Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative, headquartered in Hazlehurst, Georgia, is a not-for-profit electric utility that provides electricity to over 17,000 members in Jeff Davis, Appling, Bacon, Coffee, Montgomery, Tattnall, Toombs, and Wheeler counties in Georgia. The Cooperative was founded in 1939 as part of the Rural Electrification Administration's (REA) efforts to bring electricity to rural areas. Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative is a member of the Georgia Electric Membership Corporation (GEMC) and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative is committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable electricity to its members. The Cooperative has a long history of innovation, including being one of the first electric cooperatives in the nation to offer fiber-optic broadband service to its members.Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative is an important part of the communities it serves. The Cooperative provides jobs, supports local businesses, and invests in economic development initiatives.
One of the main benefits of being a member of Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative is the Cooperative's commitment to providing safe and reliable electricity. The Cooperative has a team of experienced and certified linemen who work around the clock to maintain the electric system and restore power in the event of an outage.
Another benefit of being a member of Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative is the Cooperative's commitment to providing affordable electricity. The Cooperative's rates are among the lowest in the state of Georgia. The Cooperative also offers a variety of programs to help members save money on their electric bills, including a budget billing program and a prepay program.
Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative is more than just an electric utility. The Cooperative is also a strong supporter of the communities it serves. The Cooperative provides financial support to local schools, churches, and other community organizations. The Cooperative also sponsors a variety of community events, including the Jeff Davis County Fair and the Jeff Davis County Christmas Parade.
Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative
Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative (JDEC) is an important part of the communities it serves in Georgia, providing essential electrical services and contributing to local development. Here are eight key aspects that highlight the cooperative's significance:
- Non-profit organization
- Electric utility
- 17,000+ members
- 8 Georgia counties served
- Commitment to safety and reliability
- Affordable electricity rates
- Community supporter
- Fiber-optic broadband provider
These aspects are interconnected and contribute to the cooperative's overall mission of providing affordable, reliable electricity while supporting the economic and social well-being of the communities it serves. JDEC's non-profit status allows it to focus on its members' needs rather than maximizing profits. Its commitment to safety and reliability ensures that members have access to a consistent power supply, while its affordable rates make electricity accessible to all. As a community supporter, JDEC invests in local initiatives and sponsors events, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Additionally, JDEC's expansion into fiber-optic broadband provides members with access to high-speed internet, enhancing educational and economic opportunities.
1. Non-profit organization
Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative (JDEC) is a non-profit organization, meaning that it is not driven by the profit motive. This is a key aspect of JDEC's identity and mission, as it allows the cooperative to focus on providing affordable, reliable electricity to its members, rather than maximizing profits for shareholders.
There are several important benefits to JDEC being a non-profit organization. First, it means that JDEC is able to reinvest its earnings back into the cooperative, which helps to keep rates low for members. Second, it means that JDEC is more responsive to the needs of its members, as the cooperative is not beholden to outside investors.
One of the most important practical applications of JDEC's non-profit status is the cooperative's ability to provide financial assistance to members who are struggling to pay their electric bills. JDEC offers a variety of programs to help members, including a budget billing program and a prepay program. These programs can help members to avoid disconnection and to manage their electric bills more effectively.
Overall, JDEC's non-profit status is a key factor in the cooperative's ability to provide affordable, reliable electricity to its members. JDEC is able to reinvest its earnings back into the cooperative, is more responsive to the needs of its members, and is able to provide financial assistance to members who are struggling to pay their electric bills.
2. Electric utility
An electric utility is a company or organization that provides electricity to consumers. Electric utilities are responsible for generating, transmitting, and distributing electricity. They also provide customer service and billing.
Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative (JDEC) is an electric utility that provides electricity to over 17,000 members in Jeff Davis, Appling, Bacon, Coffee, Montgomery, Tattnall, Toombs, and Wheeler counties in Georgia. JDEC is a not-for-profit cooperative that is owned by its members. JDEC is committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable electricity to its members.
JDEC is an important part of the communities it serves. The Cooperative provides jobs, supports local businesses, and invests in economic development initiatives. JDEC also provides financial assistance to members who are struggling to pay their electric bills.
