Staff Report
JOHNSON CITY — Vegetation management experts at Pedernales Electric Cooperative (PEC) shared best practices for planting to help co-op members save energy and money.
Autumn is one of the best seasons to plant trees in Texas, said a news release, especially with cooling temperatures and wetter weather expected to take hold. Planting in the fall allows tree root systems to establish and gives them a head start to grow before winter.
Remember these tips for safety, reliability and energy savings when planting trees this fall:
• Look up: Consider the mature size of each species and plant away from power lines to avoid contact between the two. Besides their aesthetic beauty, trees also provide shade to help cool a home and lower electric bills.
• Don’t plant around utility boxes: Pad-mounted transformers, the green or grey metal boxes on some properties, deliver power through underground distribution wires. Planting near or around PEC’s equipment makes it more difficult, dangerous and time consuming for lineworkers to restore power. Keep this area clear for a safer environment, easier access and faster power restoration.
• Dial 811 before digging: To determine where underground electrical lines and utility equipment is located, call Texas811 before planting. Calling before you dig is required by law and can save a life.
• Report vegetation on power lines: If trees or branches are growing on or near our equipment, call PEC at 888-554-4732 during business hours or 24/7 through SmartHub. PEC will perform an assessment and remove encroaching vegetation safely and free of charge.
• Shade HVAC units and keep it clean: Plant for shade around units to keep them cool and running smoothly. Also, remember to keep units clear of debris and dead leaves to help prevent fires.
• Around the home: Plant trees on the south and west sides of a home to shade the hottest areas and save on electric bills.
