Home | Delaware Living

855-332-9090

DEC To Issue Fewer Beat the Peak Alerts in 2021

Since 2008, Delaware Electric Cooperative’s Beat the Peak program has saved members more than $34

Major Reliability Projects Planned in 2021

Recent Articles

Chicken Parmesan Soup

An easy pasta soup that will satisfy everyone!

Major Reliability Projects Planned in 2021

Delaware Electric Cooperative’s board of directors has approved a request from Co-op leaders to invest a record amount of money to support system improvements and infrastructure work. The board, in December, gave the green light for DEC to spend nearly $35 million to improve reliability this year.

Co-op News

DEC Announces New Board Member

Former Nanticoke healthcare executive Tom Brown has joined Delaware Electric Cooperative’s board of directors. Brown was appointed to the board in December to serve out the remaining term of former director Woody Noel, who passed away in the spring of 2020 after serving Co-op members on the board since 2008.

Food & Drink

Double Chocolate Banana Bread

Chocolate and bananas make for a delicious winter dessert!

Energy Saving Tips

Keep Winter Bills Affordable

Baby, it’s cold outside! When you’re feeling chilly at home, there are several budget-friendly ways you can keep comfortable without turning up the thermostat.

Community Features

Co-op Employees Provide Christmas Cheer

2020 was a difficult year — unemployment remained high in December — and many families did not have money to purchase Christmas presents for their children. During the holiday season, dozens of Delaware Electric Cooperative employees jumped at the chance to help provide a happy Christmas to children in central and southern Delaware.

Co-op News

DEC To Issue Fewer Beat the Peak Alerts in 2021

Since 2008, Delaware Electric Cooperative’s Beat the Peak program has saved members more than $34 million. The program is one of the reasons the rates our 105,000 members pay for energy are some of the lowest in the region.

Co-op News

Apply for Co-op Scholarships

Electric cooperatives in Virginia, Maryland and Delaware are preparing to accept applications for their popular scholarships from high school seniors who intend to pursue higher education.

Food & Drink

Sweet Potato Casserole

This sweet potato casserole goes great with any Christmas meal!

Co-op News

DEC Lineman Saves Trapped Driver

Here’s a compelling reminder that there are still so many kind and brave people in our wonderful state! DEC lineman Sheron Sturgis worked with several other people to pull a driver from his burning car earlier this month. The man wouldn’t have survived without their help.

Co-op News

Drones Improve Reliability

Advancements in technology are helping us all to live more comfortable and informed lives. For DEC, using technology and data has always been a game-changer in the way we provide reliable and affordable service to our membership.

Co-op News

Scams Target Members

As we head into the holiday season, members are increasingly being targeted by utility scammers — particularly those who are threatening immediate disconnection, knowing many members have past-due accounts due to COVID-19 hardships.

Food & Drink

Pumpkin Crisp

A pumpkin dessert just in time for the holiday season!

Energy Saving Tips

Saving Energy in the Kitchen

Ah, the kitchen. It’s undeniably one of the most-loved rooms in our homes. It’s where we gather with family and friends for our favorite meals and memories. But like most of us, you probably aren’t thinking about saving energy when you’re planning that perfect dish. Here are four ways you can save energy in the kitchen with minimal effort.

Co-op News

Transmission Project to Improve Reliability

Delaware Electric Cooperative has started work on a new transmission line that will improve reliability for DEC members in Sussex County.

Co-op News

Andrew Announces Retirement

Longtime Delaware Electric Cooperative President and CEO Bill Andrew has announced his retirement. After leading the Cooperative for more than 15 years, Andrew will step down as DEC’s Chief Executive Officer on July 2, 2021.

Community Features

DEC Sponsors Community Service Day

During this uncertain time, your Co-op is committed to improving the lives of individuals living in the communities we are proud to power. DEC once again partnered with 88.7 The Bridge for the 2020 Hands and Feet Community Service Day. The day of service brought hundreds of people together safely to volunteer at nonprofits across Delmarva.

Food & Drink

Roasted Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Even your kids will eat this healthy veggie!

Delaware Adventures

Abbott's Mill Nature Center

Bright green frogs croak peacefully to each other in a shaded pond, cooling off from the mid-summer heat. A few hundred yards away, a working historic grist mill still stands, designed by the same Delawarean who invented another kind of amphibian — the first “human” amphibious vehicle in 1805.

Community Features

Feeding Delaware

In March, with nearly no warning, tens of millions of Americans found themselves out of work. Immediately, the staff at the Food Bank of Delaware jumped into action. For former Co-op Youth Tour participant Chad Robinson — the Food Bank’s director of community relations — responding to the COVID-19 crisis would mean many sleepless nights.

Co-op News

DEC Honors 2020 Youth Tour Students

This year, Allison Benton, Summer Davis and Madison Kibler were chosen to represent Delaware at the 2020 Youth Tour, scheduled to be held in Washington, D.C. Due to the COVID-19 crisis, the 2020 Youth Tour was canceled. The students still deserve recognition!

Community Features

Delaware's Composting King

There’s a saying you’ve probably heard: “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” For Sussex County entrepreneur Bruce Blessing, the waste produced by Delmarva’s bustling poultry industry is his composting treasure.

Co-op News

Friends in High Places

It's been a difficult few months for so many Delawareans. Co-op leaders want to assure members that DEC will be there for them, no matter what the next few months have in store. Rest assured, you have friends in high places and they are proud to keep the lights on.

Community Features

Nominate a Local Hero

Delaware Electric Cooperative, in partnership with Touchstone Energy Cooperatives, is pleased to announce the annual #WhoPowersYou Contest, honoring local heroes. It’s a chance for DEC members and employees to nominate someone who’s making a difference in our community, and an opportunity to celebrate the power of human connections.

Community Features

First to Respond

The brave volunteer firefighters at Lewes-Rehoboth Fire Station No. 3 near Angola are making a difference in eastern Sussex County.

Food & Drink

Sweet Success

In September 2019, Co-op member Katey Evans found herself in Los Angeles, California, preparing for one of the biggest moments of her life. She was bathed in the glow of massive studio lights. Seated in front of her on the set of ABC’s “Shark Tank” were some of the most successful and famous business leaders in America.

Co-op News

Prepare for Hurricane Season

June 1 marked the official start of hurricane season and this year’s forecast has an ominous outlook. The federal Climate Prediction Center is forecasting 6 to 10 hurricanes, with three to six of them reaching at least Category 3 status with winds of 111 mph or higher.

Co-op News

Remembering Woody Noel

Longtime DEC board member Woody Noel passed away in May, after an extended battle with cancer. Noel had represented District 7 on DEC’s board of directors since 2008.

Food & Drink

Pesto Baked Rigatoni

This tasty pasta dish only uses five ingredients.

Co-op News

DEC Announces Scholarships

Eight high school seniors, whose families are served by Delaware Electric Cooperative, have each earned a $1,000 college scholarship awarded by the Educational Scholarship Foundation of the Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives.

Co-op News

Co-op to Host Virtual Annual Meeting

DEC will hold a virtual annual meeting on Tuesday, August 11. Due to the COVID-19 crisis, the Co-op has canceled the annual dinner, community fair, and public business meeting. We hope to see everyone at a public annual meeting next year.

Co-op News

Download DEC's App

Stay Connected with DEC Connect, Delaware Electric Cooperative’s app for iPhones, iPads and Android tablets and phones. Download DEC Connect to report power outages, pay your bill, manage your energy usage and follow Co-op news on Facebook and Twitter.

Co-op News

National Lineworker Appreciation Day

Lineworkers serve on the frontlines of our nation’s energy needs. On April 13, 2020, Delaware Electric Cooperative, along with other electric cooperatives across the country, will honor the brave men and women who work hard to keep the lights on.

Food & Drink

Easy Creamy Baked Ziti

A simple, rich and creamy pasta dish!

Co-op News

Another Year of Record Reliability

Last January, DEC was excited to announce that 2018 was its most reliable year ever. In 2019, Co-op employees made our electrical system even more dependable, meaning last year was the most reliable year in the 84-year history of our Cooperative.

Food & Drink

Crispy Baked Chicken Fingers

A healthier version of an American staple.

Co-op News

Expansion of DEC's Sussex Solar Farm Complete

Delaware Electric Cooperative and Constellation have completed work to nearly double the size of the Co-op’s Bruce A. Henry Solar Farm in Sussex County. Seventeen acres of new solar panels began producing clean, renewable energy for DEC members in early January.

Co-op News

Winter Safety Tips

It’s no surprise that winter months bring increased potential for fire risks and electrical safety hazards. This winter, safeguard your loved ones and your home with these electrical safety tips from the Electrical Safety Foundation International.

Co-op News

Co-op Employees Help Needy Children

Energy Saving Tips

New Year's Energy Resolutions

A New Year brings new opportunities to save energy––and money. If you’re interested in making your home more efficient but don’t want to break the bank, there are several DIY projects you can tackle to increase energy savings.

Food & Drink

Grape Jelly Meatballs

A classic Italian favorite with a grape twist.

Food & Drink

Apple Ginger Glazed Ham

The perfect Christmas ham!

Co-op News

Linemen Shine at International Competition

A team of Delaware Electric Cooperative linemen competed at the International Lineman’s Rodeo on October 19th, testing their skills against some of the top line workers in America. DEC Linemen Philip Collison, Michael Layton and Dave Morgan proudly represented the Co-op at the competition held near Kansas City, MO, often referred to as the Super Bowl of linemen events.

Co-op News

Co-op Offers Scholarships to Students

Electric cooperatives in Virginia, Maryland and Delaware are preparing to accept applications for their popular scholarship from high school seniors who intend to pursue higher education studies. The scholarships are awarded by the Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives’ (VMDAEC) Education Scholarship Foundation, which since 2001 has provided almost 800 scholarships to graduating high school students totaling more than $680,000.

Co-op News

DEC Expands Sussex Solar Farm

Construction is now underway to dramatically expand Delaware Electric Cooperative’s Bruce A. Henry Solar Farm in Sussex County. Earlier this year, the Cooperative signed an agreement with Constellation, a leading retail energy provider, to nearly double the size of the 23-acre solar facility near Georgetown.

Food & Drink

Easy Crock Pot Ribs

These fall-off-the- bone ribs are easy to make in your slow cooker!

