Energy. Complete the web form to get started today!

DEAR MEMBERS,

SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees is a nine-member board comprised of your fellow SECO members. As Trustees, it is our responsibility to establish, review, and revise corporate policies that preserve the foundations of our not-for-profit electric cooperative. We work to ensure that SECO continues to maintain reliable, affordable service for all members.

What sets SECO apart is that the cooperative is owned by the members it serves; there are no shareholders or outside investors. Established as Sumter Electric Cooperative, Inc. in 1938, we are now d/b/a SECO Energy with a Mission to provide reliable and innovative energy services to our almost 240,000 homes and businesses in our service area.

SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees has invested extensive time and resources to complete continuing education programs offered by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) that help Trustees better understand the energy industry. NRECA’s programs are tailored specifically for cooperative Trustees, providing a comprehensive curriculum to enhance their expertise.

Each member of SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees has participated in the NRECA’s continuing education program and earned the prestigious Director Gold Credential (DGC). A Director Gold Credential signifies the highest level of commitment to continuing education, requiring participants to complete 19 credits earned through courses that mirror college-level rigor. Each credit requires a minimum of eight hours of coursework.

Our Trustees’ commitment is further highlighted by the exclusivity of their accomplishments.

Among the over 832 electric distribution cooperatives in the U.S., SECO stands out as one of the select few, with 100% of its Board achieving Director Gold status. This accolade places SECO’s Trustees in a truly elite category, showcasing their dedication to advancing their knowledge and skills.

Once earned, Trustees must re-certify as Director Gold every two years. This re-certification includes completing three study credits that ensure participants maintain their industry knowledge. This commitment to ongoing education underscores SECO’s dedication to having a Board equipped with the latest insights in the ever-evolving electric utility landscape.

The electric utility industry is complex; it faces challenges, threats, and opportunities. Your Board of Trustees is well-equipped to steer the cooperative through these complexities, ensuring a bright outlook for SECO Energy, its members, and communities.

As president of SECO’s Board of Trustees, I am extremely proud of the accomplishment of the entire Board in achieving the highest level of education – Director Gold.

Sincerely,

GERALD ANDERSON

BOARD OF TRUSTEES PRESIDENT

As your trusted electric cooperative, we prioritize your safety and well-being. Recently, there has been a rise in energy fraud targeting consumers, and we want to ensure that you are well informed and protected. Keep these crucial warnings in mind:

BEWARE OF UNSOLICITED CALLS: Scammers may pose as utility workers, making unsolicited calls claiming your account is overdue and threatening immediate disconnection if payment is not made. SECO will never demand immediate payment over the phone or threaten disconnection without prior written notice.
PHISHING EMAILS AND TEXTS: Be cautious of emails or text messages requesting personal or financial information. Always verify the sender’s authenticity before clicking on any links. SECO communicates official information through our account management platform, SmartHub, and will never ask for sensitive information via email or text.
DOOR-TO-DOOR SCAMS: Scammers may appear at your doorstep, claiming to be SECO employees and requesting payment. Authentic SECO representatives carry proper identification and will not demand on-the-spot payments. If in doubt, call our Member Services team to verify the person’s identity.
FAKE UTILITY APPS: SmartHub is SECO Energy’s approved online account manager. Scammers may create fake apps to gain access to your personal information. Enroll in SmartHub to check your balance, pay your monthly bill, enroll in bank draft, and more; visit SECOEnergy.com > My Account > 12 Ways to Pay.
WAYS TO PAY: SECO does not accept PayPay, Zelle, Cash App, Venmo or gift cards for payment. Enrolling in bank draft, with a paperless bill, is the safest payment and bill delivery option.

If you encounter suspicious activity or feel threatened, it is best to contact local law enforcement. We are committed to providing reliable and innovative energy services while ensuring the safety and security of our members. Stay informed and vigilant.

Read the full January 2024 SECO News.

SECO Energy Board of Trustees Attain 100% Gold Certification

SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees is a nine-member Board comprised of SECO members who govern the not-for-profit electric cooperative. Trustees establish, review, and revise corporate policies that preserve the foundations of the not-for-profit electric cooperative. They work to ensure that SECO continues to maintain reliable, affordable service for all members.

SECO Energy is different from an investor-owned utility in that it is owned by the members it serves; there are no shareholders or outside investors. Established as Sumter Electric Cooperative, Inc. in 1938, and now d/b/a SECO Energy, its Mission is to provide reliable and innovative energy services to the almost 240,000 homes and businesses within its seven-county service area.

SECO Energy Trustees’ commitment is further highlighted by the exclusivity of their accomplishments. Among the over 832 electric distribution cooperatives in the U.S., SECO stands out as one of the select few with 100% of its Board achieving Director Gold status. This accolade places SECO’s Trustees in a truly elite category, showcasing their dedication to advancing their knowledge and skills.

