Secure your SmartHub Account with Two-Factor Authentication

Secure your Account with Two-Factor Authentication

SmartHub Two-Factor Authentication Now Available!
We’re committed to keeping your information safe. That’s why we’ve added Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) to SmartHub, giving you an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access and fraud. 

What is Two- Factor Authentication?
Two-Factor Authentication(2FA) adds an extra layer of protection to your account. Instead of relying only on a password, it requires a second step such as a unique code sent to your phone or email. This added security ensures that even if someone gets your password, they still can’t access your account without your verification. 

Why Enable 2FA?
Enhanced Security – Safeguard your account from potential threats
Quick Setup – Activate this feature in just a few minutes

How to Enable Two-Factor Authentication on SmartHub
1. Log into SmartHub: Open the app or visit the desktop version and sign into your account.
2. Go to Settings: Navigate to the Settings menu.
3. Select Two Factor Authentication: Locate the security settings and click “Two-Factor Authentication”.
4. Enable 2FA: Follow the on-screen instructions to enable and set up your preferred verification method, such as receiving a text message or email code. 

 

 

 

 

KEC Accepting Applications for Scholarships

2026 KEC Scholarship Program

Exciting Scholarship Opportunities for Graduating Seniors!
We are thrilled to announce that KEC is now accepting applications for our annual scholarship program, aimed at empowering and supporting the next generation of leaders. This year, we are proud to offer:

• 30 scholarships worth $3,500 each
• One $15,000 Line Worker Scholarship for a student pursuing a career as a line Worker

These scholarships are designed to assist graduating seniors in achieving their educational goals and pursuing their dreams. We encourage all eligible students to apply and take advantage of this incredible opportunity.

Application Details

Deadline: March 6, 2026
Eligibility: Applicant must be a graduating high school student who is a legal dependent of an active member whose residence is receiving electric service from Karnes Electric Cooperative. Applicants applying under accounts listed as Organization, Corporation or Partnership will be ineligible.
Application Process: Students can download a copy of our application or submit an application online

Download PDF Application Complete Application Online
Line worker Scholarship: 

This scholarship will be awarded to one recipient. The scholarship award will be distributed upon successful completion of an accredited Lineman’s College. Applicants are eligible to submit their application upon acceptance of a Lineman’s College. Applicant must be a KEC member or a dependent of a current member. To be complete the application must be accounted by a resume and a high school transcript or GED equivalent.
Line worker Application

Don’t miss out on this chance to secure financial support for your education!

More Details: Scholarships – Karnes Electric Cooperative

KEC Earns an ACSI 2025 Customer Satisfaction Award

Karnes EC is honored to have earned a 2025 Customer Satisfaction Award* from the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI®) based on our member survey results. Members were asked to rate their overall satisfaction with us, how well we lived up to their expectations, and how well we measured up to their ideal co-op experience. While these were not the only questions in the survey, we included these specifically because they are the core components of the proprietary ACSI methodology.

Karnes EC’s ACSI score substantially outperforms the industry average score earned by publicly measured utilities reported in the 2025 ACSI Energy Utility Study. This Award is a testament to Karnes EC’s ongoing efforts to provide the best possible member experience.

The 2025 Customer Satisfaction Award affirms that Karnes EC’s hard work has been noticed by its members. Karnes EC is grateful for its members and will continue to strive for excellence through constant dedication to improvement.

*Award criteria are determined by the ACSI® and are based on customers rating their satisfaction in a survey independent of the syndicated ACSI Energy Utility Study. For more about the ACSI, visit www.theacsi.org/badges. ACSI and its logo are registered trademarks of the American Customer Satisfaction Index LLC.

KEC awards $50,000 in Scholarships

Karnes Electric Cooperative Announces Scholarship Recipients

Karnes Electric Cooperative is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 scholarships, awarded to graduating high school seniors from the Karnes EC service area. Each recipient will receive a $2,500 scholarship to support their pursuit of higher education.

To qualify, students must be the children or dependents of an active Karnes EC member receiving electric service from the co-op and demonstrate a commitment to furthering their education.

This year, 20 outstanding students were selected from a pool of highly qualified applicants. Fourteen of the scholarships were awarded to students attending four-year universities, while six were granted to students enrolling in qualifying vocational colleges.

These scholarships will help empower these students to achieve their academic and career aspirations. Karnes EC congratulates the recipients on their accomplishments and wishes them success in their educational journeys.

To the entire graduating class of 2025, congratulations and best wishes for a bright future!

