Surge MitiGator – Page 2

SECO Energy’s Pennies Program Donates $12,305 to Local Animal Shelters – Marion County

SECO Energy’s Pennies from Heaven program has donated $12,305 to local animal shelters and rescues. In February, the not-for-profit electric cooperative announced that for every new Surge MitiGator meter-based surge protection lease enrollment or purchase, members could choose a shelter or rescue to receive a $5 donation on their behalf.

Between February 1 to June 15, 2,461 members enrolled in SECO’s Surge MitiGator surge protection product that resulted in a total donation of $12,305 in Citrus, Lake, Marion and Sumter Counties. The total allocated in Marion County is $4,100 donated to the shelters listed below:

Endangered Animal Rescue Sanctuary – $200
Forest Animal Rescue – $200
Front Range Equine Rescue – $200
Fur Kids Pet Rescue Inc. – $200
Humane Society of Marion County – $1,000
Kindred Spirits Sanctuary – $200
Marion County Animal Services – $500
Ocala Wildlife Sanctuary Inc. (Owls Ocala Inc.) – $200
Pets in Distress Inc. – $200
Quality of Life Rehab and Foster – $200
Sheltering Hands – $200
SPCA of Marion County – $200
SPCA of Ocala – $200
Vocal (Voices of Change Animal League) – $200
Forest Animal Rescue – $200
Beauty’s Haven Farm and Equine Rescue Inc. (Levy County) – $200

Eddie Leedy, the Executive Director of the Humane Society of Marion County stated, “The Humane Society of Marion County values and cherishes our donors and business partners. Their support allows us to help thousands of animals each year. SECO Energy’s generous donation is so appreciated in these difficult times for non-profits.”

CEO Jim Duncan is pleased to help local shelters and rescues. Duncan stated, “Thank you, members, for making our Surgeo Loves Pets charitable initiative a success. I am grateful for members who recognize a need in their community and respond generously. Though the vast majority of Pennies funding is allocated for bill payment assistance and educational initiatives for our members, the animals in our local communities need assistance as well, and SECO is happy that the Pennies from Heaven donations will be put to good use.”

SECO Energy’s Surge MitiGator product helps to reduce damaging surges and voltage spikes at the meter. Visit our Surge MitiGator page to learn more about the product, to read its beastly 15-year warranty and to complete the web form to enroll.

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

SECO Energy’s Pennies Program Donates $12,305 to Local Animal Shelters – Sumter County

Between February 1 to June 15, 2,461 members enrolled in SECO’s Surge MitiGator surge protection product that resulted in a total donation of $12,305 in Citrus, Lake, Marion and Sumter Counties. The total allocated in Sumter County is $3,000 donated to the shelters listed below:

Sumter County Animal Control – $1,000
YOUR Humane Society SPCA of Sumter County, Inc. – $2,000

Assistant County Administrator Stephen Kennedy is grateful for SECO Energy’s generosity. Mr. Kennedy stated, “Sumter County is thrilled to receive SECO’s donation to our Animal Services program. Sumter County is an open admission no-kill shelter that receives nearly 2,000 domestic animals annually. Those animals include owner surrender animals, strays, injured animals and animal cruelty investigations. Through solid partnerships with animal rescues, local adoptions, and our stakeholders’ commitment to animal welfare, we are proud to share that we achieved a 92.48% live release rate from January 1, 2020, through December 31, 2020. Our volunteers work hard to engage the animals, and your donation will help support our shelter’s focus to enrich the animals’ experience during their stay.”

Kennedy added, “All animals are free to adopt from Sumter County Animal Services. They also come fully vaccinated and can be found on petfinder.com.”

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

SECO Energy’s Pennies Program Donates $12,305 to Local Animal Shelters

Between February 1 to June 15, 2,461 members enrolled in SECO’s Surge MitiGator surge protection product that resulted in a total donation of $12,305 in Citrus, Lake, Marion and Sumter Counties. The total allocated in Citrus County is $1,800 donated to the shelters listed below:

Critterville, Inc. – $200
Citrus County Animal Services – $500
Humane Society of Citrus County – $500
Precious Paws Rescue, Inc. – $200
St. Francis’s Sunny Side Up Farm Animal Rescue – $200
Ziggy’s Haven Parrot Sanctuary – $200

Humane Society of Citrus County Vice President Karron Curtis is very thankful for the donation. Curtis stated, “We are very honored and extremely appreciative to SECO Energy and its members for this donation. The Humane Society of Citrus County has been serving the citizens and the animals of Citrus County since 1978. We are a non-profit organization and would not be able to exist without the support of the wonderful businesses and citizens of this community.”

CEO Jim Duncan is pleased to help local shelters and rescues. Duncan stated, “Thank you, members, for making our Surgeo Loves Pets charitable initiative a success. I am grateful for members who recognize a need in their community and respond generously. Though the vast majority of Pennies funding is allocated for bill payment assistance and educational initiatives, the animals in our local communities need our assistance as well, and SECO is happy that our donations will be put to good use.”

SECO Energy’s Surge MitiGator product helps to reduce damaging surges and voltage spikes at the meter. Visit our Surge MitiGator page to learn more about the product, its beastly 15-year warranty and the web form to enroll.

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

July 2021 Sunshine State Stats

Mother Nature increased both the daily temperatures and precipitation in July 2021. The highest daily temperature measured in at 98 degrees, and the lowest temperature came in at 72 degrees. Tropical Storm Elsa brought heavy rain, winds, tornado warnings and watches to our area on July 6th and 7th for our first test of the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season.

