From the Top with CEO Patrick Grace – May 2023

May tends to bring with it strong storms, some of which can be severe. While the tornadoes in February gave us a preview of what we can typically expect, the spring weather seems to test the true reliability of our system. Because reliability is one of our top priorities, we spend the rest of the year doing preventive maintenance in preparation for the extremely high winds and storms we can experience this time of year. We must be prepared for anything, and thanks to the foresight of OEC’s Board of Trustees — a group of your fellow co-op members — we have always worked hard and invested to improve the reliability of your power supply, and significantly increased that effort since 2017.

During the severe weather and tornadoes in February, members in Cleveland County whose homes were not directly impacted experienced brief outages. Thanks to the addition of high-speed fiber services and the ability to accommodate smart equipment on our system, power was automatically rerouted and restored within minutes. A few short years ago, the effects of severe weather would’ve resulted in power outages lasting for hours or even days. But because of the investment we’ve made in a self-healing grid, our members continue to enjoy the most reliable power in central Oklahoma.

As you will read on page 4, our outage times continue to decrease at record levels. We are very proud of these numbers because they show our commitment to improving the quality of life for our members and subscribers, no matter where they choose to call home. Whether our members reside in an urban subdivision or on an acreage at the end of a 10-mile stretch of lines, we believe you deserve the same level of exceptional service. This is why we build our systems — both electric and broadband — stronger than any minimum requirements.


Oklahoma’s weather can and will take down just about anything, so our system is designed to handle more wind and ice than the average system. Our focus is on reliability and ensuring you have power and internet services you can count on.

Share this article

Want more Co-op News?

Right Tree, Right Place | OEC News

Learn how planting the right tree in the right place can save up to 20% on energy costs for homeowners. OEC is committed to safe and reliable energy and provides tips on proper vegetation management practices.

Read More »

Engaging Education | OEC News

OEC and OEC Fiber sponsored a STEM Maker Night featuring hands-on making and STEM activities focused on electricity, attracting over 100 attendees. Engage Learning’s project-based learning approach provides students with real-world problem-solving skills, inspiring a new generation of innovators.

Read More »

Power You Can Count On | OEC News

Recent data shows that OEC members experienced an average outage time of 65.1 minutes for the entire year, exactly half of what it was in 2016, while investor-owned utility customers were without power 175 percent longer. OEC’s score of 58.1 places us in the top 20 percent of most reliable electric co-ops in the nation. Learn about our efforts to provide safe, reliable, and reasonably priced electric service, innovative energy programs, and exceptional member service.

Read More »

Powering Up | OEC News

Winter Storm Uri left a trail of destruction in the United States, especially in the utility industry. Find out how fuel costs, demand charges, and other factors affect your electricity rates and what Oklahoma Electric Cooperative is doing to ensure reliable access to power at an affordable cost.

Read More »

Play It Safe | OEC News

10 do’s and Don’ts When Using Portable Generators

Storm season is upon us, which means greater potential for power outages. If you’re planning to use a portable generator in the event of an outage, Oklahoma Electric Cooperative reminds you to play it safe.

With proper use and maintenance, portable generators can provide great convenience during an outage. However, when generators are used incorrectly, they can be extremely hazardous. In a 2022 report, the Consumer Product Safety Commission estimated 85 U.S. consumers die every year from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning caused by gasoline-powered portable generators.

Here are 10 Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind when using portable generators:

1. DO: Install backup CO alarms.

2. DO: Keep children and pets away from portable generators at all times.

3. DO: Position generators at least 25 feet outside the home, away from doors, windows and vents that can allow CO to enter the home.

4. DO: Ensure your generator is properly grounded. Use a portable ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to prevent electric shock injuries.

5. DO: Use three-pronged extension cords that are rated to handle the load of the generator. Inspect extension cords for cuts, frays or other damage before use.

6. DON’T: Operate a generator inside your home or an enclosed (or partially-enclosed) space. Generators produce high levels of CO, which can be deadly.

7. DON’T: Open windows or doors while the generator is running.

8. DON’T: Rely on generators as a full-time source of power. They should only be used temporarily or in emergency situations to power essential equipment or appliances.

9. DON’T: Overload generators. They should only be used to power essential equipment. Make sure your generator can handle the load of the items you plan to power.

10. DON’T: Connect generators directly into household wiring unless you have an appropriate transfer switch installed. If a generator is connected to a home’s wiring without a transfer switch, power can backfeed along power lines and electrocute utility lineworkers making repairs.

While generators provide convenience during power outages, they can quickly become hazardous––even deadly––if improperly operated. Before you operate a portable generator, be sure to thoroughly read the owner’s manual for important safety information and tips.

If you have questions about proper use of portable generators, we’re here to help. Give us a call at (405) 321-2024 or contact us at okcoop.org.

Share this article

Right Tree, Right Place | OEC News

Learn how planting the right tree in the right place can save up to 20% on energy costs for homeowners. OEC is committed to safe and reliable energy and provides tips on proper vegetation management practices.

Read More »

Engaging Education | OEC News

OEC and OEC Fiber sponsored a STEM Maker Night featuring hands-on making and STEM activities focused on electricity, attracting over 100 attendees. Engage Learning’s project-based learning approach provides students with real-world problem-solving skills, inspiring a new generation of innovators.

Read More »

Power You Can Count On | OEC News

Recent data shows that OEC members experienced an average outage time of 65.1 minutes for the entire year, exactly half of what it was in 2016, while investor-owned utility customers were without power 175 percent longer. OEC’s score of 58.1 places us in the top 20 percent of most reliable electric co-ops in the nation. Learn about our efforts to provide safe, reliable, and reasonably priced electric service, innovative energy programs, and exceptional member service.

Read More »

Powering Up | OEC News

Winter Storm Uri left a trail of destruction in the United States, especially in the utility industry. Find out how fuel costs, demand charges, and other factors affect your electricity rates and what Oklahoma Electric Cooperative is doing to ensure reliable access to power at an affordable cost.

Read More »
Follow us!

Trust You Can See | OEC News

Learn more about how we value transparency

Trust between customers and businesses is hard to come by, especially in today’s ever-evolving marketplace. Many industries face this difference, even cooperatives, but what makes the difference?

The cooperative business model values the trust our members place in us above all else. The way we achieve trust is a recipe of seven values with which we move forward. Our trust recipe includes core values of transparency, honesty, equity, inclusiveness and service to the community.

Transparency is, in and of itself, one of the most essential ingredients in our recipe. It is more than a positive outcome of good management; it is the lifeblood of an engaged and satisfied membership. It is why we continue to provide published and easily accessible information about our operations to the membership. Members can find most information on our website.

Learn more about your cooperative by reading our six information spotlights.

1. What is means to be a cooperative. We often discuss what it means to be a cooperative, something we call the cooperative difference. You can learn more about our dedication to being a good corporate neighbor to the communities that make up our service territories at okcoop.org/about-us/ and by scrolling down to the section titled The Cooperative Difference.

2. Your board representative. A locally elected board trustee represents every OEC member. Each serves a three-year term. Each member has an equal voice in co-op matters, including those who represent them on our board. Our trustees are selected and voted for by you, our members. You can learn what districts each trustee represents and their contact information at okcoop.org/meet-our-team/

3. What makes up your energy. As reported in our article titled Solar Vision last month, alternative energy sources are rising. While oil and gas remain the base of energy generation, our wholesale power provider, Western Farmers Electric Cooperative, maintains a balanced and diverse mix of energy generation. Members can find an explanation of WFEC’s generation practices and percentages of your energy mix at wfec.com/operationsgeneration#operations-generation-portfolio. You can also find renewable energy mix percentages in our WFEC section on page 13 of the Co-op News. This information is published every month in this magazine.

4. Explaining your energy costs. Throughout the year, energy bills and their fluctuations are often a concern for members, especially in times of high bills like winter and summer. More often than not, the cost adjustment section of your bill can explain noticeable higher costs, but what is a cost adjustment? You can learn more about the cost adjustment, why it fluctuates and who is affected at link.okcoop.org/PCA. Members can also track their electricity usage in your MyOEC app under the settings and usage option.

5. Our Bylaws.

The rules and regulations by which OEC operates, or bylaws, are approved and voted on by you, our members. These bylaws can be found on our about us page on our website or at link.okcoop.org/bylaws.

Share this article

Right Tree, Right Place | OEC News

Learn how planting the right tree in the right place can save up to 20% on energy costs for homeowners. OEC is committed to safe and reliable energy and provides tips on proper vegetation management practices.

Read More »

Engaging Education | OEC News

OEC and OEC Fiber sponsored a STEM Maker Night featuring hands-on making and STEM activities focused on electricity, attracting over 100 attendees. Engage Learning’s project-based learning approach provides students with real-world problem-solving skills, inspiring a new generation of innovators.

Read More »

Power You Can Count On | OEC News

Recent data shows that OEC members experienced an average outage time of 65.1 minutes for the entire year, exactly half of what it was in 2016, while investor-owned utility customers were without power 175 percent longer. OEC’s score of 58.1 places us in the top 20 percent of most reliable electric co-ops in the nation. Learn about our efforts to provide safe, reliable, and reasonably priced electric service, innovative energy programs, and exceptional member service.

