November & December Times 2023

president's message

By Todd Ware,

Buckeye Power, Inc. generates Energy Cooperative's electric members energy from one of their largest facilitiesCardinal Power Plant - located in Brilliant, Ohio.

A time for change

Buckeye Power has been the generation and transmission supplier to Ohio’s electric cooperatives since 1968, producing electricity from power plants and delivering it across the highvoltage transmission network (or “grid”) to each of those 24 electric cooperatives. Throughout this long history, American Electric Power (AEP) has been a partner to Buckeye Power in the generation of electricity — first only at Cardinal Power Plant, but adding more facilities as time went on. It has been a unique and mutually beneficial partnership for over 50 years, lasting through advances in technology, ups and downs of the economy, and nearly constant evolution of laws and regulations.

Recently, though, Buckeye Power and AEP agreed to wind down our partnership at Cardinal. AEP has already largely exited the power generation business in Ohio, meaning other producers now supply generation service to AEP’s Ohio customers. We plan to continue working together through 2028, with Buckeye Power supplying a portion of the output from Cardinal to AEP during that time. Buckeye plans to continue operations at the Cardinal plant at a reduced level after that.

It is a bittersweet milestone for me. I’ve been at Buckeye Power for about 20 years now, and the partnership with AEP has been central to our work and our business planning. However, as things change, our companies need to evolve to meet the needs of the future. I know this is the right step for both organizations, and I look forward to the challenges and

opportunities that lie ahead for Buckeye Power and Cardinal. AEP will continue to supply transmission and power delivery services to Buckeye Power after our Cardinal plant partnership winds down.

On behalf of Buckeye Power and Ohio’s electric cooperatives, I would like to personally thank the many leaders at AEP who helped us forge and sustain a successful partnership over the many decades. Both organizations have a bright future ahead

Photo taken from Energy Cooperative's recent trip to the Cardinal Power Plant

I would like to share an article from their CEO, Pat O'Loughlin, who goes into detail about the recent change in ownership of the Cardinal Power Plant.

President & Chief Executive Officer

Todd Ware

Pat O'Loughlin

HolidayElectrical

Safety Tips

Check lights for broken bulbs, cracked sockets & wires for fraying.

Don't overload circuits, outlets & extension cords.

Don't use indoor lights outdoors -they are not waterproof.

Don't run extension cords or strings of lights under rugs or carpet. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines on how many strings of lights can be safely connected together.

Don't use nails, tacks or staples to hang lights.

holiday lights and energy use

By Josh Filler, Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Electric Operations

Holiday lights are one of the most visible, colorful and beautiful aspects of the season. Have you ever wondered how much that bright display adds to your energy bill each year? There are a number of lighting technologies available. Comparing their operating costs can help you decide which option is best for decorating your facility or home.

Holiday lighting options

Three lighting types commonly used in holiday displays include C-bulbs, miniature lights and LEDs.

• C-bulbs.These traditional incandescent bulbs are bright and highly visible. C7 and C9 types are available. C9 bulbs are larger and draw slightly more power.

• Minilights.Mini lights use far less energy than C-bulbs and have become exceedingly popular. The main advantages of mini lights are their low energy use and low cost, although they are not very durable.

• LEDs. LEDs are long-lasting and highly energy efficient. Made from solid-state materials, these bulbs are safer and more durable than C-bulbs and miniature lights.

Comparing energy costs

How much does each lighting option cost to operate? The following compares the power draw (in wattage) and the monthly operating cost of a typical display. These calculations are based on a lighting display using 2,000 bulbs (80 strings for C7 and C9, 40 strings of mini lights and LEDs) and operating for five hours per day at an electric rate of 13 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh).

• C9 bulbs (7 watts) — $273 a month

• C7 bulbs (5 watts) — $195 a month

• Mini lights (0.4 watts) — $16 a month

• LEDs (0.07 watts) — $2.75 a month

Due to their energy efficiency and durability, LEDs are quickly becoming the decorating option of choice. Although LED lights are more expensive to purchase, they use up to 80% less energy than traditional lights and have a longer lifespan. LEDs are also cool to the touch, reducing the risk of fire.

