SMECO Connects

SMECO Connects
Podcast Description
Welcome to SMECO Connects! I’m your host, Sonja Cox, CEO of Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative. This podcast is more than just a conversation about utilities—it’s a space for community connection. My goal is to keep you informed about important topics that impact our region, from energy updates to local initiatives that shape our daily lives.
Each week, I’ll bring you the latest community news, practical tips, and insightful conversations with local thought leaders. Together, we’ll explore ways to enhance our shared experiences in Southern Maryland. Join me as we spark discussions, share knowledge, and strengthen the bonds that make our community thrive!
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast covers various themes including community engagement, energy updates, and local initiatives, with episodes such as Grid Safety and Security focusing on the importance of protecting the power grid and Behind the Scenes of SMECO which delves into the cooperative model and community impact. Specific attention is given to practical tips and insights that can benefit the Southern Maryland community.

Welcome to SMECO Connects! I’m your host, Sonja Cox, CEO of Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative. This podcast is more than just a conversation about utilities—it’s a space for community connection. My goal is to keep you informed about important topics that impact our region, from energy updates to local initiatives that shape our daily lives.
Each week, I’ll bring you the latest community news, practical tips, and insightful conversations with local thought leaders. Together, we’ll explore ways to enhance our shared experiences in Southern Maryland. Join me as we spark discussions, share knowledge, and strengthen the bonds that make our community thrive!
Ever wondered why your electric bill spikes in summer and winter?
In this episode, Smeco’s VP of Rates and Energy Procurement Eugene Bradford pulls back the curtain on how your monthly bill is built—from competitive power market purchases to the poles and wires that deliver electricity to your door. He walks us through load forecasting, rate classes, and the rising costs driven by renewables mandates and the push for future battery storage.
Key Takeaways:
- How Smeco’s power procurement strategy keeps your supply costs as low as possible
- Why distribution infrastructure rates cover poles, transformers, and grid maintenance
- The impact of renewable portfolio standards and what long-duration storage means for 24/7 green power
Join us to demystify your electric bill and spark your energy awareness.
Guest: Eugene Bradford LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugene-bradford-87992666
Hosts: Sonja Cox & Tom Dennison Smeco Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/somdelectric X (Twitter): https://x.com/somdelectric

Disclaimer
This podcast’s information is provided for general reference and was obtained from publicly accessible sources. The Podcast Collaborative neither produces nor verifies the content, accuracy, or suitability of this podcast. Views and opinions belong solely to the podcast creators and guests.
For a complete disclaimer, please see our Full Disclaimer on the archive page. The Podcast Collaborative bears no responsibility for the podcast’s themes, language, or overall content. Listener discretion is advised. Read our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy for more details.