July was seasonably hot with afternoon thunderstorms occurring almost daily. During July’s 31 days, 24 of those reached a high temp of over 90 degrees. Because of the increased temperatures, members will likely notice an increase in their July electric usage.

For July 2021 the average temperature was 83 degrees, which was the same as the average temperature in July 2020. The average high temperature in July 2021 was 91 degrees, and the average low temperature was 75. Total precipitation this month measured 8.4 inches compared to 4.6 inches in July last year.

Both the average monthly temperature and average low and high temperatures have increased from June 2021. Again, members will likely see an increase in their energy usage for July 2021. Hotter temperatures and increased humidity mean HVACs will run for longer periods of time and more frequently to keep the temperatures cool inside. Daily temperature fluctuations also increase HVAC usage.

August forecast:

The threat of tropical storms and hurricanes increases as we enter August, and the threat peaks in September. Expect rain – our rainy season continues through September with daily thunderstorms that bring rain, lightning and wind. Daily highs will reach 90 degrees and above with lows in the 70s.

Take the bite out of damaging surges and spikes with SECO Energy’s Surge MitiGator surge protection. Our meter-based surge arrester protects large appliances by reducing surges BEFORE they enter the meter. Learn more about the Surge MitiGator. In August and September, members enrolled in surge protection are entered in a drawing to win a portable generator each month. Enroll today for the chance to win!

To check historical usage, log into SmartHub to view past bills and consumption charts. If your usage is high, SECO offers several energy-efficiency tools to help you identify energy wasters. Take the Home Energy Assessment to receive a detailed email tailored to your home’s features and lifestyle. The energy-saving advice will provide low-cost ways to decrease your usage – and your electric bill.

To easily calculate how much energy your appliances, lighting, electronic devices, and other energy-using items in your home consume, use the Energy Estimator.

SECO News, August 2021

Duncan’s Digest – Enroll in Surge Protection – Win a Generator

Dear Members,

The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. The Colorado State University (CSU) Tropical Meteorology Project team released an updated forecast for this year’s hurricane season. This team of experts has maintained its prediction that the Atlantic basin will have above-average storm activity this year, and has increased its forecast of the number of named storms anticipated this season.

Tropical Storm Elsa affected our service area on Tuesday, July 6, and Wednesday, July 7. Elsa became the first named hurricane of the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season on July 2 when it reached Category 1 strength. Elsa was downgraded to a tropical storm as it passed over Cuba and the Florida Straits. For a short while, the storm lingered west of Tampa Bay and strengthened into a hurricane once again. Ultimately Elsa lost intensity and made landfall in Taylor County as a tropical storm on July 7.

SECO prepared for the worst. We brought in over 100 contract line and vegetation crews to assist in restoration from Tropical Storm Elsa. Overnight on the 6th and 7th, our system fared exceptionally well as Elsa’s rain bands soaked our service area and brought tornado watches, warnings and wind. During this time, we experienced no large substation or feeder outages. I commend our employees and contractors who rallied to assist in the effort by restoring outages quickly while working safely.

Tropical Storm Elsa was the first test of this year’s hurricane season, and we passed with flying colors. But it may be the first of many. That’s why it’s best to be prepared. Not only do we have hurricane season to contend with, but Florida has afternoon summer thunderstorms as well. These storms occur almost daily and bring heavy rain and lightning that can lead to power surges entering your home from the electric line and through the meter.

Surges are powerful increases in voltage that can destroy your home’s appliances and electronics. The Surge MitiGator is SECO’s meter-based surge arrester. It is designed to take the bite out of a surge. The MitiGator helps prevent high voltage spikes and surges before they damage appliances and cause financial loss. SECO installs the Surge MitiGator at the meter and the product carries a 15-year warranty. The arrester at the meter is the first step in protection. Point-of-use surge devices should be installed for a home’s electronics and other appliances that run on electric service. Purchase these at your local big box or hardware store. Install as directed.

The Surge MitiGator is available for lease for only $5.95 plus tax per month with a $25 installation fee. If you choose to purchase the product, the price ranges from $349 to $399, and installation is always free.

Enroll in the Surge MitiGator program (lease or purchase) for a chance to win a portable generator. We’ll pick a winner in both August and September. Read Winners’ Circle on page 4 for the July winner. Members in a current lease or prior purchase are already eligible to win. To enroll in the Surge MitiGator program, visit the Surge MitiGator page and fill out the web form. You can also call us at (352) 793-3801 or email Customer Service.

Living in Florida, the potential for tropical storms and hurricanes is a fact of life. I urge you to prepare in advance for the possibility of widespread power outages if a major storm affects our service area. Prepare your emergency supplies before forecasters put Central Florida in the cone of probability. Have a backup source of power if you require electricity for life-sustaining medical equipment. SECO is StormReady – you should be too.

Sincerely,

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

Florida, with its copious sunshine and sub-tropical climate, provides the perfect environment for a backyard garden. The Old Farmer’s Almanac has advice for gardeners who love the hobby but have space, sun or other limitations. For small areas, use raised beds, vertical spaces or containers. A raised-bed garden can yield 10 times the amount as a same size in-ground garden. Another idea for small spaces is to use a trellis, cage or attach pots to fences. Short on sun? Most vegetables require 8 hours of sunlight to grow, but leafy greens grow well in partial shade. Garlic, peas, beets and radishes can grow in as little as 4 hours a day. If all else fails, use containers to grow your garden. Anything that will hold soil and has water drainage holes will work.

Turn to page 4 to read this month’s Florida Fauna & Flora to learn more about the resurrection fern.