Planning ahead for savings

Although energy-efficient lighting provides a great alternative, planning and conservation can optimize savings. There is no need to light up your entire facility or home; a lighting design that makes good use of available space and includes a mix of colors will draw attention.

A 24-hour display is not necessary, either. Turn off lights late at night. Timers can automate this process and maximize energy savings. With a little forethought, your holiday display can make your facility or home shine without a big increase

Lighting Safety Tips

Holiday lights can add to your seasonal displays and celebrations, but they can also be a safety hazard if not properly maintained or displayed. The following tips can help keep your family happy and safe this holiday season.

• Before hanging your lights, inspect them for frayed wires, broken sockets or other signs of wear and tear.

• Avoid connecting more than three strings of lights together, unless the directions indicate otherwise.

• When using extension cords, avoid routing them under rugs or near walkways.

• If you choose an artificial tree, make sure it's certified as fire resistant. Look for the UL label.

• For outdoor decorating, only use lights and power strips that have been approved for outdoor use.

• Keep electrical connections off the ground and make sure wiring is clear of downspouts, railings and aluminum siding.

• Fasten holiday lights securely to buildings, trees and other outdoor surfaces to prevent damage from wind or jostling.

• Avoid using metal staples or nails as fasteners. They can damage the protective insulation covering the wires.

Josh Filler

safety

By Connie Hogue, Vice President of Human Resources and Safety unwrapping

Picking out gifts for friends, family and children is supposed to be a fun and enjoyable part of the holiday season, however, many people overlook safety when giving. A few factors to consider when thinking about what to give this season are the age of the recipient, instructions and warnings on packages and the possibility of recalls.

Keep these safety tips in mind to help you make informed decisions when purchasing gifts for everyone on your shopping list this season:

Pick an age-appropriate toy for children

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in 2020, there were nearly 150,000 toy-related, emergency department-treated injuries and nine deaths among children ages 14 and younger, with most of these deaths associated with choking on small parts of toys.

Toys are age-rated for safety, not for children’s intellect or physical ability. Labels indicate the minimum age a child should be to play safely. Be sure to choose toys in the correct age range. For children under 3, choose toys that do not have small parts which could be choking hazards. For children under 10, avoid toys that must be plugged into an electrical outlet.

Consider Who’s Receiving the Gift

It is important to think about who you are giving to – what their preferences are, what abilities you may need to work around and if they have any health conditions. Consider food allergies if you plan to give a savory or sweet treat this season. Do not buy a candle for someone who is starting to have memory loss issues. For children with sensory sensitivities, it is best to avoid noisy toys.

Include safety gear with the gift

According to the CPSC, riding gifts —specifically nonmotorized scooters — were associated with the most injuries and contributed to almost half of toy-related deaths. If you are planning on giving a gift that someone can ride, like a bicycle, scooter, skateboard or rollerblades, include a helmet and elbow and knee pads. If the recipient will be using the riding gift in the dark, such as a cyclist riding in the early mornings, purchase a light reflector for the bike or reflective clothing.

Read the instructions & warnings on packaging

Before making a purchase, check the instructions to make sure the gift is something that can be safely used based on skill set, age, weight, coordination, etc. Carefully read the warnings for any major issues or risks associated with the gift.

Check for recalls

All too frequently, recalled toys, tools, food, etc. can remain in circulation (especially if purchased at second-hand stores, garage sales, etc.). Verify through different resources that you are not buying a recalled toy. You can find recalled toys using the CPSC’s recall search tool.

Examine and set up gifts ahead of time

If giving the gift of an electronic device, charge them ahead of time prior to use. Examine any cords for fraying or damage that may cause a fire hazard. Setting up larger gifts ahead of time, such as bikes, playhouses, swing sets, work benches, etc. will help alert you to any cracks, defects or problems the gift may have.

