Vol73-9 September 2023
Member newsletter for Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative
SMECO files for energy rate adjustment
On July 31, 2023, SMECO filed a request with the Public Service Commission (PSC) to reduce the cooperative’s base Standard Offer Service (SOS) rates for residential members. Under the proposed changes, the residential base SOS rate for summer will decrease from $0.0949 to $0.0874 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), and for winter will decrease from $0.0931 to $0.0854/kWh. If approved, the new rate will go into effect on October 1, 2023.
Plant the right tree in the right place
Fall is a great time to plant trees and shrubs. Consider electric equipment near your home and the future of your plantings.
Building a smarter grid
The centralized model of delivering electric supply has served as the standard in the United States for many decades. In this model, power is generated at a large-scale facility, and then transported over transmission and distribution lines through substations and switching stations until it reaches the end user. The possibilities for the electric grid of the 21st century are shifting as more people are choosing sustainable energy options, such as rooftop solar, electric vehicles, and battery storage systems. As costs decrease and the trend toward localized sustainable energy generation accelerates, electric grids will become less dependent on centralized power plants, paving the way for decentralized electrification.
Energy efficiency tip of the month
Did you know fall is the perfect time to schedule a tune-up for your heating system? Home heating accounts for a large portion of winter energy bills, and no matter what kind of system you have, you can save energy and money by regularly maintaining your equipment.
Combining proper equipment maintenance and upgrades with recommended insulation, air sealing, and thermostat settings can save
about 30 percent on your energy bills.
Community Calendar
Find out about upcoming events in Southern Maryland.
