Electricity is an essential aspect of our daily lives. From powering our homes to running our businesses, it plays a crucial role in keeping our modern world functioning. And when it comes to reliable and affordable electricity, Fairfield Electric Cooperative (FEC) is a name that stands out. As a member-owned electric distribution cooperative, FEC has been providing safe and dependable electricity to its members in Fairfield County, South Carolina for over 80 years. In this article, we will explore the various services and resources offered by FEC, including start/stop service, billing and payment options, power outage map, and contact information. Whether you are a current member or considering becoming one, this article will serve as a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your experience with FEC.
What is Fairfield Electric Cooperative?
Fairfield Electric Cooperative is a member-owned electric utility company, providing reliable and affordable energy solutions to its members. The cooperative was established in 1936 with the goal of bringing electricity to rural areas in South Carolina. Today, Fairfield Electric Cooperative serves over 30,000 members in five counties, including Fairfield, Kershaw, Richland, Chester, and Lancaster. They are committed to providing exceptional service and meeting the energy needs of their members.
Service Coverage Area
Fairfield Electric Cooperative's service coverage area stretches over 3,000 square miles, serving both residential and commercial customers. They have over 5,000 miles of power lines and maintain more than 12,000 transformers to ensure a reliable electricity supply to their members. Their service territory includes diverse landscapes, from rural farmland to suburban and industrial areas.
Located At
The headquarters of Fairfield Electric Cooperative is located at 701 Blythewood Road in Blythewood, South Carolina. They also have district offices in Winnsboro and Chester, making it convenient for their members to access their services.
Phone Number, Contact Information
To contact Fairfield Electric Cooperative, you can call their toll-free number at 1-800-499-7862. You can also visit their website and fill out a contact form for any inquiries or concerns. Additionally, they are active on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, where members can stay up-to-date with news and events.
Website URL
Visit Fairfield Electric Cooperative's website at www.fairfieldelectric.net to learn more about their services, billing and payment options, and power outage map. The website is user-friendly, with easy navigation, making it convenient for members to access the information they need.
Fairfield Electric Cooperative is dedicated to providing reliable and affordable energy solutions to its members. With their commitment to exceptional service and their coverage area, they continue to fulfill their mission of improving the quality of life for their members through reliable energy services. If you are a member of Fairfield Electric Cooperative, make sure to take advantage of their various services and stay connected through their efficient communication channels.
How to Start/Stop Service with Fairfield Electric Cooperative
Are you moving to a new home or business location and need to start or stop electric service with Fairfield Electric Cooperative? The process is simple and can be done through multiple channels. Here are some ways to start/stop service with Fairfield Electric Cooperative:
- Online: The most convenient way to start or stop service with Fairfield Electric Cooperative is through their website. Simply visit their website and click on the "Start/Stop Service" option. You will be directed to a form where you can fill in all the required information and submit your request.
- Phone: You can also call Fairfield Electric Cooperative's customer service department to start/stop service. Make sure to have all the necessary information such as your new address, move-in/move-out date, and your account number (if you have an existing account).
- In-person: If you prefer to handle things in person, you can visit one of Fairfield Electric Cooperative's customer service centers. The staff will assist you in starting or stopping service and answer any questions you may have.
Once you have requested to start or stop service, here are some possible steps that may be involved:
- Verification of identity: Fairfield Electric Cooperative may require you to provide some form of identification to verify your identity before starting or stopping service.
- Service connection fee: If you are starting service at a new location, you may be required to pay a service connection fee. This fee covers the cost of connecting your service to the grid and may vary depending on your location.
- Security deposit: If you do not have a good credit history with Fairfield Electric Cooperative, you may be required to pay a security deposit. This deposit acts as a guarantee for timely payment of your electric bills.
- Meter reading: Before starting or stopping service, Fairfield Electric Cooperative will send a technician to read your meter and record the readings. This is to ensure accurate billing for your usage.
