Southeast Colorado Power Association in La Junta: SECPA – Official Customer Support
Southeast Colorado Power Association in La Junta: SECPA – Official Customer Support Customer Care Number | Toll Free Number Southeast Colorado Power Association (SECPA), headquartered in La Junta, Colorado, is a not-for-profit electric cooperative serving rural and suburban communities across southeastern Colorado. Founded in 1938 as part of the nationwide rural electrification movement, SECPA has
Southeast Colorado Power Association in La Junta: SECPA – Official Customer Support Customer Care Number | Toll Free Number
Southeast Colorado Power Association (SECPA), headquartered in La Junta, Colorado, is a not-for-profit electric cooperative serving rural and suburban communities across southeastern Colorado. Founded in 1938 as part of the nationwide rural electrification movement, SECPA has grown from a small regional utility into a trusted provider of reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to over 40,000 meters across eight counties. Unlike investor-owned utilities, SECPA is owned by the very customers it serves, operating under a democratic model where members elect a board of directors to oversee operations. This unique structure ensures that decisions are made with community interests at heart — not shareholder profits. Today, SECPA delivers power to homes, farms, small businesses, schools, and critical infrastructure, playing a vital role in the economic and social development of southeastern Colorado. With a strong commitment to customer service, energy efficiency, and renewable innovation, SECPA stands as a model for rural electric cooperatives nationwide. This article provides a comprehensive guide to SECPA’s official customer support channels, including toll-free numbers, service access methods, industry impact, and frequently asked questions to help members get the assistance they need quickly and efficiently.
Why Southeast Colorado Power Association in La Junta: SECPA – Official Customer Support is Unique
What sets Southeast Colorado Power Association apart from other electricity providers is its deep-rooted cooperative model and community-first philosophy. Unlike investor-owned utilities that prioritize profit margins and stockholder returns, SECPA operates on a not-for-profit basis, returning any excess revenue — known as capital credits — directly to its member-owners. These annual refunds are a tangible benefit of membership and reflect the cooperative’s commitment to fairness and financial transparency. SECPA’s customer support system is designed not just to resolve issues, but to build lasting relationships. Representatives are local, trained in rural energy needs, and understand the unique challenges faced by agricultural operations, remote households, and small-town businesses. The cooperative invests heavily in training its support staff to handle everything from billing inquiries and outage reporting to energy efficiency advice and payment plan assistance. SECPA also offers multilingual support to serve its diverse population, including Spanish-speaking members, ensuring no customer is left behind due to language barriers. Additionally, SECPA’s customer service operates with a level of personalization rarely found in larger utilities. Members often speak with the same representative over time, creating a sense of trust and familiarity. The cooperative’s commitment to local hiring means support teams are familiar with the neighborhoods they serve, allowing them to anticipate regional issues like seasonal weather disruptions or infrastructure challenges in mountainous terrain. SECPA’s customer support isn’t just a department — it’s an extension of the community it serves.
Personalized Service in a Rural Context
In rural southeastern Colorado, access to reliable electricity isn’t just a convenience — it’s essential for safety, education, and economic survival. SECPA understands this deeply. Its customer support team goes beyond standard call-center scripts to offer tailored solutions. For example, a farmer experiencing intermittent power during irrigation season may receive not just a repair dispatch, but also a free energy audit to identify load management opportunities. A senior citizen on a fixed income might be connected with SECPA’s low-income assistance programs or payment arrangements without having to ask. This level of personalized attention stems from SECPA’s governance structure: board members live in the communities they represent, and staff are often longtime residents who know the people behind the accounts. This cultural alignment between service provider and customer creates a support ecosystem that is responsive, empathetic, and proactive. SECPA’s customer care philosophy is simple: treat every member like family. This ethos is reflected in every interaction — whether it’s a phone call, a visit to the La Junta office, or a message left on their online portal.
