The Energy Cooperative Times - May & June 2019

TIMES MAY & JUNE • 2019

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: pg 3 • GET TO KNOW YOUR CO-OP pg 4 • SPOTTING ELECTRICAL HAZARDS pg 8 • TRACER WIRES pg 11 • UPGRADING ELECTRIC METERS

ELECTRIC • NATURAL GAS • PROPANE

THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE

TIMES

1500 GRANVILLE ROAD NEWARK, OHIO 43058 (800) 255-6815

MYENERGYCOOP.COM FEEDBACK@THEENERGYCOOP.COM

TODD WARE PRESIDENT & CEO GARY BAKER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & PUBLIC RELATIONS HEATHER JUZENAS COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER COOPERATIVE MEMBERS – PLEASE REPORT ANY CHANGE OF EMAIL ADDRESS OR PHONE NUMBER TO US AT (800) 255-6815 OR FEEDBACK@THEENERGYCOOP.COM. THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE TIMES IS THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE. WITH A CIRCULATION OF MORE THAN 63,000. THIS MAGAZINE IS THE BIMONTHLY COMMUNICATION LINK BETWEEN THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE BASED IN NEWARK, OHIO, AND ITS MEMBERS.

WHAT’S INSIDE: 3 •

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

4•

SPOTTING ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

5 •

6 •

DIRECTOR’S CORNER: YOUTH COUNCIL COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: THE WORKS

8 • TRACER WIRES

11 • UPGRADING ELECTRIC METERS

12 • FINANCIAL CORNER: CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS 13 • MESSAGE FROM MEMBER SERVICE:

CONSIDERING ROOFTOP SOLAR?

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE GET TO KNOW YOUR COOPERATIVE

BY TODD WARE, PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER We focus on providing our members with safe, reliable and affordable energy. In addition to our core mission, it is also important for us to develop a relationship with our members. This is important because we want you to understand the level of service we provide, and know what to expect as you interact with our employees. When you get to know your cooperative, it is easier for you to recognize someone who is attempting to act on our behalf yet has no affiliation with The Energy Cooperative.

Unfortunately, scammers are targeting utilities. Cooperatives have not been an exception to this disturbing trend. Part of our job to spread Todd Ware awareness about scams to our members, helping you to recognize and avoid them. If you receive a call or visit from a scammer claiming to be an employee of The Energy Cooperative, immediately report it to us by calling 1-800-255-6815.

One of the most common scams is to use a “spoofing” app to create fake caller ID numbers. This could trick you into thinking you are being contacted by The Energy Cooperative. If you suspect this is the case, hang up and call us at 1-800-255-6815. Our member service representatives can confirm the identification if one of our employees has contacted you. Scammers often claim a member is behind paying their bill and request payment immediately before their service is disconnected. It is common for the scammer to request payment in person or over the phone, and they might suggest you purchase a re-loadable debit card immediately. Some scammers encourage the member to deliver them cash in person. Others come to the member’s front door and claim they need to read their meter for money. Our employees do not accept payment in the field. Instead, we ask members to mail their payments; pay them in person at The Energy Cooperative office; pay over the phone with our secure automated payment system; or pay it online through SmartHub. We do not want our members to fall victim to these utility scams. If you are ever unsure if you are being scammed from someone claiming to be an employee of The Energy Cooperative, give us a call. We are here to help.

IMPORTANT TIPS FOR AVOIDING SCAMS • • • • • • •

Our employees have our official logo on their hats, vehicles, and an employee photo identification badge.

Never give out or confirm confidential, personal, or financial information over the phone.

The Energy Cooperative will never call you and request that type of information over the phone.

If you believe you are being scammed, collect as much information about the situation as possible, including the phone number the scammer asks you to call back, and report it to us immediately.

If you have any questions about your payment or bill status, please call us at 1-800-2556815.

Remember that scammers can make their caller ID look like it is The Energy Cooperative calling, call us to ensure your safety.

Never let anyone claiming to be an employee of The Energy Cooperative into or around your home without asking to see their issued photo identification badge (or call us at 1-800-255-6815 to confirm).

