This was a milestone year for the electric cooperative that was incorporated in 1939. A special video was presented telling of the challenges and the successes the company has faced in its first 70 years. Click here to see the video! E. LeRoy “Toy” Nettles, Jr., President and CEO, presented the annual state of the co-op message. Titled “Ominous Clouds and Silver Linings – Part II,” Mr. Nettles reminded members that last year he announced, due to the projected cost of fuel and transportation, a revenue increase was necessary. However, since the world-wide economic downturn, wholesale power costs have not been as high as projected, resulting in a one and one-half cent per kilowatt hour credit on each bill starting last August. That credit will be increased to three cents per kilowatt hour for November and December, making electricity rates the lowest since 2006. Current projections are that power costs will remain stable through 2010. If that prediction proves true, Mr. Nettles said he expects members will continue to see wholesale power credits throughout 2010.
Four members of the co-op Board of Trustees were elected for three-year terms. Hamer Parnell - District 1, David Howell - District 2, James Goodson – District 8 and “Buster” Rogers – District 10 will continue to represent the membership.
Each member that registered received a $15 energy voucher and a CFL (compact fluorescent light bulb). A health fair presented by Carolina Hospital System gave members a chance to check on blood pressure, cholesterol and other health-related issues. WIRE (Women Involved in Rural Electrification) held a drawing to raise money for scholarships with prizes of $200 and $300 cash. After the business session 50 door prizes donated by co-op vendors, including cash prizes of up to $100, were given away. Energy vouchers for $300, $400 and $500 plus the grand prize of a GMC pickup truck were also given.
Pee Dee Electric, a Touchstone Energy Cooperative, is a member-owned electricity distribution cooperative and serves approximately 30,000 members in Darlington, Marion, Florence, Dillon, Lee and Chesterfield counties.
