in this issue:

My Energy Report B

Rate Schedule C

Online Energy Savings D

Space Heaters E

Scholarships F

Value of Electricity G

Right-of-Way Clearing and Outage Info on Mobile H

Energy for Today, Power for Tomorrowreviewcooperative

love on the line

U nion Power lineworkers don’t work alone on our power lines. Whether they are climbing 40-foot poles, restoring power,

or clearing tree limbs to prevent future outages, they are never far from the hearts of the families who love them.

At this time of year, stores seem flooded with hearts, candy, and cards professing true love. But to be honest those sentiments pale in comparison to the bonds of love we see every time a storm sweeps through our area.

Those Left BehindIf the lights go out, our lineworkers’ wives and families send their loved ones out into the elements. When other electric cooperatives are in trouble after devastating hurricanes, tornadoes, fires, and floods, our lineworkers have traveled to Alabama, Mississippi, Kentucky, Virginia, Tennessee and Georgia to bring the lights back on for complete strangers. Each time these brave men leave home to help those in need, their families are left behind, praying for a safe return.

In February 2009, lineman Josh Knight was among Union Power crews who traveled to Paducah, Kentucky, to help restore power after a historic winter ice storm hit the area. He left behind his wife, who was seven-and-a-half months pregnant with their first child. “We were gone for nine days, “Josh shares. “On Valentine’s Day, I was eating pizza with a bunch of guys, but I was thinking about my wife.” But in the sacrifices they are called to make, our

linemen have a heart for helping others and know they are making a difference. The last house that Josh’s crew restored power to during that trip had been without electricity for 29 days.

Thank You — to our Linemen and Their FamiliesWorking with high-voltage electricity, lineworkers find themselves in life and death situations on a regular basis. That’s why Union Power focuses on safety first. We plan safety into our work and train and educate employees to work safely. We know the folks who love our lineworkers appreciate the time we take to make sure our employees get home safe every night.

Marrying into this profession isn’t easy. Lineworkers are often on call, and must be ready to respond at a moment’s notice if our community needs them. This makes

Journeyman Justin Trull with his wife, Jennifer, and their daughters Marleigh and Skylar.

(continued on Page B)

february 2015

Want to find out where are your energy dollars are going? Your free personalized “My Energy Report” will show you! See changes in usage costs due to weather and other factors. You will also have the following information at your fingertips:

• You can revise or review your home profile at any time. This will help us provide an accurate analysis of your energy use.

• We will email regular energy reports that will analyze your energy use. You can view your results online at any time.

• Create a savings plan. Review home upgrades, pledge the actions that are right for you, and instantly see your potential savings.

More than 33,000 Union Power members are already participating!

Join Today!If you’re a residential member with seven or more consecutive months of usage history and wish to receive this report but have not given the Cooperative an email address, simply use the Online Services Member Portal to update your account with an email address. Click the link from our home page (union-power.com), and then select My Account, E-notifications, E-Bill. If you have already given Union Power an email address for your account, you are automatically enrolled in the program and you will receive monthly reports.

New residential members of Union Power who provide the Cooperative with an email address will receive the My Energy Report service after seven consecutive months of usage history with the Co-op.

save with “my energy report”

My Energy Report. It’s easy. It’s free. Start saving today!

children’s sporting events and family get-togethers hard to pull off sometimes. But the bold men who keep your power flowing do so because they know without their commitment, many of the things we’ve come to expect—cold food, lights, entertainment—wouldn’t be possible. By devoting their lives to working on utility lines, they connect all of us to a better way of life.

This Valentine’s Day, the Cooperative thanks the women and family members who support and love the Union Power men who brave the elements and work long hours to keep power flowing to our homes each and every day. Thank you for putting your love on the line—we’re committed to making sure the men you love return home safe.

Journeyman Eric Pressley helps restore power to Blue Ridge EMC members after a 2009 winter storm.

love on the line...

february 2015 Union Power CooperativeB

rate schedule effective april 1

rising costs impact ratesBased on the results of a recent Cost of Service and Rate Study1, Union Power is adjusting rates effective April 1, 2015. A full rate schedule is listed below.

The rate adjustments include an increase to the Basic Facilities Charge2 and changes to the kWh rates for both residential and commercial services.

These rate changes are necessary to offset increased costs for wholesale power and operational expenses, ensuring the financial strength of your cooperative.

Beginning April 1, 2015, the new rate schedule can be found on our website, union-power.com, under My Home, Residential Rates (for residential members) or My Business, Commercial Rates (for commercial accounts).

If you have any questions concerning the new rates, feel free to contact our office at 704-289-3145. We will be glad to address your questions and help you estimate how these changes will affect your individual bill.

