Current Light Flashes

For many West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) members, managing household expenses is about having more control. That’s exactly what Nicholas Beppler of Noma has found since enrolling in WFEC’s prepaid power program a few months ago.

After moving to Noma from Dothan, Alabama, Nicholas was excited to discover that WFEC offered a prepaid option.

“When I moved to Noma, and I had the option, I added it because it seemed to be a lot more convenient,” he said.

Since joining the program in May, Beppler has enjoyed being able to track his energy use in real time.

“I can shut things off and see where I am actually using the power,” he explained. “And you don’t have a big utility bill to pay at the end of the month.” 95064002

For Nicholas, the biggest advantage is seeing how everyday choices affect his energy use almost immediately.

“I feel like I am saving money because I am able to monitor what I am using,” he said. “For example, my porch light. I decided to turn it off (instead of leaving it on all the time) and see how much it saved me. I shut that off and it saved me 15 to 20 cents in just one day. That may not seem like a lot, but I can see what I saved and notice how things can add up.”

He also adjusted when and how often he uses larger appliances. He said making small changes to his habits, and how and when he uses energy, makes a difference in his pocket.

“You can see when there are better times to use your washer and dryer,” Nicholas said. “I try to do laundry once every three days (instead of daily), and you can see you are saving money when you change your habits.”

Another benefit is the ability to build a routine around energy expenses. Nicholas has established a weekly budget for adding funds to his account, making it easier to stay on top of his electric costs throughout the month.

When asked what he would tell someone who is considering West Florida Electric’s prepaid power program, his answer was simple.

“I would definitely recommend it because you can control what you spend,” he said. “Who wants to wait a month (to get a bill) when you can notice your savings immediately and monitor them every day? You can really tell the difference doing it that way.”

His advice for getting the most out of the program is to check your usage regularly. “You can see savings within a day,” he said.

WFEC’s prepaid power program gives members greater flexibility and awareness of their daily energy use. By tracking it in real time and paying as they go, members like Nicholas are finding it easier to manage their energy costs and make informed decisions every day. To learn more about the prepaid power program, visit www.westflorida.coop.