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SECO News February-March 2025

Wynn's Wire

Strengthening Rural Communities

 

DEAR MEMBER,

 

The United Nations has proclaimed 2025 the “International Year of Cooperatives,” recognizing how cooperatives support local economies and community development. Guided by the principle of Concern for Community, SECO Energy focuses on improving the lives of our members across Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter Counties.

 

This past year, SECO Energy explored community solar and microgrids to improve energy resilience and sustainability, particularly in rural areas. We held a series of meetings with local officials and key community leaders to identify ways to enhance life in Central Florida, resulting in the formation of a committee to address community needs and plan future projects that will directly benefit our rural communities.

 

As your trusted community partner, we’ve begun replacing older high-pressure sodium (HPS) area lights with LED communal lighting to improve energy efficiency and safety. At the same time, we’ve continued to convert overhead power lines to underground construction that helps reduce weather-related disruptions in electric service. We have completed system improvement projects across the service area, including new substations and upgrades that increase capacity at some of our existing substations. Our Expansion and Improvement Plan continues to move forward to ensure services remain reliable and sustainable to meet the ever-increasing demand for safe and affordable energy.

 

Through educational opportunities and community programs like Youth Tour and scholarships for high school students, we hope to inspire the next generation to pursue careers in the energy industry, contributing to a future of safe, efficient, and innovative energy solutions to strengthen our communities.

 

Sincerely,

 

 

CURTIS WYNN

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

SECO Energy completed its annual member-wide customer satisfaction survey, where over 1,200 members were asked to participate. The member responses were sent to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI®), a company that measures customer satisfaction across multiple industries throughout the entire United States. For 2024, SECO Energy received an ACSI score of 91 on a 100-point scale.[1]

 

SECO Energy’s score is higher when compared to publicly measured investor-owned utility scores and municipal utility scores reported in the syndicated 2024 ACSI Energy Utility Study and places SECO Energy 17 points higher than the average investor-owned utility score of 74, as well as 16 points higher than the average municipal utility score of 75, per the industry ratings.

 

ACSI® is one of the oldest and most highly regarded industry satisfaction studies which publishes annual customer satisfaction results for approximately 400 companies across about 40 industries and 10 economic sectors based on roughly 200,000 customer interviews.

 

For more information, please visit theacsi.org/industries/energy-utilities/

 

[1] Compared to publicly measured energy utilities in the ACSI® survey of customers rating their own energy utility. Results based on data provided by SECO Energy, collected between December 2 and 9, 2024. ACSI did not regulate the survey administration or sample size. ACSI and its logo are registered trademarks of the American Customer Satisfaction Index LLC. For more about the ACSI, visit www.theacsi.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECO Energy is pleased to announce the following students have been selected as this year’s Tallahassee Youth Tour Delegates:

 

  • Ryan Allen, Eustis
  • Thomas Astacio, Dunnellon
  • Lillian Brogan, Fruitland Park
  • Allister Clarke, Lake Panasoffkee
  • Molly Flynn, Clermont
  • Ranaijha Hepburn, Ocala
  • Sariah King, Bushnell
  • Kaiming Lei, Middleton
  • Jayley Lewis, Bushnell
  • Bella Maurice, Belleview

Please join us in congratulating these students as they embark on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend a leadership conference in Tallahassee, where they will tour Florida’s capital, learn about the Cooperative Business Model, and meet local representatives.

 

 

 

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is dedicated to uplifting and strengthening communities in Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter Counties to improve quality of life. Through grants and partnerships, the Foundation supports a wide variety of local nonprofits.

 

SECO Energy members who round up their monthly utility bills are making a meaningful difference in our local communities, and we are grateful for your support. See how those small contributions are making a big impact:

 

OVERVIEW OF FOUNDATION FUNDING FOR 2024

STEM Projects – $50,000

Environmental Projects – $10,000

Energy-Related Projects – $40,000

Veterans Initiatives – $105,000

Public Safety and Education Programs – $75,000

Health/Human Services – $365,475

 

The SECO Energy Foundation operates as a tax-exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3), and contributions are tax-deductible. To learn more about the Foundation, view awarded grants, and explore funding guidelines, visit SECOFoundation.org.

 


If you have a home office, look for opportunities to save energy in your workspace. ENERGY STAR® rated equipment consumes up to 50% less energy than standard models. Avoid phantom load by plugging equipment like computers, printers, and scanners into a power strip, then turning the power strip off once your workday is done. These types of equipment still use small amounts of power even when switched “off.” You can also save energy in your home office by replacing older bulbs with energy-saving LEDs.

Source: energy.gov

 

 

 

Read the full February-March SECO News.

SECO News January 2025

Wynn's Wire

 

 

 

 

 

DEAR MEMBERS,

 

The new year is bringing new opportunities for innovation and savings. SmartHub, SECO Energy’s trusted online platform for bill payments, now offers enhanced options to reduce energy and manage your home’s energy consumption more efficiently.

