CEO’s/President’s Message

Manager's Message

CEO’s Message – April 2024

One of my favorite cooperative events is just over a month away—the annual meeting! It is an opportunity for members to interact face-to-face with the board of directors and cooperative employees; whether to ask questions or provide feedback directly to cooperative leadership. You, the members we serve, always bring value to the discussion, and I know our co-op team is energized by these interactions.

If you’ve never attended the annual meeting, I’d encourage you to participate. Why? Because input from members like you matters and helps drive the direction of the co-op. At the annual meeting, we report on current initiatives, highlight achievements, and discuss the financial health and priorities for the coming years. And equally important, this is an opportunity for Halifax EMC to hear from you. Leading up to annual meeting is also the time to vote for directors who will represent you and our community’s interests in the co-op.

As a member of Halifax EMC, you have the power to help shape our community’s energy future. Cooperatives around the world operate according to the same set of core principles and values and these principles are a key reason that electric cooperatives operate differently from other electric utilities, putting the needs of their members first. One of those principles is that we are democratically controlled by the members we serve, meaning you have a say in who governs our co-op. Each member has a vote regardless of your investment in Halifax EMC. By voting in the annual director election, you can weigh in on the leaders who will make important decisions about the future of the cooperative and our local energy needs.

Halifax EMC’s Board of Directors are community-minded individuals with different skill sets. We rely on them to help us make more informed decisions on long-term priorities and investments. Halifax EMC has nine directors who live in the co-op’s service area. We consider them the eyes and ears of the community because they provide their unique perspective on various local issues.

The following are candidates for the 2024 director election. The names are listed in the order they will appear on the ballot.
District 1: Frederick Dunn
District 2: Basil Williams
District 8 At-large: Sanders Cox & Donald Craft

We want to make voting as convenient as possible for our members, so we offer mail-in balloting. Simply cast your vote and use the provided pre-paid postage envelope to mail-in or drop off at the Enfield or Macon office. Ballots will be mailed to members on April 23 and the deadline to return them is 5 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15.

If you’ve never been to an annual meeting or it’s been a while, we hope you’ll stop by on Saturday, May 18. Join us for food, entertainment by The Mills Family, door prizes and more. All members who attend the event receive a goody bag and will be entered in a drawing for a door prize.

Your Halifax EMC team will be ready to answer any energy-related questions you may have, from electric vehicle options to ways to manage your home energy use. We look forward to seeing you at the annual meeting on Saturday, May 18. Doors open and registration begins at 9:30 a.m.

Manager's Message

CEO’s Message – February 2024

When outdoor temperatures drop, our electricity use increases. That’s because we’re doing more activities inside, and our heating systems are running longer and more often to counteract colder outdoor temperatures.

Naturally, ensuring the safe and efficient heating of our home becomes a top priority. This month we’re sharing valuable tips to help you navigate the winter months efficiently, saving money while prioritizing safety.

Follow these tips to keep your home warm and secure during the colder months (and save a little money along the way):

  • Select the lowest comfortable thermostat setting and turn it down several degrees whenever possible. Your heating system must run longer to make up the difference between the thermostat temp and the outdoor temp. A simple adjustment to your thermostat can make a significant impact on your energy bill.
  • Seal air leaks around windows and exterior doors with caulk and weatherstripping. Air leaks and drafts force your heating system to work harder than necessary.
  • Stagger your use of major appliances such as dishwashers, ovens and dryers. Start the dishwasher before you go to bed and use smaller countertop appliances like slow cookers and air fryers to save energy. Use the low heat setting on your dryer. You’ll use less energy with a longer dry cycle at a lower heat setting than with a shorter cycle at a higher temperature.
  • Ensure that your heating system is optimized for efficiency with regular maintenance and proper insulation. Have a professional inspect your HVAC system to identify and address any issues before they become major problems. Make sure your furnace filter isn’t clogged and dirty – replace it as needed. Don’t block air returns with furniture or other large objects.
  • When possible, use cold water to reduce water heating costs. Setting your water heater thermostat to 120 degrees can help you save energy and reduce mineral buildup and corrosion in your water heater and pipes.
  • Unplug devices when not in use to eliminate unnecessary energy use. Even when turned off, electronics in standby mode consume energy. Plug devices into a power strip so you can turn them all off at once with the push of a button.
  • If you supplement your heat by using a space heater, limit its use to one room at a time. If you leave the room, unplug the space heater. When used incorrectly, space heaters can take a toll on your energy bills and present fire risks in your home. If you’re using space heaters to warm a small area, remember to use the 3-feet rule to reduce the risk of a home fire.
  • If you have a fireplace, have the chimney inspected and cleaned annually to prevent the buildup of creosote, which can lead to chimney fires. Use a sturdy screen to keep sparks and embers from escaping, and never leave a fire unattended.

