Questions from co-op Members

Ask BobBE SAFE BE SOUND

DON’T OVERLOADNever link more than three strandsof lights. Check the instructions on plug strips and extension cords.

INSPECT CORDS FIRSTCheck cords each year for frayedwires or excessive wear. Make surethat pets don’t chew on the wires!

Check wires periodically, theyshould not be warm to the touch.

KEEP CLEARKeep cords away from flammableslike wrapping paper or dry branches.

KEEP CLEARKeep cords away from flammableslike wrapping paper or dry branches.

INSPECT CORDS FIRSTCheck cords each year for frayedwires or excessive wear. Make sure

DON’T OVERLOADNever link more than three strandsof lights. Check the instructions on

Q: What is the facilities charge on my power bill?

Clearwater Power Company’s service terri-tory is more rural and has a lower population den-sity than the typical inves-tor owned utility (IOU) that serves in urban areas. Because of this sparse density (averaging only 3.6 members per mile of power line), only about 40% of your power bill goes to the actual pur-chase of electrical energy.

The other half goes to maintenance of the power lines, poles, sub-stations, rights-of-way and the other fixed costs of operating the utility including depreciation, interest expense, insur-ance, taxes, trucks and equipment, billing, administrative and mis-cellaneous services. The facilities charge is a con-tribution toward those fixed costs of operation and maintenance.

The amount of elec-tricity you use may vary

from month to month but these facilities costs are fixed. They occur whether you use the power or not. According to a recent analysis at Clearwater Power, the facilities cost for each residen-tial account averages a little more than $78 per month, per account. At Clearwater Power, we compro-mise and only charge a facilities charge of $19.75 per month (This fee will increase to $21.75 per month effective January 1st, 2014). The rest of the fixed costs of opera-tion and maintenance must be recovered in the energy rate.

Bob Pierce is the Manager of Member Services at Clearwater Power Company. He welcomes any questions on electric-ity or electric utilities. You can reach him at Clearwater Power Company, PO Box 997, Lewiston, ID 83501; or by e-mail at: rdpierce@clearwater-power.com

d e c e M B e R 2013 29

Attention, Photographers

Consumers Power is hosting a Ruralite cover photo contest. Photos will be judged by Ruralite magazine.• Contest is open only to Consumers

Power members. • Each member can submit three

photos.• Submitted photos must be vertical

(portrait) orientation.• All submissions must include the

photographer’s name and location of the photo.

• All submitted photos must be taken within the Consumers Power service territory.

• Submissions must be high-resolution, digital images in jpeg format, 300 dpi at approximately 8-by-10 inches.

• Prints WILL NOT be accepted.

Email your high-resolution photos to info@cpi.coop. Winning photos will be featured on the covers of the Consumers Power edition of Ruralite throughout the year. Winners also will receive a poster print of the cover with their winning photo.

Winning Tips:• Make photos near sunset or sunrise.

The light is low in the sky and makes for prettier landscapes.

• Include people doing interesting things such as kayaking, hunting, fishing or biking.

• Get close to your subject so it will fill the viewfinder.

• Only send your best photos.

By submitting photos to this contest, you agree to give Consumers Power the right to use submitted photos on the cover of Ruralite magazine and on the Consumers Power website.

Your photo could be on the cover of Ruralite magazine

World War II veteran Andy Andrews contemplates poignant words about

sacrifice chiseled in black granite at theAir Force Memorial in Arlington, Virginia.

PHOTO BY MIKE TEEGARDEN

What’s Up With Wave Energy PAGE 4 Gadgets That Get You Going PAGE 6

Consumers Power

J U LY 2013

An Emotional JourneyPage 12

Consumers Power

Contest Deadline: January 31, 2014

8 D E C E M B E R 2013

Central Electric

By Jeff Beaman

A regular action taken by Central Electric Cooperative can frequently puzzle members. A check from my electric utility?

Such surprise is common the first time a member receives a capital credit payment from CEC. This year’s checks go out in mid-December to nearly 8,900 CEC members who were served by the co-op in 1988 and 1989.

Capital credit payments are the return of an annual profit, or repayment of money loaned by members to the co-op to help finance CEC opera-tions. This loan reduces the co-ops borrowing costs and thereby helps keep rates down. The practice has been part of the Central Electric bylaws since 1949 and is a common practice among electric coopera-tives across the country.

As the co-op closes its books each year, it calcu-lates its profit—what the co-op calls an operating margin—and records an allocation to each member served that year based on how much he or she paid for electricity services.

The repayment or “retirement” of the members’ capital credits is directed at the oldest recorded allo-cations. Central Electric uses a 25-year retirement cycle, meaning we retire members’ allocated credits within 25 years. The amount and schedule is based on CEC’s ability to maintain its current financial strength and still afford the retirements. Central Electric has made such payments every year since 2001 and in 30 of the past 33 years, totaling $17.6 million since 1958.