 

Over 180,000 accounts have been upgraded to Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) technology. These members can now access their home’s detailed energy use in 15-minute intervals, which is much more frequent compared to traditional monthly meter readings. With AMI technology, you can also set up high-energy usage alerts to spot spikes in energy use and take action to reduce consumption before the high-energy usage hits your bill at the end of the month.

 

To pinpoint appliance and electronics use more accurately, visit SmartHub and build your home energy profile. When you add your appliances and devices to your profile in SmartHub, you can see how much electricity each appliance consumes and how that use translates into dollars spent. Using appliance-specific data, you can leverage analytics to find ways to reduce unnecessary energy consumption. Building your home profile in SmartHub takes only a few minutes.

 

Consider joining our new SECO Smart Connect Program for even more savings! This program rewards residential members for lowering energy use during peak demand times through eligible devices like smart thermostats, electric vehicle (EV) chargers, and battery backup systems. By enrolling eligible devices and adhering to the program’s terms and conditions, you will earn reward credits that will be directly applied to your SECO Energy bill for your participation.

 

Every little bit helps, and this year, SECO Energy wants to offer you innovative energy services along with tools and resources to help and incentivize you to monitor and manage your home’s energy usage.

 

Sincerely,

 

CURTIS WYNN

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

SECO News January 2025 Now Accepting Applications for SECO Energy's 2025 Scholarship Program

 

SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees has approved $36,000 to fund the 2025 Scholarship Program to ease the financial burden for up to twelve graduating high school seniors with a passion for powering the future. The program awards each recipient a $3,000 scholarship to continue their pursuit of higher education at an accredited institution in Florida.

 

Eligibility Criteria:

 

➡️  Applicants must reside in a household within SECO Energy’s service area or live with a parent or legal guardian who is an active SECO Energy member.

➡️  Candidates must graduate from high school by the end of the 2024- 2025 academic year (May/June) and enroll in a Florida-based college, university, or technical school by the conclusion of the same year.

➡️  Special consideration will be given to those seeking a STEM-related degree or aiming for a career in the energy sector. Relevant majors include computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical, nuclear, environmental, civil, agricultural/ biological, industrial, materials science, and various branches of mathematics.

 

Evaluation Process:

When assessing applicants, SECO Energy will weigh financial need, academic accomplishments, community engagement, quality of the personal statement or essay, and relevance of the candidate’s major in preparation for a STEM-related or energy sector career.

 

Application Deadline: March 28, 2025

 

APPLY HERE

 

 

 

 

Smart Connect homepage banner

 

The SECO Smart Connect Program rewards you for reducing energy consumption through enrolled Wi-Fi connected smart thermostats, electric vehicle (EV) chargers, and battery backup systems during peak demand.

 

HOW IT WORKS?

Enrolling allows SECO Energy to temporarily adjust the settings on eligible Wi-Fi connected smart devices during periods of peak energy demand. These minor adjustments help reduce the strain on the electric grid when energy usage is at its highest.

 

DO YOU QUALIFY?

🔲  Are you a residential member?

🔲  Do you have an approved smart device such as a thermostat, EV charger, or battery?

🔲  Do you have a Wi-Fi network that is compatible with your smart device?

🔲  If you plan to enroll a thermostat, do you have a working central air conditioning unit?

 

ENROLLING IS EASY!

Learn more and sign up today! Click HERE.

 

 

 

 

SECO News January 2025 Trustee Education Milestones A Message from Board President Gerald Anderson

 

Your SECO Energy Board of Trustees encompasses nine of your fellow SECO members. Each elected Trustee represents a District. Trustees provide governance and oversight to the cooperative, as well as oversee the establishment of corporate policies. SECO Energy is member-owned and member-governed, so your Trustees prioritize members’ need for reliable, affordable, and safe electricity.

 

To prepare for their Board leadership role, SECO Energy Trustees invest extensive time and resources to complete a nationally recognized curriculum offered by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). Our two newest Trustees, James LaMotte from District 4 and Marty Proctor from District 8 have completed the requirements to be recognized as Credentialed Cooperative Directors (CCD).

 

The initial step in the NRECA’s Director Education program is earning the CCD. The next step is to build on their core education by completing the Board Leadership Certificate and ultimately completing the requirements for the distinguished Director Gold Credential. Through their full engagement with the NRECA’s curriculum, these two gentlemen are well on their way to achieving Gold.

 

These education programs equip us with the knowledge and skills to serve on your behalf, focusing on the responsibilities and liabilities of a Trustee, understanding the electric business, board operations and processes, strategic planning, and financial decision-making.

 

 

 


SECO Energy employees and Trustees have pledged $59,381 to local United Ways for 2025! SECO has held an annual United Way pledge donation for over 20 years. Since 2004, the total pledged to United Way has eclipsed $1.1 million! Thank you, SECO team, for your generous contributions to our local communities.

 

 

 

Read the full January SECO News.