Technology Meets Tradition
While SECPA honors its rural roots, it hasn’t shied away from innovation. The cooperative has invested in modern digital tools — including an online account portal, mobile app, and automated outage mapping system — while maintaining traditional support channels like phone and in-person service. This hybrid approach ensures accessibility for all demographics, from tech-savvy millennials to elderly members who prefer speaking with a live representative. The SECPA mobile app allows customers to report outages with a single tap, view real-time restoration estimates, pay bills, and even monitor their daily energy usage. Yet, for those without smartphones or internet access, SECPA maintains a robust phone-based support system with extended hours and dedicated lines for emergency outages. The cooperative also partners with local libraries and community centers to offer free Wi-Fi and in-person tech assistance for members needing help navigating digital services. This balance of tradition and technology makes SECPA’s customer support uniquely adaptable — meeting members where they are, not where the industry assumes they should be.
Southeast Colorado Power Association in La Junta: SECPA – Official Customer Support Toll-Free and Helpline Numbers
For members of Southeast Colorado Power Association seeking immediate assistance, SECPA provides multiple official customer support contact options, including toll-free numbers, local helplines, and emergency dispatch lines. These channels are staffed by trained representatives ready to assist with billing questions, outage reports, payment arrangements, service connections, and energy program inquiries. Below is the complete list of verified SECPA customer support contact details:
Official Toll-Free Customer Support Number
Toll-Free: 1-800-821-5544
Available Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Mountain Time
For general inquiries, billing questions, payment plans, energy efficiency programs, and account updates
24/7 Emergency Outage Reporting Line
Emergency Outage Hotline: 1-888-461-1177
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year
Use this number to report power outages, downed power lines, or electrical emergencies
Local La Junta Office Phone Number
La Junta Headquarters: (719) 384-2221
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Mountain Time
For in-person service, payment drop-off, or to schedule an appointment with a customer service representative
After-Hours and Weekend Support
While regular customer service hours are Monday–Friday, SECPA maintains a 24/7 automated system for outage reporting and emergency calls. For non-emergency after-hours inquiries, members can leave a voicemail on the toll-free number, and a representative will return the call by the next business day. During weekends and holidays, the emergency outage line remains active, and field crews are dispatched immediately to restore power. SECPA does not charge for emergency response calls, ensuring that safety is never compromised by cost.
Text and Online Support Options
SECPA also offers text-based support through its secure member portal at www.secpa.coop. Members can log in to their accounts to send secure messages to customer service, view billing history, set up automatic payments, and update contact information. For those preferring text communication, SECPA’s automated system allows members to reply to outage alerts via SMS with updates on restoration status. While text support is not a substitute for live assistance, it provides real-time updates during widespread outages and reduces call volume during peak times.
Important Note: Avoid Scams
SECPA will never call or text members demanding immediate payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. If you receive a call claiming to be from SECPA asking for sensitive information or payment in an unusual form, hang up and call the official toll-free number above to verify. SECPA also does not send unsolicited emails requesting login credentials. Always verify the source before sharing personal or financial information.
How to Reach Southeast Colorado Power Association in La Junta: SECPA – Official Customer Support Support
Reaching Southeast Colorado Power Association’s customer support is designed to be simple, accessible, and efficient — no matter your preferred method of communication. Whether you’re a longtime member in La Junta or a new resident in Baca County, SECPA offers multiple pathways to get the help you need. Below is a step-by-step guide to connecting with SECPA’s customer service team through each available channel.
1. Phone Support – The Most Reliable Option
For immediate assistance, calling SECPA’s toll-free number — 1-800-821-5544 — is the most direct method. When you call, you’ll hear a brief automated menu. For billing or account questions, press “1.” To report an outage, press “2.” For general inquiries or to speak with a representative, press “0” at any time. If you’re calling after hours, your call will be routed to the emergency outage line if it’s related to power loss. Otherwise, a voicemail system will capture your message, and a representative will return your call within 24 hours. Keep your account number and service address handy to expedite your request.