Community Features

Community Service Day a Success

Your Co-op is committed to improving the lives of individuals living in the communities we are proud to power. DEC partnered with 88.7 The Bridge for the 2019 Hands and Feet Community Service Day. The service day brought hundreds of people together to volunteer at nonprofits across Delmarva.

Food & Drink

Gingerbread Pudding Cake

A warm and gooey dessert perfect for chilly fall nights!

Co-op News

SmartHub Gets a New Look

Delaware Electric Cooperative’s SmartHub online and DEC Connect mobile app provides a lot of features that help you manage your account, from billing and payment info to detailed usage analysis. It’s a great tool to help you access your account information on the go or online. This fall, DEC will be rolling out a new upgrade for the SmartHub DEC Connect mobile application that will help you get to the features you need quickly and efficiently.

Co-op News

October is National Co-op Month

When you think of October, pumpkins, Halloween and beautiful fall foliage naturally come to mind. But October is notable for another reason – it’s National Co-op Month! This is the time of year when cooperatives across the country, including Delaware Electric Cooperative, celebrate who we are, and more importantly, the members we serve. Cooperatives are different than other types of businesses.

Community Features

Head Huggers

FELTON FAMILY GIVES BACK

This simple spinach dip is great served with pita chips or crackers.

Food & Drink

CROCKPOT SPINACH DIP

This simple spinach dip is great served with pita chips or crackers.

This recipe uses a mixture of cream of chicken soup and chardonnay wine to baste the chicken breasts.

Food & Drink

CREAMY SWISS CHICKEN BAKE

IT ONLY TAKES FIVE INGREDIENTS TO MAKE THIS DELICIOUS DISH!

Food & Drink

SUGAR-FREE PRETZEL SALAD

A SUGAR-FREE VERSION OF A CLASSIC DESSERT

Cullen preps for a cooking demonstration in his kitchen.

Food & Drink

From MTV to the Kitchen

The incredible reinvention of Paul Cullen!

Community Features

Hopkins Farm Creamery

FROM COW TO CONE IN SUSSEX COUNTY

Peet said the community surrounding CrossFit is one of his favorite aspects of the workout program.

Community Features

CrossFit Unlocked

A CONVERSATION WITH OWNER JEFF PEET

Community Features

A Colorful Oasis

DELAWARE BOTANIC GARDENS BLOSSOM IN SUSSEX COUNTY

English lavender blooms at Lavender Fields near Milton in Sussex County.

Community Features

Fields of Purple

LAVENDER FIELDS LEAVES VISITORS IN AWE.

Co-op News

2019 Youth Tour

DELAWARE STUDENTS TAKE ON WASHINGTON, D.C.

Co-op News

Notice of 2019 Annual Meeting!

If you’re a fan of great food and entertainment, then we’re sure you’ll have a lot of fun at our Annual Meeting on Tuesday, August 13th. Registration and our famous fried chicken dinners will be served starting at 3 p.m. and our Business Meeting will begin at 7 p.m.

Food & Drink

Easy Baked Spaghetti

This dish is easy to whip up, hearty and delicious!

Co-op News

Co-op Invests in Reliability Projects

Delaware Electric Cooperative is investing millions of dollars to improve its system reliability in 2019. The improvements will ensure members lose power less often. While 2018 marked the most reliable year ever for DEC’s system, we’re not done working to make the system even stronger. The biggest project facing Co-op engineers in 2019 is the construction of a new Zoar Substation near Georgetown in Sussex County. DEC will build a new substation on Zoar Road across the street from a current Co-op switching station.

Co-op News

DEC Crews Take Home Top Honors at Regional Competition

Delaware Electric Cooperative crews took home top honors at the Gaff-N-Go Lineman’s Rodeo held May 10-11 near Richmond, VA. One DEC team comprised of Philip Collison, Michael Layton and Dave Morgan was named the overall competition winner among Mid-Atlantic electric cooperatives. The team competed against dozens of other teams in competitions testing their ability to quickly climb utility poles and replace electrical equipment 40 feet in the air.

Co-op News

Co-op Installs Its 100,000th Meter

Delaware Electric Cooperative has installed its 100,000th meter, a major milestone for the not-for-profit utility founded back in 1936. The 100,000th meter was installed to serve a pole barn on the property of Erica Campbell outside of Greenwood in Sussex County. The property was one of the first electrified by the Cooperative back in the late 1930s .

Food & Drink

Five Minute Nacho Cheese Sauce

In just five minutes, you can make this hearty appetizer!

Co-op News

Annual Meeting & Board Elections Set

We hope you’ll be able to join us on August 13th for dinner, a community fair and an update on your Cooperative. Our annual meeting begins with registration and dinner at 3 p.m. at the Centre Ice Rink at the Delaware State Fairgrounds. If you are interested in being a candidate for your Co-op’s Board of Directors, you must submit a petition to our office in Greenwood, DE by June 13th, 2019.

Co-op News

Torando Strikes Sussex

An EF-2 tornado with winds of 120 mph struck Delaware Electric Cooperative’s service territory the morning of April 15th. The storm knocked out power to six-thousand Co-op members and left debris scattered for several miles across Sussex County.

Food & Drink

Caramel Cream Cheese Brownies

A delicious dessert that is also easy to make!

Co-op News

Beat the Peak With Nest!

How would you like to save money on your electricity bill and make a little extra? By joining Delaware Electric Cooperative’s new Beat the Peak with Nest program, you can! DEC members, who have installed or are willing to install a Nest thermostat, can participate in this exciting new program, when they agree to allow DEC to remotely adjust their thermostats by a few degrees during Beat the Peak alerts.

Co-op News

Celebrate Lineworker Appreciation Day

National studies consistently rank power line installers and repairers among the most dangerous jobs in the country, and for good reason. Laboring high in the air wearing heavy equipment and working directly with high voltage creates the perfect storm of a dangerous and unforgiving profession. But electric lineworkers are up to the task. These brave men and women are committed to safety, as well as the challenges of the job.

Food & Drink

Baked Caesar Chicken

There are only four ingredients in this simple and delicious recipe!

4 chicken breasts boneless, skinless
1 cup Caesar salad dressing (click for homemade recipe)
½ cup sour cream (optional)
1-1½ cup Parmesan cheese grated

Energy Saving Tips

DIY Home Energy Projects

Winter weather can have a big impact on your energy bills, hitting your pockets a little harder than you would have liked. Now that spring is nearly here, it’s the perfect time to tackle a simple DIY project. One of the easiest projects is insulating your water heater. Insulating a water heater that’s warm to the touch can save 7 to 16 percent annually on your water heating bills.

Co-op News

2018 Was DEC's Most Reliable Year Ever

2018 was the most reliable year in the history of Delaware Electric Cooperative. During 2018, members lost power less often and experienced shorter power outages when compared to previous years. Overall, the average DEC member experienced 1.36 outages in 2018 with interruptions averaging only 84 minutes. In 2017, members experienced 1.43 outages lasting an average of 94 minutes.

Food & Drink

Roasted Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Bacon, brussels sprouts and a ton of flavor!

Co-op News

DEC Relaunches Irrigation Grant Program

Delaware Electric Cooperative is relaunching its Irrigation Grant Program, which provides financial assistance to farmers who convert their diesel-driven irrigation systems to electric. The Co-op grants will cover the first $7,500 of the cost to run electric to irrigation systems.

Co-op News

Winter Weather Increases Electric Bills

If your home’s heating source is electric, you probably dread opening up your electric bill each January and February. These months are traditionally the coldest of the year and this January hasn’t broken with tradition. Temperatures for much of the month remained cold and that means many Co-op members used more power in January than they did in December.

Co-op News

DEC Returning Nearly $8 Million to Members

Delaware Electric Cooperative’s (DEC) Board of Directors has voted to return $7.7 million in capital credits to the Cooperative’s member-owners in December. Capital credits are also known as the Co-op’s profits or margins. Because DEC is a not-for-profit utility, margins are returned to the people the Cooperative serves.

Food & Drink

Easy Apple Crisp

A warm and delicious treat just in time for Christmas!

Co-op News

Congress Honors Delaware Electric Cooperative

The United States Senate in October passed a bipartisan resolution honoring Delaware Electric Cooperative and its “Beat the Peak” Program for saving Co-op members millions of dollars. The resolution was sponsored by Democratic Delaware Senator Chris Coons and Republican Colorado Senator Cory Gardener.

Food & Drink

Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake

Cold weather season is here and so is the season for pumpkin everything!

Co-op News

Hands and Feet Community Service Day a Success!

We’d like to thank all the DEC employees and volunteers who participated in the annual Hands and Feet Community Service Day on Saturday, September 29th! The service day, hosted by 88.7 The Bridge and the Co-op, brought hundreds of people together to volunteer at non-profits across Delmarva.

Food & Drink

Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream Pie

A rich and filling dessert for peanut butter lovers!

Co-op News

Honor Someone Making a Difference

Delaware Electric Cooperative, in partnership with Touchstone Energy Cooperatives, is pleased to announce the third annual #WhoPowersYou Contest, honoring local heroes.

Food & Drink

Sausage Balls With Apricot Dipping Sauce

A hearty southern treat everyone will love!

Co-op News

Members Elect Daisey, Approve Bylaw Change

Delaware Electric Cooperative members elected Blaine Daisey to a two-year term on the Co-op’s board of directors on Tuesday. Mr. Daisey, a former Delaware State Trooper, won with 428 votes at DEC’s Annual Meeting. Challenger Cotton Collins received 203 votes.

In 2012, DEC dedicated the Bruce A. Henry Solar Energy Farm.

Co-op News

Co-op Innovation: Putting Members First

DEC employees have transformed the Co-op over the past several decades into one of the most progressive utilities in the nation.

Owner Carl Peters stands in the main press room at the Greenwood plant.

Community Features

New Process Fibre - A Family Affair in Sussex County

New Process Fibre Co. in Greenwood is a family affair. It always has been. Carl Peters, the company’s CEO, said his earliest memory is of him spending time with his grandfather at the family business on First Street.

Delaware Adventures

Killens Pond State Park

Natural and recreational opportunities abound at Killens Pond State Park, centrally located in the heart of Kent County.

Delaware Adventures

Nanticoke Indian Museum

Founded in 1984, The Nanticoke Indian Museum in Millsboro is home to hundreds of the Eastern Shore tribe’s fascinating artifacts and history. It is also the only Native American museum in Delaware.

