SMECO Connects: Key Elements of Your Bill
In the latest episode of SMECO Connects, Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative employees Eugene Bradford and Tami Fellner break down several key elements of your electric bill.
Mr. Bradford and Ms. Fellner also discuss the process for rate setting and the efforts SMECO takes to improve its commodity purchasing power to help reduce the impact of rising power costs.
Learn more about how to read your bill here.
Visit the SMECO Connects YouTube channel to see Sonja Cox, president and CEO, and Tom Dennison, government and public affairs director, offer conversations aimed to keep customers informed about topics that impact the region, from energy updates to local initiatives that shape our daily lives.
“Each week, I’ll bring you the latest community news, practical tips, and insightful conversations with local thought leaders,” Ms. Cox said. “Together, we’ll explore ways to enhance our shared experiences in Southern Maryland. Join me as we spark discussions, share knowledge, and strengthen the bonds that make our community thrive.”
In this podcast, Beth, from the Credit and Collections team, shares how SMECO encourages members who may be struggling to connect with local agencies for support.
SMECO – The Cooperative Difference
SMECO was incorporated in 1937 and is one of the 15 largest electric cooperatives in the United States with more than 170,000 member accounts in Charles County, St. Mary’s County, southern Prince George’s County, and most of Calvert County.
Electric cooperatives are shaped by the communities they serve, because co-ops are owned by their customers. Co-op members elect the men and women who serve on the Board of Directors. Members share the responsibility of ownership by financing the cooperative’s operations, but they also share its rewards.
At the end of each year, SMECO’s margins (profits) are allocated to members’ capital credit accounts. SMECO uses its profits to invest in new construction, system improvements, and facility upgrades. The Board of Directors regularly evaluates the financial condition of the co-op and determines when members will receive a refund. Since 1937, SMECO has refunded more than $128 million.
As a cooperative, SMECO will always put its members first and be responsive, reliable, and resourceful — the power you can count on.
Follow SMECO on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SMECO.coop and on X. Check out podcasts hosted by Sonja Cox, CEO and president. Listen on SMECO’s YouTube channel or wherever you get your podcasts.
The SMECO 24/7 mobile app is available at www.smeco.coop/247. To learn more about SMECO, visit its Leader member page.