Energy Saving on a Budget

Improving your home’s energy efficiency doesn’t have to be expensive. While buying new ENERGY STAR appliances or upgrading your home’s HVAC will reduce your home’s energy consumption, these items carry a hefty price tag. The no-cost and low-cost energy-saving ideas listed below will help reduce your energy usage without breaking the bank.

No-cost Energy-Efficiency Ideas:

• Wash clothes in cold water.

• Use the air-dry cycle on your dishwasher.

• Hang laundry outside to dry.

• Use natural light during the day.

• Turn off lights when leaving a room.

• Ceiling fans cool people, not rooms. Turn off when the room is vacant.

• Turn off bathroom and kitchen ventilation fans. These bring warm outside air inside.

• Turn off electronics like computers, printers and monitors when not in use.

• In summer, grill or use appliances such as crock pots, air fryers or microwaves instead of your oven.

Low-cost Energy-Efficiency Ideas:

• Invest in LEDs.

• Replace all filters monthly or according to manufacturer’s instructions.

• Seal windows and doors with weatherstripping and/or caulk.

• Install window film to limit sunlight.

• Plant shade trees on the south, southwest and west sides of buildings for shade.

• Plant trees on the north and the west sides of buildings to block winds.

• Plant trees to shade driveways, sidewalks, patios and HVAC units.

• Use blinds or drapes during summer to limit sun exposure.

• Control outdoor lighting with a photocell or timer.

Want more energy-efficiency tips? Try our Home Energy Assessment — a complete online energy audit for your home. Submit your responses and email address to receive an email with energy-efficiency advice tailored to your home and lifestyle. To see the math behind your energy consumption, complete the Energy Estimator.

Winners’ Circle

Engage with our virtual assistant Electra on the phone for a chance to win a $25 gift card. Winners who self-served using Electra are:

John Bost from Ocala

Felica Grost from Inverness

Mark Damann from Morriston

Christian Oliver from Tavares

The latest winner of a SECO Energy Level 2 EV Charger is Marc Crail from Mount Dora. To enter, text “EV” to (352) 320-4500 for a link to enter. Or click on the EV Charger Giveaway homepage banner. Visit our Electric Vehicles website section to learn more about the benefits of owning an EV.

Winners in our Go Green and Win: Paperless Billing and Bank Draft Incentive

Kinilei Shewell from Clermont is the winner of a $200 SECO Energy bill credit.

Jules Sigler from Ocala is the winner of a NEST thermostat.

Jan Browning from The Villages is the winner of an Amazon Echo Dot with Alexa.

Bryant Currier from The Villages is our first winner of a portable generator. We have two more to give away! For a chance to win, lease or purchase SECO’s Surge MitiGator product that protects your home’s appliances from damaging surges and spikes. To learn more or enroll, visit our Surge MitiGator page. Members in a current surge lease or prior purchase are automatically entered in the drawing to win.

Read the full August 2021 SECO News online.

June 2021 Sunshine State Stats

Precipitation in June 2021 was higher than average leading to a soggy but hot month. The highest daily temperature measured in at 94 degrees, and the lowest temperature came in at 67 degrees. While June 1, 2021, is the official start of Atlantic hurricane season, our area was left unscathed by tropical storms or hurricanes this month (though Elsa changed that in early July).

June was also the official start of summer and the hot temperatures and daily afternoon thunderstorms have arrived. High temps reached over 90 degrees 16 days this month. Members will likely notice an increase in their June electric usage due to the higher temperatures during the day that stretch into the evening.

For June 2021 the average temperature was 82 degrees, which was the same as the average temperature in June 2020. The average high temperature was 90 degrees, and the average low temperature was 73. Total precipitation this month measured 8.6 inches compared to 6.1 inches in June last year. The average rainfall in June is 6.13 inches.

Again, members will likely see an increase in their energy usage for June 2021. Both the average monthly temperature and average low and high temperatures have increased from May 2021. Both the average temperature and the average low temperature are 4 degrees, and the average high is up 2 degrees. Hotter temperatures mean HVACs will run for longer periods of time and more frequently to keep the temperatures cool inside. Daily temperature fluctuations also increase HVAC usage. The highest daily temperature fluctuation in June was 24 degrees.

July forecast:

Florida’s rainy season continues into September with almost daily thunderstorms that bring rain, lightning and wind. Daily highs will reach 90 degrees and above with lows in the 70s.

To easily calculate how much energy your appliances, lighting, electronic devices, and other energy-using items in your home consume, use the Energy Estimator.

May 2021 Sunshine State Stats

May 2021 weather was a study in extremes – the highest daily temperature measured in at 94 degrees, while the lowest temperature came in at 58 degrees. Daily high temps ranged between 94 and 74 degrees, and daily low temps spanned from 74 degrees to 58 degrees. While May was extremely dry with rainfall of only 1.01 inches, which is more than 3 inches below average, the first named storm – Tropical Storm Ana – was named on May 22 before the official beginning of hurricane season.

Hotter temperatures are here to stay. Eleven days in May the high reached 90 degrees or over. Members may notice an increase in their May electric usage due to the higher temperatures during the day that stretch into the evening, and little rain to bring the temperature down.

For May 2021 the average temperature was 78 degrees, which was the same as the average temperature in May 2020. The average high temperature was 88 degrees, and the average low temperature was 67.