Workers from the Lewes Camp survey team.

Community Features

The New Deal in Action: Delaware Archives

The Delaware Public Archives has dug deep into their collection of over 1.5 million images to again share with Delaware Living a series of photos from the First State’s rich history. This year, the DPA has selected photos from their Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) collection from the early 1930s.

Community Features

Carey’s Camp

Officially started in 1888, Carey’s Camp began as “bush” or “basket meetings,” more commonly known today as church revivals, with members of the community camping out in makeshift shelters to hear a variety of different ministers preach the gospel. Today, Carey’s Camp remains as one of only two active camp revivals in the state.

After receiving a call from Jill Rubacky with concerns about how members were being notified of Beat the Peak alerts, DEC President & C.E.O. Bill Andrew developed the idea of an in-home indicator.

Co-op News

10 Years of Beat the Peak

Initially, Beat the Peak alerts were emailed to members and broadcast on local radio and TV stations. Eventually though, a phone call to Bill from a concerned member led to one of DEC’s proudest innovations.

Co-op News

DEC to Host 82nd Annual Meeting

Delaware Electric Cooperative will hold its annual community fair and business meeting on Tuesday, August 7th at the Delaware State Fairgrounds in Harrington. Members will be treated to a free chicken dinner, have a chance to visit with various community organizations and hear an update on the state of the Cooperative from President and CEO Bill Andrew.

Flowers are already in bloom at Delaware Botanic Gardens near Dagsboro.

Community Features

Delaware Botanic Gardens - Inspiring Through Beauty, Engaging Through Education

Delaware is renowned for its picturesque beaches, but the second smallest state will soon be known for something perhaps even more beautiful, an attraction that will also draw visitors to Sussex County.

Food & Drink

Best Crab Cake Recipe

Try this tasty summer recipe from the Cookie Rookie! In a medium mixing bowl, gently combine the crushed crackers with the crabmeat. In another small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, egg, Worcestershire sauce, baking powder, Old Bay and parsley until smooth. Gently fold the mayonnaise mixture with the crabmeat mixture, then cover and refrigerate for one hour or until ready to cook.

Electric vehicles are becoming more popular among consumers.

Co-op News

Electric Vehicles Come of Age By Tom Tate

Community Features

2nd Time Designs - Capturing the Imagination

Most readers have probably heard the saying, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” For Judy and Lou Hagen that phrase certainly rings true. The Millsboro couple owns 2nd Time Designs — in their workshop they turn recycled metal and scraps into extraordinary creations.

Boondocks serves just about every type of seafood you can imagine.

Food & Drink

Boondocks Restaurant - Off the Beaten Path, Worth the Drive

The Boondocks is one of those “off the beaten path” kind of places, a few miles away from Smyrna on Lighthouse Road, where the smell of marshland fills the air. Owner Pat Keeler credits Boondocks’ success to its lively atmosphere and delicious seafood.

Grace Sekscinski, Kegan Walker and Taylor Davis at the Lincoln Memorial during the 54th annual National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) Youth Tour.

Co-op News

Youth Tour - National Electric Cooperative Youth Tour Develops Future Leaders

What do you get when three students from Delaware Electric Cooperative’s service territory join 1,800 of their peers from across the United States? Why, you get the National Rural Electric Cooperative Youth Tour!

Co-op News

New Natural Gas Plant Providing Power to Co-op Members

An efficient new natural gas-driven power plant is now producing energy for tens of thousands of Delaware homes. The Wildcat Point plant, located in Rising Sun, Md., became fully operational in April.

Co-op News

Linemen Compete in Virginia Rodeo

Testing their skills against more than 150 linemen from across the East Coast, nine Delaware Electric Cooperative (DEC) employees took part in the 16th Annual Gaff-n-Go Lineman’s Rodeo, held May 12 at Meadow Event Park in Doswell, Va.

Food & Drink

Strawberry Cookies

An easy, unique and delicious dessert your summer guests will love!

Co-op News

DEC Welcomes New Board Member

Delaware Electric Cooperative’s board of directors has selected Blaine Daisey, Sr. as interim At-Large director. Daisey will fill the seat vacated by longtime board member Howard Clendaniel, who passed away in March.

Co-op News

Purchase Green Energy Blocks!

Delaware Electric Cooperative is always working to provide reliable, affordable power to members with the least possible impact on the environment. We currently own and operate a 20-acre solar energy farm in Georgetown and purchase additional energy produced by wind and solar farms around the region. Still, we know some members may want to do more.

Food & Drink

Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

Garlic Mashed Cauliflower Recipe with Rosemary may be healthier, but tastes just as good as Mashed Potatoes! This Mashed Cauliflower is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or any day of the year. You won't regret making this Garlic Mashed Cauliflower Recipe; missing out on calories and gaining all the flavor! This healthy side dish will be your new favorite recipe.

Co-op News

DEC Remembers Longtime Board Member

Longtime Delaware Electric Cooperative board member Howard A. Clendaniel passed away on March 19 after more than 20 years of distinguished service to the Cooperative and its 95,000 members.

Food & Drink

Baked Extra Crispy Parmesan Chicken Nuggets

3 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

1 teaspoon kosher or coarse salt, divided

1 teaspoon black pepper, divided

½ cup buttermilk

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

½ cup good Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon favorite herb blend, optional

1 cup all-purpose flour

½ cup butter, melted

2 eggs, lightly beaten

Co-op News

Zimmerman Represents DEC At Youth Leadership Council

Dane Zimmerman, a 2017 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour participant whose parents are members of Delaware Electric Cooperative (DEC), traveled to Nashville, TN this past week for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA)’s 76th Annual Meeting. As his state’s representative to the national Electric Cooperative Youth Leadership Council (YLC), Zimmerman participated in the Parade of Flags held during the opening session.

Co-op News

DEC CEO Named Honorary Commander for State Police

Delaware Electric Cooperative’s President and CEO Bill Andrew has been named an Honorary Commander for the Delaware State Police. Andrew was named an Honorary Commander of Troop Three near Camden in Kent County. Andrew was inducted into the program at a special ceremony held on Wednesday, January 24th at the Delaware State Police Museum in Dover. Delaware State Police Superintendent Colonel Nathaniel McQueen Jr. led the ceremony, which honored outgoing 2017 Honorary Commanders and welcomed the 2018 honorees.

Food & Drink

Creamy Oreo Poke Cake

1 (15.25 ounce) box chocolate cake mix, baked per box instructions.

2 (4.2 ounces, each) boxes Instant Oreo Pudding mix

3 cups milk (at least 2%)

1 (8 ounces) tub of whipped topping, thawed

1 (14.3 ounce package) Oreo Cookies, half crushed & half left whole

Co-op News

DEC Opens New Warehouse to Keep up With Growth

Construction of a massive new warehouse has been completed at Delaware Electric Cooperative’s headquarters along Rt. 13 south of Greenwood. The 20,000 square-foot building will house electrical equipment and other supplies used to maintain the Cooperative’s more than 7,000 miles of power lines.

Community Features

Two Delaware Electric Co-op Members Honored Nationally

Two members of Delaware Electric Cooperative were recently honored as winners of the Touchstone Energy Cooperatives 2017 #WhoPowersYou Contest. Mary Rio was honored as a third place winner for her work with Clothing Our Kids (COK) and Chase Marvil was named honorable mention for his work with “The Inspiring Project.”

Food & Drink

Baked Ham and Cheese Mozzarella Sticks

12 (7 inch) eggroll wrappers

12 slices thinly sliced honey ham

12 Mozzarella Sticks (I love Andrew and Everett!)

Olive Oil

garlic salt

Co-op News

Higher January Electric Bills Expected

Many of our members likely saw the impact of several weeks of record cold when they opened their January electric bills. Because of the brutally cold weather, electric bills for January were expected to be at least 30 percent higher than during the same period last year. Temperatures dipped below zero in many places in January and heaters had to work overtime to keep homes and businesses comfortable. If your home’s heating source is electric, it took a lot more electricity to keep your house warm last month.

Co-op News

DEC Experienced Fewer Outages in 2017

2017 will go down as one of the most reliable years ever for Delaware Electric Cooperative’s system, the result of decades of hard work and infrastructure investments. The average number of power interruptions per member fell to 1.43 in 2017 from 1.71 in 2016. The average outage duration also fell from 109 minutes in 2016 to 94 minutes in 2017. For members, this means outages were less frequent and didn’t last as long.

Co-op News

Delaware Electric Cooperative Offers Irrigation Grants to Farmers

Community Features

Delaware Electric Cooperative Employees Provide Gifts to Dozens of Needy Children

Delaware Electric Cooperative employees have helped to brighten the Christmas season for dozens of children across Delaware. Through the Children’s Choice program, Co-op employees bought presents for 35 needy children. The Children’s Choice program helps provide presents to children who might otherwise find nothing under their tree on Christmas morning. This is the twelfth year Delaware Electric Cooperative employees have offered a helping hand to the program. All of the presents collected will be given to children in Kent and Sussex Counties.

Food & Drink

Crock Pot Pecan Pie

1 1/2 cups chopped pecans (plus some pecan halves for decoration)

1 Reynolds Slow Cooker Liner

1 refrigerated pie crust

4 eggs, lightly beaten

1 cup corn syrup

1 cup sugar

1/3 cup salted butter, melted

1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Co-op News

Delaware Electric Cooperative to Give $4.8 Million Back to Members in December

Delaware Electric Cooperative’s (DEC) Board of Directors has voted to return $4.8 million in capital credits to the Cooperative’s member-owners in December. Capital credits are also known as the Co-op’s profits or margins. Because DEC is a not-for-profit utility, margins are returned to the people the Cooperative serves. To receive a billing credit or check from the Cooperative, you must have been a Delaware Electric Cooperative member in 2002, 2003 or 2004. If a member has eligible capital credits of $100 or higher, they will receive a check.

Energy Saving Tips

Holiday Lighting Tips

This year is rapidly drawing to a close and that means the holiday lighting season is back. If your home space is in need of a decorative refresh, here are some tips to take your artistic stylings to the next level. There are two areas to cover, so let’s get started. Safety is up first. If your lights are ground mounted or can be installed standing on the floor or ground, you can skip ahead.