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn commended the Board of Trustees, stating, “The electric utility industry is complex; it faces challenges, threats, and opportunities. Our Board of Trustees is well-equipped to steer the cooperative through these complexities, ensuring a bright outlook for SECO Energy, its members, and communities.”

President of SECO’s Board of Trustees, Gerald Anderson added, “I am extremely proud to serve as President of the SECO Energy Board of Trustees. The accomplishment of the entire Board in achieving the highest level of education – Director Gold – is an invaluable asset to SECO Energy and its membership. Their commitment to member satisfaction, cooperative governance and expanding their knowledge base is unmatched.”

SECO News December 2023

Dear Members,

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! This month, I want to acknowledge our group of generous SECO Energy employees who support our yearly United Way corporate giving effort. These community-minded folks are a testament to how collaborative giving has far-reaching effects in our service area.

Each year, SECO Energy employees participate in our annual United Way Employee Giving Campaign; this is a cause many of our employees truly believe in. United Way is on a mission to improve lives and strengthen communities. Hundreds of SECO employees pledged a portion of their 2024 earnings to local United Ways – this is giving that lasts long after the Christmas season.

Local United Ways will benefit from SECO Energy employees’ pledges of $37,164 through the employee-led 2024 United Way Pledge Drive. Our employees have been actively supporting United Way for decades. During that time, employees have pledged over $1,120,000 to aid local families through the United Way.

SECO Energy employees choose the county and the program their donated dollars will benefit. Most of our employees live in Citrus, Lake, Marion and Sumter Counties, and those counties received the highest dollar amounts in donations.

United Way Pledges 2024 Employees also deliver Christmas magic by filling Santa’s sleigh through our corporate Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots donation drive. Starting in November, employees and members donated new, unwrapped toys for the drive. All toys donated are dispersed in the local area where they were collected.

Retired Marines and other volunteers pick up donations in early December to distribute to children in need in time for the holidays. Those who want to register to receive toys donated through Toys for Tots can visit ToysforTots.org > Request a Toy.

SECO Energy is a proud sponsor of Toys for Tots as well. To support our employees’ giving, SECO Energy donated $2,500 to Toys for Tots to further assist our local communities.

From the SECO Energy family to yours, we wish you Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year!

Best regards,

Curtis Wynn
Chief Executive Officer

Winter temperatures are heading to Central Florida soon. During colder months, many households experience increased energy consumption due to holiday decorations, out-of-town guests, and cooking for family and friends. We have cold-weather energy-efficiency tips to help you reduce energy consumption. 

Upgrade to LEDs (light emitting diode) for holiday decorating and inside your home. LEDs use significantly less electricity than even small incandescent lights, generate little heat, have a longer lifespan and come in various colors and styles. 

For cooking, use small appliances, when possible, instead of your oven. Crockpots, Instant Pots, air fryers and toaster ovens use less energy and generate less heat. In Florida, grilling season is almost year-round; you can fire up the grill to reduce energy use, too. 

When the colder winter air moves in, turn your thermostat to 68 degrees or lower to reduce energy consumption. 68ºF is the optimal temperature for home heating per Energy.gov. To combat the cold, wear socks and sweaters and use an extra blanket.

Invest in a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats are Wi-Fi-enabled devices controlled with your smartphone, tablet, smart speaker or other device connected to the Internet. Installing a smart thermostat allows you to schedule your home’s temperatures for comfort. Some units learn your habits and preferences. Smart thermostats will provide you with data on your home’s energy use and other features.

Schedule an HVAC tune-up before cold temps set in. Your HVAC requires maintenance to operate efficiently and extend its lifespan. It is a small price to pay for peace of mind. This is a job best left for HVAC professionals to complete. THERMOSTAT SETTING IDEA

Enrolling in paperless billing with SECO Energy has benefits that go beyond just saving paper – it is a smart and eco-friendly choice that can simplify your life in many ways.

Unlike traditional paper bills that can take days to arrive in your mailbox, eBills are delivered to your email inbox instantly. You’ll get timely access to important billing information, making it easier to manage your account.

Going paperless minimizes the risk of misdirected mail delivery, which can sometimes lead to your bills ending up in the wrong hands. Moreover, it reduces the potential for identity theft, as your bill is delivered securely to your email address, which is under your control.

SECO Energy makes it even more convenient by offering a bank draft method for payments, which will ensure you never miss a due date. No more writing checks, buying stamps, or worrying about your payment getting lost in the mail. With paperless billing, your payments are hassle-free and always on time.