This year, we challenge you to give the gift of safety, so you can continue to enjoy the holiday season for years to come. You never know when a gift could change or save someone’s life.

Connie Hogue

Check out some of our favorite ways to gift safety this holiday season.

For the Workplace

Blue light glasses

Desk chair for proper posture

Water bottle to stay hydrated

For the Road

Jumper cables

Mini first aid kit & Tool Kit

Emergency blanket

For the Home

Plug-in carbon monoxide detector

Video doorbell/security camera

Generator

For Anywhere

First aid training classes

Reflective gear

Pepper spray/personal alarm

Director's corner

By Tom Graham, District 9 Director, CCD, BLC, DGC

Harvest season is winding down and the holiday season is quickly approaching. It is a priority for my family and our cooperative family that we do not take each other for granted. That includes so many partners around us. We are thankful for our members and the larger communities that our cooperative serves. While bringing you safe and reliable energy is our top priority, commitment to our community follows by a close second.

Cooperative Principle #7

Cooperative Principle #7: Concern for Community focuses on the cooperative’s work toward sustainable development of their communities through policies supported by the membership. Energy Cooperative works to improve our communities in various ways. Through grants, scholarships and events, we understand the impact of our efforts on the communities we serve and remain committed to these initiatives.

The Operation Round Up Foundation

The Operation Round Up Foundation is one of our best examples of Cooperative Principle #7. Over the foundation's lifetime, thanks to our members’ dedication to local communities, the Board has awarded nearly $4 million in grant dollars. The grants included a variety of communities, organizations and projects that impact their community far beyond our funding efforts. The Board has funded grants for worthy not-for-profits like St. Vincent Haven, Salvation Army, Hospice, various fire departments, schools and so many more. We are honored to donate Operation Round Up funds on behalf of our membership.

Ambassador Program

Another initiative we recently kicked off was the Energy Cooperative Ambassador Program. This program stems from our Concern for Community and focuses on educating local members in our community who have been recruited as ambassadors to learn about their cooperative. We want our members to have the opportunity to gain experience, engage and become advocates for their cooperative.

Scholarships

The Operation Round Up Foundation and Energy Cooperative both award scholarships each year. These scholarships allocate thousands of dollars to positively impact the youth of our local communities. We will share more information on this process soon. Please encourage graduating students you know to apply in early 2023.

Tom Graham

Pictured: Tom Graham with his family

I am beyond thankful to serve as a Director of Energy Cooperative, a cooperative that honors the seven cooperative principles. Concern for the community is near and dear to my heart, and I am proud of the efforts our cooperative makes to fulfill this principle! May you have a blessed holiday season!

SIMPLE WAYS TO SAVE this season

By Pat McGonagle, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

Energy Cooperative is here to help you find ways to manage home energy and keep your winter bills in check. Here are five simple tips to help you save energy and money while still being able to enjoy the comfortability of your home with family and friends this holiday season.

Use energy efficient holiday lights

When you are decorating your home this holiday season, be sure to use LED lights. It costs $0.27 to light a 6-foot tree for 12 hours a day for 40 days, compared to $10 for incandescent lights.

Use timers for lights and outdoor decorations

Timers are a great way to save money while keeping your home festive and bright. A basic dusk to dawn timer controls your lights in hour increments, or you can upgrade to a smart switch and control the times from your phone. Whatever timer you chose, consider leaving your lights on for no more than six hours a day to maximize energy savings.

Use your fireplace wisely

Fireplaces come in many forms. Each one of them can cost you additional money on your Energy Cooperative bill.

• Woodburning: Remember to close your fireplace damper when you are not burning a fire. Keeping the damper open causes drafts and heat loss throughout your home.

• GasFireplace: A standard 20,000 BTU gas fireplace uses about 20 cubic feet of natural gas per hour. Given the price of natural gas is about $1.11 per 100 cubic feet based on the national average, running a standard-sized gas fireplace will cost about $0.22/hour.