This year’s capital credit retirements total $1.4 million and the individual member payments being disbursed this month total $1 million and average $112.55 among the 8,892 members issued checks. Most of the difference between the retirement and disbursement totals is funds due members from 1988 and 1989 without a current address on file

with CEC. We advertise and list these members on our website in an effort to reach them.

Because significant time passes between when the member was served and when their capital cred-its are retired—and it may be many years since a person was a CEC member—the logical question becomes, “How will I know I will receive my credits when their retirement time arrives?”

CEC goes to great lengths to ensure members receive their payments. The efforts include:

• Each spring, allocation notifications are sent to members receiving electricity the previous year, totaling the year’s capital credit allocation.

• In mid-December each year, checks are sent to all members receiving capital credit payments. This depends on the co-op having accurate addresses on file. Members who move outside the CEC service area need to provide a change of address each time they move. It will be entered and retained in our records.

• Full-page ads are placed in The Bulletin—Bend’s daily newspaper—listing any member by name whose past capital credit check was not cashed. The ads run once a month from June through September. Those members’ names also are listed on the CEC website, www.cec.coop.

• Checks payable to members who have died before receiving their capital credit repayment are turned over to their estates.

Once members become accustomed to the CEC capital credit repayment process, it becomes routine. In fact, they may come to eagerly await the check. The larger the amount of electricity purchased, the larger the payment. The program returns members’ money to them. That is why the co-op needs current addresses for both current and former members, and their family should know about this benefit of membership. The capital credit payment may be a pleasant surprise, but it works best for everyone when the surprise has been spoiled.

The What and Why of Capital CreditsYour money supports the cooperative e� ort and then is returned to you

4 D E C E M B E R 2013

Central Electric Cooperative has written capital credits checks to members

amounting to more than

$17.6 millionsince 1958

CEC tracks how much money you pay for electricity services throughout the year.

At year-end, CEC closes its books and determines whether there are excess revenues, called operating margins.

CEC allocates the operating margins to members as capital credits based on their electricity purchases during the year.

CEC notifies members of their allocation.

When CEC’s financial condition

permits, your board of directors decides to retire, or

pay, the capital credits, currently about 25 years after allocation.

D E C E M B E R 2013 5

It’s hard to think about a more exciting time of year than the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Fondly, we remember the times that as a child, we waited in anticipation as we counted down the days to December 25.

While the holiday season is full of excitement, we sometimes miss the magic as we juggle hefty shopping lists, parties and wrapping up work proj-ects before the end of the year. These tasks can add stress—not joy—to the holiday season. However,

those of us at Coos-Curry Electric Cooperative Inc. want you to think of your electric co-op as an early holiday gift wrapped with several layers of value.

As a member and owner of CCEC, you receive several money-saving perks that come in handy at this time of year. Do you know you can save at local and national businesses with your Co-op Connections Card simply for being a member of Coos-Curry Electric? You might even find coupons for the top-secret ingredients of your famous green

Coos-Curry Electric

Wrapped in ValueCoos-Curry Electric brings more than electricity into your home

4 D E C E M B E R 2013

bean casserole. Just in time for holiday shop-ping, we recently unveiled an online shopping mall that gives co-op mem-bers cash back from many online retailers that you may already be using.

Local and national deals may be found by going to our website at www.ccec.coop and clicking on the Co-op Connections Card icon. All of this may be found by going to our website at www.ccec.coop and clicking on the Co-op Connections Card icon. Before you do your holiday shopping or baking, see what deals are waiting for you.

Energy ConservationExpecting a lot of family visits during the holidays? Every kilowatt-hour saved counts. Our energy-efficiency experts offer tips and advice on how to manage your electricity use. We also can suggest more efficient holiday lighting options. And rebate programs are available for energy conservation improvements such as duct sealing, insulation and windows.

Easy Bill-Pay OptionsIf you are too busy to stop by our office, don’t worry. You don’t need to take time out of your packed holi-day schedule to visit one of our offices to pay your bill. Just go to our website, click on the My Account icon and sign up for online payments through the member portal. It makes paying your electric bills easy and puts keeping track of your energy con-sumption at your fingertips. Once you are set up on the member portal, you can download your free mobile app for iOS and Android to access your electric account and pay your bill from anywhere through your cell phone or tablet.

Be Prepared for OutagesAs we enter the holiday season, remember that it is also winter storm season. We do our best to keep the power on, but sometimes nature has other ideas. Be sure you are prepared for outages by having flashlights, blankets and drinking water available. Report outages as they occur so we may go to work

to restore power as quickly as possible.

If you down-load our mobile app, you can report an outage from your cell phone.

Remember, if you are out in the

storm and encounter a downed power line, be sure to stay away and report it.

Always assume the line is energized. We do. If you have access to the Internet, you can follow

our progress to restore power through the outage map on our website or through the updates we post to our Facebook page. Be sure to “like” us so you get those updates automatically as they occur.

Part of the CommunityThe best co-op value of all can be seen in the faces of your friends and neighbors who work at your electric cooperative. You often will find us volun-teering at community functions.

We are very much a part of the communities we serve and we have been since 1937, when local people created your electric cooperative to power our community and empower members to improve their quality of life. That’s our purpose.