Footnotes:

1. Cost of Service and Rate Study - evaluates costs associated with the rising cost of wholesale power, operational expenses and costs of materials, costs of complying with governmental regulations, and the building, upgrading and maintaining of necessary infrastructure.

2. Basic Facilities Charge - The Cooperative’s fixed monthly cost that occurs regardless of the amount of energy purchased or sold. This includes the meter, monthly meter reading, rendering of the bill, bill remittance processing, the operation of the phone system, the staffing of the offices and most importantly, an outage system to provide for 24-hour emergency service for power restoration and repairs. The basic facilities charge is included in your energy charge.

Residential Ratesgeneral service rate*Available in all service territories. Applicable to farm, residential, small businesses, schools, churches, and small community buildings and other single-phase service types.

Basic Facilities Charge . . . . . . . . . $27.50 per monthEnergy Charges Summer (June - October) All kWh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $0.09979 per kWh Winter (November - May) First 1,000 kWh . . . . . . . . . . . . $0.09979 per kWh All other kWh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $0.09479 per kWh

all-electric service rate*Available in all service territories. Applicable to residential members, mobile homes or individually metered apartments only.

Basic Facilities Charge . . . . . . . . . $27.50 per monthEnergy Charges Summer (June - October) All kWh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $0.09692 per kWh Winter (November - May) First 500 kWh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $0.09399 per kWh All other kWh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $0.08839 per kWh

pay your way pre-pay rate*Monthly Rate:Basic Facilities Charge . . . . . . . . . . . . $30.50 per month General Service Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $0.09893 per kWhRes. All-Electric Service Rate . . . . . . . $0.09265 per kWh

Fees:Connection Fee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $25.00Minimum Purchase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $50.00

Commercial Rates commercial service rate*There are three basic billing components of the Commercial Service Rate:

Basic Facilities Charge . . . . . . . . . $75.00 per month

Billing Demand ChargesFirst 25 kW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $0.00 per kWAll kW over 25 kW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $7.65 per kW

Energy ChargesFirst 3,000 kWh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $0.10937 per kWhNext 3,000 kWh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $0.08164 per kWhNext 6,000 kWh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $0.06939 per kWhNext 12,000 kWh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $0.06065 per kWhAll kWh over 24,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $0.05452 per kWh

*Applicable riders, including those associated with the North Carolina Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standard (REPS) and the Wholesale Power Cost Adjustment (WPCA) may apply. Visit union-power.com for a full schedule of all Union Power’s Rates and Riders.

how your new rate affects your bill

General Service Rate (usage: 1260 kWh)March Bill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $153.15April Bill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $163.63

All-Electric Rate (usage: 1260 kWh)March . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $140.14April . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $152.64

Union Power Cooperative february 2015 C

top 10 “hits”: tune into energy savings

Did you know that 10,000+ users took advantage of our online energy efficiency tools and information in 2014? You can “tune into our station” and check out these “top 10” energy-saving tools and many others! Just visit union-power.com and click on Your Energy Advisor.

Water Heater CalculatorYou can save up to 50% by switching from propane to a high-efficiency electric water heater. That’s 100% smart savings!

Lighting Savings CalculatorSee the operating cost comparison (and annual savings) for incandescent, CFL, LED and halogen bulbs.

Heat Pump CalculatorThe efficiency of an electric heat pump can be over 300% versus the efficiency of a standard gas furnace. That’s definitely savings worth considering!

Vampire Losses CalculatorCalculate the cost of various appliances that are plugged in, but not in use and see how money is being “drained” from your home!

Space Heater CalculatorFind out how much your space heater is costing you per day or per month - you might be surprised.

Kids KornerA comprehensive energy resource for teachers and students. Games, quizzes, teacher features and more make learning about electricity fun!

Home Energy LibraryA-Z topics with articles and tips to help you save energy and money in your home.

Interactive Energy HomeTour the rooms of this home for an interactive experience—find ways to save energy in each room by clicking on specific items. Great for a quick home energy audit!

TV CalculatorIf you’ve ever wondered how much energy your TV uses per day or annually, this calculator will show you - whether you have a newer plasma or LCD TV or an older tube television.

Appliance CalculatorCalculate the average monthly or annual cost of appliances in your kitchen, living room, bedroom, home office, and many more! This calculator will even allow you to input information to calculate average costs for a water pump and septic pump!

Don’t wait to save money! Visit union-power.com and click Your Energy Advisor to find all our energy-saving tools and calculators!

february 2015 Union Power CooperativeD

Union Power Cooperative

top 10 “hits”: tune into energy savings As temperatures drop this winter, many will look for

supplemental heating sources for their homes. Space heaters can be a good alternative for those who want to warm one area of their home without turning up the thermostat on the central heating system. However, space heaters are also responsible for 32% of house fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association. If you are planning to use a space heater in your home this winter, review these tips from Union Power to keep you, your family and your property safe.