SECO Energy Spreads Holiday Cheer Through Toys for Tots Drive

SECO Energy is proud to continue its longstanding tradition of sponsoring the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. Each year, SECO Energy holds an annual donation drive in which employees and members of the cooperative contribute toys and gifts for the Toys for Tots donation boxes located at any one of SECO Energy’s five Member Service locations. 

 

Founded over 85 years ago, SECO Energy was formed by members who banded together to bring electricity to rural areas of Central Florida, fulfilling a previously unmet need. Each year, the cooperative’s members and employees voluntarily donate gifts to support local communities across Central Florida, which serves as a reminder of this shared purpose. 

 

“SECO employees are a charitable group, and they particularly enjoy making contributions that benefit the communities we serve. The generosity of SECO Energy’s employees and members ensures that local children will have toys to unwrap and smiles on their faces on Christmas morning,” stated Curtis Wynn, SECO Energy’s Chief Executive Officer. 

 

The Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots’ purpose is to help bring the joy of Christmas and send a message of hope to children across the United States through the gift of a new toy. Since 2001, the Toys for Tots program has been ranked as one of the top-rated charities by “Philanthropy 400.”  

 

This year’s Toys for Tots donation drive resulted in hundreds of toys donated through SECO Energy’s annual campaign. The toys remain within the community where they are collected, making a tangible difference for families in need. For some children, the gift of a toy from the program may be the only present they receive this holiday season. 

   

Kathy Judkins, SECO Energy’s VP of Communications, Community and Member Experience, who oversees the cooperative’s Toys for Tots initiative, added, “I’m incredibly grateful to the hundreds of SECO employees and many members who joined us in spreading holiday cheer this year. The smallest acts of kindness—like donating a toy—can have a lasting impact and bring happiness to children throughout our service area.” 

 

Toys for Toys Photo Collection:

 

 

“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 December 2024

Wynn's Wire

 

 

 

 

 

DEAR MEMBERS,

 

I want to end the year by thanking you for your SECO Energy membership. In the aftermath of Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton, SECO Energy received thousands of phone calls, emails, letters, and social media comments expressing your unwavering support as we underwent a massive restoration effort. The SECO team is grateful for your patience and encouragement. I also want to thank the over 1,200 line and tree contractor crews, and food and service workers from across the nation who traveled to SECO to support one of the most extensive power restoration efforts in our history.

 

This year also marked several key milestones. We announced SECO Energy’s Expansion and Improvement Plan, launched the SECO Smart Connect Program that rewards members for saving energy, and made significant progress in our systemwide upgrade to Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). We increased the capacity at several substations to meet the growing demands of new residential and commercial developments, and began transitioning area lighting to LED fixtures for improved efficiency.

 

Furthermore, we advanced our mission to support rural communities through engagement at the White House’s Rural Communities in Action Event and by collaborating with officials and key community leaders to address local needs. We achieved a lot this year, and despite challenges that came our way, the resilience of SECO Energy employees shone brightly and demonstrated the dedication that defines who we are as a cooperative.

 

As we look to the future, we anticipate the demand for safe, reliable, affordable electric service will continue growing. We also want to continue our efforts to engage with you – our valued members – through our innovative energy services offerings. The entire SECO Energy team will continue to explore new ways to support and meet member needs right here in Central Florida.

 

From the SECO Energy family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year!

 

Sincerely,

 

CURTIS WYNN

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

SECO News December 2024 Winter Efficiency Prep and Tune-Ups

 

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems work best when serviced regularly (one to two times yearly) by a certified HVAC professional.

Don’t walk on thin ice waiting until unusual sounds are coming from the HVAC system, musty or burning-smelling odors, poor airflow in certain rooms, or high spikes in energy usage – schedule a service call and beat the rush before any cold snaps. Regular maintenance will help you feel comfortable at home and improve your HVAC system’s efficiency and longevity.

 

SECO Energy recommends setting your heating temperature between 68°F and 70°F. Why? When temperatures drop, the wider the difference between the outdoor temperature and the temperature in your home, the more energy your HVAC system will use to maintain the set temperature. This is why heating and cooling costs increase during cold and hot seasons.

 

Ensure your air vents or heating elements (like radiators) can adequately heat your home and aren’t blocked by furniture or rugs. Seal windows and exterior doors with caulk and weather stripping to help keep warm air in and cold air out. Open window blinds and curtains to let natural sunlight warm your home during the day and close them at night to block the chilly night air.

 

Increasing the heating temperature causes your HVAC to run longer, which will increase energy costs. Now is a good time to invest in a Wi-Fi-connected smart thermostat – use the programmable energy-efficiency settings to save energy and reduce your monthly bill. Finally, visit SECOEnergy.com > Energy Solutions > Smart Connect Program to find out which Wi-Fi-connected thermostats are eligible to participate and how to earn incentives.

 

IT PAYS TO SAVE with the SECO Smart Connect Program! Click this link to learn more and enroll.