Read More »

Powering Up | OEC News

Winter Storm Uri left a trail of destruction in the United States, especially in the utility industry. Find out how fuel costs, demand charges, and other factors affect your electricity rates and what Oklahoma Electric Cooperative is doing to ensure reliable access to power at an affordable cost.

Read More »
Follow us!

Beat the Peak | OEC News

Members on the time-of-use rate can find ways to save

Looking around your home, you likely have more devices and equipment that require electricity than ever before. Our connected lives are increasingly dependent on more electricity to function. At the same time, as demand for electricity rises, Oklahoma Electric Cooperative must deliver an uninterrupted 24/7 power supply––regardless of market conditions or other circumstances.

As you would expect, based on your family’s habits, electricity use fluctuates throughout the day based on consumer demand. OEC must be able to provide enough electricity to meet the energy needs of all members on our time-of-use rate during times of highest energy use or “peak hours.” During winter months, these peak times are typically in the morning as people start their day and in the evening as they return home.

What you may not know is that electric utilities, including OEC, typically pay more for electricity––either from a power plant or another utility with excess power––during those morning and evening “energy rush hours.” In addition, the demand for electricity is even higher when it is especially cold outside when heating systems must run longer to warm our homes.

If the “peak times” concept is a bit puzzling, here’s an easy way to think about it, and it is similar to a major concert. We know costs go up when there is strong demand for tickets (or electricity), and both are subject to the basic economic laws of supply and demand. When a lot of people want the same thing, it is more expensive.

When they don’t, it’s cheaper––like a bargain matinee or an “early bird” special at a restaurant.

At OEC, our default rate is the standard residential rate, which does not include peak hours. If you are on this rate, there is no need to worry about peak hours.

Our time-of-use rate includes peak hours between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday between June 1 and August 31.

WAYS TO SAVE

During peak periods when the cost to produce and purchase power is higher, we encourage you to take simple steps to save energy, such as turning your thermostat down a few notches, turning off unnecessary lights and waiting to use large appliances during off-peak times.

You can also save energy by plugging electronics and equipment such as computers, printers and TVs into a power strip, then turning it off at the switch during peak hours. If you have a programmable thermostat, adjust the settings to sync up with off-peak rate periods. When we all work together to reduce energy use during periods of high electricity demand, we can relieve pressure on the grid and save a little money along the way.

Another benefit of this time-of-use approach to electricity use is that it allows greater control over your bill. Reducing the peak impacts the power-supply cost to every co-op member. This is particularly noticeable as energy costs have risen across the U.S. Collectively, everyone conserving energy and making small changes can truly make a difference.

Remember, taking simple steps to save energy throughout the day and shifting energy-intensive chores to off-peak hours is a smart choice for you and our community. Visit okcoop.com/rates/ to learn more about our rates, peak energy times and which rate works best for you.

Share this article

Right Tree, Right Place | OEC News

Learn how planting the right tree in the right place can save up to 20% on energy costs for homeowners. OEC is committed to safe and reliable energy and provides tips on proper vegetation management practices.

Read More »

Engaging Education | OEC News

OEC and OEC Fiber sponsored a STEM Maker Night featuring hands-on making and STEM activities focused on electricity, attracting over 100 attendees. Engage Learning’s project-based learning approach provides students with real-world problem-solving skills, inspiring a new generation of innovators.

Read More »

Power You Can Count On | OEC News

Recent data shows that OEC members experienced an average outage time of 65.1 minutes for the entire year, exactly half of what it was in 2016, while investor-owned utility customers were without power 175 percent longer. OEC’s score of 58.1 places us in the top 20 percent of most reliable electric co-ops in the nation. Learn about our efforts to provide safe, reliable, and reasonably priced electric service, innovative energy programs, and exceptional member service.

Read More »

Powering Up | OEC News

Winter Storm Uri left a trail of destruction in the United States, especially in the utility industry. Find out how fuel costs, demand charges, and other factors affect your electricity rates and what Oklahoma Electric Cooperative is doing to ensure reliable access to power at an affordable cost.

Read More »
Follow us!

Solar Vision | OEC News

How solar panels impact Norman Public Schools

As the sun reaches tendrils of its light towards the earth,large solar panels track them, rotating as the sun rises and sets each day.

Solar power is making notable progress as the renewable energy sector continues its rapid growth. Homes with solar panels attached to their roofs are becoming less of a surprising sight in the United States. According to the U.S. Department of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, around 4% of homes adopted this renewable energy source with an increasing growth rate each year.

This is true right here in central Oklahoma.

“We’re seeing exponential growth in the homeowners who add solar to their house,” said Nick Shumaker, OEC manager of system engineering. “Currently, about 500 of our 60,000 accounts have installed solar at their homes.”