FAQs about Starting/Stopping Service with Fairfield Electric Cooperative
Here are some frequently asked questions about starting/stopping service with Fairfield Electric Cooperative:
- Do I need to be present for the technician to read my meter?
- Can I change my move-in/move-out date?
- Do I need to notify Fairfield Electric Cooperative before moving out?
- Will I receive a final bill after stopping service?
No, you do not need to be present. However, make sure that the meter is accessible and not obstructed by any objects.
Yes, you can change your move-in/move-out date by contacting Fairfield Electric Cooperative's customer service department. If you are already a customer, you can also change your move-in/move-out date through your online account.
Yes, it is important to notify Fairfield Electric Cooperative before moving out to avoid any extra charges. If you fail to notify them, you may be responsible for the electric bill until the next occupant moves in.
Yes, you will receive a final bill after stopping service. This bill will include any charges for your final month of service, as well as any outstanding balances.
Starting/stopping service with Fairfield Electric Cooperative is a simple process that can be done through their website, by phone, or in person. Make sure to have all the necessary information and be prepared for any possible steps involved. If you have any further questions or need assistance, you can always contact Fairfield Electric Cooperative's customer service department.
Power Outage Map
Fairfield Electric Cooperative provides its members with a comprehensive Power Outage Map to keep them informed about any power outages that may occur in their area. Here are the steps to view the map:
1. Visit the Fairfield Electric Cooperative website
The first step to viewing the Power Outage Map is to visit the Fairfield Electric Cooperative website. The map can be found on the homepage or under the "Outage Center" tab.
2. Click on the Power Outage Map
Once you have reached the Outage Center, click on the Power Outage Map to view the current outages in your area.
3. Zoom in to your location
The map will show a zoomed out view of the Fairfield Electric Cooperative service area. You can easily zoom in to your location by using the "+" button on the map or by scrolling with your mouse.
4. View the outage details
By clicking on an outage icon, you can view the details of the outage, including the number of members affected and the estimated restoration time.
How to Report an Outage
In case of a power outage, Fairfield Electric Cooperative members can easily report it by following these steps:
1. Contact Fairfield Electric Cooperative
The quickest way to report an outage is by contacting Fairfield Electric Cooperative's 24/7 outage hotline at 1-800-499-7862. You can also report an outage through the Fairfield Electric app or by visiting the Outage Center on their website.
2. Provide necessary information
When reporting an outage, make sure to provide your account number, name, and location of the outage to ensure a quick response from the cooperative.
3. View outage updates
After reporting the outage, you can stay updated on the restoration process by visiting the Power Outage Map or by contacting Fairfield Electric Cooperative.
Learn About the Power Restoration Process
Here are three things you need to know about the power restoration process during an outage:
1. Safety first
The safety of members and employees is a top priority during an outage. Fairfield Electric Cooperative’s linemen will not begin restoration efforts until the area is safe.
2. Assess the damage
After ensuring the safety of the area, linemen will assess the damage to identify the cause of the outage and the necessary repairs.
3. Work to restore power
Once the damage has been assessed, linemen will work as quickly and safely as possible to restore power to the affected areas.
Tips for Dealing with a Power Outage
Here are a few tips to help you stay safe and comfortable during a power outage:
1. Stay informed
Keep yourself updated on the power outage by checking the Power Outage Map or contacting Fairfield Electric Cooperative.
2. Unplug major appliances
Unplug major appliances and electronics to prevent them from being damaged when the power is restored.
3. Use generators safely
If using a generator, make sure to follow all safety precautions to avoid any accidents.
Fairfield Electric Cooperative's Power Outage Map is a convenient and helpful tool for members to stay informed about any outages in their area. By following the steps to view the map, reporting an outage, and learning about the power restoration process, members can be better prepared for any power outages. Remember to stay safe and use these tips to deal with a power outage effectively.