• Materials: What are the components of your space heater made of? Parts like metal grating can be hot to the touch and may burn anyone who gets too close. Make sure you purchase a heater that is cool to the touch and has guards over the coils just in case little fingers get too close.

• Placement: While it can be tempting to place a small heater on a shelf so it is not in the way of pets and children, it is safest to leave the heater on a level floor on a nonflammable surface. Keeping the space heater on the floor can keep it from falling over, preventing fire hazards. Also, remember that space heaters and bathrooms are not a good combination, unless the heater is designed for bathroom use. Moisture can damage the heater.

The most important rule about space heater placement is the three-foot rule. Whether you are using the heater in the bedroom, living room or kitchen, space heaters should always be kept three feet away from flammable materials and out of the way of children and pets.

• Special Features: Does your space heater have an auto shutoff function if tipped over? Auto shutoff can be a lifesaver. If you currently own a space heater without auto shutoff, consider purchasing a heater with this important safety feature.

• Cords: You should never use an extension cord when plugging in a space heater as it can cause overheating. The space heater should be plugged directly into a wall outlet, and should be the only thing plugged in to the wall outlet. Also make sure cords aren’t in a high-traffic area so they are not a tripping hazard.

• Use Never leave a heater unattended while in use. If you are leaving your home or going to bed, make sure to unplug the heater.

Following these tips and making sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions can keep you safe this winter.

SAFETY FIRST!Remember, space heaters

should always be kept three (3) feet away from

flammable materials!

tips for space heater safety

Union Power Cooperative february 2015 E

scholarship application deadlines

Deadline for Basketball Camp

scholarship applications!

You could be one of two winners to be coached by the

best! One male and one female scholarship available.

Deadline for Youth Tour

applications!You could be one of three rising seniors to travel to Washington, D.C. from June 13-19! A great

learning experience in the nation’s capital!

Deadline for college scholarship

applications! You could win one of six

$1,000 college scholarships (three for a 4-year accredited NC university and three for a

NC community college).

A s part of our commitment to community and enriching students’ lives, Union Power is now accepting applications for a variety of scholarship opportunities.

Students will be chosen from our five-county service area. Information and applications for any of these scholarships can be found at union-power.com, under the My Community tab.

Rising 6th – 8th graders can begin applying now for one of two summer basketball camp scholarships. The Co-op will sponsor one male winner to attend the Roy Williams Basketball Camp to be held at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill from June 20-24, 2015, and one female winner to attend the N.C. State Women’s Basketball Camp to be held at N.C. State University in Raleigh from June 14-17, 2015. The application deadline is March 31, 2015. Winners will be notified in early May.

High school seniors can apply now for one of six $1,000 college scholarships: three for a 4-year accredited North Carolina university and three for a North Carolina community college. The application deadline is March 20, 2015, and winners will be notified in late May.

Rising high school seniors can apply now for one of three spots to represent Union Power on the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour from June 13-19, 2015. Winners will join more than a thousand students for a trip to Washington, D.C. to visit historic monuments, see our nation’s government in action, learn about the cooperative business model, and more! The application deadline is March 6, 2015. Winners will be contacted in April.

Students, make sure to take advantage of these great opportunities. Remember, more information and applications for any of these scholarships can be found at union-power.com, under the My Community tab.

Find applications and information about Youth Tour, college scholarships, summer basketball camps and more at:

union-power.com > My Community

february 2015 Union Power CooperativeF

VALUE ELECTRICITYthe ofVALUE ELECTRICITY

Electricity was very valuable to rural homes and farms when introduced by electric cooperatives in the 1930s and 1940s. As technology and e­ciency grew along with the demand for electric power, the cost of electricity remained steady. Look at these comparisons.

overthe last

76 years

Comparethat to...

more for a washing machine today

You’ll pay

79.9x79.9x$3,925

1936

15.6x15.6xAnd the price of a new home has increased

$0.051936

2.4x2.4xThe cost of electricityhas increased

$0.122012

$313,7002013

$1,2502013

The cost of a refrigerator has increased

9.4x9.4x$2,015

2013$2151920s-30s $80

1933

Union Power Cooperative february 2015 G

Cooperative Review is published monthly by

Union Power Cooperative provides safe and reliable power with exceptional value to more than 70,000 member accounts in Union, Stanly, Cabarrus, Mecklenburg, and Rowan counties.

