As we celebrate our nation’s independence, we hope you will join us in celebrating a recent success in Washington for the cooperatives as well.
Department of Energy standards had prohibited the manufacture of water heaters over 55 gallons. These large electric-resistance heaters are a key part of energy-efficient programs like H2O Select Plus, saving the co-ops’ members $12 million annually in the form of lower electricity rates. There are currently more than 250 co-ops nationwide that participate in these programs.
Through the lobbying efforts by South Carolina’s electric cooperatives, along with the assistance of the state’s congressional delegation, those federal regulations no longer exist. I’d like to give a very special thanks to our legislative liaisons that are looking out for us as we are looking out for you.
Know that your voice is always being heard 365 days a year through programs we have in place like ACRE (The Action Committee for Rural Electrification). ACRE gives you, the consumer-owner, the opportunity to raise your voice on behalf of your cooperative. We send delegates to Washington to fight for your best interests and ensure that the voice of electric cooperatives remains strong.
As the fireworks and flags signify our independence, let’s also celebrate our voices in Washington that fight to keep affordability a common thread for electric cooperatives.