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SECO News, January 2021

 

Duncan’s Digest – $36,000 Scholarship Program for 2021

 

HAPPY NEW YEAR! SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees has approved the 2021 SECO Scholarship Program. $36,000 is up for grabs to be split among 12 high school seniors interested in pursuing a career in the energy industry and living in a home served by SECO. If your high school senior could use $3,000 for tuition or books and might want a paid internship on holiday or summer breaks, now is the time to apply.

 

May 2018 SECO News Duncan's Digest
The energy industry is a growing field in Florida and across the nation. SECO and other energy companies are looking to hire a workforce with the technical skills and training required in this competitive field. According to the 2020 U.S. Energy and Employment Report (USEER), Florida currently has 124,954 traditional energy workers statewide – with a number of them gearing up toward retirement in the coming years. Of these energy workers, 54,283 are in electric power generation, 18,802 are in fuels, and 51,869 are in transmission, distribution and energy storage.

 

Growth in electric vehicles, renewables, energy storage and the need for increased cyber-physical security drives the need for skilled workers. Not-for-profit electric cooperatives prioritize community support, environmental stewardship, corporate citizenship and sustainability. SECO Energy offers competitive wages but we also offer a pension plan and healthy 401k match – which is a hard-to-find benefit in this day and age. In addition, SECO provides employees with high-quality, low-cost medical, dental and vision coverage. It’s a great place to work, and we are an essential employer that offers a healthy balance of work and personal life with a generous paid time off program, student loan reimbursement and more.

 

When you talk to your kids and grandkids about who they want to be when they grow up and if they want to raise their own families here locally, SECO Energy and the electric industry is a great place to plant local career roots. Our SECO Scholarship Program is a recruiting tool that introduces us to local students pursuing a career in the growing energy industry. We hope to attract local students who want to engage with SECO for internship opportunities or as a possible future employer.

 

To be eligible to apply, the student must be a high school senior who is graduating in May/June 2021. The student must live in a home served by SECO Energy, plan to pursue a career in the energy industry and attend an accredited Florida college, university or vocational/technical school and be enrolled full-time by the end of 2021. Qualifying degrees or certifications are in technology, engineering, math or business.

 

Applications are available online beginning January 4, 2021. You can also pick up a paper application at one of our five Member Service Centers. The application must be completed and returned to SECO by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 26, 2021.

 

If you have questions about SECO Energy’s 2021 Scholarship program, email SECO Energy’s Communications team.

 

I wish our applicants the best and look forward to reading about their career plans and accomplishments.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

SECO News January 2021 Advice From The Old Farmer's Almanac

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac – Winter and Spring 2021 Weather

 

According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, winter and spring in Florida will be gorgeous! Expect normal precipitation and an average temperature of 58 – only 2 degrees below average in January. The average temperature is forecast at 4 degrees above average at 65 in February, with below-average rainfall expected. March is forecast to be warm with an average temperature of 69, which is 2 degrees above average, and rainfall is forecast to be slightly below average.

 

 

SECO News July 2020 Keep It Clear - We Work Here

Keep It Clear – We Work Here

 

SECO Energy Services Specialists are auditing equipment to ensure a safe, clear work zone for our employees and contractors. Plants, fences, shrubbery, lawn ornaments and other obstructions placed too close to SECO’s equipment are hazardous and must be removed.

 

SECO personnel and contractors perform outage restoration and maintenance on energized equipment using an eight-foot hot stick. Often, multiple personnel work on the equipment as a team; therefore, a clear work zone is necessary to complete their work safely.

 

Safety is our top priority. We want our employees to return home to their families safely at the end of their shift. Keep the area surrounding electric equipment clear. This equipment includes padmount transformers, flush-mounted and small pedestal secondary enclosures, meters and poles.

 

Not only are obstructions a safety hazard to employees and contractors, they create longer restoration times. During an outage, if crews cannot access equipment safely or must perform landscaping tasks before restoration can begin, you and your neighbors will be out of service for an extended time.

 

Remove obstructions before auditors arrive in your neighborhood. Read our clearance requirements and view clearance diagrams online. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

 

 

Making a Difference at Christmas with Toys for Tots

Toys for Tots

 

SECO Energy employees ended 2020 in a flurry of giving with our annual Marine Toys for Tots drive. Employees donated hundreds of bicycles, tricycles and other toys for the event. 2020 was a challenging year for some local families who relied on Toys for Tots to put presents under the Christmas tree.