KEC Announces 2025 Youth Tour Recipients

2025 Government in Action Youth Tour Recipients

The Karnes Electric Board of Directors is proud to announce the sponsorship of two exceptional students from our service area to participate in the Youth Tour organized by Texas Electric Cooperatives (TEC). To be considered, students submitted applications and answered the essay prompt: “Describe a service project that would benefit your community.” Savanna Schuchart from Jourdanton ISD and Alyssa Pawelek from Fall City ISD were selected as the 2025 recipients and will proudly represent Karnes this summer in Washington, D.C. This exciting trip is scheduled for June 15-23, 2025. We are thrilled to congratulate these outstanding students. This is an incredible opportunity for them to engage in meaningful experiences and learn more about electrical cooperatives.

If you are interested in going on a trip of a lifetime, check back in October 2025.

Cold Weather Safety Tips

Stay safe and warm: Essential Cold Weather Safety Tips

As temperatures drop and winter sets in, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from the cold. Whether you’re braving the elements or staying cozy indoors, our cold weather safety tips will help you navigate the season safely and comfortably. From preparing your home to dressing appropriately and staying aware of potential hazards, we’ve got you covered.

STAYING WARM
1. Layer Up: Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, and warm layers. Outer layers should be wind and water-resistant.
2. Protect Extremities: Wear hats, gloves, scarves, and insulated boots.
3. Stay Dry: Wet clothing can cause you to lose body heat quickly.
4. Stay Indoors: Limit time spent outdoors in extreme cold to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.

STAYING SAFE AT HOME
1. Heat Your Home Safely: Use space heaters according to manufacturer instructions, and never use ovens to heat your home.
2. Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Ensure heaters and generators are ventilated properly. Install carbon monoxide detectors.
3. Seal Drafts: Use weather stripping and insulation to keep the cold air out and the heat in.
4. Stock Emergency Supplies: Keep flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, water, and blankets handy in case of power outages.

DRIVING IN COLD WEATHER
1. Prepare Your Vehicle: Check your battery, antifreeze levels, and tires. Keep an emergency kit in your car.
2. Drive Cautiously: Reduce speed and increase following distances on icy roads.
3. Keep the Tank Full: This helps prevent your fuel lines from freezing.

By taking these essential precautions, you can ensure that you and your loved ones stay safe, warm, and healthy throughout the winter months. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in preventing accidents and keeping everyone comfortable. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and enjoy the beauty of the winter season responsibly.

KEC Returns 1 Million to Members

Members will receive capital credit return on their November Bill.

The Karnes Electric Board of Directors has approved the retirement of capital credits for members who received electric service in 1994. Additionally, the Cooperative is retiring a portion of capital credits for members who had electric service in 2023.

In 2023, over $1 million has been authorized for return, bringing the total capital credits returned to date to over $24.96 million. Capital credits are a fundamental part of the cooperative business model, earned by members based on their electricity usage. They represent the members’ share of the Cooperative’s margins during their membership tenure. As a not-for-profit entity, Karnes EC returns excess capital to its members based on the Cooperative’s financial condition.

Current members who had electric service established prior to 2023 will see the credit applied to their November bills. Past members eligible for a credit of $5 or more will receive a check by mail.

Members who have had an address change are encouraged to contact Karnes EC at 888-807-3952 or by emailing karnes@karnesec.org. Keeping the Cooperative informed of any address changes, even after closing an account, is crucial to facilitate the delivery of capital credit checks.

KEC Recognized for High Member Satisfaction

KEC was recently recognized by Touchstone Energy

Karnes Electric Cooperative was recently recognized by Touchstone Energy® as a member cooperative that received one of the top 5 American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI®) scores for energy utility services among all cooperatives participating in measurement for Touchstone Energy in the third quarter of 2024. In Q3 (2024), Karnes Electric Cooperative received an ACSI score of 89 on a 100-point scale. Karnes Electric Cooperative’s score is higher when compared to publicly measured cooperative utility scores reported in the syndicated 2024 ACSI Energy Utility Study and places Karnes Electric Cooperative 15 points higher than the average investor-owned utility score of 74, 14 points higher than the average municipal utility score of 75, as well as 11 points higher than the average cooperative utility score of 78.

KEC Reaches Safety Milestone

Over 1 Million Manhours without a Lost Time Accident

On September 1, 2024, KEC proudly achieved a significant safety milestone by surpassing 1 million manhours worked without a lost time accident. This remarkable accomplishment underscores our unwavering commitment to maintaining a safe working environment. However, this achievement is not the end of our journey. Safety is a continuous journey that requires ongoing dedication and improvement. As our team and environment evolve, it is crucial to maintain an intentional focus on safe work behaviors and strive for perfection in all that we do. There are no shortcuts when it comes to safety.

We remain committed to our safety protocols and practices, ensuring that we protect ourselves and each other every day.