Electricity Brings Everyday Value
From the Manager’s Desk
MICHAEL KIRKLAND, CEO/GENERAL MANAGER
Even though I work for an electric co-op, I can easily take the modern miracle of our electric grid for granted. Like most people, I expect the lights to turn on when I flip the switch and the coffee maker to work each morning. Electricity is an integral part of our daily lives that we expect to be available 24/7. The only time most people think about electricity is when the power goes out or perhaps when the monthly bill arrives.
Given how electricity powers our modern lifestyle every day, I think it is good to remember what a great value it is, especially when compared to other common services and expenses. For example, think back to the cost of a gallon of gasoline 20 years ago. Consider the cost of groceries or a cup of your favorite specialty coffee from a few years back. In comparison, the cost of electricity has remained largely flat, unlike most other consumer goods.
Like many of you, I have a cellphone to stay connected, and I subscribe to cable channels so I can enjoy more viewing options. Many of us consider these necessities for modern day life. We can see what we’re getting for our money, and we pay the price for those services. In contrast, when we use electricity, we don’t necessarily “see” all that we’re getting for our money.
But considering what electricity does for us, it’s a tremendous value for our quality of life as well as our budgets. For comparison, consider that the average rent increase was nearly 4% (from 2014-2019) according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index (CPI). The cost of medical care was increased 3% during this time, and education was not too far behind at 2.6%. So, where did electricity rank? According to the CPI, electricity increased by less than half a percentage point, 0.4%.
The bottom line: electricity brings everyday value.
We recognize that the past few months have been challenging for many of our members and we’re here to help.
If you have questions about your account or are looking for ways to save energy at home, please give us a call. Petit Jean Electric Cooperative is your electric co-op, and our sole purpose is to serve you and the needs of our community. That’s everyday value.
