Peak Demands

During peak hours, reduce energy use
​
Peak hours are the busiest times for your local electric cooperative, since many people are using electricity at the same time. In addition, it costs your co-op more to generate electricity when demand soars during peak periods--and the cost of your electricity also may rise. Obviously, using less electricity during peak periods can save your co-op--and you--money.
​
Here's how you can help during peak hours, which generally are on the hottest summer days between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.

•    Shift household chores and activities away from peak periods. Wait to run your dishwasher until you go to bed, for instance.
•    If you have air conditioning, turn the thermostat up when you are gone and at night. Cool only those rooms that you are using.
•    Use the most energy efficient appliances you have. Your microwave oven, for example, uses considerably less energy than your stove or cooktop. It also produces less heat!
•    If you're buying a new appliance, make sure you get a highly efficient one. Look for "Energy Star" labels when you're evaluating different models.
•    Be aware of your energy consumption, and try to get in the habit of using energy efficiently year-round.

Use the energy you need, but use it wisely! You'll help your co-op avoid building expensive new power plants--and that, in turn, will help keep your electric rates stable.