MYENERGYCOOP.COM

MAY & JUNE 2019 • THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE TIMES

3

Spotting Electrical Hazards

BY CONNIE HOGUE, DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES & SAFETY May is National Electrical Safety Month, and here at The Energy Cooperative, we think it’s a great time to look around your home and check for potential safety hazards.

are rated for the number of joules they can effectively absorb. That means if your surge protector is rated at 1,000 joules, it should be replaced when it hits or passes that limit.

When the limit is reached, protection stops, and you’re left with a basic power strip.

Remember, every electrical device has a purpose and a service lifespan.

While we can extend their operations with maintenance and care, none of Connie Hogue them are designed to last or work forever. When electricity is involved, failures can also present electrical hazards.

Some surge protectors include indicator lights that flicker to warn you when they’ve stopped working as designed, but many do not. If your electrical system takes a major hit, or if you don’t remember when you bought your surge protector, replacement may be the best option.

GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTERS (GFCI)

Outdoor outlets or those in potentially damp locations in a kitchen, bathroom or laundry room should include GFCI features. They are designed to sense abnormal current flows, breaking the circuit to prevent potential electric shocks from devices plugged into the outlets.

The average GFCI outlet is designed to last about 10 years, but in areas prone to electrical storms or power surges, they can wear out in five years or less. Check them frequently by pressing the red test button. Make sure you hit the black reset button when you are finished. Contact a licensed electrician to replace any failing GFCI outlets.

LOOSE OR DAMAGED OUTLETS OR SWITCHES

Unstable electrical outlets or wall switches with signs of heat damage or discoloration can offer early warnings of potential shock or electrical fire hazards. Loose connections can allow electrical current arcing. If you see these warning signs, it may be time to contact an electrician.

SURGE PROTECTORS

Power strips with surge protectors can help safeguard expensive equipment like televisions, home entertainment systems and computer components from power spikes.

Voltage spikes are measured in joules, and surge protectors

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THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE TIMES • MAY & JUNE 2019

EXTENSION CORDS

If you use extension cords regularly to connect devices and equipment to your wall outlets, you may live in an underwired home. With a growing number of electrical devices connecting your family to electricity, having enough outlets in just the right spots can be challenging. Remember, extension cords are designed for temporary, occasional or periodic use.

If an extension cord gets noticeably warm when in use, it could be undersized for the intended use. Extension cords should be replaced if they show any signs of being frayed, cracked or heat-damaged. If the grounding prong is missing, crimped or loose, a grounded cord will not provide the protection designed into its performance. And always make sure that extension cords used in outdoor or potentially damp locations are rated for exterior use.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, approximately 51,000 electrical fires are reported each year in the United States, causing more than $1.3 billion in annual property damage.

Electricity is essential for modern living, and we are committed to providing safe, reliable and affordable power to all of our members. We hope you’ll keep these electrical safety tips in mind and respond to any potential hazards before damage occurs.

(800) 255-6815

DIRECTOR’S CORNER: Youth Leadership Council

BY TOM GRAHAM, DISTRICT 9 DIRECTOR CCD, BL

Members of The Energy Cooperative (TEC) Board of Directors are responsible for the oversight and strategic direction of your cooperative. To carryout this role, each director must commit to continuing education opportunities. The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) offers many education opportunities for Directors throughout the year through classes and conferences. One of their most recent events was the 2019 NRECA Annual Meeting held in Orlando. There were educational sessions discussing the current political environment (as it relates to cooperatives), artificial intelligence, board governance, clean energy, and leadership.

A highlight of the annual meeting for me is the recognition of the NRECA Youth Leadership Council. The NRECA Youth Leadership Council is comprised of select children of cooperative members who earned a spot on the annual Youth Tour. The students are high school sophomores or juniors that represent cooperatives across the United States. They apply for their spots and are selected by their cooperatives to attend an all expense paid, week long, youth tour to Washington DC. This trip to the nation’s capital is held each year in June. Through this experience students gain personal understanding of American history and their role as citizens. They tour the capital, and meet with their respective Representatives and Senators. During the Youth Tour, students gain insight into the role electric cooperatives play in their communities. They interact with their peers from across the nation, and each state elects a representative to serve on NRECA’s Youth Leadership Council. The Youth Leadership Council’s purpose is to develop leadership qualities, public speaking skills, and to enhance their knowledge of the cooperative business model and the electric industry.

