A newsletter for members of Rural Electric Cooperative
August 2025
Co-op Comments Rounding up your monthly bill to help community members The seven cooperative principles define how Rural Electric Cooperative conducts business within the communities it serves. These principles can be felt not only by REC's members, but everyone in the communities the Cooperative serves, especially principle number seven: Concern for Community. One of the ways REC shows concern for community is offering a program called Operation Round-Up. This program allows REC to help others in need by having the members round up their monthly bill to the next dollar amount. The Operation Round-Up program is voluntary for REC members who desire to round up their monthly bill to the next dollar amount. The difference between the actual bill and the next dollar amount is “ear-marked” for use by the Operation Round-Up Board to assist those who qualify according to the rules and regulations of the program. For REC to use the rounded up amount, the member must sign up to participate in Operation Round-Up. Members who desire to sign up can find the contribution form on REC's website, www.recok.coop or call the office at 800-259-3504. Operation Round-Up has provided thousands of dollars in assistance to individuals and organizations throughout this area. People with medical needs, those who have lost homes to fires and natural disasters and non-profit organizations have benefited from this program and the generosity of our members. Donations can be made from one account or multiple accounts. The average yearly contribution from each participating cooperative member is about $6. The most a member would contribute each year is $11.88 per account and the least is zero cents. Members can also make a larger donation if desired. Since starting in 1999, the funds donated for Operation RoundUp have helped more than 110 families in our area. The Operation Round-Up Board consists of five individuals who reside in REC's service territory and have a desire to help others. The Board evaluates each application and determines the need for the applicants.
REC wants to help those in need throughout our service territory. By providing the Operation Round-Up program, REC is able to specifically help these residents in their time of need. In addition to helping individuals, Operation Round-Up also provides financial funds to non-profit organizations throughout the service area to assist with special projects benefitting our local communities. In the past, Operation Round-Up has helped an area family who had lost their home and all of its contents. The family was not adequately insured so the Board of Operation Round-Up approved $1,000 to help this family purchase household items and clothing. Also, they have assisted several senior citizen centers by helping purchase necessary food. 423401 If you are not participating in this program, you are encouraged to sign up now to help your neighbors and local non-profit organizations. All the contributions are tax deductible and participation is voluntary. Members who are interested in this program must notify REC's office for you to be added to Operation Round-Up. Anyone needing additional information about this program should contact REC’s Member Services Department at 1-800-2593504 or 405-756-3104, extension 238.
CEO’s MESSAGE
Net metering explained
Residential solar systems are becoming more attainable, and more homeowners are exploring rooftop solar panels as an additional source for powering their homes. The amount of electricity produced by rooftop solar panels depends on several factors, including your home’s sunlight exposure, energy use habits and the number of panels installed. What is net metering? REC offers a net metering program, which compensates solar owners for any excess electricity the system produces. If a solar system generates more power than the home requires (typically during peak sunlight hours), the additional electricity can be fed back into the electric grid. In return, the homeowner will receive a credit called banked revenue for the excess energy. This billing arrangement is known as “net metering.” While rooftop solar is the most popular renewable generation source for homeowners, it should be noted net metering can also be applied to smallscale wind, hydroelectric, geothermal and biomass systems generating electricity. How does REC know how much to credit for the excess power? When rooftop solar panels produce less electricity than the home requires, the electric meter runs forward, just as it would on a home without solar panels. But when the solar system generates more electricity than you need, the electric meter runs backward, and the excess power is sent back to the grid. At the end 2 Co-op Comments
of the billing cycle, you are charged for the “net” energy used from the electric grid. It is important to understand the amount of electricity you use does not include the full cost of maintaining grid infrastructure supporting your home year-round. This is why you will see charges (in addition to “net” use) that help maintain reliable electric service, such as grid upkeep, transformer upgrades and system balancing. Net metering is especially helpful throughout the year, as solar production is typically higher during summer months and lower during winter months. It allows solar system owners to earn credits during high-production months and use them later in the year when solar output is lower. Who uses the excess power generated by the solar system? The electricity produced by rooftop solar does not go directly to your neighbors. The power flows back the local grid. We then apply the credits for any excess power you have contributed. While generating electricity from the sun (and sending excess power back to the grid) is an exciting opportunity, it is important to thoroughly research the details before installing solar panels or any other type of small-scale renewable energy system. You should also work with a reputable solar vendor to ensure generation estimates are realistic and your home is equipped for the system. It is important to note, net metering will not eliminate your energy bill. Even if you generate as much electricity as you use, which is rare, you will continue to be billed for essential services such as grid access, service fees, meter charges and other fixed costs necessary to maintain a safe and reliable system. If you are interested in solar or would like to learn more about net metering, REC can help. It is important you consult with REC before committing to install solar at your home, as you will gain a better understanding of the solar energy system, billing options and more.
