Curtis Wynn – Page 2

SECO Energy Named “Tree Line USA” Utility by Arbor Day Foundation

SECO Energy has been named a 2024 Tree Line USA Utility by the Arbor Day Foundation. Tree Line USA recognizes public and private utilities that help to preserve and enhance America’s urban forests. SECO Energy has maintained the Tree Line USA Utility designation for 17 consecutive years.

Tree Line USA is a national program that is sustained through a partnership between the Arbor Day Foundation and the National Association of State Foresters. Tree Line USA promotes the coexistence of reliable and safely delivered electricity in communities that maintain vigorous tree populations.

Five Tree Line USA Standards

To be recognized as a Tree Line USA Utility, SECO Energy must maintain exceptional standards in meeting five program tenets. These require utilities to respect industry standards for outstanding tree care; deliver yearly worker training in best tree care practices; promote a tree planting and education program; sustain a tree-based energy conservation program; and participate in an Arbor Day celebration.

This year is the 152nd Anniversary of Arbor Day, which is celebrated on Friday, April 26. The Arbor Day Foundation is celebrating its 52nd Anniversary this year. Since its inception, it has facilitated the planting and distribution of nearly 500 million trees in more than 50 countries worldwide. Learn more about Arbor Day and its mission.

CEO Curtis Wynn acknowledged SECO Energy’s Vegetation Management team for their unceasing efforts that have once again earned SECO Energy the Tree Line USA Utility designation. Wynn said, “We are very proud of SECO Energy’s Vegetation Management team and our full-scale vegetation program. To be named as an Arbor Day Foundation Tree Line USA Utility for seventeen consecutive years is quite an accomplishment. SECO Energy’s consistent investment in its vegetation management program not only reduces power outages through the safe management of our existing rights-of-way, but through recognition like this, it establishes a high standard that our team members aspire to achieve, year after year.”

Wynn continued, “I believe most of our members recognize SECO Energy’s commitment to quality tree care that promotes healthy, well-maintained trees planted in the right place can help reduce their annual energy costs.”

Visit Right Tree Right Place for tips on planting trees away from power lines and how trees can help reduce annual energy bills. SECO Energy has also launched online energy efficiency tools to help members reduce energy consumption and costs. The Home Energy Assessment is an online energy audit tailored to each member’s home and lifestyle. A member may enter details about their home that impact energy use and efficiency. This information enables SECO Energy to send free energy-saving advice. The Energy Estimator calculates the cost of electrical devices typically found in most homes.

“Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on X/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 District 4 Members Elect James LaMotte as Trustee

SECO Energy members residing in District 4 elected James LaMotte as their representative to serve on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees in a Special District Meeting on April 9, following the passing of Mr. Richard Dennison, a long-standing Trustee earlier this year. The Meeting and election were held within the District at the Marion Oaks Assembly of God in Ocala.

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.

Mr. James LaMotte and Mr. Richard McGinley, both of whom reside in Ocala, submitted letters of intent to run as the District 4 candidate, and each met the Trustee qualifications. As the newly elected Trustee, Mr. LaMotte will assume the seat held since 2015 by the late Trustee, Mr. Richard Dennison. Mr. LaMotte will hold the Trustee position for the remainder of the 2023-2026 term.

SECO Energy’s Bylaws require that the cooperative hold District Meetings every three years, during which time elections are held to determine the District’s representation on the SECO Energy Board of Trustees. Cooperatives that hold in-person District Meetings must also hold an in-person election per Florida Statute. A drive-thru voting option was available for members for added convenience and to encourage participation.

Mr. LaMotte has served as president of the SECO Energy Foundation Board since its inception. He currently works as the Area Coordinator for Marion County Public Schools, handling the custodial and grounds of over 25 sites and managing approximately 100 employees. He lives in Ocala Waterway Estates with his wife, Suzan, and has been a member of SECO Energy for nearly 30 years.

Following the election, Mr. LaMotte was congratulated by Board Trustee and President Gerald Anderson and SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn. LaMotte expressed his appreciation for being chosen to contribute to his community in a significant role, stating, “I’m thankful and humbled by the support from everyone in District 4 who participated in the election. Serving on the SECO Energy Board of Trustees is a tremendous honor. Mr. Dennison has been an exemplary figure in this District. Stepping into this role, I look forward to tackling the challenges of increasing energy demand, grid security, and the integration of new technologies. I’m ready to work closely with the Board to navigate these issues and support the members of SECO Energy effectively.”

