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SECO News, July 2019

DUNCAN’S DIGEST

 

The dog days of summer have arrived. With warmer temperatures and increased humidity, your home’s HVAC works overtime to keep you cool. Pool pumps run for extended hours to prevent algae growth. These factors add up to increased kilowatt-hour use and higher electric bills.

May 2018 SECO News Duncan's Digest

SECO is your local not-for-profit electric cooperative committed to serving as your energy-efficiency partner. To help members reduce energy use, we’ve created energy-efficiency tools on our Energy Solutions menu.

 

Visit Energy Solutions today and complete our Home Energy Assessment. SECO designed this tool as an online audit that provides specialized energy-efficiency advice tailored to your home and lifestyle. The Home Energy Assessment is available to members 24/7. No need to wait for an appointment for an in-home audit.

 

To get started, input the characteristics of your home including age, construction, insulation and roof type. Include details about occupancy, type and number of windows, and exterior doors. The Home Energy Assessment will also query about completed energy-efficiency upgrades such as additional insulation, window tint, weather stripping and caulking.

 

After entering your home’s details, provide your email address to receive your energy-efficiency report based on your home’s specifics. It will provide low-cost ways to decrease your energy usage and your bill.

 

Win a prize! 1) Nest Wi-Fi Thermostat 2) Honeywell Wi-Fi Thermostat or 3) Ecobee Wi-Fi Thermostat. Members who complete the Home Energy Assessment will be entered in a drawing for the high-tech programmable thermostats listed above. Three winners will be drawn August 15.

 

ENERGY STAR recommends using your programmable thermostat’s energy-efficiency settings to save as much as $180 per year.

 

Browse the Energy Solutions tab for other energy-efficiency tools. Our Energy Estimator calculates the amount of energy and cost for electronics and appliances.

 

It’s pretty handy if you’re thinking of adding a pool, charging a golf cart or installing a refrigerator in the garage or lanai.

 

SECO is proud to serve as your energy-efficiency partner.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

 

Sponsorships & Donations July 2019 SECO News

SECO Energy is a strong corporate citizen. Our cooperative supports programs based on commitment to the key cooperative principle “Concern for Community.” SECO Energy is also a not-for-profit utility. We do not have the deep pockets of investor-owned, for-profit organizations. Thus, we partner with organizations whose culture and programs align with our core values and purpose.

 

Annually, we ally with United Way chapters to facilitate employee pledging. Over the years, employees have donated $860,000. In addition, SECO provides quarterly allocations from our Pennies from Heaven program to fund local agencies for bill payment assistance for members in need.

 

Over the holidays, we sponsor a Toys for Tots drive, and our Member Service Centers are designated drop off locations. Our employees are annual, generous supporters of the program, donating hundreds of bikes, trikes and toys over the years.

 

SECO is also a strong corporate participant in the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life events raising $132,000 over the last decade. Based on our headquarters’ location, we belong to the Sumter County Relay program but we also provide funding to other counties’ Relay programs on a pro-rata basis.

 

To request that SECO sponsor or donate to your organization, please use our new Contact Us form. Submissions based on these focuses will be considered:

 

Educational STEM Projects
Environmental Projects
Energy-Related Projects
Veterans Initiatives
Public Safety Programs
Health/Human Services

 

Please note SECO does not sponsor individual sports teams or booster club initiatives, as there are thousands across our service territory. SECO participates in golf tournaments selectively if we can set up a booth to engage with members. We fund initiatives in our seven-county footprint of Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco and Sumter.

 

Individual bill payment, basic need or job training assistance is offered by Florida 211 and funded by our Pennies from Heaven program. Members can call or text 211 to request assistance.

Surge MitiGator free installation July 2019 SECO News

Take the bite out of damaging power surges and spikes with SECO Energy’s “Made in the USA” Surge MitiGator. Power surges are sudden, powerful increases in voltage which can damage or destroy household appliances and electronic devices. The most obvious cause of surges is lightning, but birds, small animals, trees or vehicles crashing into power poles are culprits as well.

 

Protect your home’s large appliances by leasing or purchasing SECO’s Surge MitiGator. Enroll online through August 30th and installation (a $25 value) is free. Lease the Surge MitiGator for $5.95 per month or purchase for $349 (standard 200-amp service). For residential services greater than 200 amps, the purchase price is $399 with $75 installation. Studies indicate that more than half of all surges actually originate from inside the home so be sure to also purchase point-of-use devices at your local hardware or big box store to protect your electronics.

 

Learn more about SECO Energy’s Surge MitiGator online. Protect your home’s appliances from surges – lease or purchase the Surge MitiGator today.

SECO Champion Dustin Merritt July 2019 SECO News

DUSTIN MERRITT – SURGE PROGRAM SUPERVISOR

 

LENGTH OF SERVICE – 15 YEARS

 

 

“SECO HELPS MEMBERS.” A Central Florida native raising four children in Webster with his wife Kimberly, Dustin has worked for SECO for 15 years. His SECO career began as a meter reader, and he eventually worked his way into Energy Services. Dustin was promoted to Supervisor of the Surge Protection Program in 2018. He is responsible for oversight of his team and SECO’s surge protection contractor. Dustin enjoys the opportunity to help and educate members. He and his team advocate the Surge MitiGator™ as protection against surges that may enter a home through power lines. Surges may occur due to downed lines, car accidents, animal contact or lightning strikes, and our surge protection ring installed at the meter base provides a layer of protection for large motor driven appliances in the home. Visit with Dustin or one of his team members by emailing Surge.

Winners' Circle July 2019 SECO News

Congratulations to Norma Jean Bottoms from Paisley who is the winner of the Microsoft Surface Go! Ms. Bottoms registered to join America’s electric cooperatives’ advocacy hub the Cooperative Action Network. You too can become a key voice for electric co-ops to protect affordable, reliable energy in Florida. Visit www.action.coop to learn more.

