Clay Electric Cooperative lobbies reopening July 6

Press release from Clay Electric

Clay Electric Cooperative is reopening the lobbies at its six district offices for business on Monday, July 6. The lobbies were closed in March to protect the health of its members and employees during the peak threat of COVID-19.

Members and visitors entering an office to make a payment or conduct co-op business are asked to comply with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines to protect themselves and others.

“We’re requesting members doing business in our lobbies to follow the recommended social distancing guidelines within our offices,” said Clay Electric General Manager/CEO Ricky Davis. “We ask all visitors to follow instructions as posted on lobby signage for your safety and others.”

In addition to practicing social distancing, CDC guidelines include avoiding close contact with people who are sick, avoiding touching your face, and washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

As the coronavirus still exists, members are encouraged to continue using the drive-thru at their district office or electronic means of doing business whenever possible to reduce the risk of exposure. In addition to the drive-thru, payments may be made by mail, online, by telephone autopay or by night depository. Services such as opening or closing an account, or making changes to services, can be made at ClayElectric.com. Account balance inquiries, service orders and more can also be handled online or by calling 1-800-224-4917.

During the pandemic, Clay Electric is committed to supporting its members. Here are some of the ways the co-op demonstrated that:

• The co-op lowered the cost of power for its members in April with a one-time decrease of 25 percent, or an average of $30 in savings. This means members using the industry household average of 1,000 kWh of power paid $84.77. March’s cost was $112.90. This savings assisted those in our communities who are experiencing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• In April, the Clay Electric Foundation donated $50,000 to local food pantries. The Foundation granted $5,000 each to 10 area organizations providing food to those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic through Operation Round Up.
• The co-op helped members who experienced difficulty by suspending disconnections on past-due accounts, effective March 17. Members are encouraged to continue paying toward their bill if they are able to do so. Current amounts due and future electric charges are still owed. Members may qualify to receive payment assistance at the locations listed on our website.