 

SECO’s Pennies from Heaven program chipped in $5,000 to Toys for Tots organizations as donation matches in Citrus, Lake, Marion and Sumter Counties. Marine Toys for Tots is a top-rated charity. 96% of funds collected are used to supply children’s gifts. Since 1947, the program has collected over 584 million toys and delivered hope and gifts to 265 million children.

 

Members also dropped off toys at our five Member Service Center locations. Thank you, members, for supporting SECO Energy’s employee-led toy drive and our Pennies from Heaven program.

 

Your spare change can change lives in our local communities. Enroll in our Pennies from Heaven program to round up your monthly bill to the nearest dollar. The pennies donated support member bill payment assistance and local, worthy causes. Enroll in Pennies from Heaven online. SmartHub users can enroll on the desktop or app version, click Billing & Payment Pennies from Heaven.

 

 

SECO News October 2020 EV Charger Winner!

EV Charger Winner!

 

Edwin Acosta from Clermont is the December winner of a SECO Energy branded JuiceBox Pro 40 EV Level 2 charger. We’re giving one charger away each month while supplies last. To enter, text “EV” to (352) 320-4500 for a link to enter. Or click on the EV Charger Giveaway homepage banner.

 

Learn more about the benefits of electric vehicle ownership on our EV website pages. You’ll find an EV savings calculator, information about CO2 reduction, an EV and PHEV model finder and a nationwide charger-finder map. Visit our Electric Vehicles page for more details.

 

Watch SECO News for next month’s charger winner.

 

 

SECO News January 2021 SECO News Word Search

January 2021 SECO News Word Search

 

Brighten your day with this month’s word search. Read the January 2021 SECO News articles and find the key words. Happy New Year!

 

January 2021 SECO News Word Search image

 

 

SECO News January 2021 Solar Spotlight Is Solar Right For You?

Solar Spotlight – Is Solar Right for You?

 

Members often ask SECO Energy for assistance in determining if an investment in a solar system is the right choice for their home and family. Investing in a solar photovoltaic system can help you reduce your use of utility-supplied power. But is solar energy cost-effective for you?

 

First, consider the initial cost of the investment. Reducing your utility-supplied power will reduce your SECO bill, but it won’t eliminate it. Unless you go completely off the grid, your home will consume utility power when the sun isn’t shining – at night, on cloudy days and cold mornings before the sun comes up. Compare the purchase price, finance charges and utility-supplied power costs to your SECO usage and costs without a solar system.

 

Location, location, location – will your roof support a solar system? Are there trees blocking the panels from the sun? Also consider the orientation of the solar system. Panels facing south are the best, followed by east- and west-facing panels. SECO does not recommend north-facing panels because of production loss.

 

Next, consider the solar system size that will meet your needs. Before purchasing a solar system, you should review your historical kilowatt hour (kWh) usage. Compare the number of kWhs consumed by your home over the last 24 months to the amount of kWhs the system can produce. Remember that a salesperson’s production calculations are based on perfect conditions – panels facing due south, on a day with full sun, no clouds and no shade.

 

Here’s a mathematical breakdown of purchase price and production capability of a 5 kW system with panels facing south:

 

January 2021 SECO News Solar Spotlight solar cost breakdown image

 

Finally, do your research before signing a contract and contact SECO’s trained Energy Specialists to help you run the numbers. Upon request, our team will conduct a solar assessment at your home or business. The Specialist will review your historical usage data and use a Solar Pathfinder tool to determine if your home is conducive to solar. SECO partners with members who choose to invest in solar. We won’t try to dissuade you; we will present you with facts and data that you can use to make a wise choice.

 

Learn more about solar power online. Read our solar FAQs, learn about the interconnection process, view a sample bill and complete the Solar Estimator for a quick kWh use and solar capacity comparison. Contact SECO Energy’s solar group or visit our Contact page.

 

Source: www.pvwatts.nrel.gov

 

 

SECO News January 2021 System Improvement Blitchton Substation Conversion

System Improvement – Blitchton Substatioin Conversion

 

SECO Energy is your not-for-profit electric cooperative committed to providing safe, reliable and afford-able service. Recently, members served by our Blitchton substation in northwest Marion and parts of Levy County were notified of an upcoming system improvement project to increase the substation’s voltage from 7,200 to 14,400.