Avoid getting caught in the hustle and bustle of the season. Take a moment to watch the excitement in the eyes of your children, grandchildren and those around you as they count down the days. Take advantage of the value-added programs your electric cooperative offers. And, most importantly, be safe around electricity. Happy holidays!

bean casserole. Just in time for holiday shop-ping, we recently unveiled an

Local and national deals

icon. All of this may be found

www.ccec.coop and clicking on

to restore power as quickly as possible.

If you down-load our mobile app, you can report an

if you are out in the storm and encounter a downed

power line, be sure to stay away and report it. Always assume the line is energized. We do.

D E C E M B E R 2013 5

community calendar

december

12/1—Christmas Bazaar, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., 318 Brooks St., Goldendale12/1-1/5—Winter Wonderland Zoo Lights, the Oregon Zoo, Portland 12/4-8—Holiday Ale Festival, Pioneer Courthouse Square, Portland; (503) 252-989912/5—Trail Band performance, 7 p.m., Hood River Middle School, 1602 May St., Hood River12/6-7—Annual Bazaar, Columbia Hills Log Building, Dallesport 12/6-8—America’s Largest Christmas Bazaar, Portland Expo Center 12/6-8—Christmas in the Gorge, Stevenson 12/7—Lyle Lions first Saturday breakfast, Community Center, Lyle  12/7—The Oak Ridge Boys’ Christmas Show, 7:30 p.m., Toyota Center, Kennewick12/7—Cascade Singers’ Christmas concert, 7 p.m., 101 W 10th St., The Dalles 12/7—I’m Dreaming of a White Salmon, downtown White Salmon12/7—Christmas in the Gorge Sing-Along, 2:30 to 4 p.m., Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center12/7—Hope for the Holidays Bazaar, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Hood River County Fairgrounds12/7—Sherman Scholarship Association Bazaar, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sherman Junior/Senior High School, Moro12/9—Trail Band performance, 7 p.m., Civic Auditorium, 323 E 4th St., The Dalles12/10—Klickitat PUD commission meeting, 2 p.m.12/11—Bickleton School District’s Christmas concert, 6:30 p.m.12/12—White Salmon School’s third- and fourth-grade winter music program, 6 p.m., Henkle Gym12/13-14—Winterfest Celebration, Enterprise; www.wallowacountychamber.com 12/14—Candy Cane Lane Parade, Goldendale; (509) 773-7630 12/14-15—Last Chance Holiday Bazaar, Hood River County Fairgrounds 12/14-15—Crafty Wonderland Colossal Holiday Sale, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Oregon Convention Center12/14-24—George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker,” Keller Auditorium, Portland 12/16—Trout Lake School District’s winter program, 6:30 p.m. 12/19—Centerville School’s Christmas program, 7 p.m.12/20-22 —Collectors West Gun and Knife Show, Portland Expo Center12/25—Klickitat PUD offices are closed12/26-31—Annual winter whale watching week at the Oregon Coast; (541) 765-340712/31—Klickitat PUD commission meeting, 2 p.m.

Heat pump water heaters have been around for many years, but recent inno-vations in the product design have resulted in models with good poten-tial for energy savings for homes in the Pacific Northwest. Homes replacing a standard electric water heater with a heat pump water heater can save up to 50 per-cent on water heating costs.

How they WorkHeat pump water heaters use electricity to move heat from one place to another instead of generating heat directly, mak-ing them two to three times more energy efficient than conventional electric resis-tance water heaters.

Heat pumps work like a refrigerator in reverse. While a refrigerator pulls heat from inside its interior and moves it into the surrounding room, a stand-alone air-source heat pump water heater pulls heat from the surrounding air and moves it at a higher temperature into the tank to heat the water.

installation informationA manufacturer-trained technician can help determine if a heat pump water heater is right for your home. Each manufacturer provides guidance for proper installation of its product.

Generally, a heat pump water heater requires a location with about 750 to 1,000 cubic feet of free air circulation and temperatures normally 40 to 90 degrees. Good locations for a heat pump water heater include utility rooms, garages and basements. For about four hours a day, under typical operating conditions, the HPWH produces cool exhaust air and noise similar to a win-dow air conditioner.

How to Participate Homeowners interested in a heat pump water heater should contact Klickitat PUD’s Energy Services Department for more information and rebate levels. Call (800) 548-8357 ext. 622 or (509) 773-7622. n

Is a Heat Pump Water Heater Right for You?

D E C E M B E R 2013 25

By Christina Sawyer

Hosting a “green” holiday takes a little planning and effort, but the payoff can help your budget and relax a gift-recipient’s bottom line.

Deck the halls with energy savings by following these tips for energy-efficient shopping, baking and decorating.

Green ShoppingBefore buying a gift, most folks check the price tag to make sure it is a good deal. Smart consumers also check the product and manufacturer.

Greenpeace International’s Greener Electronics Guide rates manufacturers on the full life cycle of products. If you are considering an electronic device as a gift, see how it ranks at www.greenpeace.org.