Food & Drink

Caramel Apple Freezer Pie

3 cups caramel ice cream

1 cup Martinelli’s Sparkling Cider or Apple Juice (either one would be delicious!)

1/2 (20 ounce) can apple pie filling

1 premade graham cracker pie crust

2 cups cinnamon cereal (such as Cinnamon Toast Crunch), crushed

Caramel ice cream topping

Co-op News

Please Donate to Operation Share

Your Cooperative has once again launched its Operation Share Partnership with the Salvation Army. Operation Share is a program that benefits DEC members who have fallen on hard times and may have problems paying their bills. The Salvation Army, an organization with a long history of helping others, is able to identify those who have experienced unfortunate circumstances. During the month of December, the Co-op includes an Operation Share envelope with your regular electric bill.

Co-op News

Energy Assistance Fairs Offered

DEC, Delmarva Power and Catholic Charities are offering energy assistance fairs for consumers who are having trouble paying their energy bills.

Food & Drink

Classic Corn Pudding

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1½ tablespoons (4½ teaspoons) all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1½ teaspoon kosher salt

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

3 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 cup heavy cream

Energy Saving Tips

As Technology Improves, So Do Electric Vehicles

The appeal of electric vehicles is gaining momentum. The push for greater mileage in terms of MPG that began in the second half of the last century has been joined by the push for greater miles per charge. EVs have a bright future. Prices are dropping and range is expanding so owners can confidently drive nearly everywhere with a little bit of planning. On top of this, the cars are just plain cool.

Co-op News

Capital Credits Season Is Coming

The Christmas season is something all of us at Delaware Electric Cooperative look forward to, and it’s not just because it’s the most wonderful time of year! It’s also the season for giving, and each December we announce the return of capital credits to members. Traditionally, this means your Co-op will return millions of dollars to members in the form of either a check or billing credit.

Co-op News

New Power Plant to Become Operational

In December, Delaware Electric Cooperative members are expected to begin receiving power from a new natural gas-driven power plant in Cecil County, Maryland. The Wildcat Point plant near Rising Sun will begin generating electricity in January. The plant will provide clean, reliable and affordable power to Delawareans for decades.

Energy Saving Tips

Tips to Control Spooky Phantom Loads

Halloween is scary! Phantom or vampire loads can be even scarier when it comes to your electric bill. Vampire loads come from devices that use electricity, even when they appear to be off. The primary culprits are chargers, set-top television boxes, instant-on televisions and gaming systems. There are others, but these four represent the major offenders.These vampire loads are approaching 10 percent of average household electric use according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Still, there are some steps you can take to keep these vampire loads in check.

Food & Drink

Caramel Apple Dip

8-ounce package fat free cream cheese, softened

1/2 a tub (about 6 ounces) fat-free or light Cool Whip

1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional...feel free to leave out for less calories)

1 16 ounce jar of your favorite caramel sauce (Sugar Free Caramel Ice Cream Topping by Smuckers is great. Walden Farms makes a Calorie Free version!!!)

Apple slices, for dipping

Co-op News

Who Inspires You?

Your Co-op, in partnership with Touchstone Energy Cooperatives, is pleased to announce the second annual #WhoPowersYou Contest, honoring local heroes. It’s a chance for Co-op members to nominate someone who’s making a difference in our community, and an opportunity to celebrate the power of human connections. In addition to being nationally recognized, nominees can win up to $5,000 for the cause they champion. Last year, DEC member Karli Swope, a founder of the Grass Roots Rescue Society in Rehoboth was named a winner. She received a donation to help her keep rescuing neglected animals!

Food & Drink

Pineapple Pretzel Salad

2 cups crushed pretzels

1 cup melted salted butter

3 tablespoons granulated sugar

2 (3 oz) packages pineapple gelatin

1 cup boiling water

1 cup crushed ice

2 (20 oz) cans crushed pineapple in syrup, drained

Co-op News

Co-op Adds Warehouse to Keep Up With Growth

Delaware Electric Co-op is growing, and fast. We have expanded to 94,000 members across Kent and Sussex Counties, which, in turn, requires us to expand our facilities. The latest expansion will take us from our existing 8,000 square foot warehouse to a newly-constructed 20,000 square foot warehouse. Plans for the new warehouse began circulating in 2015 and now, two years later, the idea is coming to fruition.

Co-op News

System-Wide Survey Underway

Delaware Electric Cooperative is currently conducting a system-wide survey to determine where we have third-party attachments on our poles. Companies like Comcast, Verizon and Mediacom use our poles to attach some of their lines and equipment – they pay a fee to use our poles. This survey will ensure that the companies with attachments are being billed fairly.

Co-op News

81st Annual Meeting a Success

Delaware Electric Cooperative held its annual membership meeting on Tuesday August 15th at the Delaware State Fairgrounds in Harrington. More than 6,000 Co-op members and their families attended the annual event, which is the largest private gathering in southern Delaware. Guests were treated to a free fried chicken dinner, a community fair and music, courtesy of Junior Wilson. The business portion of the meeting featured music by the Jones Boys. Members also received an update on the state of the Cooperative from DEC’s President and CEO Bill Andrew.

Russ Notar will be signing copies of his memoir "Journeys of Hope and Reality" at Browseabout Books on Thursday August 10th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Community Features

Russ Notar to Sign Books at Browseabout, August 10

Russ Notar will be signing copies of his memoir, "Journeys of Hope and Reality" at Browseabout Books on the Avenue in Rehoboth on August 10th, 2017. Notar will also inscribe copies of his book, along with answering questions and discussing some of the events detailed in his book.

Layton Wheeler, who served Delaware Electric Cooperative (DEC) for 35 years until his retirement in 2014, received the Electric Cooperatives’ Distinguished Service Award at VMDAEC’s July 24, 2017 Annual Meeting in Norfolk, Virginia. From left: VMDAEC President and CEO Richard Johnstone, DEC President and CEO Bill Andrew, Layton Wheeler, Layton’s wife Beverly, and VMDAEC Board Chairman James Huffman.

Co-op News

Wheeler Receives Distinguished Service Award

The Virginia, Maryland and Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives (VMDAEC) awarded former DEC Vice President of Member Services Layton Wheeler with the electric Cooperative Distinguished Service Award on Monday, July 24th, at their annual meeting in Norfolk, Virginia. Speeches by current Vice President of Member Services Rob Book and DEC President and CEO Bill Andrew highlighted Wheeler's accomplishments throughout his career as a mentor, coworker and friend.

Co-op News

Delaware Electric Cooperative to Host 81st Annual Meeting and Community Fair

Delaware Electric Cooperative will hold its annual community fair and business meeting on Tuesday, August 15th at the Delaware State Fairgrounds in Harrington. Members will be treated to a free chicken dinner, have a chance to visit with various community organizations and hear an update on the state of the Cooperative from President and CEO Bill Andrew. Included again this year is a utility demonstration, where Co-op crews will show members how they restore power and rescue those who are injured without the help of a bucket truck.

DASEF is fundraising to complete their new ITEC building.

Delaware Adventures

Delaware AeroSpace Education Foundation

Look up into the night sky. You’ll see just a few of the billions of stars in our own galaxy, which is one of billions of galaxies in the visible universe. Even with a basic telescope, you can see the rings of Saturn or the roaring storm we know as the red spot on Jupiter. Does that give you a feeling of awe? Do you feel a sense of wonder? These sentiments, these feelings of wonder, are just a few of the goals of the Delaware AeroSpace Education Foundation, or DASEF, based at Big Oak Park in Smyrna, Delaware.

The pig at the end of the counter greets customers as they enter the restaurant.

Food & Drink

Fat Daddy’s Q&A

Nothing says summer in southern Delaware like delicious barbecue. As soon as the weather heats up, stands advertising chicken and ribs appear all over the county. While it’s great to be able to grab your meal and go, it’s even better to have a place to sit down and thoroughly enjoy every ounce of seasoning and sauce the chef has prepared. Near Georgetown, that place is Fat Daddy’s BBQ & Grille. We sat down with owners Jeff and Brenda Frey to chew the fat about how Fat Daddy’s came to be, their tips for restaurant success, and their future plans for the business.

Students practice for the “litter carry.”

Community Features

Polytech Raiders

Teenagers, whether it’s fair or not, aren’t typically viewed as disciplined, and people of all ages most likely would not volunteer to wake up at 3 a.m. For students enrolled in Polytech High School’s Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps or JROTC Raider program, an early wake-up call and an intense training program aren’t just the norm, they are part of a concerted effort to improve mental dexterity and physical strength.

Volunteers work to set rafters on a Habitat home in Milton.

Community Features

Habitat for Humanity

After World War II, buying a home became crucial to achieving the American dream. You fall in love, get married, buy a home and then start a family — maybe not in that specific order, but many people imagine this series of events unfolding as they plan out their life.

Good Ole Boy volunteers help build a wheelchair ramp for someone in need.

Community Features

Good Ole Boy Foundation

It’s not difficult to imagine a typical day for Delaware Electric Cooperative employees. Linemen spend their days high in the air, carefully maneuvering their buckets near power lines, making changes that improve the electrical system. Office workers handle a variety of tasks, everything from monitoring energy loads to answering member calls to helping plan the construction of new substations. Barring major storms, most days are pretty typical. For several Co-op employees, though, what happens when they leave the office is far from routine.

A customer gathers an armful of books to purchase.

Community Features

Acorn Books

Thirty years ago, books were big business, even for local bookstores. Online behemoths, like Amazon, didn’t exist. If you wanted a book, you went to the nearest bookstore. Times have certainly changed — you can now buy millions of books online, and books are available on e-readers and virtually any smart device.
Despite these challenges, Acorn Books in Smyrna continues to thrive, thanks to dedicated patrons and a focus on personalized service.

Community Features

Prime Hook

Prime Hook was established in 1963 as part of the Migratory Bird Conservation Act. Located about 20 miles south of Dover, the Refuge serves as an important stopover site for migratory birds, offering protected breeding habitat to many endangered species.

DE Turf features 12 turf fields, five fields are lighted.

Community Features

DE Turf Sports Complex

If you’ve driven south of Dover along Route 1 recently, you probably noticed a sea of green as you approached Milford. What drivers are noticing is the new DE Turf Sports Complex, a state-of-the-art complex featuring 12 synthetic turf fields, including a championship stadium with seating for 750 spectators.