One representative from each state returns to DC for the Youth Leadership Council Conference. As a member of the Youth Leadership Council, each delegate prepares a speech about their experience on the youth tour. The council members then elect a delegate to address the entire membership at NRECA’s Annual Meeting.

Tom Graham

The Youth Leadership Council attends the NRECA Annual Meeting where they are recognized on stage. They gain further leadership experience by helping with conference sessions, business meetings and communicating with legislators. These youth return home with the knowledge and confidence to become leaders who will strengthen their own communities. As a result of this experience, they build lifelong friendships with other student leaders from across the United States.

I hope you will encourage a young person you know to inquire and apply for this excellent leadership opportunity! Visit myenergycoop.com/youth-programs for additional information.

Ohio Youth Tour Participants 2018

MYENERGYCOOP.COM

Ohio Youth Tour Participants 2018

MAY & JUNE 2019 • THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE TIMES

5

Community Spotlight

BY GARY BAKER DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS & MARKETING

MARCIA DOWNES, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE WORKS, “OUR FOUNDER, HOWARD LEFEVRE’S LEGACY CONTINUES EVERYDAY AS WE ENRICH OUR COMMUNITY WITH STEM (SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATH), HISTORY, ART AND GLASS.” As Sky Tonight begins, the room darkens, an amazing bright sun lights up the western sky. Soon after, the sun sets and the stars soar majestically above your head. Over the next thirty minutes the host describes constellations, stars, galaxies and planets. The Sky Tonight presentation is all part of The Works’ SciDome Planetarium; a realistic interstellar travel experience using a 30-ft, 4K projection planetarium launched by The Works and The Ohio State University.

Gary Baker

SciDome was created by NASA astrophysicist Dr. Michael Stamatikos. Dr. Stamatikos is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics, Department of Astronomy & Center for Cosmology and Astro-Particle Physics at the Newark campus of The Ohio State University. This partnership has created a facility where educational experiences will engage audiences of all ages. Beginning this summer, The Energy Cooperative will sponsor a new dome film entitled, Dynamic Earth. Audiences will ride along on swirling ocean and wind currents, dive into the heart of a hurricane, come face-to-face with sharks and gigantic whales and fly in to volcanoes. The Works’ SciDome offers spectacular entertainment showcasing nature, science and space. Go to attheworks.org for show times or call 740-349-9277.

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THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE TIMES • MAY & JUNE 2019

What best describes the relationship between The Works and The Energy Cooperative is Community Partner. The goal of the partnership is to collaborate with a focus on the development of a healthy, educated, thriving community. The Partnership can best be observed at The Energy Cooperative’s annual Kids Day. Going back to 2006, Kids Day was created to provide our members, their families with a day of fun filled entertainment at no charge. Whether it’s grandparents or young families, Kids Day creates an environment where everyone learns about the cooperative’s principle number seven, “Commitment to Community”, while having fun. Year after year the event draws more and more people. In 2018 nearly 3000 members, their families were given access to The Works that included an opportunity to experience the SciDome Planetarium. In addition to admission to The Works, the event includes bouncy houses, pony rides, hot dogs, popcorn, ice cream, music and games. New this year, Kids Day will expand into the Canal Street Market on 2nd Street. Food, games and entertainment will line the eastern portion of the market. A larger display of trucks and tractors plus the traditional bouncy houses will be located in front of The Works.

THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE ANNUAL KIDS DAY IS SUNDAY, JUNE 23RD, 2019. ADMISSION IS FREE TO COOPERATIVE MEMBERS WITH A TICKET OR A COPY OF YOUR BILL. THE EVENT STARTS AT NOON AND RUNS UNTIL 4’OCLOCK. A TICKET TO KIDS DAY IS LOCATED IN THE CENTER OF THIS MAGAZINE.

(800) 255-6815

SCIDOME SHOWS OFFFERED AT THE WORKS • THE SKY TONIGHT: Discover the beauty and wonder of the night sky • • • • • • •

that has fascinated humanity for millennia.

VOYAGE THROUGH THE SOLAR SYSTEM: Take a tour of our solar system and discover our planets, dwarf planets, and the asteroids.

ICY BIRTH, FIERY DEATH: THE LIFE CYCLE OF STARS Explore stars in our night sky that are evolving and how stars die.

JOURNEY TO MARS: Prepare for a close approach of Mars this summer, and explore NASA’s plans for getting humans to Mars in this century.

