Welcome to SMECO Connects! I'm your host, Sonja Cox, CEO of Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative. This podcast is more than just a conversation about utilities—it's a space for community connection. My goal is to keep you informed about important topics that impact our region, from energy updates to local initiatives that shape our daily lives.
Each week, I'll bring you the latest community news, practical tips, and insightful conversations with local thought leaders. Together, we'll explore ways to enhance our shared experiences in Southern Maryland. Join me as we spark discussions, share knowledge, and strengthen the bonds that make our community thrive!
Publisher
Sonja Cox CEO of Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative
Construction is underway to rebuild SMECO's 69-kV transmission lines. Concrete foundations have been poured, and installation of the poles is scheduled to begin in November 2026. Designed by Booth and Associates, the project will replace approximately 400 wood H-frame poles built in the late 1950s with about 90 metal poles along the seven-mile right-of-way. Some foundations extend as deep as 40 feet, providing strong support for the new structures. The existing poles have deteriorated over time, increasing reliability concerns along one of SMECO's major power corridors. This upgrade will help provide reliable electric service for decades to come.
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Host: Sonja Cox
Co-Host: Tom Dennison
SMECO on Instagram: somdelectric SMECO on X: somdelectric
5 Oct 2026
Polling Results from Maryland Now | #62
In this podcast, Tom Dennison meets with Josh Kurtz, founder of Maryland Matters, about what the Maryland Now poll reveals about Maryland residents' priorities. From data center concerns to rising utility bills, Josh and Tom discuss challenges ahead for the state.
marylandmatters.org
2026 poll press releases can be found here:
blendedpublicaffairs.com/maryland-now
Follow & Connect:
Host: Sonja Cox
Co-Host: Tom Dennison
SMECO on Instagram: somdelectric SMECO on X: somdelectric
21 Sept 2026
Energy Upgrades Through EmPOWER Maryland | #61
An energy audit through the EmPOWER Maryland program can help you find ways to save energy and save money. During the audit, a vetted, SMECO-approved contractor will evaluate your home or business and recommend ways to improve its energy efficiency. The audit can detect window leaks, ventilation leaks, door leaks, inefficient HVAC systems, and much more. Some items on the list may be things you can do easily at no or low cost and some improvements may require a qualified professional. The list of suggestions serve as a guide, you are not required to take further action or incur additional expense.
The audit is available at no additional cost because members help fund the EmPOWER Maryland program through a charge on their monthly utility bills.
Schedule your energy audit today and learn how you can make your home more efficient!
smeco.coop/energy-efficiency/residential-programs/home-energy-improvement-program
#SMECOConnects #SouthernMaryland #EnergyEducation
Follow & Connect:
Host: Sonja Cox
Co-Host: Tom Dennison
SMECO on Instagram: somdelectric SMECO on X: somdelectric
Who has been a guest on SMECO Connects
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Natasha Law
John Cockrum
Grayson Jenkins
Carl Freeman
Tiffany Alexander
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
3 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 52 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
73
Social presence
91
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
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