Founder Mary Rio, and volunteers Karen Borges and Kathleen Blouin.

Community Features

Clothing Our Kids

It’s not always easy to tell when a child is in need. You can’t always tell when a child is hungry or if they’re being mistreated. For many elementary school students in Sussex County, one need is more obvious — they lack the proper clothes to attend school five days a week. Clothing Our Kids, a not-for-profit organization headquartered near Millsboro, is working to assist students in need.

A decadent treat topped with chocolate candy.

Community Features

Blue Scoop

In the 1989 movie, “Field of Dreams,” a mysterious voice told Kevin Costner’s character, “If you build it, they will come.” That was also the hope of the owner of the Blue Scoop ice cream shop in Selbyville when the doors opened back in 2010.

Kaylee Groce, Tanner Hollis and Dane Zimmerman stand with DEC’s Kevin Yingling at George Washington’s Mt. Vernon during the 53rd annual National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) Youth Tour.

Co-op News

Youth Tour

Three Delaware students enjoyed an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., June 11-15 as part of the 53rd annual National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) Youth Tour. These rising high school seniors joined 1,700 other students from across the nation who participated in
the event.

The Freeman Stage near Selbyville offers exciting performances for children and adults.

Community Features

Freeman Stage at Bayside

On Dec. 14, 2006, a helicopter spun out of control, crashing near Dagsboro, Delaware. Onboard was 42-year-old real estate developer and philanthropist Joshua M. Freeman. The respected businessman died in the tragic crash, but his legacy of giving and his passion for the arts live on through a foundation that bears his name.

Volunteers remove neglected animals from a Sussex County property.

Community Features

Grass Roots Rescue Society

In January of 2017, Delaware Electric Cooperative member Karli Swope was named a winner in Touchstone Energy’s national #WhoPowersYou contest. Swope was named a winner for her efforts to rescue and care for animals at the Grass Roots Rescue Society, which she co-founded.
The contest asked members of electric cooperatives across the country to nominate individuals who have made a difference in their communities. Karli was nominated by her friend, Bonnie Arvay. Her entry received more than 1,200 online votes.

Co-op News

Youth Tour Shapes Future DEC Leaders

National Electric Cooperative Youth Tour develops future leaders.Three Delaware students enjoyed an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. June 11-15 as part of the 53rd Annual National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) Youth Tour. Three rising high school seniors joined 1,700 other students from across the nation who participated in this event.

AN EF0 tornado uprooted a tree near the Co-op headquarters in Greenwood.

Community Features

Tornado Watch or Warning? Why You Should Know the Difference

This past week, the Co-op learned a thing or two about the power of Mother Nature. On Monday night, an EF0 tornado accompanied by straight-line winds blew through Greenwood, causing damage, not only to homes and farms within the local community, but also to the Co-op’s headquarters. Read on to learn the difference between a tornado watch and warning to be better prepared when severe weather strikes.

Crews came in to a clean-up job at DEC headquarters Tuesday morning, June 20th.

Co-op News

Storm Causes Damages to DEC Headquarters & Surrounding Area

Delaware Electric Co-op headquarters, along with many homes and farms in the area, sustained damages in Monday night's storm.

Linemen compete in the 15th annual Lineman's Rodeo in Doswell, Va.

Co-op News

Electric Co-op Linemen Compete in Regional Rodeo

DEC linemen attended the Gaff-n-Go Lineman’s Rodeo May 19-20 in Doswell, Va. With over 150 linemen participating, the competition was fierce. But the Co-op's team came through!

Energy Saving Tips

May Means it's Electrical Safety Month

Summer is the month for DIY projects around the home. You have to make sure you are taking all the precautions you can to be safe. Check out DEC's electrical safety tips before starting in on any electrical endeavors.

One way to reduce energy costs is to purchase a programmable thermostat.

Energy Saving Tips

Spring Energy Tips

While your energy bill might not be the first thing you think of when the temperature starts to rise, warmer weather means different habits are in order to save you money. Follow these tips to keep you and your energy bill cool all summer long!

Food & Drink

Mexican Grilled Corn

4 ears of fresh Sweet Corn (shucked)

2 T plain Greek Yogurt

2 T lite sour cream

3/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp Fiesta Lime Mrs. Dash (opt)

Dash of salt and pepper

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 lime, cut into wedges

Light Olive Oil or Olive Oil Spray

Co-op News

Beat the Peak Continues Saving Members Money

f you have been a member of DEC for a while, you know our number-one goal here at the Cooperative is to help our members, not only by providing them with electricity, but by helping them manage their energy use. One way we have been able to do that is through our Beat the Peak initiative. Started in 2008, Beat the Peak is a system that helps members monitor when energy costs are at their highest so they know when to conserve. It’s as simple as plugging in the in-home indicator and paying attention. In the long run, this device not only saves you energy, but money too.

Co-op News

Democracy Is The Co-op Way

Every year Delaware Electric Cooperative has an annual meeting. One of the most important activities we conduct is the election for the board of directors. These are the 11 people we entrust to give strategic direction and ensure the co-op has good governance. In 1844 when the 28 Rochdale pioneers created the modern cooperative movement, they were insistent that all members have the right to vote.

Energy Saving Tips

Power strips versus surge protectors

As the proliferation of electronics impacts our daily lives, we realize there simply are not enough outlets in our homes. This is particularly true for older homes. As a result, we end up with a number of “outlet expanders,” more commonly known as power strips.

Power strips are generic and fulfill a very simple function. They are inexpensive, and the quality, I suspect, is on par with the price.

Co-op News

Area Students Earn Electric Co-op Scholarships

Five high school seniors whose families are served by Delaware Electric Cooperative have each earned $1,000 college scholarships awarded by the Educational Scholarship Foundation of the Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives (VMDAEC).This year, the VMDAEC Education Scholarship Foundation is awarding 50 $1,000 Worth Hudson scholarships to students who live in areas served by electric cooperatives in Delaware, Maryland and Virginia.

Food & Drink

Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole

4 cups, day-old, challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes.

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 medium sweet yellow onion, peeled and diced

½ teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

¼ teaspoon granulated sugar

Co-op News

Pool Electrical Safety Guide

Electrical shocks in a pool occur when the Neutral-to-Earth Voltage (NEV) is brought into the pool vicinity by the grounded neutral from either the utility distribution system or the residential wiring system. Since pool equipment (pumps, lights, ladders) are grounded to protect from hazardous shocks due to electrical faults, the NEV always exists. The typical Voltage measured in the swimming pool ranges between 0 and 4 Volts and may cause a tingling sensation when a person comes in contact with the Voltage.

Co-op News

Co-op Completes Fiber Project Across Service Territory

Delaware Electric Cooperative (DEC) and Lightower Fiber Networks have completed work on a project that will improve the utility’s reliability and offer the possibility of faster broadband service to residents of rural Delaware. The Co-op and Lightower partnered in 2016 to construct a 250-mile, all fiber, network connecting DEC’s substations to the headquarters building in Greenwood, Del. The project is providing a secure and reliable broadband network connecting electrical devices across Kent and Sussex Counties.

Food & Drink

Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Bites

1 (20 oz) tube canned biscuits, regular size

½ cup salted butter, melted

1 cup granulated sugar

2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

1. Preheat oven to 350F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

2. Cut each biscuit into fourths and place on prepared baking sheet; 1” apart.

Co-op News

Celebrate Our Linemen

Every year, we take the time to thank our extraordinary lineworkers who dedicate their lives to keeping the lights on in our local communities. Delaware Electric Co-op lineworkers maintain 7,000 miles of line in our service territory, and without them, our world would be dark. We depend on our entire staff to keep the lights on, but on April 10, 2017, we honor all lineworkers who often find themselves in dangerous and challenging situations, so our lives may be a little bit brighter and safer every day.

Co-op News

April is National Safe Digging Month

April marks annual National Safe Digging Month, and Delaware Electric Cooperative would like to remind members to always call 811 a few days before any digging project. When members call 811, homeowners and contractors are connected to the local Miss Utility call center, which notifies the appropriate utility companies of a member’s intent to dig. Utility locators or contract locators are then sent to the requested digging site to mark the locations of underground lines with flags or paint.

Food & Drink

Cheesy Garlic Herb Scalloped Potatoes

2 tablespoons butter

5 lbs Yukon Gold Potatoes (scrubbed and partially cooked in the microwave 4-6 minutes (this will shorten the cooking time in the oven).

2 cups heavy cream

2 (5.6 oz. ea.) packages Boursin Cheese, garlic & herb

¾ teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Grated Parmesan for garnish

Co-op News

DEC Member Named Winner in National Electric Cooperative Contest

Delaware Electric Cooperative member Karli Swope has been named a winner in Touchstone Energy’s national #Whopowersyou contest. Swope was named a winner for her efforts to rescue and care for animals at the Grass Roots Rescue Society, which she co-founded.

The contest asked members of electric cooperatives across the country to nominate individuals who have made a difference in their communities. Karli was nominated by her friend, Bonnie Arvay. Her entry received more than 1,200 online votes during the contest.

Food & Drink

Perfect Red Velvet Cupcakes

2½ cups all purpose flour

2 cups sugar

1 Tablespoon cocoa

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

2 eggs

1½ cups oil

1 cup buttermilk

1 Tablespoon white vinegar

1 teaspoon vanilla

2 oz. red food coloring

Your Favorite Icing

Co-op News

Why Your Bill May Be Higher

In January, Delaware Electric Cooperative announced a proposed rate decrease—the result of lower wholesale power costs and your efforts to conserve energy during beat the peak alerts. While the decrease will save you money each month, you may have noticed your electric bills have been higher the past two months. Each winter, our call center is flooded with concerns about higher winter electric bills and the reason is simple; the cold weather!

Co-op News

Give Co-op Crews a Break!

The job of a Co-op lineman is already tough. We need your help to keep their job from becoming even more difficult. Over the past few months, crews have reported several incidents of nearly being struck by vehicles while working to restore power along our local roadways. Far too often our linemen say drivers do not slow down as they pass our crews working across our service territory. We’d like to ask all of our members to treat our linemen the same way you’d want a member of your family treated.