As we navigate the remaining winter season together, Halifax EMC remains committed to providing reliable and affordable energy. We encourage you to embrace these tips to create a warm and energy-efficient home while prioritizing safety for yourself and your loved ones.

Manager's Message

CEO’s Message – January 2024

Electricity plays an essential role in everyday life. It powers our homes, offices, hospitals and schools. We depend on it to keep us warm in the winter (and cool in the summer), charge our phones and binge our favorite TV shows. If the power goes out, even briefly, our lives can be disrupted.

The system that delivers your electricity is often described as the most complex machine in the world, and it’s known as the electric grid. What makes it so complex? We all use different amounts of electricity throughout the day, so the supply and demand for electricity is constantly changing. For example, we typically use more electricity in the mornings when we’re starting our day, and in the evenings when we’re cooking dinner and using appliances. Severe weather and other factors also impact how much electricity we need.

The challenge for electric providers is to plan for, produce and purchase enough electricity so it’s available exactly when we need it. Too much or too little electricity in one place can cause problems. So, to make sure the whole system stays balanced, the electric grid must adjust in real time to changes and unforeseen events.

At its core, the electric grid is a network of power lines, transformers, substations and other infrastructure that span the entire country. But it’s not just a singular system. It’s divided into three major interconnected grids: the Eastern Interconnection, the Western Interconnection and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas. These grids operate independently but are linked to allow electricity to be transferred between regions when backup support is required.

Within the three regions, seven balancing authorities known as independent system operators (ISOs) or regional transmission organizations (RTOs) monitor the grid, signaling to power plants when more electricity is needed to maintain a balanced electrical flow. ISOs and RTOs are like traffic controllers for electricity.

The journey of electricity begins at power plants.

Power plants can be thought of as factories that make electricity using various energy sources, like natural gas, solar, wind and nuclear energy. Across the U.S., more than 11,000 power plants deliver electricity to the grid.

Halifax EMC receives power from our generation and transmission co-op, North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation (NCEMC). Duke Energy and Dominion Energy transmit this power over transmission lines to us. We work closely with NCEMC to provide electricity at the lowest cost possible. Being part of a G&T benefits members like you by placing ownership and control in the hands of your co-op, prioritizing affordability and reliability, supporting local economic development and fostering a sense of community.

To get the electricity from power plants to you, we need a transportation system.

High-voltage transmission lines act as the highways for electricity, transporting power over long distances. These lines are supported by massive towers and travel through vast landscapes, connecting power plants to electric substations.

Substations are like pit stops along the highway, where the voltage of electricity is adjusted. They play a crucial role in managing power flow and ensuring that electricity is safe
for use in homes and businesses.

Once the electricity is reduced to the proper voltage, it travels through distribution power lines, like the ones you typically see on the side of the road. Distribution lines carry electricity from substations to homes, schools and businesses. Distribution transformers, which look like metal buckets on the tops of power poles or large green boxes on the ground, further reduce the voltage to levels suitable for household appliances and electronic devices.

After traveling through transformers, electricity reaches you—to power everyday life.

We’re proud to be your local, trusted energy provider. From the time it’s created to the time it’s used, electricity travels great distances to be available at the flip of a switch. That’s what makes the electric grid our nation’s most complex machine— and one of our nation’s greatest achievements.

Manager's Message

CEO’s Message – December 2023

As the holiday season approaches, we are pleased to announce that your electric cooperative will return $270,000 in capital credits to its members. This year’s distribution is a testament to the cooperative’s commitment to its members, and it is our pleasure to share our financial success with you.

The capital credits distribution will take place this month (December), just in time for the holiday season. This is our way of giving back to you during this special time of year. If you were a Halifax EMC member receiving electric service during 2002, you should be receiving capital credits. Eligible members will receive capital credits in the form of a check if the amount is more than $99 or as a credit on your December or January electric bills for any amount less than $99.

As an electric cooperative, Halifax EMC operates as a not-for-profit for you, the member-owners. Your capital credits represent one of many ways members take part in the cooperative. Attending an annual meeting, serving as a board member, and voting in board elections are all forms of member participation but, as demonstrated by capital credits, all members participate in the cooperative financially. Capital credits are a pillar to the financial success of the cooperative. The capital contributed to the cooperative by members is used to offset borrowed money allowing the cooperative to keep rates lower for the membership. The cooperative model of raising capital within the membership embodies the principle that by working together within our community we can achieve more.

