THE MESSENGER
A Publication for North Arkansas Electric Cooperative Members
Smart devices can reduce electric usage
Smart technologies make our homes more comfortable, convenient and energy efficient. By connecting your home Wi-Fi network, smart devices automate everyday tasks, such as lighting, heating, cooling and home security. They even can communicate with other smart devices in the home.
Although not all smart home products are specifically designed with energy savings in mind, there are sev eral smart technologies that can help you lower home energy use. Here are the top three smart home devices to help you save.
Smart Thermostats
Smart or not, your thermostat is the most effective tool for controlling energy use, as heating and cooling typically account for the largest portion of energy bills. Smart thermo stats allow you to adjust the indoor temperature through an app, giving you full control from any where on the go. Many smart thermostats include learning capabilities and will adjust the thermostat based on previous behavior and patterns.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, smart thermostats can reduce heating and cooling bills by more than 8% annually. With models as low as $65, they typically pay for themselves in one year.
Smart Lighting
in a range of shapes, brightness levels, colors and more, so shop for the products that work best for your home lighting needs.
Many smart bulbs include motion sensors that turn on or off based on room activity, further optimizing home energy use. If you’re new to smart lighting, try a home starter kit. Prices for kits range from $70 to $300 and up depending on how many bulbs you need.
Smart LED bulbs use less electricity than traditional bulbs and can be scheduled or turned off (or on) remotely through a smart phone app. Smart bulbs are available
Round Up in action
NAEC’s Leah Rouse presents Evening Shade Fire Department personnel with a $1,000 Operation Round Up® donation to help purchase thermal imaging cameras. Members who would like to help support nonprofit donations and college scholarships can join Round Up by calling NAEC at (870) 895-3221 or completing the form at naeci.com/operation-round-up.
Smart plugs are inexpensive gadgets that can help you save energy. Many electronic devices consume power even when they are turned off. This is known as “phantom load” and can take a toll on your energy bills. Smart plugs are simply plugged into an electric outlet and connected to your Wi-Fi network. When set up, the smart plug can cut power (or return power) to non-smart devices, such as coffee makers, phone chargers and other items that draw phantom load.
Many smart plugs can be paired with popular smart hubs, such as Alexa or Google Nest, or controlled through the plug’s associated app. They are simple to use, and a set of four can be purchased for as little as $25.
If you’re looking for new ways to save energy, try these budget-friendly, convenient smart home technologies. NAEC has energy advisers on staff. Reach them by emailing info@naeci.com or calling (870) 895-3221.
— Abby Berry/NRECA
No patronage allocated for 2024
NAEC operates on a not-for-profit basis under state law. For federal tax purposes, NAEC files as a taxable cooperative. As such, patronage allocations for the electric division are required to be calculated on a taxable basis.
In 2024, NAEC had positive electric margins for book purposes; however, the electric division operated at a loss for tax purposes similar to 2023. As a result, there are no member patronage allocations for 2024. The 2024 tax loss largely was driven by relatively flat electric sales combined with higher operating expenses.
Members typically receive an allocation notice, also called a capital credit certificate, each September for the previous year. Patronage allocations have no immediate cash value but are recognition of members’ contributions of capital during the fiscal period.
Allocations are retired in accordance with NAEC’s bylaws. Money represented by patronage is invested in electric plant and used to improve the quality of service provided to members through system improvements. It also helps stabilize the co-op’s financial condition.
The NAEC Board of Directors will determine any retirement in November. If approved, members will receive a cash refund as either a bill credit or check in December.
Davis will bring his “Making Accidents Disappear” electric safety magic show to Baxter County Fair Kids Day at 11 a.m. Sept. 13. You won’t want to miss meeting Sparky the plug.
Take advantage of “shoulder months,” or transitional periods between peak heating and cooling seasons. Look for ways to boost comfort without running your heating and cooling system. Use ceiling fans and open windows on breezy days to ventilate your home. On cooler days, add a layer of clothing and avoid running the heat.