Enrolling in both paperless billing and bank draft helps you avoid missed bill payments, late fees and possible disruptions in your services. With eBills, your account information is accessible from anywhere with an Internet connection, so you can stay on top of your financial obligations even when you are away. Your eBill includes a link to our monthly SECO News, which you can read online and further reduce paper waste.

Enrolling in paperless billing and bank draft with SECO Energy is a win-win. You save time, enhance security, reduce your environmental footprint, and simplify your account management. Visit SECOEnergy.com > My Account > 12 Ways to Pay to log in or establish a SmartHub account. With SmartHub you can view your bill, enroll in paperless billing or bank draft, compare your monthly usage history and more.

SECO Energy’s systemwide AMI (advanced metering infrastructure) metering project launched in 2023. Honeywell, our approved contractor, has worked diligently in the eastern portion of our service area to meet our goal of exchanging 60,000 meters by the end of the year. Full deployment of almost 240,000 AMI meters will take three to four years to complete.

Accounts with an AMI meter can review detailed usage data and other energy-saving tools. The Honeywell meter is highly accurate and offers many benefits to members and new energy-saving features through SmartHub. The meter communicates with SECO Energy to reduce the costs of monthly meter readings and supplies members with 15-minute reading interval data.

AMI meters use an algorithm of your usage data to estimate how much energy your home’s appliances use based on the interval readings to help you identify potential energy wasters in your home. If there’s an HVAC, water heater or other large energy-use device malfunction, you’ll know sooner rather than later. The meter can’t view your actual in-home behavior. Its software assesses your home’s load profile and estimates usage of items that use electricity based on average consumer usage and behavior.

Once the AMI meter at your location has been installed, data integration with SmartHub may take up to 60 days. To view your 15-minute interval usage data, compare historical usage, set usage alerts, schedule a payment, and more, make sure you’re enrolled in SmartHub at SECOEnergy.com.

To learn more about our AMI project, visit SECOEnergy.com > My Account > AMI, where you can review our previous communications in SECO News, search for your address on the AMI deployment map and read frequently asked questions.

Read the full December 2023 SECO News.

SECO Energy and Gresco Utility Supply Celebrate Capital Credits Partnership

SECO Energy, the trusted electric cooperative serving over 235,000 homes and businesses in Central Florida, recently celebrated a significant milestone in its partnership with Gresco Utility Supply, a fellow not-for-profit cooperative. This partnership has proven to be a significant benefit to SECO Energy and its members through Capital Credits delivered to SECO by another cooperative with which SECO does business.

Gresco President & CEO, Steve Gramling, presented SECO Energy CEO, Curtis Wynn, with a check totaling an impressive $2.1 million. This check represents SECO’s share of Gresco’s current Capital Credits retirement cycle, showcasing the strength of their collaboration.

Gresco Utility Supply, originally formed in 1960 by 15 electric cooperatives, has evolved into a vital supply-chain partner. The company’s portfolio includes an array of products and services in lighting, tools, telecom, solar, EV charging stations, and unmanned aircraft systems. SECO Energy’s partnership with Gresco is integral to its operations, and the electric cooperative reaps allocated margins from Gresco based on its annual supply purchases.

Furthermore, SECO Energy’s equity in Gresco has grown impressively, cementing its position as one of Gresco’s largest member-owners by equity. This long-standing partnership has not only strengthened the cooperation between the two entities but has also delivered substantial benefits to SECO Energy’s members. This most recent capital credit retirement represents 20% of SECO’s patronage with Gresco.

CEO Curtis Wynn applauds the partnership between SECO and Gresco. Wynn stated, “SECO Energy is dedicated to providing innovative energy services to its members and communities. During this time of supply chain constraints, Gresco is SECO’s trusted partner that provides the equipment needed to supply safe, reliable energy that is affordable. Gresco also answers the call during mass restoration efforts after major storm events. The supply chain delivery service Gresco provides to SECO is invaluable.”

In line with this commitment, SECO Energy also returns a portion of its margins in the form of Capital Credits to current and former members. The recent distribution of Capital Credits to current members in their November billing statements further exemplifies SECO Energy’s dedication to its members’ well-being.

This milestone in the partnership between SECO Energy and Gresco Utility Supply underscores the cooperative’s mission to provide exceptional service to its members while fostering collaboration with like-minded organizations.

About Gresco Utility Supply

Gresco Utility Supply is a not-for-profit cooperative formed in 1960 by 15 electric cooperatives. It has evolved into a diverse supply-chain partner, offering products and services in lighting, tools, telecom, solar, EV charging stations, and unmanned aircraft systems to meet the needs of electric cooperatives and their members.

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SECO News December 2023

SECO Energy and Gresco Utility Supply Celebrate Capital Credits Partnership

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