 

Unfortunately, both Hurricane Dorian in September 2019, and Tropical Storm Eta in November 2020, derailed the project’s schedule. The project is rescheduled for January 2021. If you are a member who is affected by the substation upgrade, you will have received a letter via USPS and electronic notification via email, text or voice. If you’ve lost the letter or are unsure if your home or business is affected, visit our Contact page and select the Blitchton Project Map. Search for your address to identify your outage date/timeframe.

 

The upgrade will improve members’ service reliability in the area. Members, we appreciate your patience and cooperation as we complete the Blitchton substation upgrade system improvement project.

 

 

SECO News January 2021 Energy Efficiency Extra Resolve to Save With Energy Star

Energy-Efficiency Extra – Resolve to Save With ENERGY STAR

 

Happy New Year! Make a New Year’s resolution to reduce your energy usage and save on your electric bill. Look for the ENERGY STAR label when buying or upgrading your home’s appliances, water heater, HVAC system, electronics and more. An ENERGY STAR-rated product’s initial purchase price may be higher, but its lower lifetime costs offset the upfront costs.

 

The bright yellow and black ENERGY STAR label compares the product’s estimated yearly electricity use in kWh to other models. Also, look for the estimated annual operating expense in U.S. dollars based on the national electricity cost. These numbers will help you determine the operating cost over the average lifespan of the product.

 

ENERGY STAR-rated products are among the most efficient available. Look for doors, skylights, windows, roofing materials, insulation, light bulbs and more products with the ENERGY STAR label.

 

Are you interested in seeing the math associated with your energy usage? Calculate the monthly or yearly cost of the common appliances and devices in your home with our online Energy Estimator. Submit your email address to receive no-cost and low-cost energy-savings suggestions via email.

 

Read the full January 2021 SECO News online.

SECO News, October 2020

 

Duncan’s Digest – Power Cost Adjustment Lowers Bills

 

SECO Energy’s mission is to construct, maintain and restore the electric system that serves over 210,000 homes and businesses in the counties we serve. As a not-for-profit electric cooperative that operates for our members, we are proud to provide safe, reliable, affordable electric service and offer world-class customer service.

 

May 2018 SECO News Duncan's Digest

 

This month I have good news to share – SECO is once again lowering the cost of electric service. Beginning October 1, we are applying a higher member-favorable Power Cost Adjustment (PCA) credit to your bill. The PCA appears as a line item on your monthly bill titled “Hot Bucks.”

 

Since January 1, 2020, our rate for the first 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) consumed has been $116.90. The reduction on October 1 will lower the amount by $4.50 per 1,000 kWh to $112.40 or approximately 4 percent.

 

The monthly bill’s PCA factor fluctuates based on the amount SECO pays for power purchased from our wholesale provider Seminole Electric Cooperative, Inc. We work closely with Seminole to ensure the lowest rates possible for members. When the wholesale cost of purchased power decreases, we pass the savings along to you.

 

Providing affordable electric service is a high priority for a not-for-profit electric cooperative like SECO. Going back to January 2014, the rate for 1,000 kWh was $127.75. We applied several member-favorable PCA adjustments since early 2014 to correspond with fuel cost decreases. There were times when fuel costs rose and we had to adjust the PCA to reflect the increase but for the most part, the PCA changes have consistently lowered members’ bills.

 

Between January 1, 2014, and October 1, 2020, the price for 1,000 kWh of electricity has decreased by $15.35 or over 12 percent.

 

SECO also wants to help you use our product efficiently and reduce your monthly energy consumption. Visit our Energy Efficiency page to complete the Home Energy Assessment for an online energy audit. Try the Energy Estimator to calculate the energy use and costs for your electronics, lighting, appliances and more.

 

The relationship between members and their electric cooperative is unique. It’s rare that a company wants you to use less of its product at a lower cost. That’s the cooperative difference. It is our privilege to serve as your electric provider.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

SECO News October 2020 Phantom Load It's A Real Scare

Phantom Load – It’s a Real Scare

 

Many everyday electronics consume electricity when plugged into an outlet even when turned “off.” TVs, DVD players, computer equipment, game or audio systems, cable boxes and phone or device chargers are the common culprits. This small amount of energy consumption called phantom load adds up to a real energy consumption trick.

