You are the change
We are all aware this past year has been a unique and unprecedented challenge on many levels. Whether emotional, financial, or physical, we have all experienced a significant disruption like no other.
When we talk about Operation Round Up, we typically focus on the organizations that have benefited from grants. Local food pantries, schools, shelters, and community organizations received a much-needed helping hand in 2020.
However, Operation Round Up is not just about the organizations or the grants. The heart of the program is you, our contributing members. By simply rounding up your electric bill to the next dollar, you are the helping hand that makes change possible. On behalf of the Central Georgia EMC Foundation, we thank you!
The average Operation Round Up donation is $6 per year and is tax-deductible. If you are not enrolled in Operation Round Up and would like to become a helper for your community, call us at 770-775-7857 or click here.
now accepting scholarship applications!
Calling all college students! Twelve $1,000 scholarships will be awarded statewide to students with exemplary academic records. The funds may be applied to educational expenses at any accredited two- or four-year university, college, or vocational/technical institute in Georgia. The scholarships are available to any college-level students regardless of age.
Qualified applicants will also be eligible for one of two $500 Central Georgia EMC scholarships!
The application process is underway. For full qualifications and to download your scholarship application, click the link below. Completed applications are due by February 5, 2021.
everyone benefits through energy efficiency
CGEMC is a member-owned electric cooperative. Caring for our members includes finding ways to make an energy-efficient lifestyle a little bit easier on the wallet. If you are building from the ground up or upgrading an existing home, we offer direct rebates for qualifying home improvements.
We have partnered with Go Energy Financial to offer our members the Home Plus Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Loan program. Low annual percentage rates and a quick application process make energy upgrades simple.
Here are a few reasons to consider making energy efficiency upgrades in your home:
- You will earn long-term returns on your investment. Upgrading outdated appliances can save you from 5 to 30 percent on your energy bills.
- Potentially increase your property value. Energy-efficient homes frequently sell for a higher price than traditional homes with comparable features.
- Efficient energy usage reduces your overall carbon footprint on the environment. By choosing ENERGY STAR®-rated products, you will use less energy to get the same job done.
* Rebates require the installation of a CGEMC load management switch. For specific qualifications and rebate forms, please visit www.cgemc.com or call 770-775-7857 to request rebate paperwork. Rebates are subject to change without notice and will end on December 21, 2020.
The Public Service Commission's Summer Residential Survey seasonally ranks all 94 electricity providers in Georgia. We are excited to announce that Central Georgia EMC (CGEMC) ranks among the 10 lowest-cost providers at 1,500-kilowatt-hour (kWh) and 2,000-kWh levels.
CGEMC ranks as the fifth lowest-cost energy provider in Georgia at the 2,000-kWh level, delivering a savings of $48.84 per month when compared to the state average.
Being good stewards of our members' investment in their cooperative is a responsibility that our entire CGEMC team takes to heart. Providing you with reliable energy, top-notch customer service, and the lowest possible rates is how we do business. Thank you for allowing us to serve you.
Four Ways to save energy in the kitchen
The kitchen is undeniably one of the most-loved rooms in our homes. It's where we gather with family and friends for our favorite meals and make memories. But like most of us, you probably aren't thinking about saving energy when you're planning that perfect dish. Here are four ways you can save energy in the kitchen with minimal effort.
- When possible, cook with smaller appliances. Using smaller kitchen appliances, like slow cookers, toaster ovens, and convection ovens, are more energy-efficient than using your large stove or oven. According to the Department of Energy, a toaster or convection oven uses one-third to one-half as much energy as a full-sized oven.
- Unplug appliances that draw phantom energy load. Halloween may be over, but you may have energy vampires in your kitchen – these are the appliances that draw energy even when they're not in use, like coffee makers, microwaves, and toaster ovens. The Department of Energy has estimated that one home's energy vampires left plugged in year-round can add up to $100-$200 in wasted energy costs. Unplug them when they're not in use, or, better yet, use a power strip for convenient control.
- Help large appliances work less. There are small ways you can help your larger kitchen appliances run more efficiently. For example, keep range-top burners clean from spills and fallen foods so they'll reflect heat better. When it's time to put leftovers in the refrigerator, make sure the food is covered and allow it to cool down first. That way, the fridge doesn't have to work harder to cool warm food.
- Use your dishwasher efficiently. Only run full loads, and avoid using the "rinse hold" function on your machine for just a few dirty dishes. It uses 3-7 gallons of hot water each use. You can also save energy by letting your dishes air dry. If your dishwasher doesn't have an automatic air dry switch, turn it off after the final rinse and prop the door open so the dishes will dry faster.
Bonus tip: The best way to save energy is not to use it. Try a tasty, no-bake dessert recipe. Your sweet tooth (and energy bill!) will thank you.
By slightly adjusting a few of your habits in the kitchen, you'll be well on your way to energy savings. Contact us to learn about additional ways you can save energy and money at home.
supporting our communities
Central Georgia EMC presented 23 checks in October, totaling $265,650 to area Chambers of Commerce, Industrial Development Authorities, and School Boards throughout the service territory.
These funds come from unclaimed capital credits that remain with CGEMC after five years. Capital credits are margins over and above the cost of providing service for Central Georgia EMC customer-owners for a specific year after financial obligations have been met. Unclaimed capital credits that remain after five years stay in the communities served by Central Georgia EMC for the sole purposes of funding education, economic development, and 501(c)(3) charitable organizations in the EMC service area.