 

Hundreds of members played 2018 Annual Report trivia with SECO on our Facebook page. Our three winners are: Jonathan Dove from Clermont won the Apple iPad; the $200 bill credit went to Rosalie Wilke from Ocala; and Carolyn Wheelis from Sorrento won the Honeywell Wi-Fi thermostat. Congratulations, winners!

 

Read the full July 2019 SECO News online.

SECO News, June 2019

DUNCAN’S DIGEST

 

Atlantic hurricane season makes its formal appearance on June 1 and ends November 30. In early May, however, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) was already tracking its first tropical disturbance in the Atlantic. NHC, a part of NOAA, at the time this publication went to print, had not released its official forecast.

May 2018 SECO News Duncan's Digest

The Weather Channel 2019 outlook calls for a total of 14 named Atlantic storms, seven hurricanes and three “major” hurricanes. That forecast is slightly above the 30-year average of 12 named storms, six hurricanes and three major hurricanes. A major hurricane is a Category 3 or stronger which means winds greater than 111 mph.

 

Unfortunately, no forecast can accurately predict the future. The lifesaving approach is to expect the unexpected and prepare in advance for the possibility of a power outage. Gather your hurricane supplies now. Water and plywood sell out when storms threaten. It’s essential to stock non-perishable food to sustain each family member for at least three days. If you need guidance, view SECO’s Emergency Preparation Checklist online.

 

Whether you plan to evacuate or stay put during a major event, enroll in outage notifications through StormCenter. Choose email, voice or text message – or all three. Take a tour of the outage map. Search for and bookmark your address. Create a SECO Energy StormCenter icon on the home screen of your smartphone or tablet.

 

We’ve added a new StormCenter feature. You can now check the status of a reported power outage. Visit StormCenter, click on “Check Status.” Input your last name and house number, account number or phone number on record.

 

StormCenter provides updates that include the time the outage began, estimated restoration time, crew status, cause if identified and when the outage was restored.

 

SECO has developed one of the nation’s most comprehensive Emergency Restoration Plans to respond to major storm damage. Restoring service to the largest number of members in the quickest amount of time is our goal, but with required priorities for shelters, schools, hospitals and government buildings.

 

If you or a family member have special needs, visit www.FloridaDisaster.org to locate your county and join the statewide Special Needs Registry. Other valuable resources for emergency planning are the National Weather Service and the American Red Cross.

 

Don’t be caught unprepared for the 2019 Atlantic hurricane season. SECO Energy is StormReady and equipped to respond quickly to outages affecting members. We are here for you. It is our privilege to serve your family’s energy needs.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

 

SECO CHAMPIONS JERRY BOLDUC JUNE 2019

Meet SECO Champion Jerry Bolduc – an example of our 400+ SECO Champion employees. Jerry is dedicated to providing exceptional service to members, co-workers and communities.

 

JERRY BOLDUC – LEAD PROJECT ENGINEER

 

LENGTH OF SERVICE – 14 YEARS

 

“SECO is amazing.”

 

 

SECO Champion Jerry Bolduc is a Lead Project Engineer at our SECO Headquarters. Before working at SECO, Jerry was employed by a large investor-owned utility. As a SECO member and an employee, he appreciates the cooperative difference in service that SECO offers members. During the three back-to-back hurricanes in 2004, Jerry assessed damaged areas and directed contract crews across the service territory. He was amazed by SECO’s storm response and the efficiency and organization shown during major restoration efforts. Originally from Canada, Jerry moved to Central Florida 20 years ago. He has participated in Ironman Triathlon Events including Escape from Alcatraz where he swam with sharks in San Francisco Bay. Jerry enjoys working in the field in sunny Florida (no snow) and is proud to be a SECO member, too.

SECO News HVAC Tune-Up and Filter Change June 2019

HVAC TUNE-UP AND FILTER CHANGE

 

Summer heat is quickly approaching. Weather.com predicts June through August temperatures will be above average in our area. Before your HVAC system begins its summer workout, schedule a tune-up with a reputable HVAC technician.

 

The technician should thoroughly inspect your HVAC to ensure it’s in good running condition. The system may need to be cleaned or serviced. Preventative maintenance is easier on the wallet than major repairs down the road. A well-tuned HVAC runs more efficiently, uses less energy and saves on cooling and heating costs.

 

Is it time to change your HVAC filter? A clean HVAC filter also helps your system run efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and change filters as recommended.

Power Line Safety June 2019 SECO News

POWER LINE SAFETY

 

Downed power lines are a safety hazard. Car accidents involving power poles, trees taking down a line or poles broken by heavy wind or rain have the potential to bring us too close to electric lines.

 

Electric energy can burn, shock, injure or kill you. Never assume a power line is safe to touch. Always assume a power line is live and has the ability to harm you. Children are especially curious and may knowingly or unknowingly approach a downed line. Talk with your kids and grandkids about the dangers of downed power lines.

 

Warn children to never play near or on substation fencing. Do not climb trees near power lines or allow kites, toy planes or balloons to touch power lines. Don’t release helium balloons at a birthday party or other celebration. These can tangle in lines or become deadly for Florida wildlife.

 

If you see a downed line, stay away and warn others away as well. Call 911 immediately to report the downed line.

SECO News June 2019 Relay For Life 6th Annual Golf Tournament

RELAY FOR LIFE – 6TH ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

 

Thank you to all players, sponsors and employees who participated in SECO Energy’s 6th Annual Relay For Life Golf Tournament “Tee-Up for a Cure” at Arlington Ridge Golf Club in Leesburg on Saturday, May 4th. Players enjoyed 18-holes of golf, chance to win door prizes and fellowship.