Again, members may see an increase in their energy usage for May 2021. Both the average monthly temperature and average low and high temperatures have increased from April 2021. The average temperature is up 7 degrees, while the average low is up 6 degrees, and the average high is up 7 degrees. Hotter temperatures mean HVACs will run for longer periods of time to keep the temperatures cool inside. Daily temperature fluctuations also increase HVAC usage. The highest daily temperature fluctuation in May was 26 degrees.

June forecast:

Florida’s rainy season typically begins in June and this year is no exception. Expect almost daily afternoon thunderstorms with heavy rain and lightning. The Central Florida area received almost 3 inches of rain early in the month. Thunderstorms will continue throughout June. Daily highs will reach 90 degrees and above with lows in the 70s.

To easily calculate how much energy your appliances, lighting, electronic devices, and other energy-using items in your home consume, use the Energy Estimator.

SECO News, May 2021

Duncan’s Digest – 2021 “Just Business” Annual Meeting Recap

We celebrated our 2021 “Just Business” 83rd Annual Meeting on Thursday, March 25. We opted to hold the event virtually to avoid the large crowd that traditionally gathers for our onsite Annual Meetings. If you couldn’t watch live, you can watch the full video on our Annual Meeting website section.

The Meeting was live streamed through webcast, Facebook Live and YouTube. Members tuned in to watch our Board President and District 4 Trustee Richard Dennison call the Meeting to order and close the voting platform at 4:30 p.m. Our Vice President of Corporate Communications and Energy Services Kathryn Gloria gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem which was prerecorded by SECO Energy’s Manager Consumer Billing & Accounting Tim Wallace.

During Board introductions, we welcomed new Trustee Morgan Hatfield to the Board. Ms. Hatfield was elected in early February to represent District 9 and began her duties on March 29.

Mr. Dennison’s President’s Report provided an overview of the quorum and Annual Meeting requirements Florida cooperatives adhere to under Florida Statute. Two years ago, a Bylaws revision was approved that allows electronic, in-person and by-mail voting on Annual Meeting business to achieve a quorum. Almost 5,000 members voted this year to approve a Bylaws Revision and the 2020 Annual Meeting Minutes. All members who voted were eligible to win 1 of 100 prizes.

My state of the company address reported on the excellent financial health of the cooperative. At year-end 2020, our meter count had grown to 216,477 ranking SECO as the third-largest cooperative in Florida and seventh-largest in the nation. Last year, you and your fellow members consumed 3.64 billion kilowatt hours which is an increase of about 1.7 million over 2019.

SECO’s investment in its electric system is approaching the $1 billion mark at a current valuation of $955.9 million to support the increased demand for affordable energy in our area. Our TIER rating is 2.87 and member equity equals 33.64%. In the customer satisfaction arena, our 2020 ACSI score is an impressive 91. These are all very healthy ratios in the cooperative utility world.

If you’re interested in learning more about our fiscal health, the “Just Business” 2020 Annual Report is available online. Our Independent Auditor’s Report is included with the cooperative’s 2020 and 2019 financial statements.

During the “Just Business” Annual Meeting, we held the traditional military branches tribute and recognized the efforts of the 400+ SECO employees, Board of Trustees and local first responders. I also announced my plan to retire as CEO in January 2022, making this my last Annual Meeting as CEO. Admittedly, I wanted my final Annual Meeting address to be live with a large audience in attendance. Unfortunately, large gatherings are currently not in the best interest of our members and employees.

Thank you to all who tuned in to watch the Annual Meeting live. If you could not tune in, you can view the full video online.

Sincerely,

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

A new friend with fur, feathers or scales may help you reduce stress and offer valuable companionship. The Old Farmer’s Almanac has advice on which pet may be the best fit for your home and family. Almost 60% of U.S. households include at least one pet. Dogs rule the home because they are loving and affectionate but require a hefty time commitment. Cats may be less affectionate and more independent than dogs, but they usually involve less work. Fish are beautiful and colorful but need a clean and well-maintained tank to live. Birds are fun to watch and may add a lively tune or funny voices to your home – but can be messy.

Want to spread the love for pets and wildlife? Purchase or lease the Surge MitiGator and SECO will donate $5 to a pet or animal rescue or shelter of your choice. Read on for more details.

Surgeo Loves Pets – Through June 15

In February SECO News, Surgeo asked for members’ help in supporting domestic and wildlife shelters and rescues by enrolling in SECO Energy’s Surge MitiGator™. For every new MitiGator enrollment, SECO donates $5 to a local pet shelter in Citrus, Lake, Marion or Sumter Counties.

February through March, 1,120 members completed a new Surge MitiGator enrollment, which equaled a $5,600 donation divided among local pet and wildlife rescues.

Take the bite out of damaging surges and spikes with the Surge MitiGator. Surges are caused by lightning, vehicle accidents involving SECO facilities, small animals, birds or fallen trees. Power surges can damage or destroy household appliances and sensitive electronics such as televisions, computers, stereo equipment and more.

SECO’s meter-based surge arrester helps prevent unnecessary financial loss by reducing surges BEFORE they enter your home through the meter. The Surge MitiGator has a beastly 15-year warranty and is designed to protect your home’s large-motor appliances.

You can lease the MitiGator for only $5.95 plus tax per month plus a $25 installation fee. The purchase price ranges from $349 to $399, with installation included.

Enroll in SECO’s Surge MitiGator™ to donate $5 to the shelter or rescue of your choice. Visit our Surge MitiGator website section and click on the enroll icon to fill out the webform and choose which pet shelter will receive a $5 donation on your behalf from SECO. The promotion ends June 15.

EV Charger Winner

Kathy Ziegler from Ocala is the April 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 website section for more details.

Watch SECO News for next month’s charger winner.

