Community Benefits Plan

Powering South Texas Through Innovation, Partnership and Community Investment

San Miguel Electric Cooperative, Inc. (SMECI) is preparing for an important transition, as it expands into solar energy and implements its Community Benefits Plan (CBP) through the U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) New ERA grant program. A requirement of the New ERA program is the creation and implementation of a robust Community Benefits Plan (CBP). The plan is meant to ensure the best possible outcomes for communities impacted by New ERA-funded changes. This landing page exists for employees and community members to learn about, CBP elements – ensuring that our process is as transparent, accessible and equitable as possible. As our New ERA application and CBP advance, project updates will be posted on this website. We encourage you to review our FAQs to learn more about our efforts.

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Our Community Benefits Plan (CBP) reflects our commitment to ensuring this transition creates meaningful opportunities for our employees, strengthens our surrounding communities and supports long-term regional sustainability.

This initiative is rooted in collaboration, transparency and a shared vision for the energy future of South Texas.

Our focus is simple: Working together to support people, strengthen communities and build a sustainable energy future.

Environmental Stewardship
Review established environmental support programs and identify opportunities for growth. This could mean additional investment or support for partner organizations such as Extension and other regional nonprofit organizations. Established environmental programs include:




Community Investment
Review established annual charitable contributions and volunteer initiatives and identify opportunities for growth. This could mean additional investment or support for initiatives such as:




Workforce Transition
This transition to solar power generation is a new horizon for SMECI. Therefore, SMECI is working with regional workforce training organizations to build upon existing, or create new, career pathways for members of the workforce who may be impacted by evolving power generation plans. Opportunities include:


  • Coal-to-Solar Training and Certification Program from Texas State Technical College (TSTC)
  • Career navigation and support services through Workforce Solutions and other partnerships


SMECI’s Community Benefits Plan is intended to ensure that the Cooperative’s transition toward solar energy generation delivers meaningful and measurable benefits for employees, local communities and the South Texas region. Through strong partnerships, transparent engagement, and long-term investment, SMECI is committed to creating a responsible, community-centered model for the energy transition that supports both economic resilience and environmental stewardship.

Frequently Asked Questions