Investing in a big gift? Energy Star TVs and appli-ances save a bundle on power use. They have a lower standby-mode consumption than an average device and generally use less energy in all functions.

Include a smart power strip as part of your gift. Most electronic devices consume energy even when turned off. Standby power consumption ranges from 5 to 10 percent of a household’s total energy consumption. Smart power strips save energy by shut-ting off power to plugged-in

gadgets when they go into standby mode.

When a gaming device plugged into a smart strip goes into standby mode, its power consumption drops. The smart strip detects the change and cuts the power to that device. Many smart power strips also have one or two unmonitored, always-on outlets. Use these outlets to plug in devices that always need power, such as a cordless phone base or alarm system.

Deck the House in SavingsKnow a neighbor who gives the Griswold family a run for its money? Give them strings of light-emitting diodes (LEDs). A high-quality LED light has a life expectancy of 50,000 hours or more. Replacing old holiday lights with LEDs? Consider recy-cling the retired strands at www.holidayleds.com and get a 25 percent off coupon toward the purchase of LED holiday lights.

More isn’t always best. A

small, thoughtful display still stirs warm holiday feelings, and you will be grateful when your January power bill does not put a dent in your budget.

Consider using timers for holiday lights. Set lights to turn on when it gets dark and off once viewers are snug in their beds. Four to six hours should be plenty of time.

And don’t forget ribbons, wreaths and garland. Energy-free decorating traditions that still deliver holiday cheer.

Green-Baked GoodiesThe U.S. Department of Energy estimates cooking accounts for 4 percent of a home’s total energy use. Add energy costs for refrigeration, water heating, and dishwash-ing and you have a hefty kitchen price tag.

As holiday parties and pot-lucks gear up, keep efficient cooking tips in mind.

• Cut baking temperatures by 25 degrees with a ceramic or glass pan. These pans retain heat better than metal.

• Use the oven wisely by cooking in large batches, and fit pans into all available oven space.

• Keep the door closed. Each time you peek into the oven you let out hot air, caus-ing the oven to work over-time to bring the temperature back up.

• Get to know how long

Green GivingEnergy-e� cient shopping, baking and decorating holiday tips

Mt. Wheeler Power

A smart power strip knows when elec-tronic devices are in standby mode and turns them off to save you even more energy.

4 D E C E M B E R 2013

it takes to preheat your oven and make sure you are ready to start cooking right away.

• Insert a stainless steel skewer through meat or baked potatoes to speed cooking, or cut food into smaller pieces to shorten cooking time.

• Have a convection option on your stove? It helps reduce cooking time and temperature.

• Turn your electric oven off 10 minutes before the end of the cooking time; it main-tains the temperature that long. Last, but not least, if you are planning some kitchen time, lower your thermostat. The heat generated in your kitchen can help heat the entire house, especially if you leave the oven door open after

you are done. The holidays are a joyful

time, and there is little that feels as good as giving some-one you love the perfect gift. Make that gift a positive one and keep the holidays green for both you and your loved ones. Sources: Greenpeace International, U.S. Department of Energy

Green GivingEnergy-e� cient shopping, baking and decorating holiday tips

Learn More About Saving Energy www.mwpower.net www.energystar.gov www.togetherwesave.com

Save energy by baking with a convec-tion oven. Keep the oven door closed to retain heat. Photo by Mike Teegarden

D E C E M B E R 2013 5

At OTEC, we take great pride in highlighting the value of cooperative membership to children. After all, they are our members-in-training. We provide a variety of programs that benefit young people, from safety demonstrations to sponsoring youth activities across our four-county service territory.

We are seeking applications for two of the programs we are particularly proud of—the Washington Youth Tour and the OTEC scholarship program.

Youth TourDuring the annual Washington Youth Tour, more than 1,500 high school students from across the country descend on Washington, D.C., to learn about government, history and the role of electric cooperatives. OTEC sends four high school juniors—one from each of the four counties we serve—on the Washington Youth Tour every year. All expenses are paid (except spending money).

The next trip is June 12-19, 2014. Applications are available from high school guidance counselors or at any OTEC office. Applications are due January 21, 2014.

Scholarship ProgramThe OTEC scholarship program awards 26 $5,000 scholarships to graduating high school seniors, returning college students and adults pursuing higher education.

OTEC also awards two $5,000 scholarships to attend linemen’s training programs.

The scholarships are open to anyone who receives—or has parents who receive—electrical service from OTEC. Scholarship applications are available at local high schools, online at www.otecc.com and at any OTEC office.

OTEC emphasizes the cooperative difference by providing real value for even our youngest members. It is another way OTEC looks out for you. n

Oregon Trail Electricwww.otecc.com

28 d e c e m b e r 2013

OTEC Scholarship and Youth Tour Applications Available Now

Washington Youth Tour Open to all current high school juniors whose parents receive

electrical service from OTec Applications are available now at area high schools Applications are due January 21, 2014 2014 Washington Youth Tour is June 12-19

OTEC Scholarship Program Open to anyone who receives, or has parents who receive,

electrical service from OTec and is pursuing a full-time higher education degree or lineman program Applications are available now at local high schools, OTec offi ces

and online at www.otecc.com Applications are due by 5 p.m., January 14, 2014 Scholarship recipients will be informed in mid-April 2014

d e c e m b e r 2013 29

By Ned Ratterman, OTEC Director of Operations

Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative recently concluded a major capital project: rebuilding the lines that feed the Anthony Lakes ski resort.

The power lines were built in the late 1960s by OTEC’s predecessor, California Pacific National Corporation.

OTEC replaced poles deteriorated by weather, insects and woodpecker damage. New lines were strung to increase safety and reliability.

The project was identified in OTEC’s long-range plan by employees, including Director of Engineering Bill DeLashmutt. Bill, who was raised in nearby La Grande, fondly remem-bers the ski area before electricity was delivered through the power lines.

In the early ’60s, Anthony Lakes’ pommel lift

was powered by a diesel generator. The warm-ing cabin included a wood burning stove, a few windows and no lighting other than what shone sparingly through a few windows.

The 10-mile line provides electrical service to homes and cabins at the bottom and top of the mountain. In many cases, access to the lines is limited, especially during snowy months. Therefore, having a solid infrastructure and preventing winter restoration needs is important.

OTEC crews worked hard and in a limited time frame—due to weather and fire restrictions—to complete the work. OTEC is proud of the efforts of its linemen who organized and completed the many tasks involved. The co-op is confident the completed work will withstand the test of time at least as well as the system that followed the diesel generator in the ’60s. n

OTEC Crews Complete Rebuild at Anthony Lakes

A helicopter from Baker Aircraft lifts a fiberglass pole on the Anthony Lakes Project.Photo by Jim Horan

Invite Safety Home for the Holidays

It is easy to get caught up in the hectic pace of holiday entertaining: cookies to bake, decorations to hang, presents to wrap. But don’t overlook safety dur-ing the rush. The winter holiday period marks peak time for home fires and pre-ventable injuries.

The good news: It is not difficult to make your home ready to safely host all of your favorite holiday activities.

Take time out from your party prepa-rations to test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms should be installed on every level of the home and outside each sleeping area. Smoke alarms also should be located inside each bedroom.

Be sure to discuss your family fire escape plan with any overnight guests.

Arrange your holiday decorations to avoid overloading electrical outlets with too many lights, cords or appliances. Inspect all decorations, cords and outlets for damage before use. Keep electrical cords out of doorways and high-traffic areas where they pose a tripping hazard. Do not damage cords by pinching them or attaching them with staples or nails.

Keep young visitors safe by prepar-ing your home before they arrive. If your home is not already childproof, install tamper-resistant receptacles or use safety covers on all unused electrical outlets.

Don’t forget to put away small items, such as buttons, coins and jewelry, which are a choking hazard.

Store breakables, candles, matches and other potentially dangerous items in

inaccessible or locked areas out of reach. Use safety gates at the top and bottom

of stairs to keep babies and toddlers safe.Safety does not stop when the party

starts. Keep decorations, gifts and other combustibles at least 3 feet from heat sources or open flame.

Never leave the kitchen when some-thing is cooking.

Make sure children are supervised at all times in the kitchen and anywhere space heaters, candles or fireplaces are being used.

Turn off and unplug all decorations before leaving home or turning in for the night.

Remember that a safe and happy holi-day remains the best gift you can give friends and family. n

Source: Electrical Safety Foundation International

In the midst of cookie-baking and holiday preparations, take time to ensure your home is safe for visitors.Photo courtesy of Whirlpool Corp.

Escambia River

Keep it Safe

Before visitors arrive, take time to properly prepare

8 d e C e m b e r 2013

When it comes to shopping for and comparing appliances and home electronics, look for the EnergyGuide and Energy Star labels to ensure the energy-efficiency credentials of the product inside the box.

The Federal Trade Commission requires yellow EnergyGuide labels on most home appliances, except ranges and ovens. The labels provide an estimate of the product’s energy consumption or energy efficiency, and compare it to the highest and lowest energy consumption or efficiency estimates of similar appliance models.

On home electronics such as computers, televisions and home audio equipment, look for blue Energy Star labels indicating they have met strict energy-efficiency criteria estab-lished by the U.S. Department of Energy and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Ensuring what you take home is energy efficient can make a big difference. The aver-age home has two TVs, three telephones and a DVD player. If replaced with Energy Star-qualified models, more than 25 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions a year would be saved—equivalent to removing more than 2 million cars from the road. Home electronics with clock displays and remote controls use energy even when switched off, costing U.S. households $100 a year. Energy Star products use less energy to perform “standby” functions, while providing the same performance and features.

Using less energy preserves energy resources, while saving money on energy bills. An energy-efficient gift is truly a gift that keeps on giving. For more information, visit www.eere.energy.gov or www.energystar.gov. n

Give the Gift of Energy Efficiency

Important Account and Payment Information When you call EREC with a question about your bill, please have your account number ready for our member service personnel. This will allow us to serve you in the most efficient manner possible. Your bill is due and payable upon receipt. Payment may be made by mail, online at www.erec.com, at one of our collection stations, at our convenient night depository at the cooperative office or in person at the cooperative office. We ask that you allow five days for mail and delivery to ensure we receive your payment on time. Your electric service is subject to disconnection if payment is not in the office by the collection date, even though you may have mailed the payment. Accounts not paid within 15 days after date of bill will receive reminder notices showing the account will be disconnected if not paid. Return check charge is $25 or 5 percent of the check, whichever is higher.

Escambia River Electric Cooperative Inc.www.erec.com

Jay office P. O. Box 428 Jay, FL 32565 (850) 675-4521(800) 235-3848

Walnut Hill office 4950 Highway 99AWalnut Hill, FL 32568(850) 327-4122

Office HOurs

7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday

staff

Clay R. Campbell, General Manager/CEOFaye Diamond, Director of AdministrationSonya Dooley, Director of Finance Sabrina Owens, Director of MarketingBrent Stubstad, P.E., Dir. of EngineeringWesley Scott, Outside Services SupervisorEarl Youngblood, Operations Supervisor

trustees

Escambia CountyWilliam P. CoonJames E. Hall Ernie HesterJ. D. PowellSam Walker, Vice President

Santa Rosa CountyMarshall DiamondRick Hunsucker, PresidentEd KelleyRadford Locklin Jr., Secretary/TreasurerDale Westmoreland

The board of directors meets at 5 p.m. the third Monday of each month at the Jay office.

fOr POwer Outages:Call (877) OUT-EREC or (877) 688-3732

The offices of Escambia River Electric Cooperative Inc. will be closed Tuesday, December 24, and Wednesday, December 25, for Christmas.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Use Energy Wisely

32 D E C E M B E R 2013

FL-151

When it Comes to Providing Energy, ‘All-of-the-Above’ Strategy is CriticalRemoving coal from the nation’s energy mix will dramatically increase the price you pay for electricity

Electric cooperatives are disappointed—but not surprised—that in September the Obama administration officially aban-doned an all-of-the-above energy strategy for an all-but-one approach that effec-tively removes coal from the nation’s fuel mix in the future.

The policy proposed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency sets stringent limits on carbon dioxide emis-sions from future coal or natural gas plants. The new standards are impossible to meet with existing technology.

For several years, cooperatives have tested carbon capture and storage as a way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Unfortunately, the technology doesn’t make financial sense. It never has been used at a commercial scale at a power plant during a prolonged period to dem-onstrate its viability or cost.

In a 2012 Congressional Budget Office report, engineers estimate CCS would increase the cost of producing electricity from coal-based plants by 75 percent.

The administration’s switch to an all-but-one energy approach would limit Americans’ access to a plentiful and affordable resource.

We should not gamble with the eco-nomic well-being of future generations and our nation’s economy. Already wor-ried about making ends meet, many Glades Electric Cooperative members cannot afford the significant increases in electric bills this policy would trigger.

Historically, the price of coal remains affordable and relatively stable. The U.S. Energy Information Agency reports the United States has 236 years remaining of recoverable coal reserves. Coal generates 37 percent of the nation’s electricity—our

biggest energy source by far. It seems the administration is content

to let history repeat itself. We saw this all-but-one game in 1978 when Congress passed the ill-conceived Power Plant and Industrial Fuel Use Act.

Never heard of it? Few have, but for several years the government banned natural gas for power generation. Yes, natural gas—the fuel source being sold to the nation today as a cleaner fuel option.

With gas off the table, electric co-ops were forced to choose between building coal or nuclear plants. Back then, co-ops were in the midst of a major power plant building cycle. With few options, they invested heavily in coal-based generating plants in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Thankfully, Congress repealed its mis-take, but not for nine years.

Let’s not repeat past mistakes. Stand with us as we fight to keep electric bills affordable. Raise your voice through the Cooperative Action Network at www.action.coop.

Tell EPA we need an all-of-the-above energy strategy. nSource: National Rural Electric Cooperative Association

Glades ElectricNeighbors Working for Neighbors

Want to protect the future of your cooperative’s energy supply, and help keep your cost of electricity from soaring? Make your voice heard through the Cooperative Action Network at www.action.coop.

6 d e C e M b e r 2013

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Protect Electronics, Prevent HazardsBig-ticket electronics—such as televi-sions, computers and gaming con-soles—top many holiday wish lists, but safety may not. Buying, installing and operating these items safely protects not only the expensive equipment, but your home.

The Electrical Safety Foundation International offers these tips:

• Always buy electrical devices from a reputable retailer you trust.Be especially wary when making online purchases.

• Check that all electrical items are certified by a nationally recog-nized testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories, Canadian Standards Association or Intertek.

• Always read and follow manu-facturer’s instructions before use.

• Send warranty and product registration forms for new items to manufacturers to be notified about product recalls. Recall infor-mation is also available on the website of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, www.cpsc.gov.