 

Past studies estimate that phantom load is responsible for 10 to 20% of residential electricity consumption in the United States alone. Homes may have 20 to 40 sources of phantom load. The Department of Energy’s (DOE) website at energy.gov references a Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory study that promotes electric power strips. Instead of unplugging multiple devices, a flip of the power strip switch turns off all devices plugged into the strip. Smart plugs are also available for devices such as cell phones that stop using electricity when the battery is charged.

 

What are some opportunities to scare away phantom load in your home? An old electric clock or TV in a spare bedroom? A battery charger for a forgotten tool? How about a computer and printer that is in use only once a week?

 

Ready to battle phantom load? Unplugging appliances and resetting clocks can be a chore. Our online Energy Estimator calculates the energy used and costs for common electronics and appliances in your home.

 

Don’t be scared – SECO’s Energy Estimator tool is available at no cost to you along with the Home Energy Assessment. Submit your Estimator with your email address and we’ll send you additional energy-efficiency treats – no tricks here. Both tools provide energy-efficiency advice tailored to the Energy home.

 

 

SECO News October 2020 Advice From The Old Farmer's Almanac

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

 

Autumn/winter skies offer planetary treat. The Old Farmer’s Almanac recommends looking for Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn in the autumn and winter skies. Mercury’s position closest to the sun makes it visible during twilight hours in November and December, and Venus is visible as a morning star. Mars is visible all night on October 13 and will continue to be brightly visible through 2020. Jupiter will be visible during the first half of the night in autumn but will pass near Saturn in winter. Look for Jupiter and Saturn to pass closely during the solstice on December 21. Saturn is visible before midnight through autumn. Remember, Jupiter is much brighter than Saturn.

 

SECO News October 2020 StormCenter

StormCenter

Visit StormCenter to view our interactive outage map, subscribe to email, text and voice notifications for outages, check the status of an existing outage and more. You’ll find storm preparation tips and guidance in our Hurricane Handbook online.

 

SECO News July 2020 Keep It Clear - We Work Here

Keep It Clear – We Work Here

 

Safety is our top core value at SECO Energy. Our Keep It Clear – We Work Here campaign promotes and ensures a safe working environment for our employees and contractors.

 

Members sometimes place obstructions such as plants, fences, shrubbery and other lawn items that block personnel’s safe access to SECO equipment. Members are responsible for keeping SECO-owned equipment and the area surrounding equipment clear. Obstructions are a safety hazard to employees and contractors and create longer restoration times.

 

The whyfors of the need for clearance on all sides are safety driven. Multiple employees work on this type of equipment while it’s energized – often in the dark and in adverse weather conditions. Our focus is on the safety of our field employees and contractors who maneuver around equipment with eight-foot hot sticks and bulky testing equipment. Battling shrubs, potted plants, fencing, bird baths, sharp objects and other obstructions can delay restoring power and prevent us from doing so safely. One slip or a difference of a sliver of an inch could result in an employee or contractor getting seriously injured or killed.

 

We are conducting equipment inspections across the service area. View the diagrams and photos on the opposite page as a clearance guide for transformers, secondary enclosures and meters. In addition to this SECO News article, you will be receiving email, text or voice notifications warning to clear obstructions around electric equipment. If you have an obstruction and an Energy Services Specialist must visit the property after multiple attempts to garner cooperation, disconnection of service may occur. This step is a last resort but one that is supported by our Terms & Conditions of Service.

 

Visit our Keep It Clear – We Work Here page if you have questions.

 

SECO News October 2020 EV Charger Winner!

EV Charger Winners

 

We have two EV Level Two charger winners to announce this month. Frank Maglio from The Villages is the August winner. We dropped by Mr. and Mrs. Maglio’s home to deliver the EV charger. The couple already has an electric hybrid Ford Fusion and was so excited to be a winner! Simon Johnson from Clermont is the September winner of a SECO Energy branded JuiceBox Pro 40 EV Level 2 charger. We’re giving one charger away each month while supplies last. To enter, text “EV” to (352) 320-4500 for a link to enter. Or click on the EV Charger Giveaway homepage banner.

 

Learn more about the benefits of electric vehicle ownership on our EV website pages. You’ll find an EV savings calculator, information about CO2 reduction, an EV and PHEV model finder and a nationwide charger-finder map. Visit our Electric Vehicles page for more information.

 

Watch SECO News for next month’s charger winner.

 

SECO News October 2020 Winner's Circle

Winner’s Circle

 

Congratulations to Jerome Szelak of Leesburg, who is the winner of a Nest Learning Thermostat. In a July SECO News promotion, we entered all members enrolled in surge protection by August 15 in this prize drawing. Mr. Szelak’s name was drawn at random from thousands of Surge MitiGator enrollees.