• ElectricFireplace: Operating an electric fireplace costs the same as running an electric space heater. Both typically use 1500 watts (1.5 kilowatts) to run. With a cost of $0.13 per kilowatt hour based on the national average, the unit cost approximately $0.20/hour to operate.

Reduce hot water use

Water heating is the second largest energy expense in your home, accounting for about 18% of your bill. Start by checking the temperature of your water heater. For most uses, you will want your water heated to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Higher temperatures can be dangerous for young children and older adults. You can save hot water (and money) by setting your dishwasher to run shorter cycles and putting your clothes washer on cold water. Encourage your guests to do the same

The Department of Energy recommends a winter thermostat

Winter months often bring the highest energy bills of the year. By being proactive about saving energy, you can increase the comfort of your home and reduce your monthly bill. Visit our for additional energy-

Pat McGonagle

holiday shopping scams

By Scott Stitts, Vice President & Chief Information Officer

As retailers roll out their holiday promotions and deals, consumers start making lists and shopping. However, they are not the only ones paying attention to these deals. Scammers start lurking and targeting vulnerable consumers through a variety of ways, such as sending emails with malicious links or attachments, creating fake websites to imitate larger brands and sending text messages with a call to action where they can steal your personal information.

The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) warns shoppers to be alert to holiday scams and malicious cyberattacks this holiday season. In 2021, U.S. consumers did $211.4 million worth of digital holiday shopping, up 10 percent from 2020, according to retail research firm Digital Commerce 360.

Holiday Scams

Scams ramp up during the holiday season due to the spike in spending, especially online. Below are a few scams to keep an eye out for this holiday season:

• Non-paymentandnon-deliveryscams:In a non-delivery scam, a buyer pays for goods or services found online, but those items are never received. A non-payment scam involves goods or services being shipped, but the seller is never paid. According to the Internet Crime Complaint Center, non-payment or non-delivery scams cost people more than $337 million in 2021.

• Charityscams: According to the fundraising software company Network for Good, one-third of all charitable giving is done in December. This opens the door for scammers to create fake donation websites and make pushy telemarketing phone calls raising money for a charity that does not exist.

• Deliveryemailscams:Scammers target holiday shoppers with phishing emails disguised as UPS, FedEx or U.S. Postal Service. Often, these emails are notifications of incoming or missed deliveries with links that lead to phony sign-in pages asking for personal information or to sites infested with malware.

• Travelscams:Holiday travel spiked by 34 percent in 2021, nearing pre-pandemic levels, according to AAA. With the spike, scammers take advantage of this by creating spoof booking sites and sending email offers with travel deals that look too good to be true (and probably are).

Protecting Yourself from Scams

• Paybycreditcard. The CISA recommends that shoppers make purchases with a credit card instead of a debit card. This allows you to easily dispute charges and limit the damage if it turns out you were scammed. There are laws that limit an individual’s liability for fraudulent credit card charges, but debit cards may not have the same level of protection. According to the Internet Crime Complaint Center, credit card fraud accounted for $173 million in losses in 2021.

• Research unfamiliar retail and charity sites. Search for retailers on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) directory to see if they are accredited and rated by the BBB. Online resources, such as BBB Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator, CharityWatch and GuideStar, provide information on charitable organizations, including ratings, reviews and financial information.

• Buygiftscardsdirectlyfromtheissuingbusiness.If you buy a physical gift card at a store, carefully examine the card and packaging for signs of tampering. Scammers have been known to access the card’s PIN code and drain its value. When the recipient attempts to use the card, they discover that it is empty.

• Stay alert to phishing attacks. Be cautious of phishing emails that are designed to look like an authentic message from a well-known brand. Hover over links to display the true destination URL and only click through if you know it is to a legitimate website.

