We know that many of our members are spending more time at home because of the COVID-19 outbreak. While more time at home does typically mean more energy use, we want to assure you that there are still ways to save energy and control your electric bill.
Switching to a time-of-day rate could help members save as the rate rewards members for shifting their energy use to off-peak times. On a time-of-day rate, members are charged a much lower rate during off-peak hours than on-peak hours.
During the warm months, on-peak hours are 1-6 p.m. each weekday while all other hours including weekends and holidays are considered off-peak hours. Here are a couple of suggestions for how to maximize your energy savings on a time-of-day rate.
- Precool your home. Program your thermostat at a temperature 2-3 degrees below your normal temperature from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. By doing this you are cooling your home at the lower rate. Then, at 1 p.m. have the thermostat set to 2-3 degrees above your normal household temperature. This will help you stay cool while also saving.
- Reduce hot water use or turn off your electric water heater during on-peak hours as the water in the unit will stay hot for several hours even while off.
- Avoid using large appliances such as dishwashers, ovens, washing machines and dryers during on-peak hours.
- Turn off and unplug unused appliances and electronics.
Try this rate for a year and if you don’t save compared to our regular rate, we’ll refund you the difference, no questions asked. As your local cooperative we are here to help you manage your energy use. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us for guidance at info@pemc.coop or 800.222.3107.