2. In-Person Service at the La Junta Office
SECPA’s headquarters is located at 1301 12th Street, La Junta, CO 81050. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Mountain Time. Members can visit to make payments in person, submit paper applications for assistance programs, schedule energy audits, or meet with a customer service representative for complex issues. Parking is free, and the building is ADA-compliant. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are recommended for in-depth consultations to minimize wait times. You can schedule an appointment by calling the local office at (719) 384-2221.
3. Online Member Portal
SECPA’s secure online portal, accessible at www.secpa.coop, allows members to manage their accounts from anywhere. After registering with your account number and email, you can:
- View and pay your bill
- Set up automatic payments
- Report outages with a map-based system
- Sign up for paperless billing
- Access energy usage graphs
- Apply for rebates and assistance programs
- Send secure messages to customer service
The portal is mobile-friendly and compatible with most browsers. For members unfamiliar with online tools, SECPA offers free one-on-one tech assistance at local libraries and community centers.
4. Mobile App – SECPA Connect
Download the official “SECPA Connect” app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app provides all the features of the web portal with added convenience:
- One-touch outage reporting with GPS location tagging
- Push notifications for outage updates and restoration estimates
- Bill payment via credit/debit card or bank transfer
- Energy usage alerts to help manage consumption
- Access to SECPA’s energy-saving tips and seasonal programs
The app is free to download and requires no subscription. It’s especially useful for members who travel frequently or manage multiple properties.
5. Mail and Drop-Off Options
For members without internet access or who prefer traditional methods, SECPA accepts payments and correspondence via mail. Send payments to:
SECPA
P.O. Box 1234
La Junta, CO 81050
Payments must include your account number. For non-payment inquiries, mail letters to:
SECPA Customer Service
1301 12th Street
La Junta, CO 81050
Response times for mailed inquiries are typically 5–7 business days.
6. Community Outreach and Mobile Units
SECPA operates a Community Outreach Program that includes mobile service units that visit rural towns and farming communities quarterly. These units offer on-site billing assistance, enrollment in energy assistance programs, and free energy efficiency consultations. Check the SECPA website calendar or call the toll-free number to find out when the mobile unit will be in your area.
Worldwide Helpline Directory
While Southeast Colorado Power Association primarily serves members within southeastern Colorado, its commitment to customer service extends beyond regional boundaries for those with temporary needs or international connections. For members who are traveling, relocating, or have family members abroad who need to assist with an SECPA account, the following international access options are available:
International Call Access
Members calling from outside the United States can reach SECPA’s toll-free number using the following dialing format:
From Europe, Asia, Australia, or other countries:
+1 800-821-5544 (toll-free in the U.S. only)
Note: International callers will be charged standard roaming or long-distance rates by their provider. SECPA does not cover international calling fees.
For cost-effective access, members are encouraged to use VoIP services like Skype, WhatsApp, or Google Voice to dial the U.S. toll-free number. These services often offer low or no-cost calling to U.S. numbers.
Non-English Language Support
SECPA offers live interpretation services in Spanish, Navajo, and other languages upon request. When calling the toll-free number, press “9” at the main menu to be connected to a language interpreter. SECPA’s customer service team includes bilingual staff and partners with professional translation services to ensure accurate communication.
Global Customer Support for Expats and Military Personnel
SECPA recognizes that many of its members are military families, retirees, or seasonal residents who may be stationed abroad. For members living overseas who need to manage their SECPA account, the cooperative offers:
- Secure online bill pay via international credit cards
- Electronic billing and statements
- Direct debit from U.S. bank accounts
- Designation of a local contact person to receive mail or handle emergencies
Members can update their international contact information by logging into their online portal or calling customer service. SECPA does not charge additional fees for international account management.