President Anderson added, “Well done, Mr. LaMotte, on your successful election to the SECO Energy Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees and I are prepared to collaborate with you to deepen your understanding of SECO’s distinct operational procedures, our key goals, and the significant challenges we face moving forward.”

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn expressed condolences for Mr. Dennison’s passing and welcomed Mr. LaMotte to his new role, stating, “We deeply feel the absence left by Mr. Dennison, a Trustee whose dedication and work were highly esteemed. Mr. LaMotte’s significant involvement in the SECO Energy Foundation Board has helped equip him for his responsibilities as a Trustee. Given his contributions and dedication to SECO Energy’s mission, we look forward to the future with optimism.”

“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 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. 

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 Reaches Significant Safety Achievement of One Million Safe Work Hours

SECO Energy proudly announces the Cooperative’s team of over 400 employees has collectively worked over one million hours safely. This significant achievement demonstrates the dedication to ensuring the safety of SECO Energy’s employees, members, and the general public.

Working in the electrical industry inherently involves various risks, including, but not limited to, those associated with overhead transmission and distribution, underground lines, substations, electrical testing, tree trimming, operating equipment, vehicles, and other machinery.

“At SECO Energy, Safety is our very first Core Value and adherence to safety protocols is not merely a requirement but a fundamental aspect of our culture that is important to our employees,” stated Curtis Wynn, SECO Energy’s CEO. “Employees regularly undergo extensive training and are encouraged to identify and report potential hazards proactively.”

To assist in overseeing safety initiatives, SECO Energy has a Joint Safety Committee comprised of representatives from multiple departments and levels of the Cooperative. Collaboratively, the committee identifies hazards, develops protocols, and implements measures to mitigate risks, ensuring safety remains a paramount concern across our operations, including general office safety.

In an effort to promote a unified approach to safety among employees, the Joint Safety Committee recently selected the slogan “One SECO, One Way; Safety First, Day by Day,” proposed by Donna Etts, SECO Energy’s Manager of Member Services, as this year’s safety slogan. This slogan symbolizes SECO Energy’s collective commitment to prioritizing safety. It will serve as a reminder as the Cooperative continues to move forward, upholding the highest safety standards.

SECO Energy’s achievement of one million safe work hours reflects not only its dedication to maintaining a safe work environment but also its proactive approach toward fostering a culture of safety that permeates every aspect of the Cooperative’s operations.

SECO Energy Achieves Impressive ACSI Score for 2023

SECO Energy, the leading not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 240,000 homes and businesses in seven Central Florida counties, proudly announces the successful completion of its annual member-wide customer satisfaction survey. Over 1,700 members actively participated in providing valuable feedback that has once again positioned SECO Energy as a leader in customer satisfaction within the utility sector.

The member responses were evaluated by the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI®), a company specializing in measuring customer satisfaction across diverse industries throughout the entire United States. For 2023, SECO Energy received an ACSI score of “89” on a 100-point scale [1], reflecting the cooperative’s unwavering commitment to excellence in service.

Curtis Wynn, CEO of SECO Energy, expressed his enthusiasm about the outstanding achievement, stating, “At SECO Energy, one of our top priorities is to ensure our members receive exceptional service. This remarkable ACSI score of ’89’ underscores our dedication to providing reliable and innovative energy services. We are proud to surpass all publicly measured investor-owned utility scores, cooperative utility scores, and municipal utility scores, establishing SECO Energy as a leader in customer satisfaction.”

SECO’s ACSI® score of “89” not only surpasses the average investor-owned utility score of 72 but also exceeds the average municipal utilities score of 71, according to the 2023 ACSI Utility Sector Report. Additionally, SECO Energy outperforms the average cooperative utility score by an impressive 15 points.

ACSI is the only national cross-industry measure of customer satisfaction in the United States. It plays a crucial role in providing science-based insights across the complete arc of the customer experience. SECO Energy is honored to be acknowledged for its commitment to outstanding member satisfaction and engagement.

Curtis Wynn expressed his gratitude to SECO Energy members, stating, “Thank you, members, for recognizing our commitment to outstanding member satisfaction and engagement. We are 100% committed to engaging with you and ensuring SECO, along with its 400+ employees, fulfills our mission to provide reliable and innovative energy services. Earning your trust is an accomplishment like no other.”

[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 4 and 8, 2023. 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 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 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.

MY ACCOUNT

AMI

MEMBER PERKS

ENERGY SOLUTIONS

SOLAR

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

SAFETY

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RELIABILITY

VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

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COMMUNITY

Archive

Tag: Curtis Wynn

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SECO News December 2023

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