 

 

 

 

SECO News December 2024 Deck The Halls Safely This Year A Message From Trustee Shannon Wright, District 5 Trustee

 

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation, there are an estimated 860 home fires each year caused by holiday decorations and another 210 home fires caused by Christmas trees. Safe decorations are the best decorations to keep you on the nice list and off the naughty list this year.

 

TIPS TO HELP YOU DECK THE HALLS SAFELY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON:

  • Keep decorations at least 3 ft. away from open flames and heat sources.
  • Inspect all decorations for frayed or pinched wires and replace any that are worn or damaged.
  • Avoid overloading electrical outlets with too many lights or appliances.
  • Refrain from connecting multiple extension cords or running them under rugs, carpets, or furniture.
  • If you have a natural Christmas tree, water it daily and discard it when it becomes dry or starts shedding needles.
  • Test your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, and make sure they have fresh batteries.
  • Turn off all electrical decorations before leaving the house or going to bed.

 

Remember to enjoy the holiday season without adding decorations to SECO Energy poles. Decorative poles are not rated to withstand the added weight of decorations and holiday lights. It is extremely unsafe to nail or tack signs or decorations to wood poles; sharp objects can pierce our crews’ personal protective equipment and their skin. Poles are also not safe to use as a ladder stabilizer.

 

Santa always checks his list twice before Christmas, so make sure you’re following these tips to stay on Santa’s nice list and enjoy a festive and safe holiday season.

Source: Electrical Safety Foundation

 

 

 

 

SECO News December 2024 Top 5 Ways to Pay

 

Did you know SECO Energy offers 12 ways to pay your bill? Most payment options are available with no convenience fee.

 

Here are the top 5 most popular options:

 

1. SmartHub

Use SmartHub to pay your bill, view account history, set up hassle-free ongoing payments with bank draft, enroll in eBill to reduce clutter, and monitor your home’s energy usage. You can also make instant payments without registering your account.

 

2. Bank draft

Simplify your life; have your monthly SECO Energy bill drafted from a bank account of your choice. There is no fee to participate in bank draft, no stamps to buy, and no waiting on mail time. Bank draft is the most secure and convenient payment option.

 

3. Pay By Phone

Call 1 (877) 371-9382 to pay 24/7 using a card or electronic check. Note that the phone number to Pay By Phone will change to 1 (855) 938-3432 on January 27, 2025.

 

4. Pay In Person

For drive-thru and kiosk payments, visit Member Service Centers in Eustis, Groveland, Inverness, Ocala, or Sumterville.

 

5. By Mail

Send payments to SECO Energy, P.O. Box 70997, Charlotte, NC 28272-0997.

 

Third-Party Payment Warning: SmartHub is SECO Energy’s only authorized online bill payment system to avoid potential delays, fees, or service disruption. If you are unsure about payment services, contact SECO Energy at (352) 793-3801.

 

Notice to Update Records:
Effective January 27, 2025, SECO Energy’s Pay By Phone number is changing to 1 (855) 938-3432, and members can no longer make payments by calling the former number.

 

 

Read the full December SECO News.

SECO News November 2024

Wynn's Wire

 

 

 

 

 

DEAR MEMBERS,

 

SECO Energy has been faithfully serving Central Florida members since 1938. In that time, we have experienced momentous growth. From energizing the fi rst 400 rural farmsteads over 85 years ago, SECO has grown into a robust regional utility that serves over 245,000 meters. The demand for affordable energy is increasing along with our population. We plan to ensure that the highly-ranked responsiveness and reliability that you deserve continue.

 

In 2022, our Executive Leadership Team extensively studied the functionality and operability of our aging office buildings, warehouses, and staging areas. We have more than outgrown our buildings – some date back to the 1930s and ‘40s. Yet, our dedicated team has remained committed to serving you – working in less-than-ideal conditions every day. Their resilience and dedication are truly commendable. Offices designed for one person are occupied by two or more employees, departments are isolated by outdated office layouts, and our fi eld service workers are mired in substandard working conditions. Moving vehicles around the property is inefficient and frustrating; it’s beyond expensive and highly unsafe.

 

A change is needed; our employees deserve better. SECO Energy is launching an Expansion and Improvement plan that includes new buildings to optimize working conditions in an environment that promotes safety, collaboration, and efficiency. This is exciting news. We want to continue to build the SECO culture that has fueled our success for all these years.

 

In early 2026, look for SECO to embark on our expansion plan to support our growth well into the future. The project features adequate workspaces designed to foster collaboration and teamwork. Staging, maintenance, and storage areas will be combined – not separated – to optimize workflows and efficiencies. Crews who work in extreme weather and temperatures will have updated washrooms and locker areas. Spaces for team meals and breaks will foster togetherness and a unified One SECO company culture.

 

Among the many goals that our Board has charged us with is to become the employer of choice in our region to attract and retain top talent. That aspiration is a major reason why we are so excited about this plan and confident it will propel us forward while creating more jobs, fueling our local economy, and creating more opportunities for everyone – all in the service of our growing membership.