Co-op News

DEC Proposes Rate Decrease

Delaware Electric Cooperative’s Board of Directors is considering a rate decrease for all 93,000 member-owners. Co-op President and CEO Bill Andrew has requested the rate change and, if approved by the Board, rates for those served by Delaware Electric Cooperative would drop about five percent. The rate decrease would save the average family using 1,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity $6 per month, or $72 per year. While the Co-op’s rates have been adjusted periodically over the last decade, they remain the lowest in the State of Delaware.

Energy Saving Tips

Energy Savings for Every Season

While saving money through greater energy efficiency may be a year-round objective for many consumers, the way to achieve this goal will vary by season. There are a number of factors that impact energy efficiency, including weather, the age and condition of the home, and desired comfort levels. During fall and winter months, when the outdoor temperature is chilly, consumers desire a warm home and seek to keep the cold air out. Conversely, in the spring and summer, the focus is on keeping the hot air from infiltrating cool abodes.

Food & Drink

Sausage Biscuits and Gravy Skillet Cobbler

1 lb bulk pork sausage

1/3 cups flour

1-2 teaspoons ground black pepper

½-1 teaspoon seasoned salt

¼ teaspoon Smoky Paprika

1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes

3½ cups whole or 2% milk

1 (12 oz.) package Ready to Bake Biscuits

2 tablespoons butter, melted

Energy Saving Tips

Digital Devices Impact Energy Use

Ah, the Digital Age. We have gadgets galore, the ability to manage our homes in new and innovative ways, brilliant images and captivating sounds of modern entertainment options and of course, the internet. Clearly, digital devices reign supreme. Yet these cool new capabilities come with a couple of pitfalls; vampire loads and the issue of “technology reincarnation.” Over the course of the Digital Age, electricity use has continued to increase. Families have multiple televisions. Computer prices have plummeted, meaning many homes now have multiple computers.

Food & Drink

Loaded Salted Caramel Soft Batch Cookies

1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened

1 cup white sugar

1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons real vanilla extract

1 teaspoon baking soda

3/4 teaspoon salt

3 cups all purpose flour

1 cup good quality milk chocolate chips

1 cup rolos, roughly chopped (you can also use plain caramel squares, roughly chopped)

1 tablespoon sea salt flakes, or coarse sea salt

Co-op News

DEC to Return $6.3 Million to Members

Delaware Electric Cooperative’s Board of Directors has voted to return $6.3 million in capital credits to the Cooperative’s member-owners in December. Capital credits are also known as the Co-op’s profits or margins. Because DEC is a not-for-profit utility, margins are returned to the people the Cooperative serves. To receive a billing credit or check from the Cooperative, you must have been a Delaware Electric Cooperative member in 1999, 2000 or 2001. If a member has eligible capital credits of $100 or higher, they will receive a check.

Food & Drink

Chicken Nacho Casserole

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed

1 tablespoon olive oil

salt and pepper to taste

1 (1 ounce) packet Old El Paso Taco Seasoning

1 cup cream of chicken soup ***

1 cup cheddar cheese soup (from a can) ***

1 (10 ounce) can Rotel tomatoes

1 (4.5 ounce) can Old El Paso chopped green chiles

16 ounces Mexican blend cheese, divided

Co-op News

You Are Not a Customer!

A majority of Co-op members joined Delaware Electric Cooperative after 2000. The rapid development of our area led DEC to double its membership over the past 15 years. Many members moved to Delaware from areas of the Mid-Atlantic that are only served by investor-owned utilities. Electric cooperatives are very different from traditional utilities. First, cooperatives are member-owned, meaning you own the power lines, transformers, bucket trucks and even our headquarters building in Greenwood, Del. We answer to members and make decisions based on what’s best for them.

Community Features

Everyone Needs a Little CHEER in Their Life

CHEER, Inc is a leader in the field of aging services, touching the lives of thousands of people within and beyond the borders of Sussex County, Delaware every year. CHEER provides seniors, their families and caregivers a range of services promoting healthy and active lifestyles for Sussex residents aged 50 years or more. For many, CHEER serves as a member of their extended family, helping with meal preparation, routine household chores, errands, local transportation, socialization, educational events, health and fitness as well as volunteer opportunities to serve many of the County’s won

Co-op News

Upgrades to Improve Reliability in Eastern Sussex County

Delaware Electric Cooperative’s Fairmount Substation is undergoing an upgrade to keep up with growing demand in eastern Sussex County. The substation, located along Indian Mission Road, serves the Long Neck, Angola, and Millsboro areas. These portions of the County have experienced dramatic development over the past decade, leading to an increased demand for electricity.

Food & Drink

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bark

16 ounces good quality milk chocolate, melted

4 ounces creamy peanut butter, warmed until pourable

3 Otis Spunkmeyer Chocolate Chunk Cookies, crumbled (Or your favorite brand)

1/4 cup Semi Sweet Chocolate Chunks

1.Prepare a baking sheet with wax paper.

2. Pour the chocolate onto the wax paper and use a spatula or spoon to spread out the chocolate into a thin layer.

3. Pour the peanut butter over the chocolate and lightly swirl.

Co-op News

DEC Launches Campaign to Get Out the Vote

In the 2012 national elections, voter turnout dropped by 9 percent overall, but the decline in rural counties was 18 percent—twice that of the nation as a whole. Today Delaware Electric Cooperative is joining a national program to help turn this around by encouraging our employees and members to register to vote and go to the polls in November.

Community Features

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

Each year, more than 21,000 new cases of ovarian cancer are diagnosed in the United States, resulting in over 15,500 deaths. It is the deadliest of the gynecologic cancers, affecting approximately 1 in 70 women. Because there is no reliable diagnostic screening, it often goes undetected or is misdiagnosed until it has advanced to the later stages. Less than 20% of cases are discovered in the early stage. Due to late diagnoses and a very high recurrence rate (70-90%), less than 50% of women make it to the 5 year milestone.

Co-op News

October Community Service Project

Join the Delaware Electric Cooperative family as we partner with 88.7 The Bridge on the upcoming Hands & Feet community service project! On Saturday, October 1st, volunteers will meet at the location of their choice, either Dover or Seaford, working together to give back to their communities and the people within them

Food & Drink

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Wings

2 lbs. store-bought bone-in or boneless chicken wings

2 tablespoons minced garlic

3-4 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup light mayonnaise

2 tablespoons corn syrup

4 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese

2 teaspoons lemon juice

Community Features

Member Snapshots

Here's a slideshow of all of the Member Snapshots featured in the 2016 edition of Delaware Living!

Community Features

Q&A with Delaware Fire School

The Delaware State Fire School is mandated under the Delaware Code to provide training to the emergency services as well as the public that protect the citizens of Delaware. Very unique to Delaware is that any firefighter in the state of Delaware has training opportunities within 30 minutes of their home. You find that nowhere else in the United States

Food & Drink

Restaurant Q&A With the Crabcake Factory Bayside

There are lots of places to enjoy a crabcake on the Delmarva Peninsula, but the Crabcake Factory’s Executive Chef and CEO Johnny Brooks argues that his are the best around — and he has the awards and recognition to back up his claims. The Crabcake Factory Bayside overlooks the Assawoman Bay on the West Fenwick Waterfront. The original Crabcake Factory is located just a short drive away on 120th Street in Ocean City, Maryland, but the Bayside location is building its own following of loyal customers.

Co-op News

National Electric Cooperative Youth Tour Develops Future Leaders

Three Delaware students enjoyed an expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., in June as part of the 52nd Annual National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) Youth Tour. These high school juniors joined 1,700 other students from across the nation who participated in this event:

Abigail Bivens, Polytech
High School
Kaylee Collison, Lake Forest High School
Andrew Evan, Sussex Central High School

Community Features

Home of the Brave: Providing Hope for Veterans in Need

There are 23 million brave men and women living in the United States, who have earned the right to call themselves veterans. From the beaches of Normandy, France, to the deserts of Iraq and in countless other conflicts and peacetime missions, these individuals, in many cases, risked their lives to protect our nation. Despite their bravery and sacrifices, more than 63,000 American veterans are chronically homeless — a statistic First Lady Michelle Obama has called a “moral outrage.”

Community Features

Two Heroes Reunited: A Co-op Family Celebrates a Special Homecoming

Dogs are often called “man’s best friend.” They are incredibly loyal, dependable and intelligent. Dogs have also played an important role in America’s recent wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. These Tactical Explosive Detector Dogs (TEDDs) have saved countless lives on foreign battlefields. Former U.S. Army Specialist Corey Williamson, the son of Co-op lineman Greg Williamson, proudly counts himself among those whose lives have been spared because of the heroic efforts of these combat canines.

Community Features

Delmarva's News Leader: How the Co-op Helps Bring You the News

It’s 11:50 a.m. on a Thursday and the WBOC-TV newsroom in Salisbury, Maryland, is a flurry of activity. Last-minute changes are being made to stories, which longtime anchor Steve Hammond will read to tens of thousands of people in just a few minutes.

Community Features

Camp Arrowhead: Off the Beaten Path, a Place for Children to Unplug and Unwind

As a child, your quintessential summer day may have included time at the beach or pool, hanging out with friends, adventures exploring the local park or making s’mores at night by a campfire. While modern technology has certainly changed how a child may spend a typical summer day, there are still places children can visit to unplug, unwind and learn about nature.

Delaware Adventures

Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge

Bombay Hook was established in 1937 as part of a chain of refuges stretching from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. It serves as a refuge and a breeding ground for migrating birds and other wildlife. Bombay Hook has become a more important refuge in recent years because of the loss of the birds’ natural habitats along their migration trail. Portions of the park are designated research areas. The refuge offers visitors a 12-mile wildlife drive, five walking trails, three observation towers and multiple hunting and wildlife photography opportunities.

Co-op News

Harnessing The Sun's Power

As you drive across Delaware, carefully inspect the roofs of the houses you pass. You’ll likely find at least one home with solar panels in every development, especially near the beaches. Photovoltaic cells, also known as solar cells, are a relatively new technology — they weren’t invented until the 1950s. Still, decades before the official dawn of the age of solar power, scientists and inventors were harnessing the power of the sun. One Delaware man played an important role in the construction of the first solar thermal power station, built in Maadi, Egypt, in 1912.

Community Features

Changing Fates Equine Rescue: Providing Horses With New Homes and New Hope

Down a long, winding dirt road in Laurel, Delaware, you’ll find what appears to be a typical rural horse farm. Upon first look, people passing by will catch a glance of the handful of horses eating, or playing or grazing in the fields. All of the horses are healthy, happy and well-cared for. You would never know that these horses were abused, neglected or forgotten — that’s why they were brought to Changing Fates Equine Rescue.

