As temperatures rise, a reliable flow of electricity is essential to ensure Escambia River Electric Cooperative (EREC) members stay cool and connected. August brings extreme temperatures, which means air conditioners will be working overtime. This increased use of electricity will cause spikes in demand, also known as energy peaks.
During peak times, EREC must work closely with our wholesale power provider to ensure a balanced supply of electricity is always available to meet the community’s energy needs.
The electric grid connects power plants, utility poles, and power lines to homes and businesses across the country, throughout our state, and to our local communities. All parts 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, power providers must ramp up electricity production, and utilities will pay more for electricity produced during the peak. These higher prices, along with the general increase in electricity use, are why you typically see higher bills during the hottest months.
In extreme cases, demand can overpower the available supply, causing electricity shortages. During these times, utilities are required to implement rolling power outages to reduce the demand for electricity and re-balance the grid. When our area experiences a higher demand for electricity, you can help by checking the clock and avoiding energy-intensive activities during peak hours.
EREC’s peak hours are 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. May through October. When we all work together to reduce energy use during peak times, EREC can lock in lower electricity rates so everyone in the community saves. Conserving during peak times also eases pressure on the grid and helps balance the supply and demand of electricity.
Here are a few ideas to help save energy during peak periods:
- 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.
- Operate ceiling or oscillating fans in occupied rooms to supplement your air conditioning. 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 such as laundry 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.
When we all work together to beat the summer peak, the community benefits. Saving energy during peak times reduces bills, keeps electric rates lower for all, and relieves pressure on the grid
Tips To Beat the Summer Peak
When we all work together to lower energy use during peak hours, we can lock in lower electricity rates, so everyone saves. Here are a few simple ways to save during peak summer hours.
- Raise the thermostat a few degrees.
- Use ceiling fans (in occupied rooms) to feel cooler.
- Avoid using major appliances.
- Close drapes and blinds to block heat from the sun.
- Turn off and unplug nonessential electronics and lights.