FASTER THAN LIGHT: The impulse to strike out into the unknown, to see what’s over the horizon is as old as humanity. Astronomers are racing to find habitable worlds, but how will we get there? How long will it take? How far can our technology take us?

EARTH, MOON, SUN: Coyote has a razor-sharp wit, but he’s a little confused about what he sees in the sky. Join this amusing character in a fast-paced and fun show that explores lunar phases, eclipses, and other puzzles in the night sky.

UNDISCOVERED WORLDS: Explore a timeless question: Are their other planets like Earth?

Experience the science shifting our perspective on humanity’s place in the cosmos.

OASIS IN SPACE: Transport yourself on a startling and beautiful voyage through our universe, galaxy, and solar system in search of liquid water – a key ingredient for life on Earth.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE WORKS CALL (740) 349-9277 AND VISIT THE WORKS TODAY! MYENERGYCOOP.COM

MAY & JUNE 2019 • THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE TIMES

7

Tracer Wires

BY SEAMUS MULLIGAN MANAGER OF ENGINEERING– NATURAL GAS OPERATIONS

Safe digging starts by knowing where the underground utilities are located in the area of your proposed excavation.

For most excavations, state law requires the excavator to mark the proposed area with white paint or flags, then contact OHIO811 at least 48 hours prior to the start of the excavation. Local utilities receive notification of your proposed excavation from OHIO811, and respond Seamus Mulligan to mark their lines. To accurately mark our underground pipeline, The Energy Cooperative uses a conductive locator.

A conductive locator requires a direct connection to the underground line or tracer wire, and applies a radio signal which can be detected by an above ground portable receiver.

The receiver follows the path of the buried utility line. This is the same technology used in underground pet fences. The buried wire gives an audible warning when the receiver is approaching the buried underground wire. The approach works great when everything is connected, however if the buried wire is broken the receiver does not get a signal and the process doesn’t work.

THE TRACER WIRE

We typically do not have difficulty locating our metallic gas lines, however we can run into issues locating our polyethylene (plastic) gas lines. Since a radio signal cannot be induced on plastic lines, we bury a copper tracer wire with the gas line at the time of installation.

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THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE TIMES • MAY & JUNE 2019

WHY IT’S IMPORTANT

The tracer wire is accessed at the time of the locate. When connected to the locator, a signal helps us identify the underground gas lines. To gain access to this wire, we typically bring it above ground in our service line valve boxes located near the curb or at your property line; at your home’s meter setting; at the main line valves; or the line marker locations. It is very important to identify and protect the integrity of this buried wire. You may see this typically yellow locate wire at your meter setting or attached to a line marker in your yard. The tracer wire does not have any current or electrical charge on the wire and is not dangerous or harmful. It does, however, perform an important safety function for The Energy Cooperative, our members, and local excavators.

If the tracer wire is damaged during an excavation, let us know. We will respond at no cost to make repairs to the wire and ensure it is in place and ready to be used when needed for the safety of our members, employees, and local excavators.

As you plant your flowers this spring, mulch your landscaping, mow your grass, and weed-eat around our line markers, you may notice this wire. When you do, remember the important safety function it has in keeping us all safe, and help us to protect the wire so we can work to keep our lines accurately located.

(800) 255-6815

NATURAL GAS AND PROPANE SAFETY TIPS

LEARN MORE AT SAFEGASOHIO.ORG & MYENERGYCOOP.COM

DETECTING A LEAK Use your senses of sight, hearing and smell, along with any of the following signs, t o alert yourself to the presence of a gas leak.

SMELL

We add an organic compound called Mercaptan to our natural gas and propane before it is delivered to your community.

Mercaptan smells like rotten eggs.

LOOK

Look for a damaged connection to a gas appliance; dirt or water being blown into the air; dead or dying vegetation (in an otherwise moist area); fire or explosion near a pipeline; exposed pipeline after an earthquake, fire, flood or other disaster.

LISTEN

TRUST YOUR SENSES

If you recognize even one of the above signs, leave the area immediately. When clear of the area, call 9-1-1. Then call us at 1-800-255-6815. Emergency officials should begin evacuating and securing the area and providing traffic control and emergency services if necessary.

