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

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

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

Key Themes:

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

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

Follow SMECO:

Instagram: somdelectric

Twitter: somdelectric

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

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

Key themes & takeaways:

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

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

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

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

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

Key Themes:

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

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

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