Great River Energy (GRE), our wholesale power provider, has announced the sale of Coal Creek Station, the 1,151-megawatt (MW) North Dakota power plant, to Rainbow Energy Center, LLC. Read more.
As the demand for solar energy skyrockets, the solar industry is seeing steeper competition. This can lead to an increase in deceptive solar advertisements and scams. While the industry has many reputable providers, the media has been bombarded with ads that promote “low-cost” or “no-upfront-cost” programs. Increasingly, these ads tend to make false claims about special government or utility programs.
Why do solar scams exist? Simply put: to generate leads and get your contact information. When you enter your details to “see if you qualify,” a sales representative can contact you directly, day or night, and sell your information to other marketing firms.
What kind of claims are being made? Some companies offer “no-cost options” due to a “special government program.” Remember, legitimate financing does exist—but rarely from the government. Other companies overestimate future utility rate increases to exaggerate your return on investment.
What should you look out for? Be wary of ads that sound too good to be true. Additionally, look for phrases like “limited time,” “special program,” or “no-cost.” And if you’re visited by a pushy door-to-door salesperson, don’t sign an agreement you don’t fully understand.
Always do your research before signing a contract. Ask for bids from competing installers. Take the time to ask questions so you fully understand each proposal.
Remember, we’re here to help! Call your ECE energy experts at 1-800-254-7944.
You may be eligible for a sales tax exemption on your electric bill from November through April each year if electricity is the primary source of heat in your permanent principal residence.
If you are a WI resident, you are automatically exempt from sales tax from November through April.
If you are a MN resident and would like to apply for this sales tax exemption, call 1-800-254-7944, or pick up an application at our Braham Headquarters, or download it here.
As many schools return to in-person learning this fall, roads will be busier than ever with school buses, kids on bikes, and parents navigating the drop-off lane. “It’s important to slow down, share the road, and pay attention to your surroundings,” mentions ECE Safety Administrator Ben Smith, who offers the following tips:
- Be sure to take note of speed zone changes during school hours.
- Watch for children playing near bus stops.
- Both lanes of traffic must stop at least 20 feet away when a bus has its stop arm out.
- When backing out of a driveway, watch for children walking to school.
“Safety is paramount,” Ben stresses. “Drivers who violate bus safety laws face a $500 fine, as well as criminal charges for passing when a child is outside the bus, passing a school bus on the right, or injuring or killing a child. Let’s make this a safe school year for everyone.”
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The Cold Weather Rule, in effect from October 1 to April 30 in Minnesota, governs how we handle disconnects; it does not prohibit them.
Over 85 years ago, East Central Energy introduced the convenience of electricity to members. Since then, there has been a shift in technology and the electrification of vehicles is the next step. Read more.