CALL BEFORE YOU DIG—IT’S THE LAW

Remember to contact OHIO811 at least two at least two working days before you start to dig for any landscape or construction project. Excavators planning any digging, ditching, drilling, leveling or plowing activity must contact OHIO811 as well.

An unusual sound, such as a hissing, whistling, or roaring sound near a gas pipeline or appliance.

IMPORTANT MESSAGES In accordance with Federal Pipeline Safety Regulations 49 CFR, Part 192.16, The Energy Cooperative is required to inform members that the member shall be responsible for their gas service lines.

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

• •

•

•

The member is responsible for the maintenance and repair of all gas piping from the gas meter to all gas appliances.

The member is responsible for the repair/replacement of the gas service line located on the member’s property from the buried curb valve to the inlet of the gas meter. Buried gas piping that is not maintained may be subject to the potential hazards of corrosion and leakage.

For your safety, all buried pipe should be periodically inspected for leaks. If the buried piping is metallic, it should also be periodically inspected for corrosion. If an unsafe condition is found, the gas piping will need to be promptly repaired.

When digging near buried gas piping, the piping should

MYENERGYCOOP.COM

•

be located in advance and the excavation done by hand. As a reminder, any time you are excavating, OHIO811 should be called by simply dialing 811 or 1-800-362-2764 at least 48 hours prior to digging. OUPS will notify various utility companies to locate utilities lines in the area.

Plumbing and heating contractors can assist in locating, inspecting, and repairing the member’s buried piping. The Federal Department of Transportation (DOT) requires that a DOT-qualified plumbing contractor must be used to repair or replace a member’s buried piping upstream of the meter, including the gas riser attached to the meter set. While this is not required for piping downstream of the meter, The Energy Cooperative strongly recommends a DOT-qualified plumber be used for all buried gas piping.

QUESTIONS? CONTACT OUR MEMBER SERVICE DEPARTMENT AT (800) 255-6815.

MAY & JUNE 2019 • THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE TIMES

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FEATURED RECIPES Submitted by Energy Cooperative Employees TERIYAKI SAUTEED GREEN BEANS

Submitted by: Lori Dickerson INGREDIENTS • • • •

1lb fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 tbsp butter 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper (any color of sweet pepper can be used) 1/4 cup diced onion 1/4 cup bacon pieces 2 tbsp water 2 tsp minced garlic 1/2 tsp onion powder 1/2 tsp garlic powder ¼ tsp salt 1 tbsp teriyaki sauce

• • • • • • • •

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat the oil & butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted.

2. Add garlic, salt and beans. Cook for about 10 minutes.

3. Add water, onions, peppers, garlic powder and onion powder.

4. Cover and simmer for 20-25 mins. until beans are mostly soft, but with a slight crunch.

5. Add teriyaki sauce and bacon simmer for another 5-10 mins.

PORK TENDERLOIN TIPS WITH ROASTED VEGETABLES

Submitted by: Donna Thomas INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • • •

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2 lbs pork tenderloin tips 1 med onion diced 1 sm bunch asparagus 5 small yellow or red potatoes halved ½ head cauliflower cut in big chunks Small can diced tomatoes, undrained 1 tbsp paprika 1 tsp garlic powder 1 tbsp dried basil 2 tbsp olive oil

THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE TIMES • MAY & JUNE 2019

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat olive oil in large skillet.

2. Add the tenderloin tips, onion chunks, paprika, garlic and pepper saute until meat is no longer pink and onion is almost tender (about 15 minutes).

3. Remove from heat and add potatoes, asparagus, cauliflower, tomatoes with juice and add basil, salt and pepper to taste.

4. Cover skillet with lid or foil and bake in oven for about 30 – 45 minutes.

(800) 255-6815

Upgrading Electric Meters

BY JOSH FILLER, MANAGER OF ENGINEERING– ELECTRIC OPERATIONS

The Energy Cooperative is upgrading meters for our electric members, beginning in July of 2019. The upgrade is intended to increase efficiency and reliability of our electric system. Improving the efficiency of operations and how we deliver electricity helps to keep costs down for members. The meter installations will begin in the Hazelton Substation Josh Filler area and will continue throughout The Energy Cooperative’s service territory until completion in 2020.

WHY ARE THE METERS BEING UPGRADED?