Your share of the cooperative’s margins (revenues that exceeded expenses) reflects your support and patronage over the past year. These margins are retained by the cooperative for a number of years as operating capital, helping reduce the amount of money borrowed to run the business, thus keeping rates lower. This tradition of returning capital credits highlights our cooperative’s mission to benefit you, our members.

As members, you are at the heart of our cooperative, and your support allows us to continue delivering reliable and affordable electric service to our communities. We look forward to continuing to serve your energy needs in the years to come.

If you have any questions about the capital credits distribution or any other matter related to your cooperative membership, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly member services team. We are here to assist you.

Thank you for being a part of our cooperative family. Your trust and commitment are deeply appreciated. We wish you and your loved ones a joyous holiday season and a bright and prosperous year ahead.

Manager's Message

CEO’s Message – November 2023

The holiday season is just around the corner and soon, festive music will flood the airwaves, sparkling lights and decorations will adorn homes and businesses, and good tidings will abound.

The holidays also bring a frenzy of decorating, cooking and family gatherings, and amid the hectic hustle and bustle, you may receive higher-than-usual energy bills.

Keeping this in mind, I thought this month would be a good time to remind Halifax EMC members of a few programs and efficiency tips to help lower your monthly energy use.

Programs designed to help you save.

Winter months typically bring some of the highest energy bills of the year. Making minor, low-cost improvements, like weather-stripping exterior doors and caulking around old, drafty windows, can make a positive impact on energy bills. If you’re not sure where to start, contact Halifax EMC to request a home energy assessment.

Ask about energy use alerts. Log into the member portal or mobile app and opt-in to receive alert notifications when your home energy use is higher than normal. Our team of member service representatives is available to help, so I encourage you to give us a call if you’d like to learn about specific programs and services that can help you manage energy use and lower your electric bill.

Be festive without breaking the bank.

Many of us begin decorating for Christmas faster than we can finish the Thanksgiving turkey. With holiday lights adorning our homes for well over a month, make the switch to LEDs to save energy. LED holiday lights use 88% less energy than incandescent holiday lights. To put that into perspective, the Department of Energy estimates that with standard holiday decorations, LED lights typically increase energy bills by about $5 to $7. But with incandescent lights, energy bills will typically increase by $33 or more. For homes that go above and beyond with incandescent holiday lighting (think Clark Griswold), energy bills could increase by as much as $350. Beyond energy savings, LEDs provide additional benefits, such as being shock resistant, shatterproof and cool to the touch, making them safer for the home.

You can also lower energy use by conveniently managing holiday lighting. Smart light timers can help you save energy by connecting to a smart phone app or voice assistant to program lights to turn on and off at set times. If you don’t use smart home technology, you can still save energy by using traditional timers.

Additional easy ways to save during the holiday season include turning off overhead lights and using your Christmas tree to illuminate your home. If you have a fireplace, remember to close the flue when you’re not burning a fire to ensure heat doesn’t escape through the chimney.

Cook up energy savings in the kitchen.

If you plan to have family and friends over this holiday season, you can cook up energy savings by using small countertop appliances like microwaves, air fryers and slow cookers when possible, as they use much less energy than the stovetop or oven.

When using the oven, bake multiple dishes at once for maximum efficiency. Afterall, it takes as much energy to cook one dish as it does to cook several. Turn the oven off a few minutes before the recipe’s end time and allow the residual heat to finish baking the dish.

When using the stove top, match the pan size to the burner to maximize the stove top’s efficiency.

I hope a few of these tips will be helpful as we approach the holiday season. Remember, we’re here to answer any questions you have about managing energy use or your monthly bills. With a little planning upfront, you can find efficient ways to save on everything from holiday décor to your favorite soup recipes.

From your friends at Halifax EMC, we hope you have a wonderful holiday season.

 

Manager's Message

CEO’s Message – October 2023

In today’s world, most of us don’t leave the front door unlocked. We protect our homes, loved ones and valuables from intruders with locks, alarms and other security measures. Cybersecurity is no different. It’s the practice of protecting other valuables such as your identify, banking and health records and other sensitive information from digital attacks and theft.

In addition to pumpkin-spice lattes, crisper air and Halloween festivities, October is the time of year we recognize Cybersecurity Awareness Month. While taking necessary steps to protect our personal information is a year-round practice,
at Halifax EMC, we use this time to share helpful cybersecurity reminders across our team of employees.

