SECO Energy is preparing for some of the hottest summer temperatures recorded. For over a month, the heat index or “feels like” temperature has soared into the triple digits in Central Florida. Every day in August the temperature has reached 90 degrees and above, and SECO Energy members have set records several times in recent weeks for the highest usage our cooperative has ever experienced. 

Today and for the rest of the week, heat indices in the counties SECO serves are forecast to climb to over 110 degrees. The increased HVAC usage to battle these hot summer temperatures is creating an energy generation shortage.  

SECO Energy’s peak times of highest demand are generally between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. During this extremely hot summer, we’ve seen that demand time expand to 12 p.m. and 8 p.m.  

We need your help in assisting with grid stability during these hot temperatures. Help us reduce energy demand by conserving.  

Ways to reduce energy use:  

• Set your HVAC temperature to 78 degrees or higher. 
• Run pool pumps after 7 p.m. 
• Set electric vehicle (EVs) and golf carts to charge between midnight and 6 a.m.  
• Curtail household tasks like laundry and running the dishwasher until late evening/early morning 
• Lower your water heater temperature to 120 degrees and invest in a timer to curtail use between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.   

You’ll save money on your electric bill and help SECO reduce our peak demand (which lowers energy costs for all members).  If you own an electric vehicle, enroll in our incentive rate.  If you want to up your EV charging speed, you can lease or purchase a Level Two Fast Charger from SECO – free installation for a limited time. A 240-volt outlet NEMA 14 50-amp receptacle is required and is the member’s responsibility.  

Be assured, we are monitoring the statewide energy shortage and working closely with our wholesale power provider Seminole Electric Cooperative, Inc. to maintain energy reserves. We are taking proactive action with Seminole to ensure that the electric grid remains stable and that system reliability for SECO members is unaffected. You can help by taking the small steps listed above.