The Energy Cooperative is upgrading its meters to provide additional functionality, including increased remote options and hourly data retrieval.

FIVE BENEFITS YOU WILL NOTICE

HOW WILL THE METER REPLACEMENTS WORK?

The Energy Cooperative is working with Anixter Power Solutions to install the new meters. We will notify members by phone in advance of their meter exchange. The installation process should take approximately ten minutes and will result in a brief outage. Members do not need to be home during the replacement, but should ensure there is a clear path to their meter and that pets are secured on the day of installation.

At The Energy Cooperative, taking advantage of new technologies is one more way that we can offer you new and creative services. This new meter system opens the door to future services we can offer our electric members.

INSTALLATION TIMELINE

To estimate when your new meter will be installed, find your location on our electric service territory map below.

Questions? Give us a call at 1-800-255-6815.

1. QUICKER OUTAGE RESPONSE TIMES: The new technology will help our team monitor our electric grid in almost real-time. We will be able to quickly identify service issues such as increased usage issues, outages, and momentary outages. The team can then respond to those outages more efficiently than we can today.

«

Cooperative reduce costs by providing important efficiencies to the distribution grid, and reducing our response times and management—savings we pass on to our members.

61

secure the overall safety of cooperative employees.

95

GLENMONT

Apple Valley Substation

« 3

MOUNT VERNON

« 229

«

BRINKHAVEN

205

£ ¤ 62

DANVILLE

«

«

656

«

Bladensburg Substation

GAMBIER

586

«

«

229

314

657

£ ¤ 36

715

£ ¤ « «

Martinsburg Substation

Brandon Substation

«

CENTERBURG

36

206

541

MARTINSBURG HARTFORD UTICA

« 37

Smith's Mill Substation

«

Northridge Substation

« 661

Welsh Hills Substation

ALEXANDRIA

« 161

NEW ALBANY

Hazelton Substation

GRANVILLE

« 37

PATASKALA

REYNOLDSBURG

Hickman Substation

« 79

JOHNSTOWN

62

GAHANNA

St Louisville Substation

Highwater Substation

Johnstown Substation

£ ¤

«

« £ ¤ «

HEBRON

310

KIRKERSVILLE

204

« 158

§ ¨ ¦ 70

BUCKEYE LAKE

Reform FRAZEYSBURG Substation

«

13 NEWARK

«

HANOVER

«

16

«

Hebron Substation

40

PICKERINGTON

«

Spring 2020

204

MYENERGYCOOP.COM

13

Summer 2020

Fall 2020

NASHVILLE

Jelloway Substation

Mt Vernon Substation

«

Winter 2019-20

MARENGO

39

514

FREDERICKTOWN

Fall 2019 CHESTERVILLE

179

«

«

Summer 2019

4. LESS ACCESS TO YOUR PROPERTY: Once the new meters

5. SAFETY: Improvements in the distribution grid will

BUTLER

«

LOUDONVILLE

314

71

605

are installed, The Energy Cooperative will be able to disconnect and reconnect service remotely, further limiting the need to access your property.

97

Palmyra Substation

§ ¨ ¦«

«

3. POWER TO SAVE: The meters, which provide hourly data

about your power use, can help you understand how and when you are using electricity. This information can help you better manage and control your energy usage. Armed with this data, our member service representatives will have more information to help you address billing inquiries.

£ ¤ 42

2. LOWER COSTS: The new meters will help The Energy

«

546

MOUNT GILEAD

Loudonville Substation

BELLVILLE

«

19

146

HEATH

79

Flintridge Substation

Jacksontown Substation

GRATIOT

£ ¤ 40

« 668

MILLERSPORT

MAY & JUNE 2019 • THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE TIMES

11

Financial Corner

INVESTING IN RELIABILITY

BY PAT MCGONAGLE, VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

INVESTING TO IMPROVE AND REPLACE AGING INFRASTRUCTURE IS CRITICAL FOR OUR COOPERATIVE TO REMAIN RELIABLE AND SAFE. Like many utilities, The Energy Cooperative built large segments of its distribution system for both the electric and gas divisions during the 1960s, 70s and 80s. In recent years, Pat McGonagle the cooperative found itself needing to invest more heavily in its older infrastructure to improve system reliability and reduce interruptions.