The connection between electric utilities and rural communities is vital. Electric utilities provide the electricity that powers homes, businesses, and schools. They also play a role in economic development by attracting new businesses and industries to rural areas.
JDEC is a shining example of the important role that electric utilities play in rural communities. The Cooperative is committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable electricity to its members. JDEC is also a strong supporter of the communities it serves.
3. 17,000+ members
Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative (JDEC) is a member-owned electric cooperative that provides electricity to over 17,000 members in eight counties in Georgia. The cooperative's membership is a vital part of its identity and mission, as it is the members who own and control JDEC. This member-ownership structure ensures that JDEC is focused on providing affordable, reliable electricity to its members, rather than maximizing profits for shareholders.
There are several important benefits to being a member of JDEC. First, members have a say in how the cooperative is run. Each member has a vote at the cooperative's annual meeting, and members can also serve on the cooperative's board of directors. Second, members receive a share of the cooperative's profits in the form of patronage dividends. These dividends are paid out annually, and they can help members to save money on their electric bills.
JDEC's membership is also important for the communities that the cooperative serves. The cooperative's members are JDEC's customers, and they are also JDEC's owners. This means that JDEC has a vested interest in the well-being of its members and the communities they live in. JDEC supports a variety of community organizations and initiatives, and the cooperative also provides financial assistance to members who are struggling to pay their electric bills.
Overall, JDEC's 17,000+ members are a vital part of the cooperative's identity, mission, and success. The cooperative's member-ownership structure ensures that JDEC is focused on providing affordable, reliable electricity to its members, and the cooperative's members are actively involved in the cooperative's governance and decision-making.
4. 8 Georgia counties served
Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative (JDEC) is a not-for-profit electric utility that provides electricity to over 17,000 members in eight counties in Georgia: Jeff Davis, Appling, Bacon, Coffee, Montgomery, Tattnall, Toombs, and Wheeler. JDEC's service area covers a diverse range of communities, from rural areas to small towns and cities. The cooperative's commitment to providing safe, reliable, and affordable electricity is essential to the economic and social well-being of these communities.
- Economic development
JDEC's reliable electricity service is a critical factor in attracting new businesses and industries to the region. Businesses need access to a reliable power supply in order to operate efficiently and effectively. JDEC's commitment to affordability also helps to keep operating costs down for businesses, making the region more attractive for investment.
- Quality of life
Access to reliable electricity is essential for a high quality of life. JDEC's service helps to ensure that residents in the region have access to essential services, such as heating, cooling, and refrigeration. The cooperative's commitment to safety also helps to protect residents from electrical hazards.
- Community involvement
JDEC is more than just an electric utility. The cooperative is also a strong supporter of the communities it serves. JDEC provides financial support to local schools, churches, and other community organizations. The cooperative also sponsors a variety of community events, such as the Jeff Davis County Fair and the Jeff Davis County Christmas Parade.
- Environmental stewardship
JDEC is committed to environmental stewardship. The cooperative uses a variety of methods to reduce its environmental impact, including using renewable energy sources and implementing energy efficiency programs. JDEC also works to protect the natural resources in the region, such as the Altamaha River.
Overall, JDEC's service to eight Georgia counties is essential to the economic, social, and environmental well-being of the region. The cooperative's commitment to providing safe, reliable, and affordable electricity is a key factor in attracting new businesses and industries, improving the quality of life for residents, and protecting the environment.
5. Commitment to safety and reliability
Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative (JDEC) is committed to providing safe and reliable electricity to its members. This commitment is essential to the cooperative's mission of providing affordable, high-quality electricity to the communities it serves.
There are several reasons why safety and reliability are so important to JDEC. First, the cooperative's members rely on electricity for their daily lives. A reliable power supply is essential for powering homes, businesses, and schools. Second, safety is paramount in the electric utility industry. Electricity can be dangerous, and JDEC is committed to taking all necessary precautions to protect its members and employees from electrical hazards.