What to Do in Case of Suspected Fraud

If you believe that you have been a victim of fraud or theft, report it immediately to your bank or credit institution as well as to the proper authorities to minimize your losses and begin working toward a resolution. If you encounter a holiday scam, file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission, www.ftc. gov/complaintor 877-382-4357.

When shopping online during the holiday season—or any time of year—always be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Do your part to avoid becoming a scammer’s next victim.

Scott Stitts

HOLIDAY HEADACHES

And How To Avoid Being Scammed This Holiday Shopping Season

WHAT PUTS CRIMINALS AND SCAMMERS IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT?

Poor security practices, of course! For many, the holiday season ushers in positive spirits, selflessness, and generosity. But it also brings tidings of scammers who seek to use your good spirits against you. Social Engineering 101 says leverage emotions to get to the heart of victims. And there’s no better time of year to do just that! So, as you’re out shopping, giving, volunteering, or whatever your traditions are, keep your guard up, and spread the news that criminals and scammers get into the spirit, too.

SAFETY CHECKLIST (CHECK IT TWICE)

Swipe safely.

If possible, avoid using debit cards to make purchases. Opt for credit cards instead. Most credit card companies offer fraud protection that covers any fraudulent charges should your card be lost or stolen. If you must get cash from an ATM, choose one that’s physically inside a bank and inspect machines thoroughly for card skimmers.

Joining the crowds?

Some deals get marketed as “only available in stores” and might draw massive crowds as a result. If you join them, use a healthy dose of situational awareness. Keep an eye on your things. Know where the exits are. And be kind to those around you!

Shopping from the house?

Cyber Monday and other holiday-related online deals provide great discounts with the convenience of shopping in your pajamas. But they’re also convenient for cybercriminals who set up bogus websites to steal your info or sell inferior products. Stick to recognizable websites, and always verify the URL before entering any personal info (look for the green padlock and HTTPS).

Find a great deal?

As cliché as this may be, if something looks too good to be true, then it’s likely a scam. Reputable sellers won’t offer super expensive computers and electronics for pennies on the dollar. Use common sense! And avoid giving out personal details in order to secure discounts or enter drawings for free prizes. These can sometimes be fraudulent attempts to steal info.

Receive an unsolicited offer?

Beware of any offers that you receive via email or text which come from merchants you don’t recognize or just look spammy. The offer could be real. Or it could be a phishing attack. Always think before you click!

DRILLING A NATURAL GAS WELL

By Dan McVey, Vice President & Chief Operating Officer — Gas Operations

Drilling a natural gas well involves much more than making a hole in the ground. It entails the integration of complex technologies, requiring the producer to make decisions about unexpected pressures and rock formations. The well will be the only conduit to move the oil or gas from the reservoir to the surface; it must be a conduit that will last at least 50 years and be flexible enough in design to allow for the application of future technologies.

Drilling operators must confront and solve extremely difficult technical and safety problems as they bore through layers of subsurface rock to access the strata that contain oil and gas. In addition, they must drill in a way that protects the geologic formation, the production capacity of the well, and the surface environment.

Problems that arise during drilling must be diagnosed using the data that is transmitted from the bottom of the well to the surface, where the information is collected on the rig floor. Depending on the depth of the well, you can lose valuable time before the problem is addressed, leading to the possibility that the situation worsens and drilling operations must be halted. The greatest economic risk occurs when drilling stops after much time and work have been invested.

Attention Natural Gas Members

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

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 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. OHIO811 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, Energy Cooperative strongly recommends a DOT-qualified plumber be used for all buried gas piping.

Dan McVey

Dealing with serious unforeseen problems is the greatest challenge during the drilling process and the primary reason for developing advanced drilling technologies. The U.S. Department of Energy has formed partnerships with industry, national laboratories and universities to conduct research and develop new technologies to reduce the costs and risks of drilling, reduce potential damage to geologic formations, and protect the environment.