Safety Corner – Generator Safety

Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1. If you plan on using a portable or permanent generator as a source of back-up power during a power outage, learn to operate your generator correctly and safely before a storm impacts our service area.

Follow the safety warnings below to operate a generator.

• To protect yourself, your family, your property and SECO employees and contractors, read and follow the generator owner’s manual and pay close attention to the safety instructions.

• A qualified electrical contractor must install a permanent generator with a disconnect and transfer switch. This is NOT a DIY job.

• A qualified electrician is required to connect a generator to an electrical panel. An incorrect connection could electrocute the user or endanger our employees and contractors.

• Follow local, state and national fire and electric codes. A permit is required to install a permanent generator.

• Before starting your generator–always disconnect from your metered electric utility service.

• Never run a generator inside a building – even in a garage – it is a hazard and violates safety codes because it generates deadly (and odorless) carbon monoxide (CO).

• Be sure the area where a generator is operating is adequately ventilated, has sufficient airflow and is away from open windows.

• Store gasoline and diesel in approved containers out of the reach of children. Never fuel the generator while it is running.

• Extinguish all flames and cigarettes when handling fuel.

• Stage a fully charged, approved fire extinguisher near the generator.

• Use extension cords free of exposed wires and frayed shielding.

• Never remove or tamper with a generator’s safety devices.

• Do not attempt to repair a generator. A qualified technician should perform repairs and service as needed.

• Generator engine parts are very hot during operation. Severe burns may result. Always keep children away.

Improper use or installation of an electric generator can cause property damage, severe injury or even death. Members who use a generator to operate life-saving equipment should verify the generator’s compatibility. Learn more about proper generator use and safety tips; view our generator safety video on our website.

Generator Safety Word Search

A generator may come in handy during storm season. Make a commitment to safety while running a generator to protect you, your family and SECO employees and contractors.

PCA Adjustment

The commodities market is changing, and natural gas prices are rising. This affects fuel costs associated with producing power at Seminole Electric Cooperative’s natural gas plants. In turn, those costs are passed along to SECO members with the Power Cost Adjustment (PCA) factor line item on the monthly electric bill. On May 1, the SECO Energy PCA changed to keep pace with the market and wholesale power costs. The result is the cost of 1,000 kilowatt hours increased from $116.90 to $121.00

Need help paying your bill? View our interactive map to find an agency in your area.

Winners’ Circle

Have you engaged with our virtual assistant Electra who can answer thousands of calls without missing a beat? Ask Electra for assistance instead of waiting to speak with a representative. Each week, we’ll draw one winner who will receive a $25 gift card. Winners are drawn from all members who called and successfully took care of business with Electra.

Winners Are:

Jeffrey Moody from Umatilla

Dona Macomber from Webster

Peter Cockcroft from Bushnell

Francis Campbell from Clermont

Winners in our Go Green and Win: Paperless Billing and Bank Draft incentive.

Josh McIntyre from Lake Panasoffkee is the winner of a $200 SECO Energy bill credit.

Thomas Binkley from Clermont is the winner of a NEST thermostat.

Jacob Dickman from Ocala is the winner of an Amazon Echo Dot with Alexa.

Read Winners’ Circle next month for more winners.

StormCenter

Before the Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1, enroll in StormCenter outage notifications via email, text, voice messages or all three.

StormCenter identifies the service locations affected by an outage and proactively sends a notification with the estimated restoration time, crew status and more. Once service is restored, you’ll receive a message that includes the outage cause if known. You can set do not disturb times if you don’t want to be called in the middle of the night about an outage or restoration. To choose notification preferences, visit StormCenter on the website and click on the Manage Notifications tab.

Reporting a new outage or checking the status of an existing outage with your smartphone or tablet is easy. Click “Report Outage” and enter the account holder’s last name and house number (or the account or phone number). Find the status of an existing outage on the Check Status tab.

Read the full May SECO News online.

SECO News, February 2021

Duncan’s Digest – Go Green and Win: Paperless Billing and Bank Draft

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative whose purpose is to provide exceptional service to our members, co-workers and communities. We are a unique business that promotes less use of our product rather than more – we’re your partner in saving energy and money.

Throughout the cooperative, we look for ways to reduce spending and waste while providing exceptional customer service to our 210,000+ members. We are adapting as technology changes as well. Surveys show that members want convenient billing and payment options (along with low rates and reliable service). Environmentally conscious members want to reduce paper waste and enjoy leisure time instead of writing checks and driving to the post office to buy stamps. Safety-minded folks don’t want the worry over the potential lack of security of mailing a paper check that contains an account number, routing number, address and signature. Mailbox thieves and porch pirates remain a threat despite the fact that they’re captured on video doorbells every day!

Currently, over 100,000 SECO accounts are enrolled in in our online account platform called SmartHub and nearly 50,000 of those are enrolled in eBill and have opted out of paper billing statements altogether. Members can view, manage and pay their bills through SmartHub. Enrolling in bank draft is another convenient way for members to pay bills directly from their bank account. SmartHub messenger provides advanced notification of amount due and draft date.

Paperless billing, bank draft and SmartHub account enrollments are green options that save money for the cooperative, too, and help us keep rates low. Per surveys, members who receive eBill are more satisfied with the email’s promptness and prefer it over waiting for the paper bill to print and mail.

Throughout 2021, members who partner with SECO to help reduce billing costs and paper waste will be eligible for a monthly drawing. Each month, three prizes will be awarded to lucky winners drawn from those enrolled in these billing options. Prizes include a $200 bill credit, a NEST thermostat and an Amazon Echo Dot with Alexa.