While the number is small, the increase in installs from year to year reveals a sharp rise in adoption of this technology. In 2012, OEC served just 19 solar accounts compared to 522 homes in 2022. A 1,833% increase in just over a decade. With solar energy trending up, OEC wants to ensure we are prepared for new and transitional types of energy.

“At the end of the day, we react to our members’ needs,” Shumaker said. “If our members are installing solar, if they’re buying EVs, whatever it is, we want to be part of the solution so we can remain what we have been since 1937 their trusted energy advisors and experts.”

OEC did just that after meeting with Norman Public Schools in 2019. NPS was looking for a partner to help decrease their expenses, nearly 80% of which were their facility expenses, including energy costs, Shumaker said.

“They came to us, and we want to help those in our community,” Shumaker said, “so the idea of this new solar park was born.”

Spanning 11 acres just east of Norman off Robinson Street, the park can generate an impressive 2,000 kilowatthours per hour—enough to power 350 homes annually. But how?

“Solar is unlike any other energy source we have,” Shumaker said. “Other energy sources are just turning a wind turbine or moving water to spin a turbine, but solar is a complicated chemical reaction.”

Solar panels contain silicone, which include electrical properties allowing it to serve as a foundation for electricity to flow, similar to metals in powerlines through which electricity flows from house to house, or in this case, from school to school, Shumaker said. When the sun hits silicone in the panels, photons energize and begin a frenzy of movement, creating electricity.

“The energy feeds into inverters, which take the energy generated at a direct current, or D.C., and turn it into alternating current, or A.C. power,” Shumaker said. “A.C. power is what the entire U.S. grid operates on because A.C. power is more efficient.”

A.C. power can run in multiple directions, meaning it can travel long distances, such as OEC’s extensive territory.

The A.C. power runs through a transformer contained by large, green boxes — you might see them in neighborhoods or along roads — then underground and into a pole and connects into our local grid. All that energy is used locally, Shumaker said.

“The energy from here is equivalent to the load of both NPS high schools,” Shumaker said. “So, everyone gets to enjoy it and have a touchpoint with it.”

While the energy comes easy on bright, sunny days, one of the challenges of solar is limited sunlight. During winter or on cloudy days, solar panels can produce less energy, which is why our energy partner, Western Farmers Electric Cooperative, generates power from various energy sources.

“You always need to use all the tools in your belt,” Shumaker said. “You can’t build an entire house with just a hammer, but that doesn’t mean the hammer isn’t a good tool. Natural gas and other energy sources are still a foundation, but tools like solar and wind power still help us build the house.”

OEC and NPS have partnered with the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association and the Department of Energy to continue researching how OEC can provide solar energy to members of low-to moderate-income.

Since installing solar panels on a residential home can cost upwards of $60,000, the realities of at-home solar production solar energy is out of reach for most people. The solar park, along with a 40-acre solar farm near Tuttle and the Solar Garden on Interstate 35 in Norman, allows people to experience solar power without that hefty cost, Shumaker said.

“We lease 11 acres from NPS right now, and we’re working on expanding to 15 acres for an educational pavilion, so we can provide tours and opportunities to learn about energy production for students and the public,” Shumaker said.

This partnership benefits both OEC and NPS. A statement on their website about the partnership reads: “The Norman Board of Education approved an agreement to lease district-owned land to OEC to develop the solar farm, which will reduce the school district’s energy costs and provide educational opportunities for students.”

With energy trends ever-shifting, OEC is committed to staying ahead of the curve and leveraging efficient renewable solutions for our members. We will continually strive to deliver exceptional service through innovative operations.

Share this article

Right Tree, Right Place | OEC News

Learn how planting the right tree in the right place can save up to 20% on energy costs for homeowners. OEC is committed to safe and reliable energy and provides tips on proper vegetation management practices.

Read More »

Engaging Education | OEC News

OEC and OEC Fiber sponsored a STEM Maker Night featuring hands-on making and STEM activities focused on electricity, attracting over 100 attendees. Engage Learning’s project-based learning approach provides students with real-world problem-solving skills, inspiring a new generation of innovators.

Read More »

Power You Can Count On | OEC News

Recent data shows that OEC members experienced an average outage time of 65.1 minutes for the entire year, exactly half of what it was in 2016, while investor-owned utility customers were without power 175 percent longer. OEC’s score of 58.1 places us in the top 20 percent of most reliable electric co-ops in the nation. Learn about our efforts to provide safe, reliable, and reasonably priced electric service, innovative energy programs, and exceptional member service.