• Never install an exterior television or radio antenna close enough to contact power lines if it falls.

• Never remove the ground pin (the third prong) to make a three-prong plug fit into a two-prong outlet.

• All appliances and cords should be kept in good condi-tion. Examine them regularly for damage, and repair or dispose of damaged items.

• Keep cords out of reach of children and pets.• Make sure entertainment centers and computer worksta-

tions have enough space around them for ventilation of elec-tronic equipment.

• Keep liquids, including drinks, away from electrical devices. Spills can result in dangerous shocks or fires.

• Unplug equipment when not in use to save energy and reduce risk of shock or fire. Surge protectors are a good central turn-off point.

• Always unplug electrical items by grasping the plug firmly rather than pulling on the cord.

• If you receive any kind of shock from a large appliance or any other electrical device, stop using it until an electrician has checked it.

• If an appliance smokes or sparks, or you feel a tingle or light shock when it is on, stop using it. Discard and replace it, or have it repaired by an authorized service provider.

• Extension cords are meant for temporary use, not as a long-term or permanent electrical circuit.

• Never use a cord that feels hot or is damaged in any way. Touching even a single exposed strand can result in an electric shock or burn.

• Use only weather-resistant, heavy-gauge extension cords marked “for outdoor use” outside. Keep all outdoor extension cords clear of standing water.

• Arrange furniture so there are outlets available for equip-ment without the use of extension cords.

• Do not place power cords or extension cords in high traf-fic areas or under carpets, rugs or furniture (to avoid overheat-ing and tripping hazards), and never nail or staple cords to the wall or baseboard.

For more information, visit www.holidaysafety.org.

Glades ElectricNeighbors Working for Neighbors

Surge Protector or Power Strip?Although surge protectors and power strips both allow you to plug several devices in one location, it is important for consumers to understand they are not interchangeable. A true surge protector includes internal components that divert or suppress the extra current from surges, protecting your valuable electronics from electrical spikes. A power strip simply provides more outlets for a circuit.

The master outlet on this Belkin surge protector senses when your TV is on or off and controls power to five

peripheral outlets for your AV components. Two outlets stay on for devices that need continuous power, such as DVRs.

26 D E C E M B E R 2013

Reflecting on the Past Year

CEO/General Manager, Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative

By Michael White

As the end of 2013 approaches, I like to reflect on the events of the past year. In addition to thinking of impacts on my personal life, as your cooperative’s CEO and general manager, I also evaluate opportu-nities Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative has had and the challenges we have faced.

I ask myself, “Did we provide the highest level of member service?” and “Have we implemented pro-grams that offer our membership added value?”

In answering such questions, I developed a list of some of our accomplishments during the past year. As you read this, I hope you see that our employees come to work each day with one goal in mind: to safely pro-vide you with a reliable source of energy services.

I thank you for your patronage of the cooperative, and wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy 2014.

Automated MeteringGCEC’s service territory is now 100 percent retrofit-ted with automated meters. Our two-way automatic communication system allows us to collect metering and interval data, which makes finding, fixing and verifying power a much more efficient project.

The ability to quickly determine history of use

helps us assist you with any questions you have about your bill.

Converting our metering system to an automated one was a large project that spanned all of the coop-erative’s departments. For instance, as we changed out the meters, our technicians collected data, which they passed along to our member services depart-ment so these employees could update our member information system to better serve you.

I am proud of the way our employees worked as a team to complete this system conversion.

Billing CyclesIn 2013, GCEC developed three new billing cycles to better serve our Social Security and disability recipi-ents. We can place members in these billing cycles based on the dates they receive their checks.

If you receive government funds and are inter-ested in this new option, please call our office for more information.

Employee Training and SafetyOur No. 1 priority is the safety of our employees, our members and the public.

At least once a month, our employees participate in safety training sessions that cover everything from first aid and CPR to the training our line technicians need to safely work on power lines each day.

Gulf Coast Electric is committed to safety.

Integrated Voice ResponseCo-op members can pay their bill over the telephone with no waiting thanks to a new 24/7 IVR system.

When you call one of our office numbers, you will be greeted by an auto attendant with a list of options. Simply listen until prompted to use the bill payment system. The system is secure and prevents you from being placed on hold to pay your bill.

The IVR system also allows members to check balances and update telephone numbers, which enables us to locate you more quickly in the case of a power outage.

To access the system, you need your GCEC account number. This number is on your bill.The cooperative’s automated metering project was completed during 2013.

Gulf Coast

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New East Callaway SubstationConstruction of the East Callaway Substation started this summer and was completed in September. The substation is along Highway 22 near East Callaway Heights.

The new substation was built to improve power quality and service to Eastern Shipyard Group’s Allanton Shipyard, East Callaway Heights and the surrounding area.

Until now, this area has been served by our Bayou George South Substation on John Pitts Road. To provide an increased level of reliability to our mem-bers, the board of trustees and management moved forward with this long-range work plan item.

Initially, the substation will have one 10 MVA transformer and three feeders. As load develops, a second transformer and additional feeders can be added.