 

SECO Energy is confident that this important and much-needed plan is the right step for our cooperative – promising our continued world-class reliability and dedication to serving you. Thank you for being a valued SECO Energy member. Happy Thanksgiving!

 

Sincerely,

 

 

 

CURTIS WYNN

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

 

AT SECO ENERGY, WE BELIEVE IN PUTTING OUR MEMBERS FIRST.

As a not-for profit cooperative, our primary goal is to serve you, not to generate profits. When we do have excess funds – what we call margins – we’re excited to return those to you through Capital Credits, also known as member equity. Keep an eye out for your Capital Credit refund on your November billing statement; it’s our way of saying thank you for the opportunity to serve your electric energy needs.

 

As a member, you’re not just a customer; you’re a part-owner of SECO Energy. This means that any money left over after we cover our operating expenses gets shared with you based on how much electricity you’ve used over the year. We’re thrilled to share that at our recent September Board Meeting, our Trustees approved the return of $1.65 million in member equity to both current and former members.

 

We also take pride in reinvesting the funds that aren’t yet retired back into our infrastructure. This ensures that we continue to improve reliability and keep pace with the tremendous growth we are seeing here in Central Florida. At the end of 2023, we reached a significant milestone with over $1.2 billion invested in our electric plant and assets, all aimed at enhancing the electric service we provide you with every day.

 

Capital Credits are more than just numbers on a statement; they represent our deep commitment to you and the communities we serve. This unique aspect of cooperatives reflects the cooperative difference—where your voice and your needs truly matter. Thank you for being an integral part of the SECO Energy family!

 

 

 

 

 

Join SECO Energy employees as they suit up to play Santa again this year for our annual Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots donation drive. Jingle all the way to one of our five Member Service Centers and donate a new unwrapped toy.

 

The primary goal of Toys for Tots is to help bring the joy of Christmas and send a message of hope through the gift of a new toy to thousands of children across the United States. Since 2001, Toys for Tots has been ranked as one of the top-rated charities by “Philanthropy 400.”

 

Retired Marines and other volunteers operate Toys for Tots. Toys donated by SECO employees and members are gifted to children within the local community. Members who want to register to receive toys donated through Toys for Tots can visit ToysforTots.org > Request a Toy.

 

Santa’s elves are collecting toys at our Member Service Centers in Eustis, Groveland, Inverness, Ocala, and Sumterville, serving as public drop-off locations between November 1 and December 6. Help SECO spread Christmas cheer, goodwill to men, and Peace on Earth during this holiday season by donating to Toys for Tots.

 

SECO is committed to improving the communities we serve, from supporting local schools to investing in renewable energy.
These principles aren’t just words; they’re the foundation of how SECO Energy operates, ensuring that we serve you, our members, with fairness, transparency, and care.

 

 

Read the full November SECO News.

SECO Energy Has High Member Satisfaction

SECO Energy completed its quarterly member-wide customer satisfaction survey, where over 600 members were asked to participate. The member responses were sent to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI®), a company that measures customer satisfaction across multiple industries throughout the entire United States. For the fourth quarter of 2024, SECO Energy received an ACSI score of 90 on a 100-point scale. [1] SECO Energy’s score is higher when compared to publicly measured investor-owned utility scores and municipal utility scores reported in the syndicated 2024 ACSI Energy Utility Study and places SECO Energy 16 points higher than the average investor-owned utility score of 74, as well as 15 points higher than the municipal utilities score of 75, per the industry ratings. For more information, please visit https://theacsi.org/industries/energy-utilities/.

 

“SECO Energy and its employees are very proud to receive another exceptional ACSI score. Every day, our employees strive to fulfill SECO’s mission of providing reliable and innovative energy services to our members and communities. Our team serves SECO members faithfully, going above and beyond to deliver on our promise of world-class reliability and excellent member service. We are deeply grateful for our members’ trust,” stated SECO Energy’s Chief Executive Officer, Curtis Wynn.

 

The American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI®) is the only national cross‐industry measure of customer satisfaction in the United States. Each year, the ACSI uses data from interviews with roughly 200,000 customers as inputs to an econometric model for analyzing customer satisfaction with approximately 400 companies in about 40 industries and 10 economic sectors. ACSI data have proven to be strongly related to several essential indicators of micro and macroeconomic performance. To learn more about the American Customer Satisfaction Index, visit www.theacsi.org.

 

[1] Compared to publicly measured energy utilities in the ACSI® survey of customers rating their own energy utility. Results based on data provided by SECO Energy, collected between September 30, 2024, and October 7, 2024. ACSI did not regulate the survey administration or sample size. ACSI and its logo are registered trademarks of the American Customer Satisfaction Index LLC. For more about the ACSI, visit www.theacsi.org.