JDEC's commitment to safety and reliability is evident in all aspects of its operations. The cooperative has a team of experienced and certified linemen who work around the clock to maintain the electric system and restore power in the event of an outage. JDEC also invests in state-of-the-art equipment and technology to ensure that its system is safe and reliable.
The cooperative's commitment to safety and reliability has paid off. JDEC has a long history of providing safe and reliable electricity to its members. The cooperative has also received numerous awards for its safety record, including the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association's (NRECA) Safety Excellence Award.
JDEC's commitment to safety and reliability is a key reason why the cooperative is so successful. Members know that they can count on JDEC to provide them with safe, reliable electricity, which is essential for their daily lives and businesses.
6. Affordable electricity rates
Affordable electricity rates are a cornerstone of Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative's (JDEC) mission to provide safe, reliable, and affordable electricity to its members. The cooperative's commitment to affordability is evident in its rates, which are among the lowest in the state of Georgia. JDEC is able to offer affordable rates thanks to its non-profit status and its efficient operations.
There are several reasons why affordable electricity rates are so important. First, affordable electricity rates help to keep the cost of living down for members. This is especially important for low-income families and seniors who are on fixed incomes. Second, affordable electricity rates make it easier for businesses to operate and create jobs. Third, affordable electricity rates help to attract new businesses and industries to the communities that JDEC serves.
JDEC's commitment to affordable electricity rates has made a real difference in the lives of its members. For example, JDEC's rates are about 20% lower than the national average. This means that a typical JDEC member saves about $200 per year on their electric bill. JDEC's affordable rates have also helped to attract new businesses to the region, which has created jobs and boosted the local economy.
JDEC's commitment to affordable electricity rates is a key reason why the cooperative is so successful. Members know that they can count on JDEC to provide them with safe, reliable, and affordable electricity.
7. Community supporter
Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative (JDEC) is more than just an electric utility. The cooperative is also a strong supporter of the communities it serves. JDEC provides financial support to local schools, churches, and other community organizations. The cooperative also sponsors a variety of community events, such as the Jeff Davis County Fair and the Jeff Davis County Christmas Parade.
- Investing in the future
JDEC's support of local schools is an investment in the future of the communities it serves. The cooperative provides financial support to schools in a variety of ways, including scholarships, grants, and teacher training programs. JDEC also works with schools to promote energy efficiency and conservation.
- Building community
JDEC's sponsorship of community events helps to build a sense of community and pride. The cooperative's support of these events also helps to attract visitors to the area, which can boost the local economy.
- Improving quality of life
JDEC's support of community organizations helps to improve the quality of life for residents. The cooperative's support of these organizations helps to provide essential services, such as healthcare, childcare, and housing.
Overall, JDEC's commitment to community support is evident in the cooperative's financial support of local schools, churches, and other community organizations. JDEC's support of these organizations helps to build a stronger sense of community, improve the quality of life for residents, and invest in the future of the communities it serves.
8. Fiber-optic broadband provider
Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative (JDEC) is not only an electric utility but also a leading provider of fiber-optic broadband services in rural Georgia. This combination of services makes JDEC a unique and valuable asset to the communities it serves.
- Expanding access to broadband
JDEC's fiber-optic broadband network provides high-speed internet access to rural areas that were previously underserved or unserved. This has a significant impact on the quality of life for residents, as broadband access is essential for education, healthcare, and economic development.
- Enhancing economic development
Access to high-speed broadband is essential for businesses to compete in the global economy. JDEC's fiber-optic broadband network provides businesses in rural Georgia with the same high-speed internet access that is available in urban areas. This helps to level the playing field and create new opportunities for economic growth.
- Improving education
High-speed broadband access is essential for students to succeed in school. JDEC's fiber-optic broadband network provides students in rural Georgia with the same access to online educational resources that is available to students in urban areas. This helps to close the achievement gap and prepare students for success in college and careers.
- Connecting communities
High-speed broadband access helps to connect rural communities to the rest of the world. JDEC's fiber-optic broadband network provides rural residents with access to online resources, social media, and other forms of communication. This helps to bridge the digital divide and create a more connected world.