Billing & Payment Options
Fairfield Electric Cooperative offers a variety of convenient billing and payment options for its members. Whether you prefer traditional methods of paying your electric bill or want to take advantage of modern technology, there is an option that will work for you.
Traditional Payment Methods: For those who prefer to receive a paper bill and pay by check, Fairfield Electric Cooperative offers the traditional payment method of mailing in a payment. Members can also opt for automatic bank draft, where the monthly bill amount is automatically deducted from their bank account on the due date. This method eliminates the need to write checks or worry about mailing payments on time.
Online Bill Pay: Fairfield Electric Cooperative also offers the convenience of paying your bill online. Members can log in to their account on the Fairfield Electric website and make a one-time payment or set up recurring payments. This option allows for easy and secure payment from the comfort of your own home.
Mobile App: For those who are always on the go, Fairfield Electric Cooperative has a mobile app that allows members to view and pay their bill from their smartphone or tablet. The app also provides access to outage information and allows members to report outages directly from their device.
Pay-By-Phone: In addition to traditional payment methods, members can also pay their bill over the phone by calling Fairfield Electric Cooperative's automated payment system. This option is available 24/7 and accepts payments using credit/debit cards or bank accounts.
Budget Billing: Fairfield Electric Cooperative also offers budget billing, which allows members to pay the same amount every month based on the average of their last 12 months of usage. This option helps members plan and manage their budget by avoiding fluctuations in their electric bill.
PowerPay24: For those who prefer the convenience of prepaid electric service, Fairfield Electric Cooperative offers PowerPay24. This option allows members to pay for electricity in advance and monitor their usage through a daily balance notification. Members can reload their account online, through the mobile app, or at one of the numerous retail locations.
Fairfield Electric Cooperative understands the importance of having reliable and convenient billing and payment options. With a variety of choices available, members can choose the method that best fits their needs and lifestyle. For those experiencing financial hardship, the co-op also offers payment arrangements and assistance programs to help ease the burden of high electric bills. Members can contact Fairfield Electric Cooperative's member services department for more information on these programs.
Fairfield Electric Cooperative strives to make the billing and payment process as easy and convenient as possible for its members. With a range of traditional and modern options available, members can choose the method that works best for them. For any questions or concerns regarding billing and payment, members can contact the co-op's customer service team for assistance.
Contact Us
At Fairfield Electric Cooperative, we are committed to providing excellent service to our members. We understand that you may have questions or concerns and we want to make it easy for you to reach us. Here are the various ways in which you can contact us:
You can call our customer service number at 555-555-5555 during our business hours from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Our representatives will be happy to assist you with any inquiries or issues you may have. For after-hours emergencies, you can call our 24-hour outage hotline at 555-555-1234.
You can also email us at customerservice@fairfieldelectric.com for any non-urgent concerns or questions. We strive to respond to all emails within 24 hours during our business hours.
If you prefer to communicate with us online, you can fill out our online contact form on our website. Simply provide your name, contact information, and your message, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
You can visit us in person at our main office located at 1234 Main Street, Fairfield, to speak to one of our representatives. Our office is open from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Keep up-to-date with Fairfield Electric Cooperative by following us on our social media platforms. We are active on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and you can send us a direct message on any of these platforms if you have any questions or concerns.
At Fairfield Electric Cooperative, we value our members and their feedback. We are continuously striving to improve our services and your feedback is essential to that process. If you have any suggestions or comments, we would love to hear from you. You can also report any issues or concerns through any of the contact methods mentioned above.
Thank you for choosing Fairfield Electric Cooperative. We look forward to serving you and meeting all your electricity needs.
FAQ
1. What is Fairfield Electric Cooperative?
Fairfield Electric Cooperative is a member-owned electric cooperative that serves over 26,000 members in the Fairfield, Kershaw, Richland, and Sumter counties of South Carolina. It was founded in 1941 to provide reliable and affordable electricity to rural areas that were previously underserved by larger electric companies.