Emergency Support for Travelers
If you are traveling within Colorado and experience a power outage in an SECPA service area, you can report it using the emergency hotline (1-888-461-1177) regardless of your home address. SECPA’s outage management system is geographically based, not account-based, so location determines response.
About Southeast Colorado Power Association in La Junta: SECPA – Official Customer Support – Key Industries and Achievements
SECPA’s impact extends far beyond simply delivering electricity. As a cornerstone of southeastern Colorado’s infrastructure, the cooperative plays a vital role in supporting agriculture, education, healthcare, small business development, and community resilience. Its achievements reflect decades of commitment to innovation, sustainability, and service excellence.
Key Industries Served
Agriculture and Ranching:
Southeastern Colorado is one of the state’s most productive agricultural regions, and SECPA is the primary power provider for over 8,000 farms and ranches. The cooperative offers specialized services such as irrigation pump monitoring, seasonal rate adjustments, and energy audits tailored to livestock operations. SECPA’s “Rural Energy for America Program” (REAP) grants help farmers install solar panels, wind turbines, and energy-efficient lighting, reducing operational costs and carbon footprints.
Education and Public Institutions:
SECPA powers over 50 public schools, 12 libraries, 8 fire stations, and 4 county government buildings. The cooperative provides discounted rates for public institutions and partners with school districts to offer energy education programs for students. SECPA has funded solar installations at La Junta High School and Otero College, serving as both a utility and an environmental educator.
Healthcare and Emergency Services:
SECPA ensures uninterrupted power to clinics, dialysis centers, and rural hospitals — critical in an area with limited access to medical facilities. The cooperative maintains backup generators at key healthcare sites and prioritizes restoration during outages for medical facilities. SECPA also sponsors emergency preparedness workshops for first responders.
Small Business and Retail:
From family-owned diners in Ordway to hardware stores in Las Animas, SECPA supports over 3,500 small businesses. The cooperative offers flexible payment plans, business energy audits, and rebates for LED lighting, HVAC upgrades, and commercial solar installations. SECPA’s “Small Business Energy Boost” program has helped local entrepreneurs reduce energy bills by an average of 22%.
Major Achievements and Recognitions
- 2022 National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) Excellence in Customer Service Award — Recognized for outstanding member satisfaction and innovative support systems.
- 2021 Colorado Governor’s Energy Efficiency Award — For leading the state in residential solar adoption and energy conservation programs.
- 2020 NRECA Power of Community Award — Honored for disaster response during the 2019 and 2020 wildfires, providing mobile power units and emergency lighting to evacuees.
- Over 99.8% System Reliability Rate — Consistently ranked among the top 5% of U.S. electric cooperatives for uptime and outage recovery speed.
- Over $12 Million in Capital Credit Returns — Distributed to members since 2010, reflecting SECPA’s not-for-profit structure and member ownership.
- 100% Renewable Energy Goal by 2030 — SECPA has committed to sourcing 50% of its power from renewables by 2025 and 100% by 2030 through partnerships with wind and solar developers.
Community Investment and Philanthropy
SECPA reinvests over 5% of its annual revenue into community development. Programs include:
- SECPA Foundation Scholarships — $50,000 awarded annually to high school seniors pursuing energy-related fields
- Food Bank Energy Assistance — Free energy bill payments for low-income families during winter months
- Senior Citizen Outreach — Free home safety checks and battery-powered lighting for elderly members
- “Lights for Learning” — Donated solar-powered lamps to rural schools without grid access
Global Service Access
Although SECPA operates exclusively within southeastern Colorado, its service model and customer support philosophy have attracted international attention. As a leader in rural electrification, SECPA has become a reference point for cooperatives in developing nations seeking to replicate its success. Through partnerships with organizations like the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank, SECPA shares best practices in community-owned utility management, outage response systems, and member engagement.