 

 

 

 

 

SECO News October 2024

Wynn's Wire

 

 

 

 

 

DEAR MEMBERS,

 

SECO Energy is locally owned and operated for the sole benefit of our members, which means our priorities align with your needs. We focus on providing reliable, affordable electric service that benefits the entire community. To enhance the reliability of our services and address the growing needs of the communities we serve, SECO Energy has recently made several significant investments in our existing infrastructure:

 

Timberwood Substation (Marion County):

We’ve installed a new power transformer and added three additional distribution circuits, increasing capacity to 75 megawatts — doubling its previous capacity. This upgrade also includes an automatic transfer scheme that connects to another distribution feeder. During a power outage, crews can transfer load between feeders for faster and safer restoration.

 

Clermont Substation (Lake County):

Ranking among SECO Energy’s top five substations for load and member count, we’ve added two new power transformers, boosting capacity to 112 megawatts – an increase of nearly 50%.

 

Webster Substation (Sumter County):

To improve reliability, we’ve replaced an older fuse system with a more advanced transmission fuse breaker and upgraded three single-phase power transformers to three-phase power transformers.

 

Sumterville Substation (Sumter County):

We’re expanding this substation and tripling the capacity from 37 to 112 megawatts by building a second side, replacing one power transformer, and installing two new power transformers. Construction is scheduled for completion by the end of 2024.

 

On tap for 2025 is a brand-new substation in Lake County. The Dilly Lake substation near Howey-in-the-Hills and Minneola is undergoing a major rebuild. The capacity of the substation is almost quadrupling from 28 to 112 megawatts. We’re increasing the distribution circuits from two to eight and adding two new power transformers.

 

These upgrades support new and existing homes and businesses and ensure reliable power during peak demand as Central Florida grows. We understand that reliability, value, and trust are what SECO Energy members expect. That’s why we’ve made these proactive improvements to address today’s needs and support future growth.

 

Sincerely,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CURTIS WYNN

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

SECO News October 2024 A Legacy of Growth and Service

 

 

October is National Co-op Month, and SECO Energy is proud to join REI, Land O’ Lakes, Ocean Spray, Florida’s Natural Growers, Inc., and other cooperatives across the United States in celebrating co-ops’ impact on their communities. Co-ops come in various shapes and sizes, but no matter how big or how small, they all share a common goal: to provide exceptional goods or services to their members.

 

Founded in 1938 as Sumter Electric Cooperative, Inc., SECO Energy has evolved from a small rural utility into a leading not-for-profit Touchstone Energy Cooperative serving Central Florida. SECO powers over 245,000 homes and businesses across seven counties today, providing reliable, safe, and affordable electric service to over half a million consumers. This remarkable growth has made SECO Energy the seventh-largest in the nation among over 900 electric cooperatives.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECO News October 2024 Protect Your Home With SurgeMitigator™

 

Power surges can wreck havoc on your appliances and electronics. SECO Energy’s Surge MitiGator™ program can help safeguard your home. From October 1 to November 12, SECO Energy is running a promotion for FREE installation when you enroll in this essential protection plan. The Surge MitiGator™ program is the first step in defending your large appliances by reducing surges at the meter before they can enter your home. Don’t wait for disaster – invest in peace of mind today.

 

To learn more about SECO Energy’s Surge MitiGator™ program click here.

 

 

 

 

SECO News October 2024 SECO Energy Youth Tour Leadership Opportunity

 

CALLING ALL HIGH SCHOOL JUNIORS! Apply now to win a sponsorship for the 2025 Tallahassee Youth Tour.

 

ELIGIBILITY: Any high school junior living in a home that receives electric service from SECO Energy. Up to ten students will be selected to attend the Tallahassee Youth Tour – one from each of our nine Districts and one at large.

 

TALLAHASSEE YOUTH TOUR DATES: February 12 – 13, 2025

 

APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 13, 2024

 

TALLAHASSEE YOUTH TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Visit the State Capitol
  • Venture the Florida Supreme Court
  • Tour the Governor’s Mansion
  • Explore museums
  • Develop leadership skills
  • Learn about the Cooperative Business Model

 

WASHINGTON YOUTH TOUR COMPETITION:

After the Tallahassee Youth Tour, each of the ten participants will have a second opportunity to compete for one of two spots to attend a once-in-a-lifetime, sponsored trip to tour our Nation’s Capital as SECO Energy’s 2025 Washington Youth Tour delegates.

 

In June 2025, the two selected students will join more than 1,800 students from across the country to learn about our great nation, develop leadership skills, better understand electric cooperatives, and make lasting friendships.

 

Students selected for the SECO Energy Youth Tour will be notified in early January 2025. The two Washington D.C. Youth Tour representatives will be announced during the SECO Energy Youth Tour banquet in April 2025.

 

CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE TODAY!

 

 

 

 

 

At SECO Energy, you’re not just connected to an electric provider. You’re a valued member of a Touchstone Energy Cooperative guided by seven cooperative principles that put your needs first:

 

1. Voluntary and Open Membership: 

Membership is open to all individuals who purchase electric service from SECO Energy.

