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Pineland Customers Shocked by Electric Bills Many Pineland residents were shocked when they received their February electric bills from Deep East Texas Electric Co-Op (DETEC) recently. In some cases they were double or triple the normal amounts, according to several people ToledoChronicle.com talked with about the issue, with at least one bill topping $2,000. Larry Warren, DETEC General Manager said in a telephone interview on Monday that all meter readings are done on an automated system and fed into a computerized transformer at the Pineland substation.
The transformer was removed in November for repairs that were anticipated to take 30 days, but actually took 60 days before it was placed back into service. During the interim, a mobile transformer that is not capable of receiving computer readings was put into service, requiring DETEC to estimate readings, which were done in the low range. The low estimates coupled with the unusually frigid December temperatures caused high electrical usage, resulting in the unusually high bills. Warren said DETEC understands the financial strain the bills may be causing and are willing to work with customers in a way that will allow them to work out a payment plan. Customers served out of the Pineland substation will be receiving a letter this week explaining the causes and what DETEC anticipates will be done. In the letter Warren states, “I want to apologize to you for this inconvenience and will try to see that this does not happen again in the future.” Customers who desire to work out a payment plan must contact DETEC at 936/275-2314 or 1-866/392-2547. DETEC offices are located on Highway 21 just east of San Augustine.
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