Read More »

Powering Up | OEC News

Winter Storm Uri left a trail of destruction in the United States, especially in the utility industry. Find out how fuel costs, demand charges, and other factors affect your electricity rates and what Oklahoma Electric Cooperative is doing to ensure reliable access to power at an affordable cost.

Read More »
Follow us!

New Year New Savings | OEC News

Keep energy costs low and your house warm this winter

The turkeys are eaten, the presents unwrapped, new year’s kisses kissed and just like that, the holiday season has drawn to a close, but winter’s chill remains. As we head into the long stretch of winter, now is the perfect opportunity to review some easy energy efficiency tips from our Energy Efficiency & Solutions Specialist, Daniel Lofland. Keep warm indoors, and make a real difference in reducing energy costs by reading our nine energy efficiency tips!

1. Take Advantage of Heat from the Sun. That big beautiful glowing ball in the sky casts a ton of heat. Why not open the blinds and curtains in your home and let the sun do its job? When sunlight makes its way into the home, it heats up whatever objects it hits for free! However, please only use this advice in the winter for obvious reasons. We do not need to make our air conditioners work any harder than they already do in the summer.

2. Cover Drafty Windows. Let’s take this further than simply “covering” drafty windows. If you have a drafty window, seal it up rather than just covering it. Unless your cover creates a proper air barrier, drafts still make their way into the home. Caulk window sills where the window meets sheetrock to ensure no outside air makes it into the home.

3. Adjust the Temperature. Adjusting thermostats is the obvious answer for the most savings. Depending on many factors, adjusting temperature can save up to a 4 to 8% per degree decrease in heating or increase in cooling temperature. In effect, it decreases the cost of the heating and cooling portion of your bill. If you have a heat pump, we recommend finding the temperature that best suits you and your family and leaving it there. Making temperature changes on a heat pump can make the system think it needs help to increase the temperature. Heat pumps increase the temperature in the form of auxiliary heating, which means turning on a bunch of blow dryers to help heat the home. As you can imagine, that is not efficient for your energy bills.

4. Find and Seal Leaks. There are specific places to look for leaks in a home, such as plumbing penetrations, window casings and doors. To find more typical in-home leakage areas, sign up for our Home Energy Consultation Program at okcoop.org/hecp/, and our energy auditors will run a test called a “blower door” which highlights any air leaking in the home.

5. Maintain Your Heating. Systems. Scheduling routine service of your heat and air conditioning systems helps ensure they operate as efficiently as possible. We recommend replacing air filters monthly during peak usage seasons such as winter and summer. Those systems depend on airflow, and a clogged filter restricts that airflow. If you are an Amazon user, try the subscribe and save function to schedule air filter deliveries every month, so reminders literally come in the mail!

6. Reduce Heat Loss from the Fireplace. While not using your fireplace, make sure the dampener is in the closed position. If the dampener is open and the fireplace is not in use, it is like having a window open in your home.

7. Lower Water Heating Costs. We recommend keeping water heater temperatures at 115 to 120 degrees. This will not only save money but will also prevent scalding. We also recommend installing a water heater timer to save more money. Timers allow control of how often the water heater actually needs to kick on and heat water, think high usage times like mornings and evenings. OEC even offers a rebate of $50 for them!

8. Lower Holiday Lighting Costs. Using LEDs for Christmas lights can save a ton over the less efficient incandescent versions. Putting those lights on a timer can also save money. An incandescent C9 bulb uses seven watts per bulb. Moreover, strands have 25 lights, with a two-strand connection max. If there are 25 bulbs in a strand, we are at 50 bulbs between the two strands or 350 watts. An LED C9 bulb uses 0.10 watts per bulb. For the same number of bulbs, the LED version uses five watts. LED is the winner in this= efficiency competition!

9. Stay Warm with Clothes and Blankets. Some of us heard this a lot during our childhoods. “If you are cold, go grab a blanket!” As much as we may not think highly of that memory, it is sound advice for ways to save in the winter. Lower the thermostat temperature and add a layer of clothes, grab a blanket or BOTH! Those layers add insulation from the cold house and help trap body heat!

Share this article

Right Tree, Right Place | OEC News

Learn how planting the right tree in the right place can save up to 20% on energy costs for homeowners. OEC is committed to safe and reliable energy and provides tips on proper vegetation management practices.

Read More »

Engaging Education | OEC News

OEC and OEC Fiber sponsored a STEM Maker Night featuring hands-on making and STEM activities focused on electricity, attracting over 100 attendees. Engage Learning’s project-based learning approach provides students with real-world problem-solving skills, inspiring a new generation of innovators.