2. How do I start or stop my service with Fairfield Electric Cooperative?
To start or stop your service with Fairfield Electric Cooperative, you can either call their customer service line at (800) 628-0336 or visit their website and fill out an online form. If you are starting service, you will need to provide your new address, desired start date, and any other required information. If you are stopping service, you will need to provide your account number and the date you would like your service to be discontinued.
3. What are the billing and payment options available?
Fairfield Electric Cooperative offers several convenient billing and payment options for its members. You can choose to pay your bill online through their website, through their mobile app, or by calling their automated phone system. They also offer traditional methods such as paying by mail or in person at their office. Additionally, they offer budget billing, which allows you to pay an average amount each month based on your past usage.
4. How can I report a power outage?
If you are experiencing a power outage, you can report it by calling Fairfield Electric Cooperative's outage line at (800) 499-7862. You can also report an outage through their mobile app or by visiting their website. They have a power outage map available on their website that shows the current outages and estimated restoration times.
5. How can I contact Fairfield Electric Cooperative?
You can contact Fairfield Electric Cooperative by calling their customer service line at (800) 628-0336. Their office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm. You can also visit their website and fill out a contact form or send them an email. For immediate assistance during a power outage, you can call their outage line at (800) 499-7862.
6. Can I make changes to my account online?
Yes, Fairfield Electric Cooperative offers an online member portal where you can view and make changes to your account. You can update your contact information, view your billing and payment history, and sign up for paperless billing. You can also make payments and report outages through the member portal.
7. Does Fairfield Electric Cooperative offer any programs or rebates?
Yes, Fairfield Electric Cooperative offers several programs and rebates for its members. They have a renewable energy program where members can purchase blocks of renewable energy to offset their electricity usage. They also offer rebates for energy-efficient appliances and home improvements. Additionally, they have a low-income assistance program for eligible members.
8. What should I do if I see a downed power line?
If you see a downed power line, do not go near it or touch it. Keep a safe distance and immediately report it to Fairfield Electric Cooperative at (800) 499-7862. You should also call 911 to notify the proper authorities. It is important to never touch or try to move a downed power line as it can be extremely dangerous.
9. Can I request a tree trimming near power lines?
Yes, if you notice a tree or branches near power lines that may be a potential hazard, you can request a tree trimming by contacting Fairfield Electric Cooperative. They have a tree trimming program in place to ensure the safety and reliability of their power lines. Trimming trees near power lines can also help prevent power outages during storms or high winds.
10. How does Fairfield Electric Cooperative give back to the community?
Fairfield Electric Cooperative is committed to giving back to the communities it serves. They have a scholarship program for high school seniors, support local schools and educational programs, and donate to various community organizations. They also have a lineworker scholarship program for members who are interested in pursuing a career in the electric utility industry.
1. How do I start or stop service with Fairfield Electric Cooperative?
To start or stop service with Fairfield Electric Cooperative, simply fill out the appropriate form on their website or contact their customer service department.
Starting Service: To start service with Fairfield Electric Cooperative, go to their website and fill out the "Start Service" form found under the "Billing & Payment Options" tab. You will need to provide your personal information, such as name, address, and contact information, as well as the service address and desired start date. You can also call their customer service department to start service over the phone.
Stopping Service: To stop service with Fairfield Electric Cooperative, go to their website and fill out the "Stop Service" form found under the "Billing & Payment Options" tab. You will need to provide your personal information and the service address. You can also call their customer service department to stop service over the phone.
If you have any questions or need assistance, you can also contact Fairfield Electric Cooperative directly through their website under the "Contact Us" tab. They have a variety of contact options, including phone, email, and a live chat feature. Additionally, they have a comprehensive FAQ section that may answer any additional questions you may have about starting or stopping service.
