PEAK ALERT

When our area experiences extreme summer heat and higher demand for electricity, you can help by conserving energy. It’s easy – just check the clock and avoid your energy-intensive activities and chores during peak hours. URE’s peak hours are 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Peak Alerts are NOT a notice of a power shortage, but a warning that the demand for electricity could set a new peak for our members. Since this can increase the cost of wholesale electricity, members should reduce their usage as much as possible and defer using large amounts of electricity during the peak alert.
 
Understanding a peak is important because the future power cost (the generation and transmission charge on your electric bill) is based on the five highest peaks during a 12-month period. When co-op members work together to lower the peak, they are working together to lower power costs. And power cost is a straight pass through from the co-op to our members.

There are many ways to lower your home energy use. Here are a few recommendations to help you save energy (and money) during the summer peak:

  • Set your thermostat a few degrees higher. If you have a smart or programmable thermostat, adjust the settings so your cooling system syncs with the off-peak hours.
  • Speaking of raising the thermostat, did you know ceiling fans can make you feel 4 degrees cooler? Operate ceiling or oscillating fans in occupied rooms to supplement your air conditioning. Be sure to raise the thermostat while fans are running for maximum energy savings. Remember, fans cool people (not homes), so turn them off when you leave the room.
  • Plan energy-intensive activities like laundry and running the dishwasher for off-peak hours. Use automatic timers to run hot tubs, pool pumps, water heaters and other appliances in the same way.
  • Unplug electronics when they’re not in use or use power strips to manage devices.
  • Close drapes and blinds during the afternoon to block unnecessary heat from sunlight.

If you participate in URE’s load management program and have a radio-controlled switch on your water heater or air conditioning system, it will be activated during the Peak Alert. You will notice a red light on the radio-controlled switch which means we are in a peak alert period.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation.