Electric vehicles are everywhere — but are they actually practical for everyday drivers and utility fleets?

In this episode of SMECO Connects, Tom Dennison sits down with SMECO experts Natasha Law and John Cockrum to break down what it's really like to own, charge, and operate electric vehicles in Southern Maryland. From home charging costs and range anxiety to electrifying utility fleets and quieter bucket trucks, they share real-world experience, hard numbers, and honest insights.

Whether you're EV-curious or already plugged in, this conversation helps answer the big question: Is an electric vehicle right for you?

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How far EVs actually go — and what charging really costs at home
• Where and how drivers are charging across Southern Maryland
• How SMECO is electrifying its fleet while saving money and reducing emissions

Follow & Connect:
Host: Sonja Cox
Co-Host: Tom Dennison

SMECO on Instagram: somdelectric
SMECO on X: somdelectric

What does it really take to keep the lights on as energy demand surges and costs rise?

In this year-in-review episode of SMECO Connects, host Sonja Cox and co-host Tom Dennison reflect on the biggest challenges and wins of 2025—from resource adequacy and affordability pressures to data centers, infrastructure upgrades, and community impact. They pull back the curtain on how an electric cooperative navigates reliability, rising demand, and member-focused decision-making during a time of rapid change.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

• The growing challenge of resource adequacy and why new generation matters

• How SMECO works to balance affordability, reliability, and long-term planning

• What data centers, infrastructure investments, and community partnerships mean for the future

As SMECO looks ahead to 2026, this conversation offers clarity, transparency, and reassurance—reminding members that behind every power line is a team committed to serving its community.

🎧 Tune in to better understand the energy challenges ahead—and how SMECO is preparing for what's next.

Follow & Connect:
Host: Sonja Cox
Co-Host: Tom Dennison

SMECO on Instagram: somdelectric
SMECO on X: somdelectric

Your voice doesn't just matter — it shapes everything we do.

In this episode, Sonja Cox and Tom Dennison dive into how member feedback directly influences decisions across the co-op, from streetlight repairs and power reliability to new programs, technologies, and major strategic initiatives. They share real stories from the field, explain what goes on behind the scenes, and reveal how even one phone call or comment can spark meaningful improvements for thousands.

Key Takeaways:

• How small complaints often uncover major system issues
• Why new tech like LED UV cells is changing responsiveness
• Real examples of member feedback shaping programs like Green Rider, online voting & broadband decisions
  
  

Whether it's a compliment, a concern, or a big idea — your voice truly guides our direction. Tune in to see how your feedback helps power a stronger, safer, more connected community.

Your power stays on because two people quietly protect the environment behind every pole, line, and substation.

In this episode, Sonja and Tom sit down with Environmental Affairs Coordinators Grayson Jenkins and Carl Freeman to uncover the little-known work that keeps SMECO reliable and environmentally responsible. From wetlands and permitting to oil-spill response and wildlife protection, they break down the real challenges of balancing infrastructure with nature.

Grayson and Carl share how they manage complex environmental regulations, respond to emergency transformer spills in the middle of the night, and help protect ospreys, eagles, owls, and other species through SMECO's Avian Protection Plan. You'll also hear surprising stories—from wetland matting to rescue booms to Boy Scout-built owl boxes—that show how deeply SMECO is committed to stewardship.

Key Themes:

• Wetlands, permitting, and protecting sensitive environments
• Oil spill response and transformer safety
• SMECO's Avian Protection Plan & wildlife conservation
• Community partnerships, including local landowners and the Boy Scouts
  
  

Tune in to see how the power you rely on every day is supported by a team working tirelessly to protect the land, water, and wildlife of Southern Maryland.

Follow SMECO:

Instagram: somdelectric

Twitter: somdelectric

Solar is booming — but understanding net metering can still feel confusing for many customers.

In this episode of SMECO Connects, host Tom Dennison sits down with Tiffany Alexander and Natasha Law from SMECO's Energy & Technology Division to break down what net metering is, how solar interconnections work, and what customers should consider before installing panels. With decades of combined experience, they offer clear guidance on the process, timelines, and the fast-growing role of battery storage.

Key themes & takeaways:

• How net metering actually works (plain-language explanation)
• What to expect from the solar interconnection and approval process
• How energy audits and efficiency upgrades improve solar ROI
• The rise of home batteries — and what that means for customers
  
  

Whether you're solar-curious or already working with a vendor, this episode helps you make informed decisions and confidently navigate your renewable-energy journey.

Connect with SMECO:
Instagram: somdelectric
X/Twitter: somdelectric

Every day, local law enforcement shoulders the unseen challenges that keep Southern Maryland safe — and today, we get an inside look at what that really means.

In this episode, host Tom Dennison sits down with Jason Scott, SMECO's Security Director and former Maryland State Police officer, and Captain Steve Simonds of the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office. They share what called them to service, how policing has evolved over the past 25 years, and why strong community partnerships — including their relationship with SMECO — make all the difference during emergencies. From mental health crises to major storms, to the importance of simple, human communication, this conversation reveals the heart behind the badge.

Key Themes:

• The rising impact of mental health and crisis intervention
• How law enforcement and utilities collaborate during emergencies
• Local crime trends — from copper theft to cyber fraud — and how to stay protected
• The power of humility, communication, and community trust
  
  

Their stories remind us that heroes don't just respond to emergencies — they build the relationships that prevent them. Tune in and reconnect with the people who keep our neighborhoods safe.

Connect with SMECO:
Instagram: SoMDElectric
X (Twitter): SoMDElectric

Artificial intelligence is transforming every industry—but most organizations still don't know where to start.

In this episode of SMECO Connects, hosts Sonja Cox and Tom Dennison sit down with Johnny Ramondino, Co-founder & President of INVOKE INC, to explore how businesses can adopt AI effectively, responsibly, and without disrupting operations. Johnny breaks down what AI can (and can't) do today, why most companies are approaching it backwards, and how digital employees are reshaping day-to-day workflows.

Key themes and takeaways:

• Why small, targeted AI wins beat big flashy investments
• How to avoid disruption by automating the systems you already use
• The growing risk of deepfakes and how organizations can prepare
• Why the real advantage isn't the AI tool—it's your people's ability to use it

Johnny's insights offer a grounded, practical roadmap for leaders looking to embrace the future while protecting their teams, their data, and their communities. Tune in and see what's possible when innovation meets intention.

Connect with SMECO:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/somdelectric
X (Twitter): https://x.com/somdelectric

Two SMECO legends return to reflect on decades of service, leadership, and storm restoration that shaped Southern Maryland's resilience.

In this episode, host Tom Dennison sits down with retired SMECO veterans Bill Lawman and Ron Rennick, who together share nearly 80 years of dedication to keeping the lights on for our community. From climbing poles before bucket trucks existed to rebuilding La Plata after the 2002 tornado, their stories reveal grit, teamwork, and the culture that defines the cooperative spirit.

Key Themes & Takeaways:

• The evolution of lineman work: from climbing hooks to advanced safety and technology
• The "family" culture inside SMECO and the pride of serving your community
• Behind-the-scenes teamwork during major storm restoration
• Why mentorship and training the next generation matters
  
  

This conversation is a tribute to service, craftsmanship, and community. Whether you've been in the field or never thought about what happens when the power goes out — you'll walk away inspired.

Connect with SMECO:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/somdelectric
X (Twitter): https://x.com/somdelectric