Did you know that your electric usage directly influences the price CEC pays for wholesale power. It’s not just about the amount of electricity you consume daily. It’s also about WHEN you use it. Every day, there is a window of time when electricity demand spikes — when you and your neighbors collectively use more power. These high-demand times are typically linked to a seasonal uptick in heating and cooling. And power consumption during that window plays a huge part in the price of your power, not just during one billing period but throughout the year.
For Covington Electric Cooperative members, this peak demand hits between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m., during the winter months. During the summer months, peak demand typically occurs between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Our goal is to try and control how high that peak gets because it’s something that can be managed if everyone works together. Reducing the rate of energy use during these periods can greatly lower load on the power grid, and that means more affordable energy for everyone. As your power provider, CEC must have the capacity to deliver electricity on demand. This includes times when extreme temperatures keep the heating or cooling systems of the entire community working at maximum. High usage during these peaks can strain the energy grid, driving up costs.
What can you do?
Be mindful of your morning routine. Are lights on in empty rooms? Devices left plugged in? Washing or drying clothes? Running a dishwasher? Make a conscious effort to turn off lights, unplug electronics and put off large energy consuming chores during winter peaking hours from 6 AM until 9 AM. This not only conserves energy, which can help your electric co-op during extreme temperatures, but it also helps to trim your electricity bill.
And don’t forget that CEC members can track their usage via daily email alerts and through the CEC mobile app. Stay informed and let’s work together lower demand this year! #BeatThePeak