DrillingCheaper.There is still no substitute for drilling. The goal of this aspect, then, is to develop drilling technology that is cost effective. Costs are measured in terms of impact on the environment, lifespan of the well and its machinery, and long-term productivity of the well. This requires drilling wells that will last a long time in the precise location needed to achieve maximum recovery of oil and gas, without damaging the environment.

DrillingCleaner. An important objective of today’s research is minimizing the environmental impact of drilling activities. This includes reducing the amount of surface disturbance and responsibly disposing of wastes generated by the drilling. The development of small-bore wells has led to a 75 percent reduction in the amount of surface disturbed and waste generated. Operating costs are also reduced by 50 percent. The goal is to develop drilling technologies that are environmentally neutral, or even friendly.

Drillingforthe21stCentury.The focus of this research is the development of ‘smart well’ technologies that will enable drilling without rigs—systems that will leave no footprint. There is also research into advanced drilling systems that anticipate problems and adjust automatically. Using lasers for drilling is another focus of the research. High-power laser technology developed by the military for national defense could be adapted to drilling for oil and gas.

The research goals include:

DrillingFaster.This element addresses the need for increased efficiency during the drilling phase. Drilling rig time is the most expensive part of the operation, comprising 30-35 percent of total cost. Technologies are being developed to reduce equipment failure, extend the life of drill bits, and reach the target area with as few course corrections as possible.

DrillingDeeper. This aspect addresses the complex geologic environments that affect the drilling phase. Technologies and strategies are being developed that use the specific characteristics of a geologic formation itself to help drill the well. An example of this is the deeper, harder rock formations that contain natural gas. The most efficient strategy is to focus on the brittle nature of the rock itself, which breaks into large chips when hit. It is more efficient to break up the rock by hitting it than to crush and grind it into powder, as is usually done

Thank you to our members!

Because of the generosity of our members rounding up their bills to the next whole dollar amount each month, the Energy Cooperative's Operation Round Up Foundation has donated more than $3.9 million to community organizations.

The Operation Round Up Foundation awarded

$32,755 in OCTOBER

To the following community organizations:

Hospice of Knox County to purchase monitors and scales

West Muskingum Schools for library books

Bethel Mission Inc. for family night equipment - TV & soundbar

Granville Fire Department to purchase dry suits

Turbin Project to purchase tables and chairs

Pleasant Street Elementary for 3D printers

John Glenn Youth Basketball for portable basketball hoops

St. Francis de Sales to purchase chrome books

Utica Fire Department for Marc radios

Do you know an organization that could benefit from an Operation Round Up grant? Scan the QR code with your smart phone or visit myenergycoop.com/roundup.

HOLIDAY EFFICIENCY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

The holiday season is a fun, festive time of year! It’s also a time when we use more electricity. Complete the crossword puzzle below to learn how you and your family can be more energy efficient this holiday season.

1. DOWN: Decorate your _____ with energy-saving LED lights.

2. ACROSS: Smart or programmable _____ can help control heating costs if you’re traveling during the holiday season.

3. DOWN: Save energy by using a _____ to turn off holiday lights at night.

4. ACROSS: If you have a fireplace, ask an adult to close the damper when a _____ is not burning.

5. DOWN: Open blinds and curtains during the day to let natural _____ in to warm your home.

6. ACROSS: Lower the thermostat when your family has _____ visiting during the holidays.

1500 Granville Road

P.O. Box 4970

Newark, Ohio 43058-4970

Energy Cooperative’s business hours are Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

• Member service: 1-800-255-6815

• Electric outages or emergencies: 1-888-535-5732

• Natural gas or propane emergency: 1-800-255-6815

1-800-255-6815

If you see a downed power line or other electrical hazard, call 911 then call our outage line at 1-888-535-5732. Assume every downed power line is energized and dangerous.

If you smell rotten eggs or suspect a gas leak, leave the area immediately. Call 911 then call us at 1-800-255-6815.

EnergyFOR WHAT MATTERS MOST

Business Information

Safety Reminders