August 2025 Co-op Comments
Official publication of Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. CO-OP COMMENTS is owned, controlled and directed by Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. It is printed monthly and mailed to members in Garvin, McClain, Comanche, Stephens, Grady and Carter counties in Oklahoma. Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. 13942 Highway 76 • P.O. Box 609 Lindsay, OK 73052 405-756-3104 • 800-259-3504 Outage Number: 855-399-2683 www.recok.coop
Board of Trustees Gary Jones, President, District 1 Scott Christian, Vice President, District 1 Brent Bacon, Sec./Treasurer, District 1 Larry Anderson, District 2 Johnny Harrel, District 2 Terri Hays, District 2 Mark Finch, District 3 Randy Griswold, District 3 Sonny Harrison, District 3 Lisa Whitman, Attorney Management and Staff Dusty Ricks, Manager/CEO Linda Ray, CFO Kelli Lindsey, Administrative Assistant and Staff Coordinator Elaine Gilreath, Manager of Customer Service and Data Processing Jon Jones, Manager of Engineering Mitch Gilreath, Manager of Information Technology Services Eric Neill, Manager of Cyber Security and Special Projects Megan Lawrence, Manager of Member Services and Marketing Casey Henson, Manager of Safety and Loss Control/Facilities Scott Henson, System Superintendent Jason Mays, Operations Superintendent
Three smart home technologies to help save energy in your home Smart technologies make our homes more comfortable, convenient and energy efficient. By connecting your home Wi-Fi network, smart devices automate everyday tasks like lighting, heating, cooling and home security – they can even communicate with other smart devices in the home. While not all smart home products are specifically designed with energy savings in mind, there are several 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 thermostats allow you to adjust the indoor temperature through an app, giving you full control from anywhere on the go. Many smart thermostats include learning capabilities and will adjust the thermostat based on previous behavior and patterns. According to the Department of Energy, smart thermostats can reduce heating and cooling bills by more than eight percent annually, and with models as low as $65, they typically pay for themselves in one year. Smart Lighting 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 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 which turn on or off based on room activity, further optimizing home energy use. If you are new to smart lighting, try a home starter kit. Prices for kits range from $70 to $300+ depending on how many bulbs you need.
Smart Plugs Smart plugs are inexpensive gadgets that can help you save energy. Many electronic devices consume power even when they are turned off (known as “phantom load”), which can take a toll on your energy bills. Smart plugs are simply plugged into an electrical outlet and connected to your WiFi network. When set up, the smart plug can cut power (or return power) to nonsmart devices, like coffee makers, phone chargers and other items that can draw a phantom load. Many smart plugs can be paired with popular smart hubs, like Alexa or Google Nest, or controlled through the plug’s associated app. Smart plugs 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.
Free used wood poles available at REC
REC has used wood poles available for free. If you are interested or need more information please call the Warehouse at 405-756-3104 ext. 253. Co-op Comments 3
Classified Ads
are FREE to REC members to post non-commercial items. Deadline for ads is the 8th of every month. Call the Member Services Dept. at 405-756-3104 ext. 238.
Account number worth $10 bill credit Locate your account number in an article of this issue; it will be good for a $10 credit on your electric bill. To claim the prize, you must locate the account number - if the number is yours, contact REC by the 10th of the month and we will credit your account. Only the member assigned that number is eligible for the prize. If you don’t know your account number, it can be located on your electric bill.
Co-op Connections
Use your Co-op Connections Card to save you money on lodging, photographs, oil changes and other items. You can also save on prescriptions, dental, vision, hearing, lab work and imaging and chiropractor services at participating locations. Your card is a discount card. If you have misplaced your card, contact REC for a replacement card and use it to save yourself some money.
Energy Efficiency Tip of the Month Replace your cooling system’s filter regularly to maintain strong airflow and boost energy efficiency. A clean filter means your system does not have to work as hard, saving energy and lowering your utility bills. Factors like allergies and pets in the home can impact how often filters should be replaced. Check the filter every month and replace it as needed. Changing filters regularly also reduces wear and tear on your cooling system, helping extend the life of the unit. Learn more at www.energy.gov
Local Co-op Connection Card Deals A-U-Store It, Purcell $5 off first month rent Backroads Boutique, Lindsay 5% off everything excluding special order and sale items Best Western, Chickasha 15% Off Regular Room Rate Blue Moose Portable and Septic Services, LLC, Elmore City 5% Off Septic Tank Pumping, Tent Rental and Special Event Toilet Rentals
Chickasha Diesel Services, Chickasha $50 off any big diesel oil change Edwards Canvas, Pauls Valley - 5% Off Jenny’s Pics Photography, Lindsay 10% Off $50 or More Purchase of Pictures Lindsay Tire and Lube, Lindsay $5 Off Any Full Service Oil Change M & M Furniture, Chickasha 10% Off Any Purchase Mazzio’s Italian Eatery, Purcell 10% Off Purchase Photos by Ginger, Pauls Valley 1 Free 8x10 Print With First Order of $25 Pharmacy Discounts Check out the discounts available using your Co-op Connections Card at participating pharmacies throughout our area. For a complete list of pharmacies, visit REC’s website to see if your pharmacy is offering discounts to Co-op Connections Card holders.
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