Watch the Clock to Lock in Energy Savings
As temperatures rise and summer activities heat up, a reliable flow of electricity is essential to ensure MEC members stay cool and connected.
August registers some of the most extreme summer temps, which means people will be spending more time indoors to avoid the heat, and air conditioners will be working overtime. This increased use of electricity will cause spikes in demand, also known as energy peaks. During peak times, MEC must work closely with our wholesale power provider Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), to ensure a balanced supply of electricity is always available to meet our community’s energy needs.
The electric grid is essentially a giant network that connects power plants, utility poles and power lines to homes and businesses across the country, throughout our state and to our local communities. Each piece of the network must work together to ensure the flow of electricity stays balanced 24/7.
When the demand for electricity is higher than usual, which we refer to as a “peak,” power providers must ramp up production – whether from hydropower, natural gas, wind, solar, coal or other energy sources – and utilities will pay more for electricity produced during the peak. These higher prices along with an increase in energy use are often why you see higher bills during the hottest months of the year. In extreme cases and larger markets, demand can overpower the available supply, causing electricity shortages. During these times, you may hear of utilities implementing rolling power outages to reduce the demand for electricity and re-balance the grid.
When our area experiences extreme summer heat and higher demand for electricity, you can help by conserving energy. To conserve energy, you can check the clock and avoid energy-intensive activities and chores during peak hours. MEC’s peak hours are weekdays from 7-10 a.m. and 6-9 p.m. Weekends and major federal holidays are excluded.
When we work together to reduce energy use during peak times, the Co-op can lock in lower power rates so all members save. Conserving during peak times also eases pressure on the grid and helps balance the supply and demand of electricity.
There are many ways to lower your energy use. Try setting your thermostat a few degrees higher, closing drapes and blinds, and planning energy-intensive activities like laundry for off-peak hours. You can also operate ceiling or oscillating fans in occupied rooms to supplement air conditioning, use the BBQ on hot summer nights and unplug electronics when they’re not in use.
We all benefit when we work together to beat the summer peak. Saving energy during peak times reduces member bills, keeps electric rates low and relieves pressure on the grid. Click here to learn more about the Co-op’s peak charge and why time of use matters.