The board of directors was updated on the aging infrastructure at our September 2018 board meeting for both our electric and gas operations. Management and the board continue to balance how to effectively refurbish, replace and modernize components of our older system while preparing for new growth through our annual capital budgeting process.

CAPITAL EXPENDITURES BY YEAR*

2014 $18.0 2015 $21.6 2016 $20.1 2017 $18.7 2018 $19.2 Total $97.6 *Millions Spent

This matter is highlighted by looking at The Energy Cooperative’s most recent audited financial statements as net property, plant and equipment comprise nearly $226 million (M) of the $293M of total assets for the combined entities.

The modernization of our electric system is even more urgent because of the increasing dependence on electricity for modern life. During 2018, the electric cooperative spent approximately $3.6M towards the replacement and installation of new distribution lines and nearly $3M on the replacement of transmission lines. During 2019, the cooperative plans to spend over $8.5 on capital improvements for our electric division. Nearly $3M will be spent on line replacement and $2.4M to update

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THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE TIMES • MAY & JUNE 2019

electric meters (as discussed on the previous page) which should help both system reliability and reduce service interruptions.

Moving into the natural gas business, cast iron pipe is subject to cracking and breakage, steel pipe is prone to corrosion, and plastic pipe is susceptible to cracking. The board of directors approved the Distribution Integrity Management Plan back in 2012 as a budget item to aid in the replacement of 107 miles of bare steel pipe with more modern polyethylene pipe and a plan to replace service lines and prone to fail risers beginning in 2013. As of December 31, 2018, the gas cooperative has completed the riser replacement program and has approximately 42 miles of distribution line remaining to be replaced. During 2018, the gas cooperative spent approximately $4.4M towards the replacement and installation of new distribution pipeline. During 2019, the cooperative plans to spend approximately $7.6 on capital improvements for our gas division with $4.9M spent on pipeline replacement. We continue to invest significant time and capital to maintain the safety and integrity of our pipeline system and facilities.

The cooperative’s plan to modernize and replace essential parts of our aging electric and natural gas infrastructure proactively addresses critical areas before they become problematic. It also directly addresses the mission of your cooperative – to provide safe and reliable energy for our members now and in the future.

Spring is here and our capital project work is underway.

Please help our employees and all the road side workers as we all Slow Down and Move Over through work areas.

OTHER FINANCIAL NEWS

The accounting staff has completed another successful audit as GBQ Partners, LLC issued an unqualified opinion dated March 26, 2019. The results reflected another strong year of comprehensive income. The audited results will be presented at the cooperative’s Annual Meeting on May 20th.

(800) 255-6815

Message from Member Services

Are you considering rooftop solar panels?

Solar energy continues to be a topic of interest in the electric cooperative world, and we want to ensure our members have the information they need to make an informed decision regarding this type of investment.

Rooftop solar panels are decreasing in cost, and more companies are offering solar panel installation in our member communities. As attractive and popular as rooftop solar may appear, we want our members to fully understand the true costs, the operational reality of this form of energy, and actual energy savings.

WE’RE HERE TO HELP.

To determine whether rooftop solar is right for their particular situation, homeowners must undertake their own due diligence. The Energy Cooperative can offer a candid assessment of your specific situation. After all, we strive to find new ways to help you use energy more efficiently.

IS ROOFTOP SOLAR RIGHT FOR YOU?

To help determine whether rooftop solar is right for you, The Energy Cooperative’s energy advisor will look at the: • Overall energy efficiency of the home/building • Age and pitch of the roof • Orientation of the sun in relation to the home/ building • Tree coverage near the home/building • Weather patterns for the region Unlike a solar company that has one objective––to sell their products and services––we can look at the total energy picture to help you determine the best options for your home. While rooftop solar certainly works for many people, it’s not the answer for all. When helping co-op members determine whether rooftop solar is right for them, a co-op energy advisor will also discuss the many financial considerations: • Is there a large, up-front payment required or are fees spread out over time?

• Will the homeowner own the panels or will they be leased?

MYENERGYCOOP.COM

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Are there any hidden costs, i.e., does the roof need to be replaced before installing the panels?

Are there ongoing maintenance fees?

Are there rebates or other financial incentives available?

Is the estimated energy savings worth the investment?

Is it more cost effective to invest in other energy saving measures?

