Park Electric will be billing members for demand starting January 1st, 2024. On your Park Electric bill, there is already a line for demand but at this time, there is no charge associated with it. By looking at this line on the bill, members can monitor their demand and find ways to lower it before the change takes place.
Demand is a measure of the highest amount of electricity used during any one period of time. Some demand electricity usage is impossible to avoid. For instance, appliances like refrigerators and freezers will need to run periodically, regardless of the time of day. Other loads, especially those that use a large amount of electricity, may be able to run off-peak. Below are a few examples of ways you can reduce your peak.
Here are some ways you can lower your demand:
- During peak hours, we encourage you to "level your load," and spread out the use of major appliances rather than running them at the same time. Peak hours for most homes are from 6-9 am and also from 5-8:30 pm Monday through Friday.
- Do laundry and other chores that require significant amounts of electricity outside peak hours, such as mid-day, later in the evening, or on weekends. Consider using the delay start feature on your washer, dishwasher, or a timer for other appliances to run outside peak times.
- Purchase a programmable or smart thermostat to reduce heating and air conditioning use during peak hours.
- Take advantage of our rebate program to upgrade older appliances to ones that have a delay start feature and use less electricity. We also offer rebates for smart and programmable thermostats!
- Invest in a timer for your electric hot water heater so it heats the water before you use it. Insulating the tank and pipes can help reduce the amount of time the unit will need to run as well.
- In the summer, run your lawn irrigation very early in the morning or late in the evening. Not only does this reduce electrical usage, but it also reduces water loss by evaporation during daylight hours.
