From the Top with CEO Patrick Grace

At OEC, member service isn't just a department—it’s the heart of who we are. Every day, we strive to deliver a personal touch that sets us apart from other utilities and service providers. Whether it’s a utility company, a credit card provider or a doctor's office, most of us have experienced the frustration of impersonal customer service. But at OEC, when you call us, you won’t be greeted by a machine. You’ll speak directly with a live person—someone who is knowledgeable, trained and, most importantly, local.

This is one of the biggest differences between OEC and many other companies. It’s not uncommon for businesses to save money by outsourcing their customer service or relying on automated systems. While artificial intelligence and virtual customer service options are growing trends, we’re not heading in that direction. Sure, we might utilize some automated features in the future for those who prefer them, but our focus remains on maintaining a personal connection. Technology certainly has its place, but when it comes to member service, there’s simply no substitute for a real person who understands the needs and nuances of the community.

We’ve all been there: you call a company, speak to an automated system, and find yourself shouting “representative!” into the phone, only to get connected to someone who might not fully understand your issue. At OEC, we’ve built a team that avoids these frustrations. We invest in staffing our member services team with enough people to ensure that when you need assistance, a live person answers the phone. Our team undergoes extensive training, preparing them to handle a wide variety of situations and questions. It’s a significant investment, but one we believe is worth every penny.

That local connection makes a big difference. Our representatives know the area, know your address and know the issues you may be facing. We take great pride in this kind of personal, informed service. We believe it creates a better, more positive experience for our members and subscribers, and it reflects the deep care we have for our community.

At the end of the day, our goal is to provide more than just reliable electricity. We want to create an experience that reflects our commitment to our members and subscribers. From the person who answers your call to the services we provide, every part of OEC is focused on making your experience with us better, more personal, and uniquely tailored to your needs.