Greg AndressExec. Vice President & General Manager

Carrie C. Stroud, CCCEditor

Rhonda Smith, CCCAssociate Editor

BOARD OF DIRECTORSB. L. Starnes, PresidentLee Roy Kirk, Jr., Vice PresidentJan Haigler, Secretary-TreasurerDent H. Turner, Jr., Asst. Secretary-TreasurerJuanita W. PoplinNeil W. Hasty, Jr.Carole P. JonesJim T. HartsellDavid G. HyattTom J. Caudle

Business Hours8 AM to 5 PM Monday–Friday704-289-3145 or 704-485-3335Toll-free: 1-800-922-6840union-power.com

24-Hour Outage Reporting Serviceand Account Information1-800-794-4423

Call Before DigNC One Call Center — Dial 811

SERVICE CHARGES:Security Deposit-charges vary $0, $175, $375Connection Fee $25Late Payment Charge $5 or 1.5% of past due balance, if greaterReturned Check Fee $25Meter Test $75 (refunded if not accurate)Dual Meter Comparison $50 (refunded if not accurate)Trip Charge $25 (checks or money orders only, no cash)

RECONNECT CHARGES:(collected in advance)Normal Hours $50 (if called in before 4:00 PM)After Hours $100 (if called in after 4:00 PM)Weekends and Holidays $100

right-of-way clearingDuring the next month, you may see our tree-trimming crews in your neighborhood. ABC Professional Tree Services, Asplundh Tree Experts, and Carolina Tree Care will be working in Union County:

In the event of a major outage, remember to visit union-power.com on your mobile phone or device for up-to-date outage news and information!

Union: Airport Rd, Andrew Jackson Dr, Arbor Ln, Armfield Mill Rd, Aviation Dr, Baucom Deese Rd, Baucom Rd, Berry Mullis Rd, Bill Wiley Rd, Billy Howie Rd, Birmingham Ln, Blair St, Bloomsberry Ln, Bow Hill Dr, Briarcliff Dr, Brief Rd W, Buckboard Ln, Burgess Helms Rd, Campground Rd, Caravan Ln, Chambwood Rd, Clontz Rd, Collins Rd, Concord Ave, Crow Rd, Crowell Dairy Rd, Cull Williams Ln, Cuthbertson Rd, Doster Rd, Dudley Rd, Earl Duncan Rd, Effie Whitley Rd, Eubanks St, Fisher Ridge Dr, Forest Springs Dr, Garrett Rd, Goldmine Rd, Grove Dr, Gum Ln, Happy Hollow Ln, Helen Dr, Heritage Ln, Heritage View Rd, Hood St, Hopewood Ln, Howey Bottoms Rd, Howie Mine Ch Rd, Hunter Oak Ln, Hwy 218, Hwy 75, Jack Davis Rd, Jonah Ridge, Jug Broome Rd, Kensington Dr, Kerr Rd, Lazy B Circle, Lee Branch Rd, Lee Massey Rd, Lester Mullis Rd, Lon Parker Rd, Machado Dr, Majestic Forest Ln, Mangum Dairy Rd, McNeely Rd, Medlin Rd, Mill Grove Rd, Mine Shaft Dr, Mt Pleasant

Church Rd, Mullis Rd, Myrtle Davis Dr, Neal Boyce Rd, New Town Rd, Newell Dr, Noah Helms Rd, Old Dutch Rd, Old Waxhaw Monroe Rd, Patton Ave, Pepperidge Lane, Pierce Rd, Pigg Mattox Rd, Pine Ln, Plaxico Dr, Pleasant Grove Rd, Pleasant Springs Rd, Potter Downs Rd, Price Shortcut Rd, Prospector’s Ct, Public Works Dr, Raccoon Run, Ramsey Ln, Rape Rd, Raymond Austin Rd, Rev H Morrison Rd, Richard Coffey Ln, Ridge Rd, Robinson Rd, Rock Hill Ch Rd, Rocky River Rd, Rogers Rd, Roscoe Howey Rd, Rushing Rd, Russell Rd, S Potter Rd, S Twelve Mile Creek Rd, Salem Church Rd, Sara Hinson Rd, Sells St, Shannon Rd, Shepherds Ave, Sikes Mill Rd, Skyway Dr, Springdale Dr, Stack Rd, Stevens Rd, Tall Oak Ln, Temple St, Thornhill Dr, Timbercrest Circle, Timnah Ln, Tom Laney Rd, Trull Pl, Turtlewood Dr, Twin Oaks Rd, W Duncan Rd, W Lawyers Rd, Walker Rd, Walters Mill Rd, Watkins Rd, Waxhaw Indian Trail Rd, Western Union School Rd, Willoughby Rd, Wolfe Rd, Woodglen Dr, Wright Rd

outage info reminder

For more information about Union Power’s vegetation management program or tree trimming practices, please call (704) 289-3145 and speak with Wil Ortiz (ext. 3323) or Carrie Lorenz-Efird (ext. 3291). Visit our website, union-power.com, for monthly right-of-way clearing updates.