OTEC warns of Social Media Scam post
By Braden Way on Friday, July 1st, 2022 in Featured Stories Northeastern Oregon News
LA GRANDE/BAKER CITY – Oregon Trail Electric Co-operative is warning its member/owners of a fraudulent series of social media ads that have recently been circulating. The ads claim that OTEC “Customers are Getting Solar Panels for No Cost Down![sic]”
The social media post in which OTEC warns of these ads can be seen below. Joe Hathaway, Communications Manager for OTEC explains that the source of the ads branded as “EZ Engery Savings” are “in no way affiliated with OTEC.” He says they appear to be some king of shell marketing company, similar to the telemarking companies that “ask about your extended warranty” Hathaway says he has seen ads that incorporate other utilities providers including Idaho Power.
OTEC has received calls regarding the possibility of low-cost solar energy. Hathaway explains that while OTEC is not involved in the installation of individually owned solar panels, OTEC is able to provide 2 options for those interested utilizing solar energy. First, for those installing personally owned solar panels, OTEC will set up “net-metering” which, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association, “is a billing mechanism that credits solar energy system owners for the electricity they add to the grid.”
OTEC will also soon be offering what it calls its “Community Solar Program”. In this program member/owners will have the option to buy shares in a Solar Farm being developed just outside of the La Grande along Gekeler Ln. A Community Solar credit will then be applied to the share-holder’s bill every month. Hathaway explains that the advantages of this included reduced hassle and maintenance, and the ability to keep the share and its associated credit should you move to another location, so long as you remain within OTEC’s area of operation.
The one time cost for a share is $250 and the share will last for $20 years. The credit start near $1/mo but Hathaway believes that rate will increase as more solar power is generated those he admits, the amount will fluctuate depending on seasons and available sunlight.
While OTEC is responding to clear interest in investing in Solar power, Hathaway also made it clear that there are no plans to reduce other sources of electricity. “There will be no decrease in the reliability of our electricity,” Hathaway said, “and no effect on the cost for those who choose not to participate in the Community Solar Program.”
For those with more questions about Solar energy, contact your local OTEC office or find them online at Otec.coop.