 

SECO News October 2020 Scam alert Solar Scam

Scam Alert – Solar Scams

 

Scam artists have new tricks up their sleeves. We hear more and more from members who are concerned about solar scams. Remember these wise words: If it sounds too good to be true, it’s most likely a trick.

 

The latest solar scams are installers posing as SECO Energy contractors. Members report seeing groups of people walk up and down the streets in neighborhoods insisting that all residents must be on a “solar plan” or SECO will receive a fine. They threaten that SECO will raise rates astronomically and attempt to harass or intimidate you into investing in a solar array that may cost you big bucks.

 

Slam the door on these scammers! They are not authorized SECO Energy contractors. We do not force members to enroll in “solar plans” or buy expensive equipment.

 

You may have seen posts on social media or yard signs advertising “free solar” or “no electric bill solar.” These claims are also too good to be true. Solar panels and their installation are expensive and never “free.” This claim often relates to leasing solar panels. Here’s how it typically works: The homeowner enters into a lease agreement or a power purchase agreement (PPA) with a solar installer. The system belongs to the solar company, not the homeowner. The company then sells the energy produced back to you at a fixed price per kilowatt hour (kWh). If kWh rates go down at your local utility, you are stuck paying the solar company the fixed rate. The homeowner is still connected to the utility grid and now pays a bill to the solar contractor and their local utility. You’ll also likely end up with a lien on your home until the system is paid off – whether you lease or finance the system.

 

A competent, reputable solar installer will meet with you to determine your goals when installing a solar system on your home. They will review your recent consumption history to help you choose the system size that meets your needs. They will not make promises that are too good to be true. Homeowners with solar panel systems interconnected to SECO’s electric system still receive a monthly bill. Members who have solar systems without battery or generator backup will continue to use utility-supplied power at night or when the sun isn’t shining and are billed a monthly customer charge. Homeowners will not have power during a utility outage unless they invest in a robust battery or generator backup system.

 

SECO Energy is a partner for members who choose to reduce their utility-supplied power by installing a solar system. We will not try and dissuade you from choosing to reduce your utility-supplied power by investing in solar. Our Energy Services team specializes in solar system knowledge and will be happy to help you navigate the false advertising and claims made by less-than-reputable solar contractors and installers.

 

We have a host of resources online, visit the Is Solar Right for You? page. You’ll find an FAQ section, view a sample solar bill, a net metering explanation and independent resources to research the facts and dispel solar myths and false claims. If you decide solar is right for you, SECO provides an easy to navigate online Interconnection Platform where you and your contractor will collaboratively plan your system installation.

 

Read the full October 2020 SECO News online.

SECO Energy Welcomes South Sumter Middle School Eighth Graders

Local eighth grade students from South Sumter Middle School traveled to SECO Energy Monday and Tuesday for a field trip at the not-for-profit cooperative to learn about the basics of power related to nuclear, hydro, biomass, wind and solar. Students visited a variety of stations for hands-on practice and experience. The eighth-grade science students are learning about solar power and other energy sources in their classes.

 

SECO Energy’s Manager of Key Accounts and Energy Services Barbie Shaw opened the field trip by stating, “Today is a great day at SECO Energy. We’re excited to host over 100 eighth graders from South Sumter Middle School to provide an overview of solar power generation and electricity in general. SECO feels educating local students is a commitment to our communities and an investment in our future leaders.”

 

Key Accounts Consultant Jeff Light provided the audience with an overview of energy basics. Light demonstrated how energy is generated by fossil fuels, nuclear, hydropower, wind, biomass and geothermal means. Energy Services Supervisor Dustin Merritt delved into the basics of solar generation. Merritt presented students with solar definitions, how solar power is generated and how generated solar power is converted into usable energy. Students learned about the materials used to manufacture solar panels, how humidity and cloud cover affect solar production and the pros and cons of solar installation.

 

After the overview, students visited five stations to expand their industry knowledge. At station one, students engaged with Energy Services and Engineering employees to see SECO Energy’s Solar Square in action as it produced usable electricity. SECO metering technicians were positioned at station two to educate students about different types of meters, meter testing and a short explanation about net metering for solar generation. Station three included kits for students to assemble hand-held solar panels that produce energy to power small fans. The Solar Pathfinder was available at station four for a hands-on demonstration showing the students how the path of the sun and shading from trees and buildings can reduce solar production. Finally, at station five SECO Energy Human Resources personnel showcased the varied high-tech careers available in today’s energy industry. This station also showcased the safety equipment that SECO field personnel use to protect themselves on the job.