Most importantly, our energy advisor can provide perspective on the total energy puzzle. They can help your family determine whether rooftop solar is the best choice given your current energy consumption, the home “envelope,” age and efficiency of the HVAC system, and home site.

WHAT ABOUT COMMUNITY SOLAR?

We recognize not all cooperative members can install a system on their roof, but that doesn’t mean solar power isn’t an option. The Energy Cooperative offers a community solar program where you can lease a solar panel located in Utica, Ohio. With our community solar, the cooperative handles all of the logistical details (including site assessment, selecting and installing the equipment, interconnection and permitting details, and maintaining the system after installation). Contact our member service team to learn more about community solar.

The Energy Cooperative recognizes that many of our members have an interest in green energy sources. We are ready to help you determine the best options for your particular situation.

LEARN MORE

Ohio’s electric cooperatives take a balanced approach to renewable energy. To learn more about the renewable energy sources available to our electric generation provider, Buckeye Power, visit ohioec.org/buckeye-power/ renewables.

MAY & JUNE 2019 • THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE TIMES

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HOW SOLAR PANELS WORK Did you know energy from the sun can be used to create electricity? Complete the crossword puzzle below to find out how! Use the answer key if you need help.

1

2

4

3

5

1. ACROSS: Solar panels contain photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into ________.

2. DOWN: Sunlight hits the solar panels and generates a direct ________ , or DC. 3. ACROSS: The direct current flows to an inverter, which ________ it to an alternating current, AC. (This is the kind of electricity we use in our homes.)

4. DOWN: The alternating current flows from the inverter to the home’s breaker box, where it’s used to ________ appliances and other electrical items in your home.

5. ACROSS: If the ________ panels generate more electricity than the home needs, the unused electricity is sent back to the power lines, or electric grid.

1. ACROSS: ELECTRICITY

2. DOWN: CURRENT

3. ACROSS: CONVERTS

ANSWER KEY 4. DOWN: POWER

5. ACROSS: SOLAR

THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE’S

KIDS DAY AT THE WORKS Sunday June 23 Noon to 4:00 pm The Works Museum in Downtown Newark Join us for live music, puppet shows, games, bouncies, photos for the kids, pony rides, carriage rides, crafts, animals, safety demonstrations, and lots of interactive displays for children of all ages. Goody bags, door prizes, and refreshments will be availabile.

This event is FREE and open only to members of The Energy Cooperative and their families. Please bring the ticket included in this magazine, or a copy of your bill for free family admission! The Works will open its doors for this special event being held in appreciation of the members

In April of 2019, The Energy Cooperative Operation Round Up Foundation, Inc. awarded $52,410 to community organizations in our service area.

The Turban Project tables, chairs and supplies. of The• Energy Cooperative and for their families.

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HNCO/Hospice of Knox County for Nursing totes.

Fostering Further for small household items.

Fredericktown Recreation District for AED package.

Nelson T. Gant Foundation toward window replacement at the museum.

Dan Emmett Elementary School for ELMO document cameras.

Behavioral Healthcare Partners of Central Ohio, Inc. toward new computer server and equipment.

Look Up Center for equipment at new vision center.

Newark City Schools toward shoes and socks for back to school festival.

Allwell Behavioral Health Services toward generator.

Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church toward back to school backpack project.

MTVarts, Inc. for event lighting.

MYENERGYCOOP.COM

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Licking Township Fire Co. toward airbag lifting system.

Licking County Master Gardeners Volunteers toward construction of food pantry garden.

Little Arrows Play Café toward heating and cooling.

Mound City Little League toward renovations at little league complex.

Newark Band Parents’ Club Inc. toward Eagle Scout project to refurbish instruments.

Avondale Youth Center toward vehicle for youth transport.

Perry Elementary PTO toward guided reading collection.

Mary E. Babcock Library, Inc. toward library expansion capital campaign.

Community Wesleyan Church toward playground.

MAY & JUNE 2019 • THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE TIMES

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1500 Granville Road P.O. Box 4970 Newark, Ohio 43058-4970 (800) 255-6815 myenergycoop.com

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WE RESPOND TO OUTAGES AND EMERGENCIES 24/7/365.

• If you are experiencing an outage OR have some other emergency situation call us at (800) 255-6815.

• If you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave the area immediately. Call 911. Then call us at (800) 255-6815.