The Current Buzz

Oklahoma Electric Cooperative

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At Oklahoma Electric Cooperative (OEC), our purpose is to improve our members’ quality of life through the safe delivery of highly reliable, reasonably priced electric service, innovative energy programs, and exceptional member service. This podcast is just one more way that we are here to help you, our members, learn more about the industry.

HACE 5 DÍAS

Behind the Blink: How Fiber Internet Is Restored After a Storm

In this episode of The Current Buzz, we sit down with OEC Fiber’s Joe Torres to pull back the curtain on what really happens behind the scenes during outages—especially after major storms. From proactive system upgrades to the coordination between electric and fiber crews, Joe shares how preparation, teamwork and infrastructure investments all play a role in keeping your internet running strong when it matters most. But when outages do happen, restoring fiber isn’t as simple as flipping a switch. Joe explains the intricate, time-intensive process of splicing fiber—comparing it to working with strands of glass as thin as a hair—and why restoration can take longer than power. If you’ve ever wondered why your internet doesn’t come back the second your lights do, this episode offers a fascinating, eye-opening look at the complexity behind the service you rely on every day.

26 min
17 MAR

Behind the Bill: What Every Line Item Really Means

Electric and fiber bills can sometimes feel confusing — but they don’t have to be. In this episode of The Current Buzz, Brianna and Daniel sit down with billing experts Chelle and Shana to walk through OEC electric and fiber bills line by line. They explain what each section means, from energy usage and service availability charges to power cost adjustments, taxes and Operation Round Up®. The team also discusses how members can monitor their usage, choose the best rate option, and understand the differences between electric and fiber billing. If you’ve ever wondered what all those numbers on your bill actually mean, this episode breaks it down in a clear and practical way.

24 min
3 MAR

When the Lights Go Out: The Restoration Process Explained

In Episode 60 of The Current Buzz, we sit down with Clint Mobley and Bobby Herring to talk about what happens before, during, and after major outages — and how OEC prepares for extreme weather and large-scale events to keep members safe and the lights on. We unpack what “storm prep” really means (hint: it starts long before the storm arrives), how OEC uses modeling and load shifting to reduce risk during extreme temperatures, and why system hardening has made a measurable impact on reliability. Clint and Bobby also break down common electric system terms—like feeders, fuse coordination, and why you sometimes see “power blinks”—in a way that’s easy to understand. Plus, they share a few unforgettable storm stories, including the time a substation was back-fed using semi-mounted generators after severe ice damaged transmission lines. If you’ve ever wondered why some areas are restored first, what the control room does during outages, or how OEC Fiber has strengthened the electric grid, this episode is for you. Additional resources mentioned Operation Round Up Applications: okcoop.org/ORU OEC Fiber: OECFiber.com OEC YouTube Videos: YouTube.com/OklaElec

33 min
17 FEB

Big Servers, Big Questions: Data Centers, the Grid, and What You Need to Know

In Episode 59 of The Current Buzz, Brianna and Daniel are joined by Tim Ferree (OEC Key Accounts & Advocacy Specialist) and Kylah McNabb of Vesta Strategic Solutions to break down the growing conversation around data centers in Oklahoma. They explain what data centers are (essentially buildings full of computers powering AI and cloud services), why Oklahoma is attracting them—thanks to low electric rates, strong grid reliability, natural gas availability, and participation in the Southwest Power Pool—and what their large energy use really means for local communities. Most importantly, the episode addresses member concerns: data centers pay for their own infrastructure, operate under strict engineering and regulatory review, and often run on interruptible rates that can actually help stabilize the grid during peak demand. The conversation highlights how OEC protects its members while responsibly managing growth and new opportunities in the energy landscape. Subscribe to The Current Buzz to be the first to hear more in-depth conversations like this.

27 min
3 FEB

The Need for Speed: Wi-fi Wisdom from the Pros

In this episode of The Current Buzz, hosts Brianna and Daniel sit down with David Madden from OEC Fiber to talk all things high-speed internet—what’s happening behind the scenes, how OEC Fiber supports members, and the tools available to help troubleshoot internet issues at home. David shares insights into a powerful diagnostic app that scans more than 160 data points across a home network, walks users through step-by-step fixes, and even allows the subscriber support team to see what members see (with permission) to resolve issues faster. From gaming frustrations to device limitations, this conversation offers practical, real-world guidance for getting the most out of your OEC Fiber service. >>Learn more and sign up for service at www.OECFiber.com.

16 min
20 ENE

Chill Smarter: Efficiency with the Experts

In this episode of The Current Buzz, Brianna and Daniel sit down with Russell Philpott of Precise Building Performance, the expert behind OEC’s free Home Energy Consultation Program. With nearly 2,000 energy audits under his belt, Russell breaks down where homes lose the most energy—and what actually makes a difference on your electric bill. From heating systems and insulation to space heaters and pool pumps, this conversation cuts through common myths and gives practical, real-world advice OEC members can use right now.

27 min
6 ENE

New Year, New Energy Goals

Welcome to The Current Buzz, the podcast where we break down what’s happening now at Oklahoma Electric Cooperative and OEC Fiber — and why it matters to you. In this episode, OEC VP of Member Engagement Autumn McMahon joins hosts Brianna Wall and Daniel Lofland to kick off the new year with a conversation about what’s ahead for OEC and OEC Fiber. They highlight people, programs and community connections that make a difference across OEC and OEC Fiber's service territory. The episode also introduces new recurring segments designed to keep members informed, empowered and connected.

14 min
02/05/2024

Find the Right Rate for You

Listen as hosts Kayla and Autumn unfold the complexities of Oklahoma's spring weather and its rapid transition into higher temperatures, which significantly influence energy consumption patterns. The duo reviews our tailored electricity rate plans that are designed to cater to diverse needs and lifestyles. This episode not only demystifies the electric rates but also highlights how non-EV owners can benefit immensely from the Electric Vehicle rate through the strategic use of smart home technologies. Discover more and get personalized advice at okcoop.org/rates. 🎧 Make sure to follow, rate, and review on Spotify to stay updated with all our future episodes!

8 min

5

de 5

6 calificaciones

At Oklahoma Electric Cooperative (OEC), our purpose is to improve our members’ quality of life through the safe delivery of highly reliable, reasonably priced electric service, innovative energy programs, and exceptional member service. This podcast is just one more way that we are here to help you, our members, learn more about the industry.

Creador

Oklahoma Electric Cooperative
Años de actividad

2020 - 2026
Episodios

62
Clasificación

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Copyright

© Oklahoma Electric Cooperative
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The Current Buzz