 

Eighth grade science teacher from South Sumter Middle School Shelly Paulinyce is excited for students’ real-world solar power experience. Paulinyce stated, “Eighth grade science students are learning about solar power in the classroom. Visiting SECO Energy is not only a review of the classroom lesson, it offers students the opportunity to expand their thought process to connect to the real world. Today’s field trip is a great preview for a future lesson. Students will soon be building and racing solar-powered cars in the classroom. The lesson that demonstrated the hand-held solar panel and fan will help them understand the process for their future activity.”

 

SECO Energy’s solar centric eighth grade curriculum field trip continues on September 30 and October 1 drew more than 200 eighth grade science students from South Sumter Middle School. All students who attended the field trip received a SECO gift bag and the chance to win door prizes. In November, students from Wildwood Middle School’s eighth grade science classes will also attend the SECO event.

 

School administrators who are interested in adding real-world experience to their students’ eighth grade science curriculum are encouraged to contact SECO Energy about available field trip dates and times. SECO also visits local elementary schools with presentations about energy and electrical safety geared toward younger students. Requests for those presentations can be made through the same email address.

 

Learn more about SECO Energy’s commitment to community. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

Solar Scam Prevention

They’re at it again! The solar scammers have infiltrated SECO Energy’s service territory. They claim to be working with SECO. They state that your electric bills are averaging a certain dollar amount. They sound credible; they’re not! The dialogue is all too familiar and for this reason SECO says, “Beware.” If it sounds too good to be true, it typically is too good to be true.

 

SECO Energy knows how scammers work. Too often, the Cooperative is contacted by members who have spent their hard-earned dollars on solar panels and are disappointed that they are not saving significant money on their electric bills. Although solar technology continues to improve and the price of panels and installation has decreased, it is still a hefty investment. The initial cost for a solar photovoltaic system is sizable compared to the savings on a member’s monthly electric bill – even with the current tax incentives. Traditional electricity supplied by your utility is still the best value, but SECO is happy to help walk members through the process of a solar installation at their homes or businesses.

 

Solar Scam Prevention, Beware

 
 
When contemplating solar, there is so much to consider. What works for one person may not work for another. Your location may or may not be conducive to solar energy production. Don’t let a scammer’s one-size-fits-all approach convince you to make a hasty decision. Before engaging a contractor, contact SECO’s Energy Services Specialists. These experts are trained at the Florida Solar Energy Center, and they have tools to help determine if solar is beneficial for you. SECO also suggests that you solicit bids from a minimum of three reputable solar installers. The Florida Solar Energy Industries Association website (www.FLASEIA.org) has a complete list of recommended contractors.  

 

If you would like to live the “Solar Life” but don’t want to make a big financial investment, SECO has an option for you. The Cooperative’s “Solar Life” program requires no upfront investment in panels, no roof holes, no insurance and no maintenance costs. No need to worry about HOA or zoning restrictions. And no need to cut trees in hopes of increasing rooftop solar production. Subscriptions in the “Solar Life” program carry no cancellation fee and no minimum term. The cost is $32 a month for four panels and the kilowatt hours generated reduces the amount of utility-supplied power. Enroll in the “Solar Life” program today here..

 
 
If you would like more information, visit our Solar Power section. Contact SECO through our website’s Contact Us form. Or call (800) 732-6141 and speak with a representative today. SECO can help you separate fact from fiction and not become a victim.

SECO Solar Square Demo at March 25 Annual Meeting

Solar power is on the rise in The Sunshine State. Per the Florida Public Service Commission, SECO Energy has the most solar customers of any electric cooperative in the state and almost all municipally owned utilities as well.

 

As of March 20, a total of 530 SECO Energy members have interconnected solar systems at their homes or businesses. These systems produced 1,789,373 kilowatt hours in 2016, resulting in payments from SECO to these members totaling nearly $140,769.62 last year alone. Over the life of these systems, the cooperative has paid $510,039 to members who produced more electricity with their solar systems than they consumed. Per the PSC, this is the highest payback of any utility in the state.

