Sam Houston Electric Cooperative (SHEC) is a not-for-profit electric utility serving over 60,000 members across 16 counties in East Texas. For more than 85 years, SHEC has been committed to providing its members with safe, reliable, and affordable electricity.
A History of Service and Innovation
In 1937, a group of farmers and ranchers in San Augustine County formed SHEC to bring electricity to their rural communities. The cooperative’s early operations were challenging, with limited resources and a vast service territory. However, through determination and collaboration, SHEC gradually expanded its reach and improved its infrastructure.
Over the years, SHEC has remained at the forefront of innovation in the electric industry. The cooperative was an early adopter of smart grid technology, which enhances grid reliability and efficiency. SHEC also invests heavily in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, to reduce its carbon footprint and provide more sustainable electricity to its members.
Mission and Values
SHEC’s mission is “to provide safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible electric service to its members at the lowest possible cost consistent with prudent financial management.” The cooperative’s core values include:
- Safety: SHEC prioritizes the safety of its employees, members, and the communities it serves.
- Reliability: The cooperative strives to provide its members with a reliable and uninterrupted supply of electricity.
- Affordability: SHEC is committed to keeping electricity rates affordable for its members, particularly those in low-income households.
- Innovation: The cooperative embraces new technologies and approaches to improve service and reduce costs.
- Member Focus: SHEC is a member-owned and member-controlled cooperative, and it is dedicated to meeting the needs of its members.
Service Area and Membership
SHEC’s service area covers approximately 2,000 square miles in East Texas, including the counties of Angelina, Cherokee, Houston, Jasper, Nacogdoches, Newton, Polk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, Trinity, Tyler, and Walker. The cooperative serves a diverse population, including residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural customers.
Membership Benefits
As a member-owned cooperative, SHEC offers its members a range of benefits, including:
- Lower Electricity Rates: SHEC’s non-profit structure and focus on efficiency allow it to provide electricity to its members at lower rates than investor-owned utilities.
- Reliable Electricity Supply: The cooperative’s robust infrastructure and smart grid technology ensure a reliable supply of electricity to its members.
- Smart Grid Technology: SHEC’s smart grid investments provide members with enhanced outage response times, better voltage regulation, and the ability to monitor their electricity usage in real-time.
- Energy Efficiency Programs: SHEC offers a variety of energy efficiency programs to help members reduce their electricity consumption and save money.
- Renewable Energy Options: SHEC’s commitment to renewable energy provides members with the opportunity to support clean energy while reducing their carbon footprint.
- Member Ownership and Control: SHEC’s members have a voice in the cooperative’s decision-making process through the election of its board of directors.
Financial Performance
SHEC’s financial performance is strong and stable. The cooperative’s revenues in 2021 exceeded $150 million, and its net income was over $20 million. SHEC has consistently maintained a healthy level of equity, which provides it with the financial flexibility to invest in its infrastructure and new technologies.
Industry Recognition
SHEC has received numerous awards and accolades for its service and innovation. The cooperative has been recognized by the American Public Power Association (APPA) for its excellence in customer service, reliability, and safety. SHEC has also been recognized by the Texas Municipal League (TML) for its commitment to energy efficiency and renewable energy.
Future Outlook
SHEC is well-positioned for the future. The cooperative’s strong financial performance, commitment to innovation, and focus on member service will allow it to continue to provide reliable and affordable electricity to its members for years to come. SHEC is also exploring new opportunities to enhance its services and meet the evolving needs of its members.
Contact Information
Sam Houston Electric Cooperative
PO Box 1479
Livingston, TX 77351
Phone: (936) 327-3284
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.samhoustonec.com
Additional Resources
- SHEC Annual Report
- APPA Excellence in Public Power Awards
- TML Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Awards
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the cost of electricity from SHEC?
SHEC’s electricity rates vary depending on the customer’s usage and location. However, SHEC’s rates are typically lower than those of investor-owned utilities.
2. How can I become a member of SHEC?
To become a member of SHEC, you must live or do business in the cooperative’s service area. You can apply for membership online or by contacting SHEC’s customer service department.
3. What programs does SHEC offer to help members save energy?
SHEC offers a variety of energy efficiency programs, including energy audits, rebates on energy-efficient appliances, and incentives for installing solar panels.
4. How can I report a power outage?
You can report a power outage to SHEC by calling (936) 327-3284 or by submitting an outage report online.
5. How do I contact SHEC customer service?
You can contact SHEC customer service by phone at (936) 327-3284, by email at [email protected], or by visiting the cooperative’s website at www.samhoustonec.com.
Conclusion
Sam Houston Electric Cooperative is a vital part of the East Texas community. The cooperative provides its members with safe, reliable, and affordable electricity, while also investing in innovation and renewable energy. SHEC is committed to meeting the evolving needs of its members and providing them with the best possible service.