Given our increased reliance on internet-connected devices and gadgets, this month, I’d like to share a few cybersecurity tips and let you know how Halifax EMC is working to boost our own cybersecurity efforts.

According to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency (CISA), an agency of the United States Department of Homeland Security that is responsible for strengthening cybersecurity and infrastructure protection, these are the four best ways to keep
you and your family safe online.

  1. Implement multi-factor authentication (also known as two-step verification) on your accounts. The additional layer of protection makes it much harder for criminals to access your information. Even if a hacker obtains your password, they may be unable to access your accounts if multistep verification is enabled.
  2. Update your software. This is one of the easiest ways to protect your personal data. When downloading a software
    update, make sure it’s coming straight from the company that created it. Beware of fake pop-ups that request urgent
    downloads. Better yet, turn on automatic updates.
  3. Think before you click. Most successful cyber attacks start with a phishing email. Don’t take the bait when cyber criminals go phishing. Avoid emails (or texts) that look too good to be true, oddly urgent, poorly crafted or include unusual requests.
  4. Create strong passwords, using long, unique and complex words or phrases. Consider using a password manager to save time, work across all devices, protect your identity and notify you of potential phishing websites.

For the young people in your household
Just as you would talk with your children about safety in the physical world, discuss ways to stay safe online. Help them understand the public nature of the internet. Young people need to know early on, that what is shared online stays online and is difficult (if not impossible) to take back. Children need to learn to guard their personal information, especially on social networks. As a parent or guardian, help your children learn about and use the privacy and security settings on social networks and gaming sites.

Keeping the electric grid and your data secure
We’re doing our share on the cyber front. Part of offering excellent service is keeping that service secure and reliable. For Halifax EMC, reliability means repairing wear-and-tear, upgrading our equipment to withstand storms and severe weather as well as using technology and best practices to keep our system and network protected from cybersecurity issues.

We also work together with co-ops across the country to develop new technologies and infrastructure, learn from each other and keep the grid’s network secure. For example, we are observers of GridEx where co-ops around the country come together to simulate realistic cyber issues and practice responding to the latest types of issues we might have to manage.

While we can’t stop a storm or predict every disruption, as a co-op, we do everything we can to keep the lights on and our members protected. Because if we all do our part, our interconnected world will be safer and more secure for everyone

Manager's Message

CEO’s Message – September 2023

Free energy from the sun and lower electric bills…Where do I sign up? The benefits of installing rooftop solar panels may seem like a no-brainer, but the reality is, not every home (and homeowner’s situation) is always right for solar.

There are several factors to consider before pulling the trigger on a rooftop solar system, like determining if your home will receive enough sun to achieve your goals, finding the right contractor, negotiating contracts and other important details. Investing in solar for your home is a major decision. If you’re considering rooftop solar, Halifax EMC can help.

Here are eight questions to consider before installing rooftop solar panels.

1. What are my goals? If your primary goal is to save money on electric bills, you may be able to achieve this through our free energy audit program, which can identify areas of the home for maximum energy savings. There are many simple and affordable improvements that can help you reduce your current demand for energy:
• Checking for and repairing leaky duct work
• Adding insulation
• Purchasing ENERGY STAR® appliances and electronics
• Changing your water heater temperature setting by reducing the temperature little by little until you find it getting too cool
• Resetting your thermostats and setting your fan to “auto” mode (setting the heat at 68°F and cooling at 76°F can significantly reduce your energy costs)
• Caulking around windows and door frames
2. Is my roof suitable for solar? Your roof should be in good condition before installing solar panels. If your roof is old and in poor shape, it may need to be replaced before panels can be mounted. Additionally, your roof should receive a lot of sun to make the most of a rooftop system. Consider how much sun (and shade) the roof receives and if any trees will need to be removed. Solar panels perform best when facing south, so keep this in mind as you think about where the panels will be mounted.
3. How long will I own the home? If you’re considering rooftop solar, you’re likely planning to stay in the home for several years. But if you plan to sell the home at some point down the road, consider that not all potential buyers will want to maintain a rooftop solar system. If you enter a contract to lease the system, carefully review the terms and what those mean if you decide to sell the property.
4. Lease or purchase? Purchasing a rooftop solar system outright is expensive, which is why many homeowners opt to lease their solar panels. However, federal tax credits can help cover some of the costs for a new system, up to 30%. Visit dsireusa.org for current incentives. Regardless of how you decide to finance the solar system, make sure you get several quotes from qualified contractors.