 

SECO’s net metering policy provides for the payback for excess solar energy at the company’s “avoided cost.” In essence, members with solar arrays are treated as small-scale wholesale providers. The cooperative pays these members for their excess power at the same rate SECO pays Seminole Electric Cooperative for power produced traditionally from fossil fuels.

 

 

CEO Jim Duncan states, “I’ve been pretty vocal over the years in candidly explaining the merits and drawbacks of rooftop residential solar installations. SECO has been successful in supporting members who generate their own power without resorting to rebates or credits that inadvertently create financial burden on other members.”

 

SECO’s philosophy is that those who choose to invest in solar should bear the long-term costs to receive the benefits. It is clear from the number of members installing solar that people are willing to make the financial investment. The Cooperative encourages members to exercise caution when considering solar. If you have questions or need an unbiased opinion, contact SECO’s Energy Services team for a free assessment. A team member will evaluate whether solar is right for you by examining orientation, roof pitch, usage history and potential payback.

 

Members are also encouraged to attend the SECO Solar Square demonstration at the March 25th SECO Annual Meeting at 293 South US Highway 301 in Sumterville. The SECO team will display various types of systems and installations, costs, contract requirements, net-metering, billing, and projected generation.

 

SECO’s own array (the Solar Square) and its online production dashboard will be on display and accessible to members. The solar demo’s house replica displays a bi-directional meter for net metering, an inverter and a photovoltaic module on a simulated rooftop. Members interested in solar energy can use the SECO Solar Estimator to help determine costs and output.

 

Members who are not interested in investing in their own solar array but want to live a greener lifestyle can enroll in SECO’s new Solar Life program. The member pays a flat $32 monthly fee in exchange for the kilowatt hour output of four panels.

 

Come out to the SECO Energy pavilion this Saturday, March 25th for free food, fun and fabulous prizes. Gates open at 8 a.m. and the business meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Prize drawings are held after the business meeting – members must be present to win.

Trustees Attend Cooperative Solar Ribbon-Cutting

SECO Energy leaders and members of the Board of Trustees attended Seminole Electric’s ribbon-cutting event unveiling its Cooperative Solar Project. This Cooperative Solar Project is a 2.2-megawatt solar facility located in Hardee County, Florida.

 

The ceremony was presided over by Seminole Electric Cooperative’s CEO and General Manager, Lisa D. Johnson, and the President of its board of directors, Mr. William Hart. SECO Energy is a member-owner of Seminole Electric Cooperative as Seminole is SECO’s wholesale power provider.

 

During her remarks, Seminole CEO and General Manager Lisa Johnson highlighted the hard work of, and extensive collaboration between, personnel from Seminole, CoBank, Farm Credit Leasing and Radiance Solar, who together enable the construction of the renewable energy facility. Johnson noted, “Cooperative Solar, among other initiatives, has been one more way in which Seminole can secure our Members’ future while upholding cooperative values,” and continued, “we are careful about how we plan and use resources today, and we are working to embrace new resources for the future.”

 

The Trustees from SECO’s Board who attended the ribbon cutting are:

 

Robin Henion, Secretary/Treasurer District 7
Dillard Boyatt District 2
Richard Belles District 3
Richard Dennison District 4
Earl Muffett District 6
William James District 8

 

SECO Energy’s CEO, Jim Duncan stated, “Seminole’s Cooperative Solar Project is just that, a cooperative project between the nine-member owners of Seminole – one of which is SECO Energy. Cooperatives working together is a key Cooperative Principle. SECO is excited that Seminole is broadening its generation mix to include solar energy, allowing SECO to introduce its Solar Life program to members.”

 

SECO Energy is offering members exclusive access to its allocated share of the Seminole solar array – its program is called “Solar Life.” For a flat monthly fee of $32, members’ utility-supplied power cost will be offset by the monthly output of four panels of the 2.2-megawatt array.

 

With Solar Life, members can begin living a greener, hassle-free lifestyle that requires no upfront investment. Subscribe to Solar Life today.

 

“Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

SECO Shines at Leesburg Rotary

On Wednesday, August 24, SECO Energy Key Accounts Consultant Hank Bolduc helped shine a light on solar power at the Leesburg Rotary Club meeting.

 

SECO Energy’s “Introduction to Photovoltaic Systems” presentation is an in-depth exploration of solar photovoltaic systems and how they work. Hank explained the process in which solar photovoltaic systems take available sunlight and convert it to energy, which is then used to power appliances and electronics in a home or business.