Office SecurityIf you visited one of our offices during the latter part of 2013, you probably noticed we installed glass panels in our lobbies.

These panels create a safer working environment for our employees.

Additionally, we implemented a new visitor sign-in procedure and installed automatic gates on entrances to employee-only areas.

In an ever-changing world, it is crucial we protect our most valuable asset, our employees.

Outage Management SystemIn late 2013, GCEC purchased an Outage Manage-ment System to improve detection and response to outages, especially major outages during severe weather events.

Through the Tyndall Air Force Base contract, GCEC has stimulated the economy by creating jobs and buying additional materials.

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The East Callaway Substation was com-pleted in September.

d e c e m b e r 2013 5

The system will allow us to better communicate with members about the nature and extent of power outages and what we are doing to restore service.

This system integrates our automated meter-ing and IVR. When you call in to report an outage, the IVR captures your phone number and account number. The system then passes this information to the OMS, creating a map of the outage. As others call in, we are able to better detect the reason for the outage and where we need to direct employees.

When a line technician repairs an outage, we send a signal to your meter to make sure power has been restored. As power is restored, we are able to see this on the map.

During regular business hours, our dispatch-ing personnel run reports to ensure your power is on. This gives us an opportunity to be proactive in repairing an outage, fixing it before you arrive home.

OSHA ComplianceGCEC is 100 percent compliant with Occupational Safety and Health Administration rules.

We have gone to great lengths to ensure all of our employees have received safety training as required by OSHA and that all of our offices and equipment adhere to OSHA standards.

Pole InspectionsTo improve system reliability, in 2013 GCEC focused on best practices for extending the life of its wooden

poles. Poles were inspected and then repaired or replaced as necessary.

We are required by the Florida Public Service Commission and the Rural Utilities Service to inspect each pole on our system once every eight years. We inspected more than 6,000 poles this year alone.

Right of WayThroughout 2013, we trimmed the co-op’s rights of way in the Bayou George and Southport areas.

If vegetation comes into contact with power lines, it can interfere with your electric service and cause a potentially dangerous situation. It is vital this veg-etation be cleared from the power lines to provide reliable electric service and to prevent a possible hazardous condition.

Your board and management team is taking a dif-ferent approach to trimming than in years past. We are reclaiming our right of ways.

The co-op tries to work with each landowner to preserve landscaping when maintaining rights of way. We realize most property owners regard trees as an asset; however, federal law states it is GCEC’s responsibility to eliminate hazardous conditions.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to bring you quality, reliable service.

Tyndall Air Force BaseAs we continue to push forward with our 50-year contract, we have corrected many issues with the water and electric systems at Tyndall AFB.

This contract has given us the opportunity to hire more employees and to help stimulate our local economies by buying materials and expanding your cooperative.

We are proud to be a part of “Team Tyndall.”

Zero Lost-Time AccidentsI am proud to say that during the past year, GCEC employees had zero lost-time accidents. That means none of our 71 employees had a safety accident within the past year that required them to take off from work to recover from an accident.

That means our employees logged nearly 112,000 working hours without a significant accident.

This is a major accomplishment that could not be reached without a strong commitment to working safely each and every day. I want to commend our employees for a job well done and encourage them to keep up the good work. n

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Reflecting on the Past YearGlass panels were installed in GCEC office lobbies the latter part of 2013 to provide a safer working environ-ment for employees.

6 d e c e m b e r 2013

Pole-top rescue is one of many safety trainings GCEC employees participated in during 2013.

Right-of-way crews continue to clear vegetation from power lines.

Reduce Demand With Water-Saving ProgramH2O Plus—a program available to you from Gulf Coast Electric Cooperative—can dramatically reduce the demand for electricity. We just need your participation.

Using energy wisely has never been eas-ier. A device is installed on your electric water heater that allows our power sup-plier to cycle your unit for short periods.

By managing energy use when demand is high—when you and your neighbors use the most electricity—our supplier can reduce demand when elec-tricity is most expensive, delaying the need to build facilities to generate more power, alleviating or pushing those costs out to the future.

An added benefit is reducing the amount of greenhouse gases, thereby helping the environment.

You still will have enough hot water for showers and household chores. In fact, you shouldn’t notice a difference in the amount of hot water available.

For more information, please call GCEC Energy Services Representative Manuela Heyn. She will take your information and, after ensuring the pro-gram is a good fit for your household, schedule an installer to visit your home and install the device at no cost to you.

For your participation, GCEC will make a one-time credit of $25 to your electric bill. We look forward to hearing from you soon. n

Gulf Coast Electric Welcomes New Crew Memberscole barfi eld and chad creamer have joined Gulf coast electric cooperative as line technician apprentices.

cole graduated from deane bozeman School. chad graduated from A. crawford mosley High School.

Welcome, cole and chad! Cole Barfield Chad Creamer

Panama City6243 east Highway 98(850) 481-1188

Southport9434 Highway 77(850) 265-3631

Wewahitchka722 West Highway 22(850) 639-2216

Gulf Coast

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