Speaking of contractors, there are several factors you’ll want to discuss with them upfront.

5. Can the contractor provide up-to-date documentation? It may seem obvious but be sure to request proof and documentation of the contractor’s licensing, permitting and other credentials. Comb through company reviews, check the contractor’s status with Better Business Bureau, etc. — do your homework on the front end before signing a contract.
6. Does the contract seem reasonable and fair? If you decide to hire a contractor to install rooftop solar, carefully read the fine print of the contract. Do the system performance calculations seem realistic? Does the project timeframe sound reasonable? Negotiate the contract terms to fit your goals and needs.
7. Who will maintain the solar panels? Determining who is responsible for maintaining the solar panels will depend on who owns the system. If you lease the system from a solar installer, it may be their responsibility. Periodically, solar panels need to be cleaned as dirt and debris can impact panel productivity. Parts may also need to be replaced, so it’s important to know who will take on these responsibilities.
8. How will I work with Halifax EMC? Finally, but equally important, you should contact Halifax EMC if you decide to install solar. The system must be connected to the electric grid, so you’ll need to sign an interconnection agreement. We can walk you through the steps, including how our solar rates and fees work. Visit our renewable energy page for a general overview of how you can work with us on connecting your new rooftop solar system.

For many homeowners, solar panels are a great way to help the environment and save on electric bills — but there
are many factors to consider before diving in and installing a system. As with any major home project, do plenty of research upfront, and contact Halifax EMC if you have questions or decide to move forward with installation. We’re your local energy partner and can serve as a helpful resource throughout the process.

Manager's Message

CEO’s Message – August 2023

“We’re here to serve you.” We’ve all heard this phrase countless times. These words may sound generic, but to us — your local electric cooperative — they mean everything.

Halifax EMC was created to serve our community 85 years ago when neighbors banded together to form our co-op for the common good. In our case, it was the only way the community could bring electricity to the area where there was none. In doing so, Halifax EMC helped the community thrive. That mission-focused culture is the golden thread that is woven throughout our history.

Today, we are continuing to power the community. While our focus has remained steady on providing reliable energy to our members, today’s energy landscape and member expectations are far different than they were decades ago. That’s why we continue to adapt, to keep pace with changing technology, evolving needs, and new expectations.

Serving as your trusted energy advisor means we want to help you save energy (and money) and provide advice and information on a broad range of energy topics. For example, if you’re looking for ways to save energy, check out the energy efficiency section of our website, halifaxemc.com, for ideas to increase the energy efficiency of your home. Consider scheduling a free energy assessment with our energy experts to identify ways you can save energy at home. Understanding how your home uses energy can help determine the best ways to modify energy use and thereby keep more money in your wallet.

If you’re considering a rooftop solar installation, our energy advisors would be happy to give you an unbiased view of the pros and cons. Investing in a solar system is a major decision, and it’s important to fully understand the costs, responsibilities, and potential energy savings prior to committing to a contract. Unlike a solar company that has one objective — to sell their products and services — we will look at the total energy picture and help you determine the best options for your home. We understand that homeowners must undertake their due diligence, and we’re here to help you through that process.

We recognize that many members are considering electric vehicle options. Halifax EMC provides information about EV charging and electrical requirements to our members so you can make informed decisions about EVs. We can provide a candid assessment of residential and business charging requirements for all types of EVs. No matter what our members drive, we want to help you achieve energy savings.

So, the next time you hear Halifax EMC use the phrase “we’re here to serve you,” we hope you know that we mean it. Service is deeply ingrained into who we are. We continue to evolve with the times, and in return, we’ve found additional ways to serve you and provide more options for you to power your life.

We’re here whenever you need us. Connect with us online, in person, through the HEMC Mobile app, or find us on Facebook. However you choose to connect, please let us know how we can serve you better.

Hali Facts, Manager's Message

Manager’s Message – June 2023

Boating and Water Safety

Summer is here and many of us enjoy cooling off by spending time on the water. Boats can be a great source of summer fun and leisure. But, boaters, swimmers, and marina staff must be aware of dangers in and around the water. Electrical hazards and carbon monoxide (CO) bring unique risks to the boating world. Learn to protect people and pets from these dangers.

Electrical shock drownings can occur when marina electrical systems leak electrical current into the water. Boats can also serve as the source of an electrical leakage. Leakage can cause a shock that can injure, disable, or kill a person.