Read More »

Power You Can Count On | OEC News

Recent data shows that OEC members experienced an average outage time of 65.1 minutes for the entire year, exactly half of what it was in 2016, while investor-owned utility customers were without power 175 percent longer. OEC’s score of 58.1 places us in the top 20 percent of most reliable electric co-ops in the nation. Learn about our efforts to provide safe, reliable, and reasonably priced electric service, innovative energy programs, and exceptional member service.

Read More »

Powering Up | OEC News

Winter Storm Uri left a trail of destruction in the United States, especially in the utility industry. Find out how fuel costs, demand charges, and other factors affect your electricity rates and what Oklahoma Electric Cooperative is doing to ensure reliable access to power at an affordable cost.

Read More »
Follow us!

Efficient Home for the Holidays

Five ways to fight the winter chill and save energy

We all have our favorite season. Some people love crisp, cool weather and bundling up under a favorite blanket, while others prefer the warm temperatures summer brings and all fun outdoor activities that go with it. 

But there’s one thing we can all agree on: high winter bills are never fun. Oklahoma Electric Cooperative is here to help you find ways to manage your home energy use and keep winter bills in check. 

Here are five tips to help increase your home’s energy efficiency this winter:

1. Mind the thermostat. This is one of the easiest ways to manage your home energy use. We recommend setting your thermostat to 68 degrees (or lower) when you’re home. When you’re sleeping or away for an extended period of time, try setting it between 58 and 62 degrees; there’s no need to heat your home when you’re away or sleeping and less active.

2. Button up your home. The Department of Energy estimates that air leaks account for 24% to 40% of the energy used for heating and cooling a home. Caulking and weather stripping around windows and doors is another simple, cost-effective way to increase comfort and save energy. If you can feel drafts while standing near a window or door, it likely needs to be sealed. 

3. Use window coverings wisely. Open blinds, drapes or other window coverings during the day to allow natural sunlight in to warm your home. Close them at night to keep the cold, drafty air out. If you feel cold air around windows, consider hanging curtains or drapes in a thicker material; heavier window coverings can make a significant difference in blocking cold outdoor air.

4. Consider your approach to appliance use. When combined, appliances and electronics account for a significant chunk of our home energy use, so assess how efficiently you’re using them. For example, if you’re running the dishwasher or clothes washer, only wash full loads. Look for electronic devices that consume energy even when they’re not in use, like phone chargers or game consoles. Every little bit helps, so unplug them to save energy.

5. Think outside the box. If you’re still feeling chilly at home, think of other ways to warm up––beyond dialing up the thermostat. Add layers of clothing, wear thick socks and bundle up under blankets. You can even add layers to your home! If you have hard-surface flooring, consider purchasing an area rug to block cold air that leaks in through the floor. 

Share this article

Right Tree, Right Place | OEC News

Learn how planting the right tree in the right place can save up to 20% on energy costs for homeowners. OEC is committed to safe and reliable energy and provides tips on proper vegetation management practices.

Read More »

Engaging Education | OEC News

OEC and OEC Fiber sponsored a STEM Maker Night featuring hands-on making and STEM activities focused on electricity, attracting over 100 attendees. Engage Learning’s project-based learning approach provides students with real-world problem-solving skills, inspiring a new generation of innovators.

Read More »

Power You Can Count On | OEC News

Recent data shows that OEC members experienced an average outage time of 65.1 minutes for the entire year, exactly half of what it was in 2016, while investor-owned utility customers were without power 175 percent longer. OEC’s score of 58.1 places us in the top 20 percent of most reliable electric co-ops in the nation. Learn about our efforts to provide safe, reliable, and reasonably priced electric service, innovative energy programs, and exceptional member service.

Read More »

Powering Up | OEC News

Winter Storm Uri left a trail of destruction in the United States, especially in the utility industry. Find out how fuel costs, demand charges, and other factors affect your electricity rates and what Oklahoma Electric Cooperative is doing to ensure reliable access to power at an affordable cost.

Read More »
Follow us!

Safety Above All Else

OEC strives for a culture of safety for its workers

“Safety” is a universal word that is mentioned often and used loosely. Communities, large and small, and companies across all industries are committed to safety. Sports leagues, Sports leagues, at every level, tout their safety protocols, but when it really counts, steps to keep the public, workers, athletes and loved ones safe are often ignored in the interest of expediency or convenience. 

However, safety is a serious issue, especially regarding electrical safety. For Oklahoma Electric Cooperative, it’s the number one priority. This is not empty talk. Over time, OEC has created a culture of safety by putting our employees’ safety and that of the community above all else. At its essence, OEC’s mission is to provide safe, affordable and reliable electricity to its member-owners. To do this requires ongoing focus, dedication and vigilance.

