When extreme temperatures drive up the demand for energy across our service territory and regional grid, URE will notify its members that a Peak Alert has been issued. This important notice is our request for all our members to voluntarily conserve energy. Alerts are posted on our website, social media and members will receive notification through the email address we have on file.
In addition, members can voluntarily participate in our load management program to reduce energy load during peak times. The load management program utilizes appliances equipped with radio control switches (RCS) during peak usage times.
Appliances equipped with radio-control switches (RCS) include:
- Geo units
- Heat pumps
- Central a/c
- Water heaters
Thank you for using energy wisely during peak times, your participation/conservation helps hold down energy costs for the co-op and fellow members.
- URE uses load management programs to reduce the overall load across our electric distribution system when energy use is at its highest
- By reducing our system’s energy footprint during peak times, we can avoid costs associated with high grid demand and/or securing additional power generation
When Do Peak Alerts Occur?
Peak alerts typically occur in the warmest summer afternoons, usually between the hours of 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.
How Can I Help During Peak Times?
- By reducing energy use during a “peak alert”
- By having an RCS installed on your electric water heater or heat pump system
It is a simple philosophy:
- The more electric demand your cooperative can control, the more effectively we can hold down your rates
- The success of load management is up to every one of us – Your cooperation will be greatly appreciated
Can I Tell if the RCS is Being Controlled During a Peak Alert?
A load control period is indicated by the RCS when both green and red LED lights are illuminated on the left side of the RCS.
- In a normal period, only the green LED will be illuminated
- Control times generally occur in less than 1% of all the hours during a given year
- Notices of peak alerts are typically posted on the cooperative’s website or via our Facebook and X (formally known as Twitter) feeds