What is load management?
Energy refers to electricity consumed by our members and is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Demand refers to the amount of electricity called for or "demanded" from an electrical system at any given point and is measured in kilowatts (kW). Both energy consumption and demand affect electric rates. Peak demand refers to the period when electric members collectively use the most electricity. Generally, electricity prices are higher during demand peaks. By participating in load management, you assist in reducing the amount of power your Cooperative uses during peak times throughout the year, which can help stabilize electric costs.
Peak demand typically occurs in the mornings and evenings on a few of the most hot and humid summer days (between 5-9 am and 5-9 pm) and a few exceedingly cold and windy winter days (between 5-9 am and 5-9 pm)
Load Management FAQs
First, an electric cooperative member volunteers to have a load control device installed on their electric water heater. The power line carrier receiver is an essential part of the load management program. Whenever there is a risk of reaching a new peak, the receiver attached to your water heater is activated, temporarily interrupting electricity. Since the water in the electric water heater stays warm for several hours without power, most members will never notice the temporary shutdown.
The status of the receiver is shown by lights on the receiver. When the receiver is activated, a red light illuminates on the receiver.
You don't have to lift a finger! Monitoring systems and the load control receiver do all the work.
A full-time residential electric cooperative member with an electric water heater can participate in load management.
Load management does not necessarily lower the amount of electricity you use. Instead, it shifts when you use it from peak demand to off-peak demand.
Water heaters are the focus of load management efforts because they provide efficient heat storage. Studies show that electric water heaters can remain without power for as long as eight hours and not inconvenience members.
The program costs you nothing! Our goal is to provide reliable power at the lowest possible cost while encouraging energy efficiency. And you will be working in partnership with the Cooperative to reduce electric costs with the savings passed on to you, the member! If for any reason your are dissatisfied, we will remove you from the program at no charge.
If for any reason you are dissatisfied, your electric cooperative employee will promptly remove you from the program at no charge.
An employee from your cooperative will install the load control receiver at no charge.
Call your cooperative at (607) 776-4161 or (800) 843-3414 and a Cooperative employee will make an appointment with you to install a load control receiver on your water heater.