We established and follow safety protocols based on leading national safety practices for the utility industry. We require our lineworkers to wear specialized equipment when working next to or with power lines. There are specific protocols that our lineworkers follow when dealing with energized power lines. Our safety team has regular meetings to discuss upcoming projects from a safety perspective. They monitor and track near-misses of accidents in order to understand them, share “lessons learned” and improve in the future. 

Consequently, accidents can happen, which is why our linemen complete safety training monthly, including pole-top rescue training. Pole-top training simulates an electrical contact injury and the lineman becoming unconscious at the top of a pole. Each lineman must climb the pole using spikes attached to their boots and a safety harness secured to the pole. Once they reach the dummy, they tie a rope around it and lower it safely to the ground. 3620401004

“Each lineman is required to do training like this annually, as well as an inspection of their equipment to ensure its reliability,” said Ryan Spears, Manager of Loss Control. “Getting our linemen home safely at the end of the day is our number one priority, and that’s why we approach these trainings seriously and with dedication.”

Most importantly, we encourage all of our crews to speak up and hold each other accountable for safety. By cultivating a culture of openness and transparency, we promote problem-solving with regard to safety rather than defaulting to a blame game. We examine the information and data gleaned from near-misses and accident reports to discern patterns and use safety metrics to improve in those areas where we have fallen short. As appropriate, we brief contractors on our safety protocols and set expectations for their engagement.

Keeping communities safe

Because we live and work in the community we serve, we care about our neighbors. OEC conducts electrical safety demonstrations in schools and for community events with our Live Line presentation.

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation, each year, thousands of people in the United States are critically injured and electrocuted due to electrical fires, accidents and electrocution in their homes. Many of these accidents are preventable. 

Here are some tips to help keep yourself and those around you safe: Don’t attempt electrical DIY projects or overload your outlets. Contact OEC for additional electrical safety tips. If you would like us to provide a safety demonstration at your school or community event, please contact Daniel Lofland at daniel.lofland@okcoop.org. Be mindful when it comes to electrical safety. Pause and take the extra time to plug into safety.

Share this article

Right Tree, Right Place | OEC News

Learn how planting the right tree in the right place can save up to 20% on energy costs for homeowners. OEC is committed to safe and reliable energy and provides tips on proper vegetation management practices.

Read More »

Engaging Education | OEC News

OEC and OEC Fiber sponsored a STEM Maker Night featuring hands-on making and STEM activities focused on electricity, attracting over 100 attendees. Engage Learning’s project-based learning approach provides students with real-world problem-solving skills, inspiring a new generation of innovators.

Read More »

Power You Can Count On | OEC News

Recent data shows that OEC members experienced an average outage time of 65.1 minutes for the entire year, exactly half of what it was in 2016, while investor-owned utility customers were without power 175 percent longer. OEC’s score of 58.1 places us in the top 20 percent of most reliable electric co-ops in the nation. Learn about our efforts to provide safe, reliable, and reasonably priced electric service, innovative energy programs, and exceptional member service.

Read More »

Powering Up | OEC News

Winter Storm Uri left a trail of destruction in the United States, especially in the utility industry. Find out how fuel costs, demand charges, and other factors affect your electricity rates and what Oklahoma Electric Cooperative is doing to ensure reliable access to power at an affordable cost.

Read More »
Follow us!

Making a Difference

OEC Foundation Board Grants $55,000 to Local Organizations, Families

In October, the OEC Foundation approved $55,000 in grants to local organizations and families. Grants are made possible thanks to thousands of members who choose to round up their electric bills to the nearest dollar each month. Their generous donations go towards Operation Round Up (ORU), a program that provides funds for worthy causes throughout our service area.

“As always, its incredbly rewarding to give these grants to people in our community,” said ORU President Beckie Turner. “It is an astronomical reward to know that everything we take in, we’re going to give back.”

Fostering Futures, formally the Citizens Advisory Board, Assistance League Norman, and the Salvation Army of Cleveland County received $10,000 each. The board also awarded grants to several other organizations. The American Red Cross of Central and Southwest Oklahoma received $7,500 for local disaster aid, Mission Norman received $5,000 for their residents, Blanchard Special Olympics received $2,000 for team supplies, and the Amber Fire Department received $4,000 for personal protection equipment and other tools.

“These are all incredbile causes we are proud to support here at OEC,” said OEC Education and Outreach Programs Director Tory Tedder-Loffland.

Individuals also received assistance with eye care, purchasing hearing aids and dentures, and help with groceries.

Approximately 80 percent of our members choose to round up their monthly bills, with the change going towards the OEC Foundation board to disburse. On average, this amounts to $6 per year per member, which helps support various causes and programs.