Community Features

Back Bay Art Glass: Turning Passion Into a Second Career

Working with glass is a delicate process, one that requires patience and great care. It’s probably not the hobby you’d pick for a retired fugitive detective, but former cop Ace Robinson and his wife, Nancy, found a passion for working with glass kindled years ago. That hobby has turned into a full-time job.

Co-op News

New Power Plant to Become Operational in 2017

Delaware Electric Cooperative members will soon receive power from a new natural gas-driven power plant being built in Cecil County, Maryland. The Wildcat Point plant is currently under construction near Rising Sun and is expected to begin generating electricity in the spring of 2017. Once completed, the plant will provide clean, reliable and affordable power to Delawareans for decades.

Community Features

The Day the Lights Came On

We live in a connected world. The average family has several smartphones, a smart TV, several tablets and gaming consoles. You can open the garage door and change the thermostat right from your cellphone. And all of these modern necessities require electricity. It’s hard for many people to imagine living in a world without electricity, but two generations ago, most homes in rural Delaware relied on oil lamps and lanterns to brighten the night.

Food & Drink

Pizzadili Winery: A Father's Dream Realized

In south-central Kent County, the town of Felton’s tree-lined streets aren’t exactly a spitting image of Tuscany, Italy, which is one of the most famous wine-producing regions in the world. That doesn’t bother Pete Pizzadili though. The owner of Pizzadili Vineyard and Winery located near the small town has created what he calls a piece of paradise along Peach Basket Road.

Community Features

Cycling For a Cause: A Co-op Member Remembers a Fallen Hero

On a cool and rainy afternoon in May, over 200 cyclists rode through downtown Lewes, making a stop at Zwaanendael Park on Savannah Road. The cyclists were completing a stretch of the Police Unity Tour that passes through Delaware on its way to Washington, D.C. Among them was Lewes native, JuneRose Futcher. As the massive group slowed to a stop alongside the park, Futcher got off her bike and walked over to a plaque in the park that honors her grandfather, fallen police officer Charles Futcher, Sr.

Co-op News

Delaware Electric Cooperative to Host 80th Annual Meeting and Community Fair

Delaware Electric Cooperative will hold its annual community fair and business meeting on Tuesday, August 9th at the Delaware State Fairgrounds in Harrington. Members will be treated to a free chicken dinner, have a chance to visit with various community organizations and hear an update on the state of the Cooperative from President and CEO Bill Andrew. Included again this year is a utility demonstration, where Co-op crews will show members how they restore power and rescue those who are injured without the help of a bucket truck.

Co-op News

Why Planting Near Transformers is Bad for the Co-op

In many developments and neighborhoods in Delaware, you’ll find Co-op transformers (the green box shown in the picture below). These boxes are integral to the underground electrical system that provides electricity to the homes around them. These boxes are property of Delaware Electric Cooperative. Through agreements with developers, the Co-op legally has access to the land the box is on, as well as the land around it.

Co-op News

Beat the Peak Alerts Issued!

After a cool start to the summer, temperatures and humidity have finally skyrocketed to uncomfortable levels. Forecasters expect the the searing heat to continue through part of the weekend. To combat the weather, air conditioners have been running on full blast in homes, businesses and on farms all over the state. Because of this, Delaware Electric Cooperative has issued Beat the Peak alerts for both today and tomorrow, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The price of energy increases as demand for electricity increases.

Food & Drink

Triple Berry Tiramisu

20 lady fingers (1 package)
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
8 ounces mascarpone cheese
1 cup white sugar, divided
1 teaspoon vanilla5 tablespoons Chambord (raspberry liqueur), divided
2/3 cup strawberry jam or jelly
1 1/2 cups sliced strawberries
1 cup fresh raspberries
1/2 cup blueberries

Co-op News

National Electric Cooperative Youth Tour Develops Future Leaders

Three Delaware students enjoyed an expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. June 12-16 as part of the 52nd Annual National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) Youth Tour.

Co-op News

Co-op Fiber Project to Improve Reliability

A partnership announced between Delaware Electric Cooperative and Lightower Fiber Networks will improve reliability for Co-op members in Central and Southern Delaware.

Lightower Fiber Networks is currently installing a 250-mile all fiber network across the Cooperative’s service territory in Kent and Sussex Counties. The new fiber network will provide communication to the utilities’ substations, electrical equipment and its headquarters building in Greenwood.

Food & Drink

Slow Cooker Bacon Cheeseburger Sloppy Joes

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 small package (8 ounces) velveeta (or similar product), cut into 1 inch cubes
1/2 cup diced onion
1 cup cooked bacon crumbles
salt and pepper to taste
6 sandwich buns
Lettuce, tomato, sliced cheese, and pickles as garnish (optional)

Instructions

Co-op News

Tips for Members Considering Leasing or Buying Solar Systems

Over the past three years, the number of Delaware homeowners installing solar panels through a lease or power purchase agreement (PPA) has increased significantly. These are popular financing options for homeowners who are interested in installing clean energy solar panels without paying significant upfront costs or claiming ownership of the system. In both a solar lease and PPA agreement, the solar installer usually pays to install and maintain the system, and has ownership of the system equipment.

Co-op News

Co-op Nominated for Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce Award

Delaware Electric Cooperative, Delaware’s only not-for-profit electric company, has been nominated for an Excellence in Business Award from the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce (CDCC). The awards are presented to outstanding businesses serving the Kent County area—DEC was nominated in the Large Employer Category. Each member of the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce has the chance to vote for the winner of the award, which will be announced at the CDCC’s Awards for Excellence dinner on June 21st.

Energy Saving Tips

Save Money and Energy With Energize Delaware

DE Electric Coop/Energize Delaware Article

Want to save money and energy while saving our planet?

The Delaware Sustainable Energy Utility’s Energize Delaware programs make it easy. Whether you’re a home owner, business owner, school, nonprofit, church or farm, there is a program to help you save money on your utility bills. Here are just a few:

Home Performance with Energy Star®

Co-op News

April Marks National Safe Digging Month

April marks the ninth annual National Safe Digging Month, and Delaware Electric Cooperative would like to remind members to always call 811 a few days before any digging project.

When members call 811, homeowners and contractors are connected to the local Miss Utility call center, which notifies the appropriate utility companies of a member’s intent to dig. Utility locators or contract locators are then sent to the requested digging site to mark the locations of underground lines with flags or paint.

Co-op News

Slideshow: DEC Crews Hard at Work

Delaware Electric Cooperative crews work hard and it's time to celebrate National Lineman Appreciation Day.

America’s electric cooperatives have designated the second Monday of April as National Lineman Appreciation Day.

On April 11, 2016, Delaware Electric Cooperative will honor the dedicated men who often work in challenging conditions to keep the lights on. We proudly recognize all electric linemen for the services they perform around the clock in dangerous conditions to keep power flowing and to protect the public’s safety.

Food & Drink

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

2 tablespoons Italian dressing (not the creamy kind)

3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes

16 ounces small/medium sized rigatoni pasta

1 24-ounce jar of your favorite Marinara pasta sauce (I love Delallo’s)

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

salt and pepper to taste

Chopped fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Food & Drink

Delaware Farmers' Market Season Begins

With a record season behind them, Delaware's farmers' markets are gearing up for another great year. Twenty-three community-run farmers' markets will be opening over the next three months, selling Delaware produce and other farm-fresh goods.

Co-op News

Beat the Peak Alerts Issued: Co-op Asks Members to Conserve Energy!

Spring officially arrived more than two weeks ago, but try telling that to Mother Nature. The National Weather Service expects temperatures to fall into the mid-20s by Wednesday morning—the organization has issued a freeze warning for tonight.

With unusually cold April temperatures expected over the next 24 hours, energy use will likely soar. Delaware Electric Cooperative has issued a Beat the Peak alert from 7-9 tonight and 6-8 a.m. Wednesday, when energy use is expected to be highest.

During the alert period, you Co-op is asking members to voluntarily conserve energy.

Co-op News

Slideshow: Severe Storms Strike Delaware

Severe storms swept across central and southern Delaware Saturday night, downing trees and causing outages across Delaware Electric Cooperative’s Service territory. Around 11:30 p.m. Saturday night, the National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Kent and Sussex Counties. Wind gusts over 60 mph were reported, along with widespread reports of hail across the state. About 1,500 members lost power as the strong storms moved across the region.

Delaware Adventures

Turkey Season to Begin in Delaware

Delaware’s spring turkey hunting season opens Saturday, April 9, and runs through Saturday, May 7, DNREC’s Division of Fish & Wildlife announced today. Hunting hours are a half-hour before sunrise until 1 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Hunters are reminded that only bearded birds may be taken, and that all harvested birds must be checked at an authorized turkey check station by 2:30 p.m. on the day of the hunt. Bag limit is one bearded bird per turkey hunter per year.

Food & Drink

Cookie Rookie: Delicious Chili

1 (16 ounce) package Sausage Roll (any flavor will work, we like spicy!)

½ cup sweet yellow onion, chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

2 pounds ground chuck (plus water for cooking)

1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce

1 can (14.5 ounces) petite-diced tomatoes, undrained

1 cup water (this is an ingredient. The water above is just for the chuck prep.)

Energy Saving Tips

How to Clean Refrigerator Coils and Why it Matters

Your refrigerator is one of the largest, most-used appliances in your home. It requires only minimal maintenance – just simple cleaning of the condenser coils, which disperse heat. If the coils are covered with dust, gunk or pet hair, they cannot diffuse the heat properly and will not run efficiently. A bigger problem can result if the compressor burns out from having to run constantly because of the grimy coating. This can be an expensive problem. The bottom line? A minor investment in time once a year can save you cold cash down the line.

Delaware Adventures

Dover’s Air Mobility Command Museum Leaves Visitors in Awe

Delaware is fondly known as the Small Wonder, a tiny state chock-full of surprises. Included in the wonders of the second smallest state is the Air Mobility Command Museum (AMC), which you’ll find along state Route 9 in Dover. If you’re a Delawarean and have never heard of the museum, you may be surprised by what you’ll find.