Overall, JDEC's fiber-optic broadband network is a vital asset to the communities it serves. This network provides high-speed internet access to rural areas, enhances economic development, improves education, and connects communities. JDEC is committed to providing its members with the best possible service, and its fiber-optic broadband network is a key part of that commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section contains answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative (JDEC).
Question 1: What is Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative?
Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative is a not-for-profit electric utility that provides electricity to over 17,000 members in eight counties in Georgia: Jeff Davis, Appling, Bacon, Coffee, Montgomery, Tattnall, Toombs, and Wheeler.
Question 2: How much does JDEC's service cost?
JDEC's rates are among the lowest in the state of Georgia. The cooperative is committed to providing affordable electricity to its members.
Question 3: Is JDEC's service reliable?
Yes, JDEC has a long history of providing safe and reliable electricity to its members. The cooperative has a team of experienced and certified linemen who work around the clock to maintain the electric system and restore power in the event of an outage.
Question 4: Does JDEC offer any special programs to help low-income members?
Yes, JDEC offers a variety of programs to help low-income members, including a budget billing program and a prepay program. These programs can help members to avoid disconnection and to manage their electric bills more effectively.
Question 5: How can I become a member of JDEC?
To become a member of JDEC, you must live in the cooperative's service area. You can apply for membership online or by calling the cooperative's office.
Question 6: What are the benefits of being a member of JDEC?
There are many benefits to being a member of JDEC, including:
- Access to safe and reliable electricity
- Affordable rates
- Member-owned and controlled
- Commitment to community involvement
We hope this FAQ section has been helpful. If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact JDEC.
You can visit the JDEC website for more information.
Energy-Saving Tips
Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative (JDEC) is committed to helping its members save energy and money. Here are eight tips to help you reduce your energy consumption:
Tip 1: Turn off lights when you leave a room.
This may seem like a small thing, but it can make a big difference over time. When you leave a room, turn off the lights to save energy.
Tip 2: Unplug electronics when you're not using them.
Even when electronics are turned off, they can still draw power. Unplug them when you're not using them to save energy.
Tip 3: Use energy-efficient appliances.
When you're shopping for new appliances, look for models with the Energy Star label. Energy Star appliances are more energy-efficient than standard models, which can save you money on your energy bills.
Tip 4: Wash clothes in cold water and air-dry them.
Washing clothes in cold water uses less energy than washing them in hot water. And air-drying your clothes instead of using a dryer can save you even more energy.
Tip 5: Use a programmable thermostat.
A programmable thermostat can help you save energy by automatically adjusting the temperature in your home when you're away or sleeping.
Tip 6: Seal air leaks around your home.
Air leaks around your home can let in cold air in the winter and warm air in the summer, which can waste energy. Seal air leaks around your windows, doors, and other openings to save energy.
Tip 7: Get a home energy audit.
A home energy audit can help you identify areas where you can save energy in your home. An energy auditor can make recommendations for improvements that can save you money on your energy bills.
Tip 8: Take advantage of JDEC's energy efficiency programs.
JDEC offers a variety of energy efficiency programs to help its members save energy and money. These programs include rebates for energy-efficient appliances, home energy audits, and more.
By following these tips, you can reduce your energy consumption and save money on your energy bills.
For more information on energy efficiency, please visit the JDEC website.
Conclusion
Jeff Davis Electric Cooperative (JDEC) is a vital part of the communities it serves. The cooperative provides safe, reliable, and affordable electricity to its members, and it is also a strong supporter of the community. JDEC's commitment to its members and the community is evident in everything it does.
JDEC is a shining example of how a cooperative can make a difference in the lives of its members and the community. The cooperative's commitment to safety, reliability, affordability, and community support is a model for other cooperatives and businesses to follow.
As JDEC looks to the future, the cooperative is committed to continuing to provide its members with the best possible service. The cooperative is also committed to continuing to be a strong supporter of the community. JDEC is an important part of the communities it serves, and the cooperative is proud to play a role in making these communities a great place to live, work, and raise a family.Article Recommendations