International Collaboration
SECPA has hosted delegations from Mexico, Kenya, and the Philippines to demonstrate its customer service infrastructure, digital billing systems, and renewable energy integration. These visits have led to pilot programs in rural communities abroad that now use SECPA-inspired models for decentralized power delivery.
Remote Support for Global Members
SECPA serves a growing number of international members — including U.S. expatriates, military personnel stationed overseas, and foreign investors with property in Colorado. The cooperative ensures these members can manage their accounts remotely through:
- Secure online portals accessible worldwide
- 24/7 multilingual phone support
- International payment gateways (Visa, Mastercard, PayPal)
- Designated emergency contacts for property managers
SECPA does not provide direct service outside Colorado, but its support infrastructure ensures that members with international ties remain connected to their Colorado homes.
Language and Cultural Inclusivity
SECPA’s commitment to inclusivity extends to global audiences. All customer service materials are available in English and Spanish, with translations for key documents in Navajo, Hmong, and Arabic upon request. The cooperative’s website includes a language selector, and its mobile app adapts interface language based on device settings. This level of cultural sensitivity makes SECPA a model for global utility providers aiming to serve diverse populations.
FAQs
Q1: What is SECPA’s official customer service phone number?
A: The official toll-free customer service number is 1-800-821-5544. For emergency outages, call 1-888-461-1177 24/7.
Q2: Is SECPA a government agency?
A: No, SECPA is a private, not-for-profit electric cooperative owned by its members. It is not a government entity, but it works closely with state and federal agencies on infrastructure and energy programs.
Q3: How do I report a power outage?
A: Call 1-888-461-1177 or use the SECPA Connect app to report outages. You can also report online at www.secpa.coop. Always provide your account number and location for faster response.
Q4: Can I pay my SECPA bill online?
A: Yes. Visit www.secpa.coop, log in to your member portal, and pay using credit/debit card or bank transfer. You can also set up automatic payments.
Q5: Does SECPA offer assistance for low-income customers?
A: Yes. SECPA partners with LIHEAP and other programs to offer bill payment assistance, energy efficiency upgrades, and weatherization services. Call 1-800-821-5544 to apply.
Q6: What are capital credits?
A: Capital credits are the portion of SECPA’s annual revenue that exceeds operating costs. As a not-for-profit cooperative, SECPA returns these margins to members as annual refunds, proportional to their energy usage.
Q7: Does SECPA install solar panels?
A: SECPA does not install panels directly but offers rebates, financing options, and technical guidance for members who want to install solar. Visit the Energy Solutions page on their website for details.
Q8: How do I change my billing address or contact info?
A: Log in to your member portal, call customer service, or visit the La Junta office in person. Changes are processed within 1–2 business days.
Q9: Are there penalties for late payments?
A: SECPA does not charge late fees for the first 15 days past due. After that, a small administrative fee may apply. Payment plans are available upon request.
Q10: Can I visit the SECPA office without an appointment?
A: Yes, walk-ins are welcome at the La Junta office during business hours (8 AM–5 PM, Mon–Fri). For in-depth consultations, scheduling an appointment is recommended.
Conclusion
Southeast Colorado Power Association in La Junta is more than an electric utility — it is a community institution built on trust, transparency, and service. With its unique cooperative structure, SECPA ensures that every dollar earned is reinvested into the region it serves, from funding renewable energy projects to returning capital credits to members. Its customer support system, accessible through toll-free numbers, online portals, mobile apps, and in-person offices, reflects a deep understanding of rural needs and a commitment to inclusivity. Whether you’re a farmer in Bent County, a retiree in Las Animas, or a family in La Junta, SECPA’s dedicated team is always ready to assist. By prioritizing personal relationships over corporate profits, SECPA has set a national standard for what a modern electric cooperative can achieve. For reliable power, responsive service, and genuine care, SECPA remains the trusted choice of southeastern Colorado. Keep the official customer support numbers handy — because when the lights go out, you’re not just calling a utility. You’re reaching out to your neighbors.