 

The Relay For Life Golf Tournament sponsored by SECO raised $16,600 for the American Cancer Society.

 

SECO and its employees are long-time supporters of the American Cancer Society and its premier annual Relay For Life events. Join SECO and its Commitment to Community by partnering with your not-for-profit cooperative on a virtual SECO Relay For Life team.

 

Join a SECO Energy team by visiting Relay.ACSevents.org and look for “Find a Participant or Team” and choose “Team.” Enter team name: “SECO Energy” and click “Search.” Choose a local Relay event and virtually join Team SECO and the American Cancer Society in the fight against cancer.

 

Read the full June 2019 SECO News online.

SECO News, April 2019

DUNCAN’S DIGEST

 

At year-end 2018, your not-for-profit cooperative served 205,644 members with reliable, safe, affordable power. The communities SECO Energy serves in our seven-county area are growing. You and your fellow members consumed over 3.14 billion kilowatt hours (kWh) last year – an increase of 184 million kWh over 2017.

SECO News Duncan's Digest 2019

 

We welcomed 5,161 new members in 2018. SECO invested over $3.3 million per month to maintain, inspect and build new infrastructure to reach new members and improve system reliability. The total investment in facilities tops $878.7 million.

 

Much of our growth can be attributed to The Villages expansion in Sumter County but other counties are prospering as well. 23% of last year’s new growth occurred in Marion County and 32% was attributed to Lake County. 43% of the growth falls in Sumter County, and SECO’s 2019 work plan aligns with that ongoing development.

 

This month, I’m highlighting a noteworthy system improvement project – the $3 million Federal substation expansion in Sumter County along County Road 501. Federal’s expansion is impressive – tripling its size – making it the largest in SECO’s territory to keep pace with growth in The Villages of Fenney, Southern Oaks and the Turnpike area.

 

The existing substation was rebuilt in 2017. A new control house was installed. The high and low side bus work was rebuilt, the sub was completely rewired and expanded foundations were poured.

 

In this state-of-the-art substation, we are adding two 56 MVA power transformers for a total of three, and building eight new distribution feeders for a total of 12 to serve more members. Federal serves 3,000 members – my home included. After expansion, capacity will increase ten-fold to potentially power 30,000 members’ homes.

 

Safeguarding this multi-million-dollar investment is a relay protection scheme programmed to protect the substation and power transformers to keep the sub operational. SECO Relay Technicians like Travis Taylor (who you’ll read about as this month’s SECO Champion) compute the limits feeders can distribute and the amount of fault current feeders can absorb and continue to operate safely.

 

Power transformers provide the proper voltage to members served by the substation. When unexpected outages occur, a car hits a pole or a tree falls on the line, relays operate and try to clear the fault/interruption detected on the line. A power blink is the relay scheme in action, interrupting power and restoring quickly. If the fault still exists after the blink, the relay shuts the power flow to protect the transformers as well as the downline breakers and equipment.

 

Like the substation itself, the relay scheme is high-tech. Federal will be equipped with an auto-restore scheme. If a power transformer is nonoperational, a transformer in the substation will automatically pick up the load in less than a minute. Thus, members may see a blink instead of a full outage. The transmission lines will be fully looped – meaning if a fault occurs on one side of the transmission line, another side will automatically pick up the load and members won’t know a problem occurred.

 

SECO’s 48 substations are inspected monthly. Crews visually inspect all material, run diagnostic tests and view equipment through an infrared camera that detects temperature variations. Equipment that is out of normal temperature ranges is inspected and replaced or repaired.

 

Along with monthly maintenance, substations undergo a major overhaul every eight years. Our techs test relays, breakers and transformers. Test records help build trends over time. Every year, a dissolved gas analysis is conducted on all substation power transformers. Techs take a sample of the oil found in the transformers and test for arcing, which is the first sign of failure. Samples are tested in-house at our mini lab and sent away for further analysis if dangerous gases are present and degradation is suspected.

 

Federal is one of many system improvement projects scheduled this year. The Marion Oaks substation is being completely rebuilt, and we’re upgrading the Ocala Park substation. Major maintenance is happening at the Clermont, Haines Creek, Inverness, Linadale, Mount Dora and The Villages substations.

 

Improving reliability and keeping power affordable for you and your family are top priorities at SECO.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

April 2019 SECO News Travis Taylor SECO Champion

Meet SECO Champion Travis Taylor – an example of our 400+ SECO Champion employees. Travis is dedicated to providing exceptional service to members, co-workers and communities.

 

TRAVIS TAYLOR – RELAY TECHNICIAN

 

LENGTH OF SERVICE – 2 YEARS

 

“SECO is reliable.”

 

 

SECO Champion Travis Taylor is a 1st Class Relay Technician stationed in Sumterville. As a Relay Technician, he commissions, tests and maintains the equipment in SECO’s substations. A Florida native originally from Apopka, Travis and his wife have two young sons and make their home on the eastern side of SECO’s territory in Mount Dora. Travis and his family are active at their local church. Travis’ work at the Federal substation is instrumental in bringing its two new power transformers and expanded member capacity online. When Federal’s expansion is complete it will be the largest substation in SECO’s territory.

 

April 2019 SECO News Join the Relay For Life Virtual Team

RELAY FOR LIFE – JOIN THE SECO ENERGY VIRTUAL TEAM

 

SECO Energy is a proud, long-time supporter of the American Cancer Society by participating in local Relay For Life events. Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society’s premier event.

 

This year, we are asking members to join a virtual SECO Relay For Life team established in your local community.

 

By partnering with SECO’s virtual Relay For Life team, you become a member of an organization of 3.5 million survivors, patients, advocates, volunteers, caregivers and researchers doing everything within our power to save lives.

 

You can participate virtually and/or in person. To join a SECO Energy team, visit Relay Events, look for “Find a Participant or Team” and choose “Team.” Enter team name: “SECO Energy” and click “Search.” Choose your local Relay event to join one of SECO’s teams, donate or dedicate a luminaria.

 

Join SECO Energy and the American Cancer Society today!

 

April 2019 SECO News call Before You Dig 811

CALL 811 BEFORE YOU DIG

 

Planting a garden or a tree? Call 811 before you dig. In Florida, it’s the law.

 

Sunshine 811 is a free service that locates and marks underground utilities, keeping you and your family safe from digging into buried electric, natural gas, telephone or water lines. Know what’s below – dial 811 or visit Sunshine 811 online to request utility locating assistance.

 

April 2019 SECO News Tree Line USA 12 Years Growing

TREE LINE USA 12 YEARS GROWING

 

We are proud to announce that SECO Energy has earned the Tree Line USA Utility distinction from the Arbor Day Foundation. Your cooperative has been named a Tree Line USA Utility now for 12 consecutive years!

 

The Arbor Day Foundation created the Tree Line USA program to recognize public and private utilities for practices that protect and enhance America’s urban forests. A collaboration of the Foundation and the National Association of State Foresters, Tree Line USA promotes the dual goals of delivering safe and reliable electricity while maintaining healthy community trees.

 

To be named a Tree Line USA Utility, SECO follows the Arbor Day Foundation’s standards that include quality tree care, annual worker training, tree planting and public education, tree-based energy conservation programs and participation in an annual Arbor Day celebration event.

 

Read the full April 2019 SECO News online.

SECO News, February 2019

DUNCAN’S DIGEST

 

SECO Energy is an advocate for members who choose to reduce their utility-supplied power by purchasing their own systems. In fact, as of mid-January, 1,050 SECO members have interconnected with SECO’s facilities by installing a member-owned solar array.

 

SECO News Duncan's Digest 2019

 

SECO members considering a solar investment are often frustrated by the confusion about return on investment, less-than-reputable contractors and dishonest business practices. To help inform and protect our members, SECO has completed an enhancement and redesign of the Solar Power section of our website. Valuable information from a trusted source is now just a click away.

 

Our new online tools like the Solar Estimator can help you determine the reduction in utility-supplied power for a specific system size/orientation. The 10-step process and timeline to interconnect with SECO’s system is outlined. We provide answers to frequently asked questions, an explanation of net metering, a sample bill and other resources. We’ve published a comprehensive checklist and list of resources for vetting and selecting a contractor.

 

When visiting the website, carefully read through “Selecting Your System.” This section explains how to determine system size and the math behind member generation. You’ll find advantages and disadvantages of different panel and inverter types keep reading to find insurance requirements (Florida Administrative Code requires insurance for systems over 10kW).

 

Most important, the interconnection process and agreement is enhanced with an online application. Members and contractors will now establish login credentials and register to begin the process online. Contractors can register and help manage the interconnection process and agreement on behalf of their client.

 

At every step of the process toward interconnection with SECO’s facilities, members and contractors will be notified via email to provide updates. We’re leaping into 21st Century technology by incorporating electronic signatures and communications into our new system.

 

But wait! Before you take another step toward solar, contact SECO for a free solar audit. Our Energy Services Specialists will visit your home and use the Solar Pathfinder to determine the amount of sun your home receives. Our expert will assess your roof, note home orientation and measure obstructions that may block solar power production.

 

Before signing a contract with an installer, do your homework. Let SECO help you research any potential return on investment. The calculation must include the system investment, maintenance and the cost of utility-supplied power used at night, chilly early mornings or cloudy days.

 

Attend SECO’s 81st Annual Meeting of the Membership on Saturday, March 23 for a live demonstration at our Solar Square. Gates open at 8 a.m. – join us for breakfast, snacks, live entertainment, gifts, the potential to win door prizes and top-notch hospitality of our local employees.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

SECO News Champion Tony Shaw February 2019
Meet SECO Champion Tony Shaw – an example of our 400+ SECO Champion employees. Tony is dedicated to providing exceptional service to members, co-workers and communities.

 

TONY SHAW – ENERGY SERVICES SPECIALIST

 

LENGTH OF SERVICE – 19 YEARS

 

“I make a difference.”

 

 

SECO Champion Tony Shaw is an Energy Services Specialist who is a subject matter expert on member-owned solar systems and energy-efficiency measures. As a Citrus County resident, he is often the SECO contact stationed in the Citrus County Emergency Operations Center during emergencies such as Hurricanes Irma and Matthew. Tony’s family has called Central Florida home for generations. He and his family enjoy fishing and golf, and he loves to spend time with his young grandson. Tony is proud that he helps members save money and reduce energy usage by conducting energy and solar audits. Tony is often out and about in the community offering energy-efficiency tips, providing money-saving ideas and sharing his knowledge of solar generation. Tony states, “People really trust and believe in SECO Energy as a company.”

 

 

 

SECO News FL Special Needs Registry February 2019

FLORIDA SPECIAL NEEDS REGISTRY

The Florida Division of Emergency Management has developed the Florida Special Needs Registry to allow residents with special needs to register with their local emergency management agency to receive assistance during a disaster. The statewide registry provides first responders with valuable information to prepare for disasters or other emergencies. The Special Needs Registry may help save your life. Visit the Florida Disaster website to locate your county and register.

 

 

 

SECO News ACSI February 2019

SECO IS TOPS!

Thank you, SECO Members, for rating your not-for-profit electric cooperative top in customer satisfaction. SECO received an outstanding ACSI score of 89 in 2018! When comparing SECO to average ACSI scores in the energy industry – SECO is a clear Florida and national frontrunner. Nationally, cooperative utilities averaged 77 in 2018. Scores for municipal and investor-owned utilities both averaged slightly lower at 75.

 

 

 

SECO News Move Over February 2019

MOVE OVER FOR SAFETY

 

Did you know that Florida law requires drivers to Move Over a lane – safely – for law enforcement, emergency, sanitation, utility vehicles, tow trucks and wreckers that are stopped on the roadside? Heed the law or pay a hefty fine – $100 to $500 (dependent on the county where cited) – and three points on your driving record.

 

If you can’t safely move over a lane – Slow Down to a speed that is 20 mph less than the posted speed limit.

 

In 2017, over 17,000 Move Over citations were issued in Florida– this includes 1,756 logged in SECO’s service area. There were 212 Move Over crashes in the state and 16 Move Over crashes in our area.

 

The fine will lighten your wallet and the points will damage your driving record. But the law is designed to protect defenseless roadside workers including SECO‘s line technicians. Let’s all Move Over and allow these folks to return home safely to their loved ones after a hard day’s work.

 

 

SECO News February 2019 Right Tree Right Place

RIGHT TREE – RIGHT PLACE

 

Spring is just around the corner and many of us are looking forward to planting a new landscape. For energy efficiency and safety, plant the right tree in the right place and always call 811 Sunshine One-call (it’s free!) before you dig. 811 will arrange for the free service of locating and marking underground utilities.

 

Did you know the right landscape plan can greatly reduce your annual energy costs? Deciduous trees planted to the south, southwest or west side of buildings can provide shade that helps reduce cooling costs. Evergreen trees planted on the north and west sides help to block winter winds and reduce heating costs.

 

When planning, consider the tree’s height when fully grown. Trees growing too close to lines are a safety hazard to SECO field employees and the public. Trees touching lines can cause sparks, fires, power outages and shock hazards. Never plant tall oak, pine, sycamore or palm trees near power lines.

 

Planning the right landscape today can avoid problems in the future, especially where power lines are concerned.

 

Read the full February 2019 SECO News online.

SECO News, September 2018

DUNCAN’S DIGEST

 

PEAK OF THE SEASON

 

During the Atlantic hurricane season, September is generally the month when hurricane and tropical storm activity peaks. SECO Energy is Storm Ready and prepared for the worst. As of early August, there were only four named storms in the Atlantic. But experience teaches us to remain vigilant.

 

May 2018 SECO News Duncan's Digest

 

SECO’s expertly designed and well-built infrastructure is able to withstand Florida’s daily summer thunderstorms. Our Operations crews are available round-the-clock 365 days of the year to come running when rare outages occur. But when a tropical storm or hurricane heads our way during storm season, we go into ALERT mode – activating our proven emergency response plan. It’s an all hands on deck scenario – our call center, communications team and other essential personnel also shift to a round-the-clock schedule to assist members and support our field employees/contractors.

 

We’re ready. Are you? Take steps to develop your family’s emergency plan well in advance. Supplies sell out quickly when storms are near, so don’t be the people in Walmart fighting over the last case of bottled water. If you need help getting started with your family’s hurricane and emergency preparation, our Storm Preparation checklist is available to view on our website.

 

Where can you find outage information? SECO’s all-new outage reporting and communications platform StormCenter is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

 

You can access StormCenter with your smartphone or tablet. Before an outage occurs, visit our website and enroll in outage notifications. StormCenter allows you to decide how you would like SECO to communicate outage notifications and restoration updates. You can choose to receive voice messages, text messages, emails or all three – and set “do not disturb” times for your selections. If a hurricane event causes widespread outages and restoration will take days, SECO also publishes a map devoted solely to the daily restoration plan. Visit the Daily Restoration Plan on our website.

 

The SECO communications team is active on social media as well. “Like” the SECO Energy Facebook page and “follow” us on Twitter for outage and local weather updates. Find outage information and photos, ask questions, play trivia or enter a drawing for a chance to win bill credits or other prizes.

 

Read on for more preparation ”Storm Ready” instructions about generators, shelters and county emergency operations centers. It could save your life.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

Medically Necessary Service September 2018 SECO News

MEDICALLY NECESSARY SERVICE

 

SECO Energy strives to provide world-class reliability to the over 200,000 homes and businesses in its service territory. Unexpected outages due to weather, vehicle accidents, equipment upgrades, trees or animal contact with lines, etc. means that SECO cannot guarantee 100 percent uninterrupted power.

 

If you or a loved one who is a resident on your premises needs an uninterrupted supply of electricity, please contact SECO. SECO will code your account as “critical” alerting our line technicians of a medical need in outage situations. Documentation from a physician is required to support the medical need – the required forms are available online.

 

Members who require medically essential equipment should take extra precautions during storm season. Have a plan in place for the possibility of lengthy outages. Consider evacuating to an area outside a storm’s probable track, purchasing and installing a generator or relocating to a designated shelter in your county.

 

A list of our seven counties’ Emergency Operating Centers (EOC) websites are listed below. Visit your county EOC website to sign up for county specific emergency alerts and notifications. The county EOC websites offer shelter information, hurricane preparedness tips and more.

 

 

 

Emergency Operating Center by County September 2018 SECO News

EMERGENCY OPERATING CENTER BY COUNTY

 

Your counties’ Emergency Operating Center is a good source of emergency information before, during and after a major storm event. Visit your county EOC website and sign up for emergency alerts today.

 

Create a plan today to keep you and your family safe in the event of an emergency.

 

Citrus County EOC Phone: (352) 527-2106 and (352) 746-5470

 

Hernando County EOC Phone: (352) 754-4083 and (352) 754-4111

 

Lake County EOC Phone: (352) 343-9420

 

Levy County EOC Phone (352) 486-5213

 

Marion County EOC Phone: (352) 369-8100

 

Pasco County EOC Phone: (727) 847-8137

 

Sumter County EOC Phone: (352) 689-4400

 

Read the full September SECO News online.

SECO News, July 2018

Duncan’s Digest

 

Did you know SECO Energy serves over 200,000 homes and businesses in seven Central Florida Counties? Our 2,100-square mile territory houses 48 substations, over 12,000 miles of overhead line and more than 138,000 poles. SECO provides service to over 53,000 area lights that brighten roadways, sidewalks and members’ yards.

 

May 2018 SECO News Duncan's Digest

 

The 53,000 area lights are a significant component of our system. Crews are constantly on the lookout for lights that are out or burning during the day, and SECO typically repairs an area light in about 24 hours. To provide members and others with a fast way to report area light issues, SECO developed an easy-to-use online tool. This new system is called LightFinder.

 

In LightFinder, each area light is represented by an icon. Working lights are indicated by a green lightbulb icon. Lights already reported for repair are shown as a red wrench icon. For 24 hours after repairs are complete, the light icon changes to an orange check mark. Member-owned lights are expressed as blue icons, and inactive lights are gray

 

To report an area light outage or needed repair, visit StormCenter online. Locate the LightFinder icon and proceed to the LightFinder map. In the search bar at the top of the page, input the pole number or address to locate the area light.

 

Click the icon representing the light you wish to report. An info panel opens on the right side of the screen. Choose the light problem type from the drop-down menu, enter comments and continue.

 

Once reported, you will receive an email confirmation and a follow-up notification when the light is repaired.

 

LightFinder is also accessible through our online billing/payment account management tool called SmartHub which is available as an app for your smartphone or mobile device. To download, search SmartHub in your smartphone or tablet’s app store and complete the installation instructions. By clicking the icons on the home page of the SmartHub app, you can report area light outages through LightFinder or report a power outage through StormCenter.

 

These new online tools are designed for you, our members, to save you time and to help SECO communicate with you quickly. I hope you take advantage of the tools if needed.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

SECO News July 2018 Energy Efficiency Program Into Savings

Energy Efficiency – Program Into Savings

 

Installing a programmable Wi-Fi thermostat is a low-cost step to reduce energy costs. ENERGY STAR recommends using the programmable thermostat’s pre-programmed settings to save up to $180 a year on your electric bill. You can purchase a name-brand Wi-Fi programmable thermostat at your local hardware or big box store for under $100.

 

For optimum efficiency, utilize the thermostat’s pre-set energy efficiency controls. Resist adjusting the thermostat to temporarily make a room cooler or warmer. Continued adjustments will increase the amount of energy used, and will not heat or cool your home faster. If you have strip heating, manually adjusting your thermostat by more than a few degrees at a time will cause the strips to cycle on in error.

 

During the summer, set the temperature for 78 degrees or higher. Set at 68 or lower during winter months. Program “away” timeframes so that your HVAC does not run unnecessarily while no one is home. Keep your fan setting on “Auto” and the HVAC unit’s fan will run only as needed. If the unit requires batteries, be sure to change them once a year. Weak or dying batteries will prevent programmed settings from running correctly.

 

 

 

SECO News July 2018 Safety Corner Downed Line Dangers

Safety Corner – Downed Line Dangers

 

SECO Energy inspects thousands of poles annually to ensure they are in good condition. Poles damaged by bears, woodpeckers, high winds, vehicle accidents or weakening due to age are replaced. In the event of a tornado, tropical storm or hurricane, poles may break and result in downed power lines.

 

Downed lines are extremely dangerous. Always assume a downed line is energized. Never touch a downed power line and stay far away. Even the ground near a downed line has the potential to be energized – which can cause severe injury or death. Call 911 or SECO to report a downed line immediately.

 

Warn children of the dangers of downed power lines. Children are curious by nature and may want to touch or approach downed lines. Never allow children to play near electrical equipment or climb trees encroaching overhead lines. After storms, survey your area for hazards before allowing children outside to play. A downed line may be hidden by a tree or landscaping and not easily seen.

 

Power lines and poles are often found near roadways and can be damaged in vehicle accidents. In 2017, SECO crews repaired or replaced poles over 70 times as a result of vehicle accidents. If you strike a utility pole, stay in your vehicle unless it is on fire. Practice extreme caution before exiting. A downed line may be present on your car or close by on the ground. Warn emergency personnel and bystanders about possible downed lines nearby.

 

Understand the dangers of downed power lines. Play it safe, stay away from downed lines and report immediately.

 

Read the full July SECO News online.

SECO News, April 2018

Duncan’s Digest

2017 Annual Report

Dear SECO Energy Members,

In this edition of Duncan’s Digest, I want to bring your attention to our newly released 2017 Annual Report which details the cooperative’s strong fiscal performance. Members who attended our March 24 Annual Meeting received a hard copy. It’s also available at SECOEnergy.com>Newsroom>Annual Report. Read it and then click over to Facebook to play Annual Report Trivia for a chance to win a $300 bill credit.

 

Duncan's Digest 2017 Annual Report

 

Find the answers to the trivia questions in the pages of the Annual Report related to our cooperative’s history, ASCI score, J.D. Power awards, the Board of Trustees and our robust financial performance. The trivia contest runs from March 26 through May 6.

 

Annual Report 2017 Trivia QuestionsTo give you a head start, the excerpt below also appears on page 1 of the Annual Report. The first clue appears in the first paragraph. Answers to the other questions appear in other Annual Report pages.   

 

SECO Energy’s beginning was humble.  Prior to President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 1935 Rural Electric Act, also known as the REA, a home powered by electricity in rural Central Florida was only a dream. With low-interest loans from the REA, local farmers and ranchers formed Sumter Electric Cooperative, Inc. in 1938. A small group of original SECO employees started the utility from scratch, installing poles and stringing miles of electric line. On November 12, 1938, SECO turned on the lights to 400 rural homesteads in our service area. Before the close of 1938, additional homes in nearby areas were electrified. For these rural Floridians, quality of life changed dramatically.

 

Over the last 80 years, SECO has grown alongside the communities it serves. We’ve morphed from a small, rural utility to one of the fastest-growing cooperatives in the nation. SECO achieved a significant milestone in late 2017 when the cooperative energized its 200,000th meter. Today, SECO Energy is “200,000 Strong – 80 Years in the Making.”

 

Members without internet access can request a copy of the Annual Report and trivia questions mailed to you. Return the answers to SECO by May 6 for entry in the $300 bill credit drawing.

 

It is our privilege to serve as your energy provider. Thank you for your membership.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

HVAC Tune-up TimeHVAC Tune-up Time

 

HVAC EFFICIENCY INCREASES with a clean filter and annual service by a qualified technician. Your unit will operate more effectively and thus reduce your electric usage.   If your technician suggests you need a new unit, you are welcome to contact SECO for a free second opinion before committing to the purchase.

 

One of our certified Energy Services Specialists will visit your home to inspect your unit and provide a written assessment. Schedule an appointment today by visiting SECOEnergy.com>Contact Us. Select “Request Energy Audit” and submit your contact information. We’ll be in touch within just a few days.

 

 

Size Matters - Selecting a Generator

Safety Corner

Size Matters—Selecting a Generator

 

Thinking about installing a generator before Hurricane Season? Follow these important safety warnings:

 

  1. A qualified electrical contractor must perform the installation of an emergency generator, disconnect
    and transfer switchgear. This is not a DIY job.
  2. Only an electrician is qualified to connect a generator to an electrical panel. You could be electrocuted and also endanger our field employees.
  3. Always follow local, state and national fire and electric codes. Permits are required.
  4. Once installed, always disconnect from your metered electric utility service before starting your backup generator. 951701
  5. Never run an electric generator inside a building – even in a garage. It is a hazard and violates safety codes.
  6. Store gasoline and diesel in approved containers out of the reach of children. Never fuel the generator while it is running.
  7. Extinguish all flames and cigarettes when handling fuel.
  8. Ensure proper ventilation and airflow around the generator.
  9. Stage a fully charged, approved fire extinguisher near the generator.
  10. Use extension cords free of exposed wires and frayed shielding.
  11. Never remove or tamper with a generator’s safety devices.
  12. Do not attempt to repair a generator. A qualified technician should perform repairs and service as needed.
  13. Generator engine parts are very hot during operation. Severe burns may result. Keep children away at all times.
  14. Generators are sold by power output measured in watts. Before purchasing, discuss your home’s size/watt needs with a knowledgeable retailer.

 

Hurricane Season begins on June 1. Get ready today!

 

Read the full April SECO News online.

SECO News, February 2018

Members, mark your calendar and plan to attend SECO Energy’s 80th Annual Meeting of the Membership on Saturday, March 24, where we will celebrate hitting our 200,000 meter milestone. I hope you’ll come celebrate with us.

February 2018 Duncan's Digest

 

The event is centrally located at our Sumterville Compound at 293 S. Highway 301. Registration opens at 8 a.m., and the business meeting including my CEO Report begins at 10:30 a.m. Watch for your official Annual Meeting Notice enclosed with your bill between February 8 and March 9.

 

SECO’s Annual Meeting is the liveliest party in town – it’s a downright shindig! Arrive hungry; we’re serving hot breakfast sandwiches, doughnuts, cookies, coffee and sodas. Registered members receive a special SECO gift and a copy of our 2017 Annual Report. Browse energy efficiency displays in the Energy Showcase and visit with our energy partners and SECO employees. Enjoy live entertainment by Margo Rochelle and Rodeo Drive Band. Meet the Board of Trustees – your fellow members who you elect to oversee the cooperative’s governance.

 

Our Annual Meeting celebrates you – our member. SECO is a not-for-profit electric cooperative operating for the benefit of and owned by members. SECO does not share dividends with stockholders or investors. Instead, and per the requirements of our business model and Bylaws, our margins are allocated to members themselves, used as equity for the financial health of the cooperative and returned/retired to the members upon Board of Trustee approval. Since inception, we have retired more than $57.8 million back into your pockets. It’s the “cooperative difference” in action.

 

New this year, we’ve developed an RSVP process to project member attendance for food and gift ordering. Let us know you are coming.  Members who RSVP online and attend the meeting are entered in a drawing for a $300 bill credit.

Save the Date

 

Those members without internet access can complete the perforated slip attached to the Annual Meeting notice and enclose with the bill payment – or give us a call at (352) 793-3801 and tell us how many will be in the party. Keep in mind members still must register upon arrival to receive door prize and gift tickets.

 

This year, the Annual Meeting agenda includes a member vote of a Board-recommended revision to SECO’s Bylaws. Look for a copy of the revision in your billing statement that includes the Annual Meeting Notice. A copy will also be included in your SECO gift bag on Annual Meeting day. Before asking for your vote, we will provide an overview of the changes during the business meeting.

 

Also on the agenda is the all-time member favorite – drawing for door prizes. Grand prizes include a truck and a golf cart – each valued at about $5,000 and $1,500 in cash.

 

Other prizes include $1,000 in cash, two $500 cash prizes and two $300 bill credits. More door prizes (like iPads and gift cards) are available too, many of which are donated by local vendors and businesses that are also SECO members. The prize drawing begins after the business meeting and Bylaws vote.

Door Prizes at the SECO Annual Meeting Feb SECO News 2018

 

There is ample parking, including disabled parking and shuttle service. If you require disabled parking, please have your disabled parking permit displayed prominently on your mirror as you enter the parking area. Employees will guide you to parking and shuttles.

 

Your official Annual Meeting Notice will arrive in your February or March billing statement. There is no need to bring the notice to the meeting. Just bring a copy of your bill and photo ID. Registration lines move quickly with our electronic check-in process when you have your bill and identification.

 

Join me, your fellow cooperative members and neighbors, SECO’s Board of Trustees and our employees for the 2018 Annual Meeting of the Membership.

 

I’m looking forward to seeing each of you.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

 

Read the full February 2018 SECO News online.

SECO News, January 2018

 

Duncan’s Digest

Reliability, Raptors and a River

 

HAPPY NEW YEAR! 2018 marks SECO Energy’s 80th year as a not-for-profit electric cooperative in Central Florida. The cooperative has grown alongside the counties it serves, and now provides safe, affordable, reliable power to 200,000 homes and businesses.

 

63,000 of our 200,000 members reside in Lake County – famous for its vast number of waterways. In fact, almost 20 percent of the county is covered by water. SECO’s Operations crews responsible for building and maintaining SECO facilities must adapt to the unique watery landscape. In the past, crews sometimes installed poles and lines using the most direct route possible, spanning small bodies of water and poles were often installed in standing water.

 

Duncan's Digest January 2018

 

Reminding us of by-gone construction standards, a concrete pole supporting a main feeder line rises out of Tavares’ Dead River. An osprey nesting dish at the top has offered a home for raptors inhabiting Lake County waterways. The longstanding nest on this dish was inactive and had collected years of debris. Recently, rotting debris falling off the dish made contact with the feeder line and caused an outage for 250 members. Operations crews restored power to the affected members in under an hour by temporarily rerouting (aka backfeeding) through a different feeder line.

 

To permanently fix the problem, we needed a complex plan. Crews would replace the damaged equipment and remove the burned debris from the nesting dish – all while suspended 45 feet above the river. Multiple support personnel would be on-site and a rescue boat would be launched in the river. Standard bucket trucks aren’t equipped for this type of job – SECO needed heavy equipment, including a 75-ton crane.

 

Access to the pole was limited and stationing a crane of this size near the marshy river bank was impossible. The pole would have to be accessed from the river overpass on Highway 441. With assistance from the Florida Highway Patrol and permitting from Lake County, the right two lanes were closed after 7 pm. The crane rolled in while SECO personnel set up a roadside job site. The line was grounded and de-energized for safety.

 

Line techs from SECO’s Eustis Operating Center – Nathan Rioux and Brandon Blackmon – volunteered to work from the crane basket suspended over the river while Sumterville line tech Logan Land observed from the rescue boat.

 

Before work commenced, SECO’s Safety Manager was on-site to oversee the security of the crane and basket’s connection. Nathan and Brandon donned their personal protective equipment and inspected their safety harnesses. The basket’s maneuvers were tested while empty and with the team in the basket.

 

Once testing was complete, the hard work began. The team replaced the damaged insulators and spliced in 20 feet of overhead conductor before installing new animal protections. The old nest debris was removed while Logan observed the work from the rescue boat below and watched for alligators and fishing boats.

 

The project took hours but was worth the wait and effort. The power line is reliable again, and with a cleaner, safer dish available, ospreys will soon build anew. Future plans are in the works to redesign this feeder line as an underground service. This enhancement requires a St. John’s Water Management District permit, as SECO plans to bore under the Dead River. The pole will remain in its current location to support existing communications cable and fiber lines belonging to other entities.

 

The pole and nesting dish will stand available for future generations of roosting osprey making their home near the river. This project is just one of many examples of SECO’s support of environmental protection.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

 

SECO Energy Home Energy Assessment

 

Home Energy Assessment – Increase Your Energy Efficiency IQ

 

MAKE A RESOLUTION to increase your energy efficiency IQ in 2018 and save money on your monthly energy bill with SECO’s online Home Energy Assessment, a whole-house energy audit you can complete from the comfort of your home.

 

SECO’s Home Energy Assessment will help you identify energy wasters. Get started by visiting our Home Energy Assessment page and input the specific details of your home and your family’s lifestyle.

 

In just minutes, SECO will send you an email with low-cost energy-saving tips tailored to your home. Review the energy-saving tips and implement those that best apply to your home and lifestyle. Increasing your home’s energy efficiency will decrease your energy use and ultimately lower your monthly energy bill.

 

For a more in-depth audit of your home’s energy wasters, SECO offers in-home energy audits at no charge. To request an on-site energy audit with one of our Energy Services Specialists, visit our website or give us a call.

 

 

Scholarships 2018

 

2018 SECO Scholarship Program

 

SECO ENERGY is proud to renew its commitment to local, young scholars through its 2018 SECO Scholarship program. SECO will award up to 12 $3,000 scholarships to graduating high school seniors who live in a home served by SECO Energy. Our not-for-profit cooperative has awarded scholarships for more than 20 years, contributing over $500,000 to 250+ local students seeking higher education.

 

Who is eligible to apply? High school seniors graduating in the current year (May/June) who live in a home served by SECO Energy. Recipients must be enrolled full-time in an accredited college, university or vocational/technical school located in Florida by the end of 2018.

 

Applications are available beginning January 1 at all Member Service Centers or on our Scholarship page online. Completed applications must be received by 5 p.m. Friday, March 30, 2018. Mail the application to:

 

SECO Energy
Attn: Corporate Communications
P.O. Box 301
Sumterville, FL 33585

 

Applications can also be delivered to a Member Service Center. If you have questions, email Communications@secoenergy.com or call (352) 569-9561. Winners will be notified by phone or mail in late April.

 

 

Correction

 

In December SECO News, January’s Board of Trustees Meeting date was incorrect. The correct date of January’s Board Meeting is January 29, 2018.

 

Read the full January 2018 SECO News here.