There are three criteria your account must meet to qualify for the monthly incentive:

Account is registered through SmartHub

Account is opted out of paper billing statements

Account is enrolled in automatic bank draft

If you have more than one account that meets these criteria, each account is eligible to be drawn as a monthly winner.

These enrollment options are available through SmartHub. SmartHub is also available as an app on your smartphone or tablet. Members who aren’t as tech savvy or do not have a smartphone or tablet can reach out to Member Services by phone for enrollment assistance. Read more about SmartHub’s features on page 4.

We’ll publish the winners’ names in our Winners’ Circle in the upcoming SECO News editions.

SECO’s five Member Service Centers are equipped with debit/credit card processing machines for walk-in transactions. These will help us begin to phase out our existing kiosks. These third-party kiosks are under-utilized, under perform and are no longer cost effective.

All of these incentives and changes are part of keeping costs low and using technology that offers you convenience and security. Thank you for considering new options.

Sincerely,

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

Happy Valentine’s Day! Celebrate your sweetheart all month long with these helpful ideas. Do you enjoy camping? The Old Farmer’s Almanac recommends planning your honey’s camping trip on either February 6 or 7. If you like warmer weather, wait until March 5 or 6. Are you planning a trip with someone special? The best days to schedule a trip for pleasure are February 24 – 26 or March 24 and 25. Getting married? The best days ahead for a wedding are February 1 or 2 or March 1, 2, 28, or 29. Make your love happy by tackling your honey-do list. The best day to start a project is February 12 or March 14.

Less Coins; Big Change: Pennies from Heaven

Starting February 1, our Member Service Centers ask members to help make a difference in local communities. As the coin shortage continues, Service Centers are no longer stocking coins to make change on a cash bill payment. We ask members who visit a Service Center and pay in cash to donate their spare change to SECO Energy’s Pennies from Heaven program.

Less coins in your pocket will create big change in the communities we serve. Last year, an unprecedented number of members reached out to United Way and other local service agencies for help. SECO’s Pennies from Heaven program responded by providing thousands of dollars for bill payment assistance and dollars to local food banks in our area.

Why wait to visit a Member Service Center to donate your spare change? Enroll in Pennies from Heaven today, and SECO will round up your monthly billing amount to the nearest dollar (no matter how you choose to pay your bill). The average donation is small, only about $6 per year, but your small change equals big help for local families. You can enroll online or click on the homepage banner.

To all the members who are current Pennies from Heaven enrollees or who have made a one-time donation, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Our CEO Jim Duncan supports the program, as do many SECO employees.

Thank you for your generosity!

EV Charger Winner

Mary Maloney from Clermont is the January 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.

Watch SECO News for next month’s charger winner.

Account Access 24/7 with SmartHub

SmartHub is SECO Energy’s 24/7 account access and management platform. SmartHub is available as a user-friendly app for your smartphone or tablet or on your desktop computer or laptop. A SmartHub account registration is a criterion for winning the monthly incentive announced in this month’s Duncan’s Digest on page 1.

PENNIES FROM HEAVEN: Enroll in SECO’s Pennies from Heaven program.

PREVIOUS STATEMENTS: Examine past consumption history and view previous billing statements.

NO WAITING TIME: View monthly billing statements faster (usually less than two business days) of meter reading and bill calculation.

UPDATE INFORMATION: You can change your mailing address (hi there, Snowbirds), add a new email address or update your phone number.

PAYMENT ARRANGEMENT*: Request a payment arrangement 24/7.

SOCIAL MEDIA: Click on the Facebook or Twitter icons for direct access to SECO’s social media feeds.

PAY YOUR MONTHLY BILL: SmartHub accepts debit/credit card or electronic – without the added expense of a convenience fee.

ACCESS STORMCENTER: Report outages 24/7, enroll in outage communications via email, text or voice and check the status of a current outage.

SET IT AND FORGET IT: Enroll in monthly bank draft from a checking or savings account of your choice.

GO GREEN: Suppress paper bills and reduce waste by receiving your statement via email. View the bottom of your eBill for a link to the current edition of SECO News.

New SmartHub Features:

PAY IN ADVANCE: Going out of town and need to schedule a payment? You can schedule a one-time advance payment in the amount you choose (up to $600) through SmartHub.

CLOSED ACCOUNT ACCESS: We’ve opened up SmartHub access for members who have closed/inactive accounts. View and pay a final bill or gain access to prior account history.

PAYMENT NOTIFICATIONS: Members who pay via SmartHub will now receive an immediate payment confirmation via email or text based on your SmartHub notification preference.

All these features are available for members with registered SmartHub accounts. Register your account at SmartHub today. Download the app on the Apple App Store or get it on Google Play.

*SmartHub can schedule payment arrangements for eligible accounts only.

SmartHub Word Search

24/7 account access is available through our SmartHub online account manager. Have fun with our SmartHub word search and enroll your account today.

Surgeo Loves Pets

February is the month of love, and Surgeo is asking for your help to aid domestic animal shelters and wildlife animal rescue organizations. Beginning February 1, for each new Surge MitiGator enrollment, SECO Energy will donate $5 to a local pet shelter that you designate in one of the four major counties we serve.

The Surge MitiGator takes the bite out of damaging surges and spikes caused by lightning, vehicles crashing into SECO poles, small animals, birds or fallen trees. Power surges can damage or destroy household appliances and sensitive electronics such as televisions, computers, stereo equipment and more.