  • Never allow swimming near the boat, marina, or launching ramp. Residual current could flow into the water from the boat or the marina’s wiring. This can put anyone at risk of electrical shock drownings (ESD).
  • Be sure your boat is well maintained. Have it inspected each year. Ask a qualified marine electrician to do this job.
  • Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and equipment leakage circuit interrupters (ELCIs) should be installed and tested monthly. Run tests to find out if electrical current is leaking from the boat.
  • Only use cords intended for marine use. Never use household cords near water.
  • Know where your main breakers are on both the boat and the shore power source. This will help you respond quickly in an emergency.

Carbon Monoxide is a gas you cannot see, taste, or smell. It is often called the “invisible killer.” CO is created when fuels such as gasoline, diesel, or propane do not burn fully. CO is also produced when wood or charcoal is burned.

Sources of CO on your boat may include engines, gas generators, and cooking ranges. Space and water heaters can also be sources of CO. CO can collect anywhere in or around a boat. The gas is harmful to both people and to pets.

  • Poorly tuned engines produce more CO. Keep your engine properly maintained. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for service.
  • Proper ventilation for engine and generator exhaust vents must be clear and pipes should be inspected for leaks.
  • Get into fresh air right away and get help if you feel symptoms of CO poisoning. These include headache, fatigue, confusion, dizziness, nausea, or seizures. The symptoms can be similar to seasickness. Assume it is CO exposure until you are sure the boat is safe.
  • Do not swim near the boat’s exhaust vents. CO accumulates there.
  • Install CO alarms inside your boat. Test CO alarms before each trip.
  • Choose a CO alarm that is listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
  • If the CO alarm sounds, move to a fresh air location right away.

While water-safety behaviors such as wearing life jackets and maintaining safe boating speeds have become commonplace, electrical hazards and carbon monoxide dangers are often overlooked. Protect yourself and your loved ones from the risk of electrical shock drowning and other common boat hazards.

Manager's Message

Manager’s Message – April 2023

Several months ago, Halifax EMC retained Booth & Associates, LLC to conduct a formal cost-of-service study in order to examine the cooperative’s true cost to deliver energy to your home or business. It has been a number of years since this type of study has been conducted and as the cooperative continues to face rising wholesale power costs, as well as rising cost of materials, we knew it was time to take a look.

There are two main components that make up your electric bill: the cost to generate energy you use and the cost to deliver energy to your home or business. Let’s discuss the first component, rising wholesale power (generation) costs. This cost makes up 54% of your electric bill and is increasing due to new generation and transmission infrastructure and fuel costs. We purchase wholesale electricity from our statewide electric cooperative which has a diverse portfolio of nuclear (56%), natural gas (20%), and a mix of purchases, renewables, coal and hydro (24%).

The second component is the cost to deliver energy to you. These costs are made up of transmission and distribution system improvements, operations, maintenance and administration. Typically, these costs are recovered through a basic facilities charge, which is a fixed cost. Halifax EMC recovers approximately half of those costs through its basic facilities charge and the other half is recovered through the energy charge. Regardless of how much power is used each month by a member, the cooperative must pay operating expenses to maintain the infrastructure that connects homes or businesses to the grid and powers you year-round. A facilities charge ensures that each member is paying their “fair share” to cover these operating expenses for the infrastructure that serves them. This fee was last increased in 2016.

Booth & Associates completed the study and presented it to the Halifax EMC Board of Directors this past February. In the following month of March, per the consultant’s recommendation, the Board approved a 1.61% overall rate increase that takes effect April 1, 2023.

I’m sure we’ve all noticed that we are paying more at the gas pump and the grocery store these days. Just like you, the cooperative is paying more to fuel our vehicles as well as paying more for materials such as utility poles and transformers.
Halifax EMC is a not-for-profit, member-owned cooperative and we strive every day to hold down costs while still providing the reliable, quality service you expect.

So, how will the rate change affect you? The monthly impact of the new electric rates for a Halifax EMC household using an average of 1,000 kWh each month equals $3.41.

Outdoor lighting monthly rates will also increase slightly.

Lastly, the NC Renewable Energy Mandate will now appear on your bill as a monthly credit. Residential accounts will receive a credit of $0.64 and commercial will receive a $2.15 credit.

Your board of directors and staff have worked diligently over recent years to mitigate rising costs while maintaining an excellent level of service and reliability. You can also take an active role in lowering your electric bill. Visit our Energy Tips page for ways to save. If you have questions or comments regarding the rate study, you may contact us at 252-445-5111 or
tellus@halifaxemc.com.