The Sawnee EMC Board of Directors voted Oct. 17 to lower the monthly rate for eight of the cooperative’s light emitting diode, or LED, outdoor lighting fixtures. This rate reduction will become effective Jan. 2, 2020. 

Sawnee EMC’s staff recently completed an extensive review of the purchase and installation costs, as well as the monthly rates, for all outdoor light fixtures. It was determined that many of the LED rates could now be lowered to meet the demands of the members who prefer these fixtures. 

“We are seeing more members each week requesting LED lights. Now, with the lower LED rates, we can more effectively meet this need,” said Blake House, vice president of member services. “The new rates help our members make a smooth transition from conventional lights to LED lights, in most cases without seeing a monthly cost increase.” 

Currently, Sawnee EMC provides service to almost 43,000 outdoor lights and about 2,400 of these are LED fixtures. Sawnee first began offering LEDs to its membership in 2014. On average, LED lights use 67% less energy and produce an equivalent amount of light. Also, they require less ongoing maintenance. 

“The alignment of our LED rates has been an important project; one that we undertook because our members had a need,” said Michael A. Goodroe, president and CEO. “Keeping our rates competitive, and aligned with our cost, is a key focus for our staff.” 

Members who currently have one of the applicable Sawnee EMC LED lights at their home or business, will be advised of the rate change via a letter. 

Members wishing to install LED lights can call Sawnee’s call center and request a free quote on the type of LED light to meet their needs.

If you have any questions about your Sawnee EMC account, call (770) 887-2363, email  customerservice@sawnee.com, text 678-999-8124 or chat from the homepage at www.sawnee.com.