 

Before investing in a solar photovoltaic system, consider the initial investment needed for installation and the expense of maintaining and cleaning the system. Check the zoning ordinances and homeowners’ association rules – some do not allow visible solar systems on homes. Also consider the age of your roof – don’t put solar panels on a roof that will need to be replaced during the life of the panels. A photovoltaic system can only create energy when the sun is shining, before installation – remove trees or other obstructions that shade the panels.

 

Hank offered this advice to the Rotarians about solar installations, “Do your homework. As you would with any home improvement project, hire a reputable contractor – one that offers referrals from satisfied customers. Work with your contractor to determine how much you want to spend initially and how much you could potentially reduce your utility-supplied power.”

 

SECO Energy Shines at Leesburg Rotary

 

“The solar industry will continue to grow and as a not-for-profit electric cooperative, SECO is here to support members who choose to invest in a solar photovoltaic system,” Hank added.

 

In fact, The Florida Office on Economic and Demographic Research reports that SECO has the highest number of solar interconnections of any electric cooperative or municipal utility in Florida with 440 installations. For members who are considering solar, SECO’s experienced Energy Services Specialists can assist with determining a home’s conduciveness to solar using a device called a solar Pathfinder.

 

Try out our solar-estimator to determine how much a home could reduce its utility-supplied power by investing in a rooftop solar photovoltaic system. To learn more about the Leesburg Rotary Club, visit www.rotaryclubofleesburg.com. “Like” SECO Energy’s Facebook page and “follow” the company on Twitter for cooperative updates and the latest news releases.

Win a Truck and Enjoy Breakfast at March 19 Annual Meeting

SECO Energy invites members to its 2016 Annual Meeting of the membership on Saturday, March 19th. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and the Business Meeting starts at 10:30 a.m.

 

Come and join us for entertainment and breakfast – we are serving big breakfast biscuits with sausage, eggs and cheese, as well as coffee, soda, cookies and doughnuts.

 

“I want to personally invite all SECO members to the 2016 Annual Meeting,” said CEO Jim Duncan. “As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, our owners are our members, meaning we are not focused on shareholders and profits. Every SECO employee concentrates on delivering reliable electric service, low rates and top-notch customer service for each member, and the Annual Meeting is a great way for our employees to showcase SECO’s hospitality, renew friendships and meet new members.”

 

Members who attend will receive several gifts and are eligible to enter the drawing for the grand prize, a refurbished 2005 Dodge Dakota 4×4! The prize drawing begins after the conclusion of the Business Meeting; we have a lot of cash and door prizes, largely donated by local businesses who are SECO members, to give away. Winners must be present to claim their prizes.

 

2016 Annual Meeting, March 19

 

New for 2016, those who engage with us on social media at the meeting will be entered to win a special $300 electric bill credit awarded just before the Business Meeting begins. Members who “like” SECO Energy on Facebook and attend the meeting can win by uploading a photo to or commenting on our 2016 Annual Meeting status update. Interacting with SECO can have a big payoff, don’t forget to include #secoenergy or #secoselfie on your comments and photos. The SECO Energy Facebook Help Squad will be at the meeting to help you access the page and get started. Again, the randomly drawn winner of the bill credit must be present to claim the prize.

 

Visit our Energy Showcase in the big tent and browse our displays to discover ways to save energy and lower your electric bill. You’ll find displays that educate about safe landscaping for accessing electric equipment, locating underground facilities before digging, understanding our vegetation management program and more. Inside the Energy Showcase tent, members will also find a working solar demonstration display that includes a simple touchscreen solar estimator. Find out how to sign up for an online account, called SmartHub, at www.secoenergy.com. All members registered with SmartHub by May 15th will be eligible to win an iPad mini.

 

2016 Annual Meeting, March 19

 

Board President Ray Vick is looking forward to the meeting and stated, “Our employees and members appreciate this time to come together and enjoy each other’s company. Please join us to experience SECO’s world-class hospitality. Mr. Duncan and I will update the membership about the business side of SECO and a number of other issues that affect electric cooperatives. And, of course, the prizes are always the best part.”

 

For express registration, members should bring their ID, the official notice and a copy of a bill. The meeting takes place at our Sumterville Compound at 293 S. Hwy 301, across the street from our headquarters. Employees will be on hand to offer parking assistance and shuttle service. Gates open at 8:00 a.m.