The Foundation board is responsible for carefully reviewing and selecting organizations and projects that will have the most impact, and OEC is proud to support such worthwhile initiatives.

“Our grants help larger organizations expand their reach to help more people who are struggling,” Turner said. “It’s wonderful to see how far just a few dollars given every month can go.”

Over the last 26 years, ORU has awarded more than $5 million in grants to various local nonprofit organizations. These organizations provide vital services to their communities, including meals, clothes, Christmas gifts and more.

In addition to providing essential services, these organizations build community cohesion and support networks. As a result, the impact of ORU’s grants goes far beyond the immediate recipients. By supporting these organizations, ORU is helping to create stronger communities and making a difference.

Share this article

Right Tree, Right Place | OEC News

Learn how planting the right tree in the right place can save up to 20% on energy costs for homeowners. OEC is committed to safe and reliable energy and provides tips on proper vegetation management practices.

Read More »

Engaging Education | OEC News

OEC and OEC Fiber sponsored a STEM Maker Night featuring hands-on making and STEM activities focused on electricity, attracting over 100 attendees. Engage Learning’s project-based learning approach provides students with real-world problem-solving skills, inspiring a new generation of innovators.

Read More »

Power You Can Count On | OEC News

Recent data shows that OEC members experienced an average outage time of 65.1 minutes for the entire year, exactly half of what it was in 2016, while investor-owned utility customers were without power 175 percent longer. OEC’s score of 58.1 places us in the top 20 percent of most reliable electric co-ops in the nation. Learn about our efforts to provide safe, reliable, and reasonably priced electric service, innovative energy programs, and exceptional member service.

Read More »

Powering Up | OEC News

Winter Storm Uri left a trail of destruction in the United States, especially in the utility industry. Find out how fuel costs, demand charges, and other factors affect your electricity rates and what Oklahoma Electric Cooperative is doing to ensure reliable access to power at an affordable cost.

Read More »
Follow us!

The Power of Service

Oklahoma Electric Cooperative and OEC Fiber Employees Volunteer to Complete Much Needed Community Projects

Twenty OEC and OEC Fiber employees teamed up with Cleveland County Master Gardeners during United Way of Norman’s (UWN) Day of Caring (DOC). The annual service event brings together hundreds of volunteers from businesses in Cleveland County to perform much-needed projects for nonprofit organizations.

“I enjoy seeing so many members of our community come together to help out our often-struggling nonprofits complete projects they might not be able to perform due to budget restraints, staffing and the necessary time commitment,” said OEC Education and Outreach Programs Director Tory Tedder-Loffland, 

who also served on the DOC planning committee.

OEC’s volunteer group spent time repairing and staining benches and pergolas throughout the Master Gardeners’ grounds. The team also removed old raised garden beds and completed yard work around the property. It was a busy day filled with rewarding work for a deserving organization.

“It is especially rewarding to see the business community come together to make a lasting impact beyond just donating money,” said OEC Fiber social marketing associate Hunter Foster. “I love seeing everyone serve these nonprofits and our community as a whole.”

The mission of Cleveland County Master Gardeners, the organization with which OEC and OEC Fiber employees were paired, is very simple. 

“Oklahoma Master Gardeners are a vital part of Oklahoma State University Extension’s ability to provide consumers with up-to-date, research-based information on gardening and plant care. Master Gardeners has also become a popular volunteer activity that gives its participants a sense of community spirit, accomplishment and intellectual stimulation.”

Share this article

Right Tree, Right Place | OEC News

Learn how planting the right tree in the right place can save up to 20% on energy costs for homeowners. OEC is committed to safe and reliable energy and provides tips on proper vegetation management practices.

Read More »

Engaging Education | OEC News

OEC and OEC Fiber sponsored a STEM Maker Night featuring hands-on making and STEM activities focused on electricity, attracting over 100 attendees. Engage Learning’s project-based learning approach provides students with real-world problem-solving skills, inspiring a new generation of innovators.

Read More »

Power You Can Count On | OEC News

Recent data shows that OEC members experienced an average outage time of 65.1 minutes for the entire year, exactly half of what it was in 2016, while investor-owned utility customers were without power 175 percent longer. OEC’s score of 58.1 places us in the top 20 percent of most reliable electric co-ops in the nation. Learn about our efforts to provide safe, reliable, and reasonably priced electric service, innovative energy programs, and exceptional member service.

Read More »

Powering Up | OEC News

Winter Storm Uri left a trail of destruction in the United States, especially in the utility industry. Find out how fuel costs, demand charges, and other factors affect your electricity rates and what Oklahoma Electric Cooperative is doing to ensure reliable access to power at an affordable cost.

Read More »
Follow us!
Skip to content