 

2. Democratic Member Control:

Your vote matters. Members elect fellow members like me to SECO’s Board of Trustees to ensure cooperative decisions reflect your interests.

 

3. Members’ Economic Participation:

Members contribute by paying their monthly utility bill. At the end of the year, profits are then distributed to members, not investors.

 

4. Autonomy and Independence:

SECO is controlled by a nine-member Board of Trustees that is focused on the needs of our members and communities.

 

5. Education, Training, and Information:

SECO provides the tools and knowledge to help you understand your energy use and make informed decisions.

 

6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives:

SECO collaborates with other cooperatives, enhancing service reliability and sharing resources in times of need.

 

7. Concern for Community:

SECO is committed to improving the communities we serve, from supporting local schools to investing in renewable energy.

 

These principles aren’t just words; they’re the foundation of how SECO Energy operates, ensuring that we serve you, our members, with fairness, transparency, and care.

 

 

Read the full October SECO News.

 

 

 

SECO Energy Restoring Power in the Wake of Hurricane Helene

Hurricane Helene made landfall in the Panhandle Thursday evening as a Category 4 storm, causing damage to SECO Energy’s electric system and leaving many members without power. SECO crews and mutual aid line and tree crews worked throughout the night to restore electric service to members’ homes.  

 

As of 10 a.m. Friday morning, roughly 3,276 members are without electricity due to fallen wires, damaged poles, and severe flooding. Approximately 34,000 accounts have experienced service disruption from Helene, with 22,000 accounts at its peak. 

 

Hundreds of workers from multiple states have lined up to assist SECO in power restoration. SECO Energy’s electric system sustained moderate damage that affected many of the communities SECO Energy serves. Crews continued the restoration process this morning.   

 

“As we work to restore power in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, I want to assure our members that SECO Energy is committed to getting the lights back on as quickly and safely as possible and will not stop until service has been restored to every member,” said Curtis Wynn, SECO Energy’s Chief Executive Officer.  

 

Wynn continued, “Crews never stopped working overnight. They worked through rain and wind gusts that reached 70 mph in our northern areas; making significant progress in the restoration effort that continues this morning. We are thankful for their assistance and are thinking of our neighbors in north Florida whose homes and properties are severely damaged.” 

 

SECO Energy urges members to stay safe in the wake of the storm, as conditions remain hazardous in many areas. Members are encouraged to follow the following safety tips:  

 

  • Stay away from downed wires. Always assume they are energized. Call 911 if you see a downed line.
     
  • Avoid flooded areas. Flooding is a major threat from Hurricane Helene. Flash flooding can occur suddenly due to intense rainfall. Long-term flooding along rivers and streams can persist for days following a storm. When approaching water on a roadway, remember: Don’t Drown. Turn Around.
     
  • Avoid crews working in the street. This will keep you and the crews safe and allow them to work on restoring your power.
     
  • If you plan to use a portable generator, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use only when necessary. Don’t overload it. Be sure to turn it off at night when you’re asleep or if you leave your home.
     
  • To avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, place portable generators outside in a well-ventilated area, more than 20 feet away from your home, doors, and windows. Never run a generator inside, not even in your garage. Do not connect the generator directly into your home’s main fuse box or circuit panel.
     
  • Protect food and refrigerated medicine with ice in an insulated cooler. If you are without power for more than two hours, refrigerated foods should be placed in a cooler. Foods will stay frozen for 36 to 48 hours in a fully loaded freezer if the door remains closed, and a half-full freezer will generally keep frozen foods for up to 24 hours. Check foodsafety.gov to learn more about when to throw out or keep food after a power outage.
     
  • Tune in to local news broadcasts for the latest weather and emergency information. 

 

For more storm safety tips, visit Ready.gov or download the American Red Cross’s Emergency Severe Weather App by texting “GETEMERGENCY” to 90999. 

SECO News September 2024

Wynn's Wire

 

 

 

 

 

DEAR MEMBERS,

 

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. When this edition of SECO News was printed, our region was fortunate to only be affected by Hurricane Debby beginning Sunday, August 4. As we know, it is essential to stay vigilant.

 

Initial forecasts predicted a well above-average hurricane season. The forecast slightly increased in July, continuing to call for a highly active season. Sea surface temperatures across the hurricane Main Development Region in the tropical Atlantic and Caribbean are near record highs, creating a favorable environment for hurricane formation and intensification. The Colorado State University (CSU) Weather & Climate Research Team now expects 25 named storms and six major hurricanes, surpassing the 1991-2020 averages of 14.4 storms and 3.2 major hurricanes.

 

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), hurricanes typically peak in September. If you still need to refresh your emergency hurricane supplies, now is a good time. Don’t be the last person in line when supplies are running short.

 

Please review your hurricane preparedness plans and ensure you have the necessary supplies on hand for your loved ones. Stay informed through reliable sources and heed any warnings or evacuation orders from local authorities. Remember, one powerful storm could cause significant damage and impact our communities.