Community Features

Lily's Story: Rescuing a Seal Pup

The life of a baby gray seal is tough. Mother seals abandon their pups after just a few weeks, leaving the vulnerable offspring to fend for themselves—in an ocean full of danger and uncertainty. In April, one such pup, now famously known as Lily, was found laying on the shore near Bethany Beach, Del. It was a windy spring day and the staff and volunteers with the Marine Education Research and Rehabilitation Institute (MERR) couldn’t tell what was ailing the seal pup.

Energy Saving Tips

Top five energy users in your home

A starting point for savings

While most homeowners would like to be more energy efficient and save money, often it feels overwhelming because many people don’t know where to start. How can the average family use less energy, lower their utility bill and still meet their daily energy needs? To help jumpstart your effort, it is useful to know what the top energy users are in your home. With this knowledge, you can choose a path that works best for your family.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Agency, the top five energy users in U.S. homes are:

Community Features

Delaware Artist Inspires Creativity One Fish at a Time

If a picture is worth a thousand words, the works of John Donato are conversations that never end. The Sussex County artist discovered his passion for art at a young age. “As early as I can remember, I was a good doodler,” said Donato.

Food & Drink

Delmar’s 3rd Wave Brewing Company: Q&A With Co-Owner Lori Clough

Breweries are popping up all over the First State and one of the newest places to grab a cold craft beer is 3rd Wave Brewery in Delmar, which opened in late 2012. The brewery offers four house beers and many others on a seasonal basis. Delaware Living sat down with Co-owner and Manager Lori Clough to chat about her unique brews.

Q: What’s the story of how you opened the brewery?

Energy Saving Tips

Seal Air Leaks with Caulk

Did you know heating and cooling accounts for roughly half of your home’s energy use? Caulking cracks and gaps around windows, doors and spaces around wires (telephone, electrical, cable and gas lines), water spigots and dryer vents can pay off with big energy savings.

*Approximate cost: $5-$30 *Energy savings: Approx. 5-10 percent – Source: U.S. Dept. of Energy

Materials You Will Need:

Caulk, caulk gun, knife or tool to cut, rags, water

Delaware Adventures

Explore James Farm Ecological Preserve

Delaware is known for its beautiful beaches and wide variety of wildlife. Very few places display the vast number of habitats in Delaware like James Farm Ecological Preserve. James Farm, located on Cedar Neck Road in Ocean View, is overseen by The Delaware Center for Inland Bays. Throughout the year, it hosts numerous school groups and scout troops, and educates them about the ecosystems present in the area.

Co-op News

DEC Leader Earns Regional Award

Delaware Electric Cooperative’s President and CEO has been honored for his nearly two-decades of faithful service to the Cooperative and its members. Bill Andrew was presented with the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) Regional Award for Outstanding Service on September 9th in Charlotte, N.C.

Food & Drink

Cookie Rookie: Grilled Salmon With Avocado Salsa

2 lbs salmon, cut into 4 pieces

1 tbs olive oil (I used light extra virgin olive oil)

1 tsp salt

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp paprika powder

1 tsp onion powder

½ tsp ancho chili powder

Community Features

USO Plays a Critical Role at the Dover Air Force Base

The USO, or United Service Organizations, was created in the 1940s to provide support to the brave Americans fighting to save the world from Hitler’s Third Reich and Japanese Imperialism. The USO’s mission to serve the troops continues today across the globe, including important work at the Dover Air Force Base in Kent County.

Energy Saving Tips

Heat Pumps-101

Think of the name, “heat pump.” It likely conjures all sorts of images to mind, none of which reflect the fact that these systems operate using the Second Law of Thermodynamics. Yes, I hear the groans, but stick with me; it isn’t going to be that bad, and you may learn something new!

There are two basic types of heat pump technology – air source and ground source. In an air source heat pump, the equipment uses the outside air to provide the means for heating and cooling your home. A ground source heat pump uses good old Mother Earth’s dirt.

Delaware Adventures

Explore the Wonders of Delaware’s Waterways at the DuPont Nature Center

A short drive east of Milford lays one of Delaware’s ecological treasures, known not only for its abundance of wildlife, but also for its sweeping views of the Delaware Bay. The DuPont Nature Center at the Mispillion Harbor Reserve is the perfect place to treat your family to a day of fun and learning. The center, which is owned and operated by the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife, features an observation deck and an interpretive center.

Co-op News

Meter Safety: What You Need To Know

It is in the mutual interest of Delaware Electric Cooperative and our members to ensure electrical meters are in an easily accessible location. Plants and landscaping, as well as decks and other structures, are meter obstructions which create problems for meter access and maintenance. Have a clear, safe walking path to the meter available at all times. Avoid building or placing structures directly around the meter, which may have to be removed to access the meter.

Food & Drink

Cookie Rookie: Baked Blooming Onion

1 large yellow onion

⅔ cup Panko breadcrumbs

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

½ teaspoon paprika

¼ teaspoon sea salt

2 egg whites

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Use a large knife to cut off the top, about ¼-inch of the onion until a few of the inside layers are exposed. Be careful to cut the top side, not the root side. Peel the outermost layer of the onion down to the root, leaving the root as is.

Delaware Adventures

Explore The Natural Wonders of Sussex County at Trap Pond

Among the hustle and bustle of the summer beach crowds lies Sussex County’s hidden gem, Trap Pond State Park. The site’s 3,800 acres offer more than just water activities, such as kayaking and fishing on the pond. Camping sites, playgrounds, hiking and biking trails, and wildlife watching are among the array of activities available at the park, providing people of all ages and interests with something to enjoy. Trap Pond also makes for an excellent picnicking area!

Community Features

Planting Seeds That Could Grow Into New Farmers

If you were to take a drive in Delaware, chances are you would pass a farm at some point along the way—if not more than one. Corn, soybeans, chickens, dairy cows, horses, even alpacas can be seen from roads all over the state. The agriculture industry plays a huge role in Delaware’s economy and way of life. You might be surprised by the number of people who don’t know much about how farmers help to put fresh, local food on our tables.

Energy Saving Tips

CFLs Save Money, But Die Differently Than Incandescent Bulbs

Don’t be fooled; a popping sound or smoke means a CFL’s end-of-life mechanism works. Worried when you hear a compact fluorescent lightbulb (CFL) pop or sizzle? Despite confusion caused by an email hoax circulating since April 2010, these sounds signal the bulb is working safely in its final hours. Smoke, a popping noise, and even a slight odor are typical and do not pose a fire risk as claimed in the misleading email.

Co-op News

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and DEC Improve Communication on the Delaware Bay

Delaware Electric Cooperative and its dedicated to improving the lives of members.

Fifteen minutes south of Dover, the residents of picturesque Bowers Beach awoke to a beautiful fall morning on September 24. As they started their commute to work or departed for a day of work on the water, members of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and crews from Delaware Electric Cooperative were already converging on their town. A huge volunteer effort was underway to make life safer for local mariners.

Food & Drink

Q&A With Chef Ryan Cunningham of Abbott’s on Broad Creek

When you think about dining on the water, Laurel isn’t normally the first place that comes to mind. But Chef Ryan Cunningham is working hard to put Abbott’s on Broad Creek on the map. Located in downtown Laurel, the young restaurant has had a busy year-and-a-half since its opening in December of 2013. Abbott’s had already made a name for itself with Abbott’s Grill in Milford, but bringing people to a new location was a welcome challenge for Chef Ryan.

Energy Saving Tips

Smart Holiday Cooking

Here are some simple steps to save money this holiday season in the kitchen! Cut baking temperatures by 25 degrees with a ceramic or glass pan. These pans retain heat better than metal. Use the oven wisely by cooking in large batches, and fit pans into all available oven space. Keep the door closed. Each time you peek into the oven you let out hot air, causing the oven to work overtime to bring the temperature back up. Get to know how long it takes to preheat your oven and make sure you’re ready to start cooking right away.

Delaware Adventures

Delaware Day Trip: Cape Henlopen

Cape Henlopen State Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The park welcomes visitors year round from near and far, coming to enjoy the beaches, nature trails, fishing, camping and picturesque scenery. Cape Henlopen offers more than just a few pretty pictures, though; it also has historic roots in shipping and military defense. Strategically positioned at the mouth of the Delaware Bay the park was crucial to commercial shipping in the 1800s and 1900s.

Community Features

Seven Sister’s Shop Brings Family and Friends Together

Sometimes the most extraordinary memories are made in places found off the beaten path. One such place can be found down a long, winding driveway about 10 miles west of Dover on Westville Road. It’s called the Seven Sister’s Shop yet doesn’t really seem like a shop at all. Chickens roam freely in the yard, a donkey can be heard braying beyond the house, music is playing and a fresh pot of coffee is brewing inside the tiny shop, which could be mistaken for a cottage.

Co-op News

DEC to Return Nearly $5 Million to Members

Delaware Electric Cooperative’s Board of Directors has voted to return $4.8 million in capital credits to the Cooperative’s member-owners in December. Capital credits are also known as the Co-op’s profits or margins. Because DEC is a not-for-profit utility, margins are returned to the people the Cooperative serves.

Food & Drink

M&M Red Velvet Cake Cookies

Delicious M&M Red Velvet Cake Cookies:

Ingredients:

1 box devil’s food cake mix

1 cup butter, softened

2 eggs, beaten

1 bottle (1 ounce) red food coloring

Food & Drink

Pumpkin Crisp

A pumpkin dessert just in time for the holiday season!

Energy Saving Tips

Saving Energy in the Kitchen

Co-op News

Transmission Project to Improve Reliability

Delaware Electric Cooperative has started work on a new transmission line that will improve reliability for DEC members in Sussex County.

Co-op News

Andrew Announces Retirement

Community Features

DEC Sponsors Community Service Day

Food & Drink

Roasted Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Even your kids will eat this healthy veggie!

Promotion

Keep Rates Low With Beat the Peak!

Beat the Peak is a free program offered by Delaware Electric Cooperative, which alerts members when times of peak energy use are approaching. You can be notifed of an alert via email, text or through our Beat the Peak App. The app will alert you the moment we issue a peak alert. To download the app, just search "Beat the Peak" in the app store on your mobile device. We ask members to voluntarily conserve energy during times of peak energy use becasue that's when the cost of energy is the highest. By reducing energy use across our system during these times, we're able to keep rates low. Our rates are among the lowest in the region!