SECO’s meter-based surge arrester helps prevent unnecessary financial loss by reducing surges BEFORE they enter your home through the meter. The Surge MitiGator has a beastly 15-year warranty and is designed to protect your home’s large-motor appliances.

You can lease the MitiGator for only $5.95 plus tax per month plus a $25 installation fee. The purchase price ranges from $349 to $399, with installation included.

SECO’s Surgeo loves pets. Help him share the love by enrolling in SECO Energy’s Surge MitiGator to donate $5 to the pet shelter of your choice. To enroll, visit our Surge MitiGator page and click on the enroll icon to fill out the webform and choose which pet shelter will receive a $5 donation on your behalf from SECO. SURGEO THANKS YOU!

Winners’ Circle

Have you engaged with our virtual assistant Electra who can answer thousands of calls without missing a beat? In December SECO News, we announced a new contest for members who ask Electra for assistance instead of waiting to speak with a representative. Each week, we’ll draw one winner who will receive a $25 gift card.

December’s winners are:

Bruce Cramer from The Villages

William Davner from Ocala

Brenda Jones from Ocala

Judith Pastula from Clermont

Josh Sittig from Bushnell

Read Winners’ Circle next month for more winners. Congratulations, winners!

SECO Energy Celebrates 14 Years of Tree Line USA Recognition

We are celebrating 14 years of being recognized as a Tree Line USA utility by the Arbor Day Foundation. Tree Line USA recognizes public and private utilities who take part in activities that protect and enhance America’s urban forests.

The Arbor Day Foundation inspires people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. There are five program standards that SECO Energy achieved to be recognized as a Tree Line USA utility. Utilities must follow industry standards for quality tree care; provide annual worker training in best tree care practices; sponsor a tree planting and education program; maintain a tree-based energy conservation program; and participate in an Arbor Day celebration.

Trees offer many benefits. Did you know that trees can save energy? According to the Arbor Day Foundation, trees that shade structures and block winds can help reduce your heating and cooling costs by as much as 35%.

Plant deciduous trees to the south, southwest or west side of buildings to provide shade from the summer sun and reduce cooling costs. Florida elm and hophornbeam are native trees that flourish in Central Florida. Plant trees to shade driveways, sidewalks, patios and air conditioning units.

Evergreen trees and shrubs planted on the north and west sides of buildings block winter winds and reduce heating costs. Plantings around the foundation can also help insulate against cold weather.

To learn more about how trees can reduce yearly energy costs, visit our Right Tree, Right Place page.

Read the full February 2021 SECO News online.

SECO News, December 2020

Duncan’s Digest – 2021 United Way Pledge Drive

SECO Energy employees have been exceptionally generous this year. Their philanthropic spirit is fostered by one of our Cooperative Principles: Concern for Community. Many employees, some who are not members themselves, have joined me in supporting SECO’s Pennies from Heaven charitable fund. Employee and member donations to Pennies from Heaven have funded member bill payment assistance and provided funds for local food banks experiencing critical shortages.Employees have also donated generously to our yearly Toys for Tots donation drive.

SECO employees recognize that local community help is needed year-round and not only during the Christmas season. For this reason, employees take part in an annual employee-funded United Way Pledge Drive. This year has been challenging for some local families who have struggled through the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting shutdown. The need may well extend into next year.

For our 2021 United Way Pledge Drive, employees willingly pledged $61,433 to United Ways in ten local counties. This donation makes a big difference in the lives of local families. SECO’s 400+ employees live in or near the counties we serve, and employees choose the county where their donated dollars will benefit.

The bulk of our employees live in Citrus, Lake, Marion and Sumter Counties, and these counties received the highest dollar amounts in donations. The breakdown by county is:

Lake and Sumter: $29,508

Marion: $20,885

Citrus: $6,023

Other Counties (Gilchrist, Hernando, Levy, Orange, Pasco and Polk): $5,017

Total: $61,433

Join SECO employees in their effort to promote the United Way’s mission to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities to advance the common good. Education, income and health care are United Way’s key focuses. Visit United Way to donate or volunteer.

I am grateful for our employees’ generosity and dedication to our members and the communities we serve. From the SECO family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Sincerely,

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

Engage With Electra to Win

Earlier this year, SECO Energy upgraded its phone system to a new, user-friendly interactive voice response (IVR) system. Our virtual agent’s name is Electra, and she is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Engage with Electra to win! Starting December 1, members who interact with Electra virtually and don’t request a SECO member service representative will be eligible to win a $25 gift card. We’ll draw one winner each week.

Electra is multi-functional. She can answer thousands of calls virtually and save you from waiting on hold for rep assistance.

BILLING INQUIRIES: Ask Electra “What is my balance?” or ask her “What is the due date?” Need more billing information? Electra can answer questions such as “What was my last payment amount?” or “When was my last payment date?”

PAY YOUR BILL: Tell Electra “Pay my bill,” and she will transfer you to our PayNow payment processor. You can pay your bill by phone using a credit or debit card or electronic check without a convenience fee.

PAYMENT ARRANGEMENT*: Ask for a “Payment Arrangement” or an “Extension.” Electra will schedule terms – all without you having to speak with a rep.

DISCONNECT SERVICE: If you’re moving out of SECO’s service area and need to disconnect service, tell Electra to “Disconnect Service.” Please provide Electra with a forwarding address for future Capital Credit returns.

REPORT A POWER OUTAGE/UPDATE OUTAGE NOTIFICATIONS: Call Electra to report a power outage. Say the word “Outage,” and she will guide you through easy prompts to report the outage for you. To update your outage notifications, say “Update Notifications.” If you’re calling from a cell phone, Electra will ask if you want her to text you a link to StormCenter to update your outage notification preferences on your smartphone or tablet.

