COLBY WELLS CEO
Powering a Year of Progress
As 2025 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on how Our Responsibility, Your Power truly came to life over the past year. From system upgrades and storm response to youth development and community outreach, every milestone we achieved was powered by people — our employees, our members and our partners.
This fall, our POWERful Partnerships event brought together state and local officials, emergency managers and community leaders with one goal in mind: building stronger relationships before the next storm hits. That kind of preparation defines who we are as a cooperative — locally led, community-focused and ready to serve when it matters most.
We also celebrated tremendous growth in our youth and scholarship programs. Thanks to the continued support of our members, vendors and sponsors, South Central expanded opportunities for students across our service area. Whether through leadership training, Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas Youth Tour or local scholarship awards, these efforts are helping shape a brighter, more responsible generation of leaders — right here at home.
Behind the scenes, our crews and engineering teams continued working tirelessly to strengthen reliability. System upgrades, copper wire replacement and advanced technology are helping us serve members more efficiently than ever, while maintaining the local touch that makes South Central who we are.
And of course, our employees continued to demonstrate what it means to care for community through volunteer work, food drives and countless small acts of service that make a big difference.
From strengthening reliability and serving communities to celebrating partnerships and empowering the next generation, South Central Arkansas Electric Cooperative continues powering possibilities.
As we look ahead to 2026, our focus remains clear. We’ll continue to invest in reliability, expand our fiber network and seek new ways to serve our members with innovation, integrity and care.
This year reminded us that progress doesn’t happen by accident. It’s powered by people, partnerships and a shared sense of responsibility.
From all of us at South Central Arkansas Electric Cooperative, thank you for allowing us to power your homes, your hopes and your holidays. We wish you a Merry Christmas and a bright New Year filled with warmth, safety and connection.
The Gift of Efficiency
This holiday season, give yourself the gift that keeps on giving — an energy-efficient, comfortable home. A few small changes can make a big difference on your winter electric bill while keeping your family cozy all season long.
Light Smarter
If your home sparkles with holiday lights, switch to LED strands. They use up to 80% less energy and last far longer than traditional bulbs. Plug them into a timer or smart plug so they automatically turn off when you head to bed or leave the house.
Warm, Not Wasteful
Before the next cold front rolls through, check your insulation and seal any drafts around doors and windows. Take out previously used window unit AC’s if you can. Let the sun in during the day for free heat, and close curtains at night to trap it inside. Even lowering your thermostat by just two degrees can save energy without sacrificing comfort.
Safe & Sensible Space Heaters
If you rely on space heaters for extra warmth, remember the “three-foot rule.” Keep them at least three feet away from anything flammable. Always plug them directly into the wall (never a power strip) and turn them off when you leave the room or go to sleep.
Smart Home Bonus
Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust your temperature when you’re away visiting family. Many models pay for themselves within a year through energy savings.
STAY COZY WITHOUT BREAKING THE BILL
•Dress in layers and keep cozy throws nearby.
•Use natural sunlight to warm your space.
•Close vents in unused rooms.
•Lower the thermostat slightly overnight.
Little steps add up — and that’s a gift your whole family will appreciate when the next bill arrives.
From all of us at South Central Arkansas Electric Cooperative, here’s to a safe, warm and energy-smart holiday season.
LED holiday lights consume 70% less energy than conventional incandescent light strands.
Before you turn the thermostat up, put on an extra layer of clothing and get cozy under your favorite blanket.
Smart thermostats are Wi-Fi connected and can be controlled through your smartphone, tablet or voice.