Holiday Closing
The CGEMC offices will be closed Thursday, November 26, and Friday, November 27. We will reopen on Monday, November 30. We hope you enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!
Winter Rates
The winter residential rate structure is now in effect November - April. First 700 kWh: $0.0852 per kWh. Above 700 kWh: $0.0574 per kWh.
Load Management Program
We want to thank all customer-owners who participated in the 2020 Load Management program. Participating customers will see a bill credit on their November statement ($20 for an air-conditioning switch and $10 for a water heater switch, with a $30 maximum annual credit).
Because of the high summer temperatures, CGEMC initiated load management 11 times between June 1 and August 31, 2020, for a total energy savings of 705,000 kilowatt-hours during peak energy use times!
If you are interested in taking part in the Load Management program or would like more information, call us at 770-775-7857 or visit our website.
GATE Card Exemption Will Expire Soon
If you are currently receiving a GATE sales tax exemption, your card will expire on December 31, 2020. To continue receiving the exemption, send copies of your renewed GATE card to:
Central Georgia EMC, Attn: Chris Mitchell, 923 S. Mulberry Street, Jackson, GA 30233
Or you may return by Fax: 770-504-7877 or Email: cmitchell@cgemc.com
Fall is the Perfect Time to Join Cooperative Solar!
Why join Cooperative Solar in the Fall? Because fewer leaves means more sun! Additionally, we've expanded our Cooperative Solar program to include solar fields across the state. This growth comes with an increase in capacity, enhanced performance reliability, and no waiting list!
Commit to a smaller carbon footprint in 2020 without installing or maintaining any equipment. Call 770-775-7857 or 1-800-222-4877 to learn more about adding solar energy to your monthly energy mix.
In September, the Central Georgia EMC Foundation awarded $21,000 in grants to charitable organizations in our territory.
- Angel House of Georgia, Inc. - $1,500 - To provide grant assistance for women entering their substance abuse program.
- Samaritans Together of Henry County, Inc. - $5,000 - To assist with financial aid to the unemployed, underemployed, and those living on a limited income.
- Manna From Above, Inc. - $2,500 - To purchase food for children enrolled in the Backpack Buddies program.
- Calvin Center - $1,500 - To provide Therapeutic Equestrian Riding program scholarships.
- Monroe County Kingdom Builders - $3,000 - To purchase materials for home repairs.
- MedCen Foundation, Inc. - $5,000 - To purchase patient care boards for the Monroe County Hospital medical, surgical, and emergency department rooms.
- Operation Appreciation - $2,500 - To provide emergency relief for veterans and their families affected by COVID-19.
Spotlight on Calvin Center
The Calvin Center is located on 536 scenic acres off of Woolsey Road in Clayton County, and is home to 14 therapy horses and two barn cats. They offer Therapeutic Riding Programs for children and adults with disabilities.
During our visit on behalf of Operation Round Up, Horses & Warriors, a military-focused organization, was on campus. Active-duty military and veterans serve as horse leaders, side walkers, barn volunteers, and program assistants. Program participants learned the basics of Western and English saddles, followed by grooming and tacking. They were genuinely excited to have their photos taken, and it was an honor to do so.
Qualifying 501(c)(3) organizations in our service territory are invited to submit an application to the Central Georgia EMC Foundation.
Through Operation Round Up, our members support local organizations with a mission to make our communities even better places to live, work, and dream big. By simply rounding up your monthly electric bill to the next dollar, you can join in! Our pennies add up to make BIG CHANGE!
Co-op Connections Card
Celebrate "Shop Small Saturday" With Our Co-op Connections Local Partners on November 28!
CoTique Boutique - 15% off total purchase. 19 N. Lee Street, Forsyth, 478-992-8371.
Griffin Jewelers - $20 off purchases of $100 or more. 1424 North Expressway, Suite 134, Griffin, 770-227-1157.
Legaci Status - 10% off non-sale items. 24 N. Mulberry Street, Suite 201, Jackson, 678-774-8777.
LightBox Gifts - 10% off purchase of $20 or greater. 3075 Apt to Miss Road, Monticello, 706-476-9162.
Miss Dottie's - 10% off and free gift wrap with purchase. Some exclusions may apply. 155 Bill Conn Parkway, Gray, 478-986-4270.
Sage & Sparrow - 10% off one full-priced item. 19 E. Johnston Street, Forsyth, 478-993-2281.
*Deals are subject to change.
Are you a local business who would like to be included in Co-op Connections? Click the link below. It is simple and free!
Energy tip
Keep cold air out to save energy. Seal air leaks around pipes and any gaps around chimneys and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets - energy.gov
We love a great energy saving resource, and it's hard to beat Find 101 Easy Ways to Save Energy and Money. Download your free copy.
Recipe of the Month
Credits:
Created with images by Science in HD - "Workers with solutions of all-inorganic perovskite quantum dots, showing intense photoluminescence when illuminated with UV light. CsPbBr3 emit in the green and CsPbI3 emit red. Graduate students developed the first solar cells from such quantum dots showing excellent performance. The research, Quantum dot-induced phase stabilization of OE±-CsPbI3 perovskite for high-efficiency photovoltaics, appears in the journal Science." • Tim Mossholder - "Shop local" • niekverlaan - "lamp idea pear"