CHECK OUTAGE STATUS: Electra can give you details on the status of a current outage. Just say “Check Status,” and Electra will provide the crew status, estimated restoration time and outage cause if known.

REPORT AN AREA LIGHT OUTAGE: Find an area light issue? Just locate the pole number, call Electra and say “Report an Area Light Outage.” Read page four to learn how you can report area light outages online 24/7 with SECO Energy’s LightFinder tool on StormCenter.

SERVICE TROUBLE: Experiencing a service problem such as partial power or a wire down? Call Electra and say “Service Trouble.” Electra will automatically create a service trouble ticket.

Call Electra at (352) 793-3801 and let her assist you virtually for a chance to win a $25 gift card each week. Winning account must be active at the time of the drawing. Look for the first month’s weekly winners in February 2021 SECO News.

Good luck!

*Electra can schedule a payment arrangement for eligible accounts only.

Area Light Out? Report it Online

Need to report a malfunctioning area light? Report a light that is completely off, flickering or staying on during the day using our easy and convenient online tool called LightFinder, which is available through SECO Energy’s StormCenter platform.

Visit StormCenter 24/7 to report power outages, report area light malfunctions, update your communications preferences and more. To report an area light outage, choose the LightFinder tile. Enter the area light pole number or near address in the search bar, then click on the light icon to report the lighting issue. Review the light’s details and add comments if needed. Include your email address in the submission to receive updates about the light’s repair status.

A green light icon indicates there is no known area light issue. When an area light trouble ticket is issued, the icon turns red. Lights represented by an orange icon have been repaired in the last 24 hours. Member-owned lights are shown as a blue icon, and a gray icon indicates an inactive light.

SECO repairs most area light issues in less than 24 hours.

EV Charger Winner

Richard and Jill Nash from Clermont are the November winners 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.

Watch SECO News for next month’s charger winner.

StormCenter Word Search

SECO Energy’s StormCenter outage and communications platform is available online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Report power outages, area light malfunctions and update or enroll in outage notifications. Visit StormCenter online.

Save Energy With a Smart Thermostat

Give yourself the gift of energy savings this holiday season. Invest in an ENERGY STAR rated smart thermostat to take the guesswork out of indoor temperature settings and to reduce your energy costs.

Smart thermostats are Wi-Fi-enabled devices controlled with your smartphone, tablet, smart speaker or other device connected to the internet. Installing a smart thermostat allows you to schedule your home’s temperatures for comfort. Some units learn your habits and preferences. Smart thermostats will provide you with data on your home’s energy use and other features.

The recommended thermostat setting for energy efficiency is no lower than 78 degrees in the summer and no higher than 68 degrees in the winter. You can save 6 to 8% annually for each degree higher you set the thermostat during the summer and reduce your heating costs by 3 to 5% in winter for each degree you lower the thermostat.

Bright Idea: If you’re going on vacation, set the thermostat to 82 degrees in the summer or 55 degrees in the winter.

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

Say goodbye, 2020, and hello to 2021. The Old Farmer’s Almanac shares ideas for us to embrace a healthier lifestyle. Make a 2021 resolution to spend at least 120 minutes outdoors each week, schedule doctors’ visits and add online aerobics classes to your workout routine. Give your health a boost by adopting a dog or cat. 92% of dog owners believe their dog makes them healthier, and 85% of cat owners feel the same.

Some of the fun trends for 2021 are restaurants using edible tableware, paperless menus and local farmers selling produce and veggies in traditional supermarkets. Also making a comeback are houseplants and native plant designs in outdoor landscapes.

Surgeo Picks a Winner

Congratulations, Harriette Lowrey from The Villages who won a free one-year Surge MitiGator lease! We chose Ms. Lowrey’s name at random from all members subscribed to SECO Energy’s Surge MitiGator protection on or before October 31.

Take Surgeo’s advice and enroll in SECO Energy’s Surge MitiGator protection to take the bite out of damaging surges and spikes. Our meter-based surge arrester helps prevent unnecessary financial loss by reducing surges BEFORE they enter your home through the meter. The Surge MitiGator is designed to protects your home’s large-motor appliances.

You can lease the MitiGator for only $5.95 plus tax per month plus $25 installation fee. The purchase price ranges from $349 to $399, with installation included. To enroll online or review the MitiGator warranty, visit Surge MitiGator online.

Read the full December 2020 SECO News online.

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Archive

Duncan’s Digest – Enroll in Surge Protection – Win a Generator

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

Energy Saving on a Budget

Winners’ Circle

Duncan’s Digest – 2021 “Just Business” Annual Meeting Recap

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

Surgeo Loves Pets – Through June 15

EV Charger Winner

Safety Corner – Generator Safety

Generator Safety Word Search

PCA Adjustment

Winners’ Circle

StormCenter

Duncan’s Digest – Go Green and Win: Paperless Billing and Bank Draft

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

Less Coins; Big Change: Pennies from Heaven

EV Charger Winner

Account Access 24/7 with SmartHub

SmartHub Word Search

Surgeo Loves Pets

Winners’ Circle

SECO Energy Celebrates 14 Years of Tree Line USA Recognition

Duncan’s Digest – 2021 United Way Pledge Drive

Engage With Electra to Win

Area Light Out? Report it Online

EV Charger Winner

StormCenter Word Search

Save Energy With a Smart Thermostat

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

Surgeo Picks a Winner

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NEED HELP? CALL (352) 793 -3801

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