2. What are my options for paying my electric bill?
There are several options for paying your electric bill with Fairfield Electric Cooperative. The most convenient option is to set up automatic payments through your bank account, which ensures that your bill is paid on time each month. You can also make a one-time payment online through our website using a credit or debit card. If you prefer to pay in-person, you can visit one of our local offices or authorized payment locations. We also offer the option to pay by mail, simply include your payment stub with a check or money order. Additionally, for those who prefer to pay in person, we offer a drive-through payment option at our main office. With these various payment options, we strive to make it easy for our members to pay their electric bill conveniently and on time.
3. Is there a power outage in my area and if so, when can I expect it to be restored?
Is there a power outage in my area and if so, when can I expect it to be restored?
One of the most common concerns for members of Fairfield Electric Cooperative is the occurrence of power outages. As a member, it is important to stay informed about any potential outages in your area and know when you can expect your power to be restored.
Thankfully, Fairfield Electric Cooperative provides a convenient Power Outage Map on their website where members can check for any current outages in their area. The map is regularly updated and displays the affected areas, the cause of the outage, and an estimated time of restoration.
In the event of an outage, Fairfield Electric Cooperative also offers multiple ways for members to report it and receive updates. This includes calling their 24/7 outage hotline, signing up for outage notifications via email or text message, and checking their social media pages for updates.
While the estimated time of restoration may vary depending on the cause of the outage, Fairfield Electric Cooperative works diligently to restore power as quickly and safely as possible. Members can also track the progress of the restoration through the outage map.
if you are a member of Fairfield Electric Cooperative, it is important to stay informed about potential power outages in your area and the estimated time of restoration. By utilizing the resources and options provided by the cooperative, you can stay connected and prepared in the event of an outage.
4. How can I contact Fairfield Electric Cooperative for customer service or support?
If you have any inquiries or need assistance with your account, you can easily contact Fairfield Electric Cooperative for customer service or support. There are several communication channels available for you to reach out to them.
Phone: You can call their customer service line at 1-800-499-7862 during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm) to speak to a representative.
Email: Send an email to customerservice@fairfield.coop and a member of their team will respond to your inquiry as soon as possible.
Online Form: Alternatively, you can fill out an online contact form on their website, www.fairfield.coop. Simply provide your name, contact information, and a brief message and they will get back to you.
In Person: If you prefer face-to-face interaction, you can visit one of Fairfield Electric Cooperative's offices during business hours to speak to a representative in person.
5. Can you provide more information on the cooperative's policies and procedures for billing and service interruptions?
Policies and Procedures for Billing and Service Interruptions
The Fairfield Electric Cooperative has specific policies and procedures in place for billing and service interruptions to ensure efficient and fair administration of their services.When it comes to billing, the cooperative offers several options for payment, including online payments, automatic bank drafts, and in-person payments at their office. Customers can also choose to receive their bills electronically or by mail. The cooperative follows a monthly billing cycle, and late fees may apply for overdue payments.
In case of service interruptions, the cooperative has a dedicated power outage map on their website where customers can check for any reported power outages in their area. The cooperative also has a 24/7 customer service line that customers can call to report outages or other service-related issues. Upon receiving a report, the cooperative's crew members are dispatched to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.
In situations where service interruptions are planned, such as for maintenance or repairs, the cooperative gives prior notices to affected customers through their website, social media, and other communication channels. They also provide estimated restoration times for these planned interruptions.
Fairfield Electric Cooperative ensures transparency and effective communication with their customers when it comes to billing and service interruptions, making sure to prioritize customer satisfaction and convenience.
We hope this article has helped you understand the various services and options provided by Fairfield Electric Cooperative. If you are still unsure about the process of starting or stopping service, or have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our dedicated customer service team is always ready to assist you and address any concerns you may have.
In addition to our billing and payment options, we also offer a convenient power outage map on our website. This map allows you to stay informed about any power outages in your area and get real-time updates on restoration efforts.
We value our members and strive to provide reliable and affordable electricity to the community. As a not-for-profit cooperative, our main focus is on serving our members and meeting their needs. Thank you for choosing Fairfield Electric Cooperative as your electricity provider.
