District Fred Smith

Solar Panels

We want to warn our members about potentially DECEPTIVE sales tactics in our area regarding solar panels. The practices of some solar companies have been the topic of discussion among electric cooperatives across the country for some time now. It was a story picked up by CBS Indianapolis and we wanted to share a link to the report, https://cbs4indy.com/indiana-news/dozens-ofcustomers-heated-after-installing-solar-panels/, for awareness. Please be extra careful about accepting sales pitches, especially those that SOUND TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE.

BEFORE you sign any contract to install solar, PLEASE CALL US. We are here to help you and have your best interests in mind. Many solar panel salespeople only seem concerned about making a profit - not about you.

THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING SOLAR

1. Contact RushShelby Energy: We support our members investing in solar energy. We want to make sure you have all the facts before you purchase. RSE is your local, trusted cooperative and we are here to answer any questions you may have.

2. Choose a reputable vendor: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. You should never be pressured into making such a significant life-changing purchase. Make sure you are working with a reputable vendor. Be cautious of vendors that approach you directly. You should be seeking them out. Most will tell you something along the lines of, "you will eliminate your electric bill, and this will cost you nothing."

3. Know your co-op's rate structure and interconnection purchased power policies: Your local not-for-profit energy provider can help you understand the rate structure your services fall under, types of charges likely to be incurred, as well as how you may be compensated for the excess energy you do not use that is generated by your solar system.

4. Determine the costs upfront: RSE does not install or maintain member-owned solar systems. You will be responsible for the initial costs to install the system, ongoing maintenance and repair costs.

5. Understand the responsibilities: Installing a solar system requires that specific obligations be met by all parties involved with the process. For example, the owner of the distributed energy system is responsible for obtaining the proper equipment and ensuring that all requirements of the electric co-op's interconnection agreement is met, including paying any necessary costs.

6. Do your homework on everything before you write a check: If you are considering investing in a solar system, talk to your electric cooperative before you begin. Also, speak to credible, reputable and skilled professionals knowledgeable in solar systems. They can direct you to additional resources that will help you understand the economics of a solar system, including the type of renewable energy technology best suited for your property and financing, potential incentives and other requirements, such as insurance required.

Source: Jackson County REMC

SMART

PAYMENTS

MAKE A SMART PAYMENT IN PERSON WITH SMARTHUB

*SERVICE FEE MAY APPLY. VANILLADIRECT IS PROVIDED BY INCOMM FINANCIAL SERVICES CALIFORNIA, INC. AND BY INCOMM FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. (NMLS# 912772), WHICH IS LICENSED AS A MONEY TRANSMITTER BY THE NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF FINANCIAL SERVICES. TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY.

Here’s how:

1. Find a participating location near you in the

SmartHub app or on the web 2. Find your barcode in the SmartHub app or print it from the web 3. Visit the participating location, scan the code at the checkout and pay your bill and make a cash payment which is posted to your account immediately.

When it comes to paying your bill, convenience is key. Now, you can pay your bill at participating local retailers with SmartHub. Use your barcode in SmartHub and pay your bill while you get groceries, gas or more. Find a location today and get started with SmartHub.

Quick Links

Indiana Youth Tour

Four Southwestern High School Juniors will represent RushShelby Energy on the Indiana Youth Tour. Loriann Beckner, McKinley Correll, Jonah DeArmitt and Conner Jewell will join other high school juniors across America for a once in a lifetime trip to Washington D.C. This trip will alllow these students the opportunity to watch history come alive while making friendships that will last a lifetime.

Hoosier Energy Launches New Website

The website was designed to encourage members to learn more about their level and pattern of electric usage by way of demand-side management (DSM). Why Electrify offers educational resources and materials on the planning, implementing and monitoring activities of electric utilities.

RushShelby Energy takes a special interest in how it serves members. The Why Electrify website offers detailed information and resources specific to residential, agricultural, commercial and industrial groups to provide all members with knowledge they can use.

Energy Efficiency Tip May Festivals

When streaming content, use the smallest device that makes sense for the number of people watching. Avoid streaming on game consoles, which use 10 times more power than streaming through a tablet or laptop. Streaming content with electronic equipment that has earned the ENERGY STAR® rating will use 25% to 30% less energy than standard equipment.

May 3 Shipshewana Flea Market -Shipshewana

May 4-29 500 Festival -Indianapolis

May 7 Riley Wrangler's Arts and Crafts Fair -Greenfield

May 7 Crafty Saturday in Shelby County -Shelbyville

May 7-8 Metamora Spring Fling -Metamora

May 13-14 Smoke on the Square -Hope

May 20-21 Franklin County Quilt Show -Brookville

May 27-29 Metamora Chain Saw Carving Invitational -Metamora

May 27 Music on Depot: New Pal Summer Concert Series -New Palestine

May 30 Memorial Day Parade -New Castle