The use of load management switches saves you on your electric bill
whether we activate them or not! The switch turns off power to select
cooling, heating and water heater systems, and is part of your electric
cooperative’s effort to keep rates stable by reducing peak demand.
Why we control
Demand is a measure of how much power is being used at a given time.
Turning off the power to a water heater, for example, reduces demand.
The purpose of load management is to prevent the Decatur County REMC
from exceeding a preset maximum amount of power being consumed by all
member loads combined -- this maximum is called a peak. You probably
know that electric rates are determined by the total amount of power
delivered, but they can also be affected by usage of all member loads
combined at the time of the peak. If a new peak is set, we are assigned
a new demand charge on our bills from our power plant. Though not right
away, the member’s bill is affected by this demand charge: that’s
because eventually, if the cooperative has to pay more for power, it’s
inevitable someday that we'll have to adjust rates to cover increased
costs.
We all can save
Because of the fact that peak demand can influence electric rates, load
management was devised to prevent us from reaching or exceeding the
peak. An additional benefit of load management is reduced construction
costs (e.g., new substations) for the utility, and therefore, reduced
costs for the consumer. Since the amount of equipment and electric cable
required is determined by how much power is delivered, by reducing the
amount of power, the utility can conserve the need for additional
construction to service a particular area.
How we reduce demand
Our principal method of reducing demand a few days each year is through
a load management switch. Signals sent through the power line to
the switch to turn off the equipment when a new peak demand is possible,
such as on very hot or cold days. Switches are activated for parts
of an hour over a 2-6 hour time frame, usually in the afternoon, but
sometimes in the morning. Most water heaters are capable of
holding their heat for extended periods of time, so there’s little or no
inconvenience to the consumer. The program can result in significant
long-term savings to the REMC and its members! Plus, installation
of the switch is free.
Signup for Load Management
Program
FAQ’s
What is load management?
Load management systems are put into place to
reduce peak electricity demand during periods of high energy use. In
today’s energy environment of skyrocketing costs, peak periods of energy
use are the times when wholesale electricity costs the most. Reducing
energy use during these times will help reduce costs – for you and the
co-op.
What is the goal of the load management program?
This program will help your electric cooperative
better manage costs, conserve energy, reduce the need to build new power
plants, help the environment and lessen the impact of rate increases. By
participating, you allow the REMC to install a device that allows us to
control your water heater and air-conditioner during times when demand
for electricity is at its peak.
If you received a letter in the mail in reference
to this program, you have been pre-selected to participate.
How does the device work?
The device used is controlled by signals sent
through the power lines from Decatur County REMC. The device will be
operated for only a few hours on a limited number of the hottest and
coldest days of the year.
Because water heaters act as storage devices, you
should experience no loss of hot water. When air conditioners are
cycled, the blower fan will continue to circulate air and maintain home
comfort. Through LEDs on the front of the device, you will be able to
quickly see if it is in use. The units used are solid state and do not
make noise when in use.
How will I know when the switch is activated? Is
it possible to bypass the switch?
The switch has an LED light display window on the front. A flashing
green light shows the switch is powered up and the red light indicates
the switch is in the operational mode. The switch cannot be over ridden
or bypassed from your home.
What are the benefits?
In addition to helping to minimize rate increases
and assist your fellow REMC members, those who participate in the load
management program will receive a one-time bill credit of $50. The REMC will
install and maintain the device at no cost to you.
How is the device installed?
A technician from Decatur County REMC will install
the device and it will be mounted near your water heater. The
installation should take about an hour to install. If you’re ever
dissatisfied, we’ll remove the switch.
How do I participate?
You can fill out the online form at the link below
or you can call us at (812) 663-3391.
Questions?
For any questions, call: (812) 663-3391
Signup for Load Management
Program