 

The SECO Energy Hurricane Handbook is your one-stop guide to being StormReady before, during, and after a storm. Read our Hurricane Handbook at SECOEnergy.com > Safety > Hurricane Handbook to learn more.

 

Sincerely,

 

CURTIS WYNN

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

SAFETY FIRST

The safety of our members and crews is always our top priority. Before restoration efforts begin, our teams assess the situation to ensure it is safe to work in affected areas.

 

CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

During emergency restoration with widespread damage, shelters, hospitals, schools, and emergency services (i.e., emergency ops centers, fire stations, and law enforcement facilities) are prioritized to minimize the impact on public safety and health services.

 

 

LARGE-SCALE OUTAGES

We restore power to feeders with the largest number of accounts affected first, bringing the highest number of members back online safely in the shortest time. Our team works until power is restored to every member.

 

COMMUNICATION

Clear communication is vital. SECO Energy provides timely updates through various channels to inform members about progress and expected restoration times. Enroll in StormCenter outage notifications at SECOEnergy.com > StormCenter and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X for the latest updates.

 

 

CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

We continuously review and enhance our outage restoration strategies to adapt to new challenges and improve response times, ensuring reliable service for our members.

 

Restoring power means returning to normalcy and boosting community resilience. If you or a loved one require electric service for life-sustaining medical equipment, invest in a backup power source or prepare to go to a shelter if a named storm heads our way.

 

 

Refrigerated or frozen foods may be unsafe to eat after a lengthy power outage. Use these tips to minimize food loss and reduce the risk of illness.

 

BEFORE A STORM

  • Stock an Emergency Kit: Include nonperishable foods such as bottled water, powdered milk, canned goods, cereal, and protein bars.
  • Prepare a Cooler: If an outage is anticipated, fi ll a cooler with ice to help preserve perishable items for several hours.

DURING A STORM

  • Minimize Fridge and Freezer Openings: Keep the refrigerator or freezer closed as much as possible.
  • Know Your Time Limits: An unopened refrigerator keeps food cold for about four hours. A half-full freezer stays frozen for about 24 hours, and a full freezer for about 48 hours.
  • Use a Cooler: If the outage is expected to last over four hours, transfer perishable items to an ice-filled cooler.

AFTER A STORM

  • Check Temperatures: Discard refrigerated foods that have been exposed to temperatures above 40°F for more than two hours.
  • Inspect Foods: Dispose of food with unusual color, odor, or texture. When in doubt, throw it out.
  • Know Safe Foods: Certain items are safe to consume after exposure to temperatures above 40°F for two hours, including:
    • Hard cheeses (properly wrapped)
    • Butter or margarine (properly wrapped)
    • Taco, barbecue, and soy sauces
    • Peanut butter, jelly, mustard, ketchup, and relish

 

To learn more about food safety after an emergency, visit: Ready.gov/food

 

 

 

Major weather events can cause extended power outages. When SECO Energy activates its Emergency Response Plan during a major weather event, members can access SECO Energy’s interactive Daily Restoration Plan Map.

 

If you want to see if the map has been activated at any time, visit www.SECOEnergy.com and hover over “Contact Us” in the top right corner. Select “Daily Restoration Plan.” If activated, you can input your service address and determine if your area is included in the present-day restoration plan. Substations are labeled as a reference, and feeders are outlined in polygons.

 

 

 

 

 

Read the full September SECO News

 

 

 

SECO Energy Completes Restoration from Hurricane Debby

SECO Energy is pleased to announce that power has been fully restored to all members following the impact of Hurricane Debby. The system made landfall near Steinhatchee early Monday morning, causing widespread outages across Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter counties. 

 

The Category One hurricane brought sustained winds of up to 85 mph and heavy rainfall, leading to extensive flooding and damage. In SECO Energy’s service area, downed power lines, damaged poles, fallen trees, and standing water disrupted electric service to thousands of members. The not-for-profit cooperative’s infrastructure experienced over 400 outages, affecting over 37,000 total accounts. By midnight on Monday, SECO had fully restored service to all members.

 

SECO Energy’s Chief Operating Officer, John LaSelva,   commended the cooperative’s employees for their dedication and hard work.  “Our team was well-prepared for Hurricane Debby’s approach days before landfall. Without question, SECO Energy’s line crews, support staff, and contractors worked tirelessly around the clock assessing damage, repairing infrastructure, and restoring power as quickly and safely as possible. The hurricane’s strong winds and torrential rain made efforts challenging, but the SECO team and outside personnel remained resilient and focused on restoring service to every member.” 

 

Members are encouraged to use StormCenter, SECO Energy’s outage and communications platform to report outages, check the status of an existing outage, and enroll in outage communications and alerts via email, text, voice or all three. Visit StormCenter today and bookmark it on your smartphone or tablet to report outages quickly and easily.  

  

For storm preparation and safety tips, SECO Energy’s Hurricane Handbook provides valuable information on how to prepare before, during, and after a storm. 

 

“Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on X 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 SECOEnergy.com> Your Co-op>About.